The Liberian Ministry of Foreign Affairs refutes claims of interference in Japanese-funded projects made by Secretariat Coordinator Steve Flahn Paye. Paye accused Foreign Minister Nyanti of trying to bypass the Secretariat; however, the Ministry labeled his allegations as misleading. New measures for Japan’s rice aid distribution were also announced to ensure transparency and efficiency.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia has refuted accusations of interference in the management of Japanese government-funded projects. This statement comes after Steve Flahn Paye, Coordinator of the Secretariat, claimed that Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti sought to undermine the Secretariat’s role in overseeing Japanese initiatives. The Secretariat was established in response to a General Auditing Commission report that exposed corruption in multiple Japan-funded projects.
Paye alleged on OK FM’s Morning Rush Show that Minister Nyanti had requested the Japanese government to circumvent the Secretariat’s authority, thus undermining its operations. He expressed concerns regarding unprecedented interference in their work and claimed that correspondence from the Japanese Embassy indicated a desire for interactions to occur solely through a designated deputy minister.
In response, Assistant Minister for Public Affairs Saywhar Gbaa issued a statement branding Paye’s allegations as misleading. Citing a letter from Japanese Ambassador Yoshimoto Hiroshi, Gbaa noted that the Embassy remained neutral concerning Liberia’s domestic affairs, and criticized Paye for misrepresenting Japan’s stance.
Additionally, the Ministry announced new guidelines set by the Japan Rice Aid Steering Committee to improve the distribution process for Japanese rice aid. These guidelines designate specific companies to manage the sale and distribution of rice donations, with set pricing for wholesale and retail sales. The ministry reiterated these measures are intended to enhance transparency and efficiency in the aid program.
In conclusion, the Liberian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has firmly denied allegations of interference in Japanese-funded projects. The Ministry’s assertions emphasize the importance of the Secretariat’s established role following past corruption issues. Additionally, steps have been outlined to improve the management of Japanese rice aid, highlighting a commitment to transparency and efficiency in food assistance efforts.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
