LACC Probes Allegations of $750K Bribery Scheme as Speaker Ouster Plot Unravels, LWSC Rejects Claims
Monrovia, Liberia (October 21, 2024): The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has initiated an investigation into accusations of bribery involving members of the House of Representatives, who are alleged to have accepted $750,000 in an attempt to unseat Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. This emerging scandal has raised concerns about potential misuse of public funds, as the bribery money is reported to have come through government bodies, including the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) and the Ministry of Transport.
In an official statement on October 21, 2024, the LACC acknowledged multiple complaints about the bribery scheme and expressed its commitment to upholding democratic governance by thoroughly investigating the claims. The alleged funds were reportedly distributed to legislators as an incentive to sign a petition for Speaker Koffa’s removal while he was on an official visit abroad.
“Bribery and corruption in any form undermine public confidence in elected institutions and disrupt the rule of law,” the LACC emphasized, underscoring the gravity of the allegations. The Commission also reassured the public that it would work in coordination with the Ministry of Justice, the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA), and other institutions to gather the facts and hold accountable any individuals found to be involved.
LWSC Responds to Allegations
T. Wilson Gaye, the Acting Managing Director of the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC), firmly denied the institution’s involvement in the alleged bribery plot. Addressing the claims that LWSC funds were used to bribe lawmakers, Gaye described the accusations as “grave” and damaging to the corporation’s reputation.
“The Management considers this allegation as serious, and in light of its potential impact on our institution, we are calling for an immediate and thorough investigation by the LACC,” Gaye stated. He further offered full cooperation with the investigation by granting the LACC access to all of the LWSC’s bank accounts, including relevant bank statements, to support the inquiry.
The LWSC reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining transparency and accountability while continuing to focus on its core mission of improving water and sanitation services for the Liberian public.
Growing Calls for Accountability
The scandal has drawn widespread condemnation from political figures and the public alike. Rep. Priscilla Cooper, who initially supported the move to oust Speaker Koffa, withdrew her signature, citing concerns over the process’s legitimacy and rumors of bribery. Cooper called for due process and transparency, disassociating herself from the petition.
Senator Darius Dillon also called for swift legal action, urging the LACC and the Ministry of Justice to expedite their investigations. He stressed the importance of holding any corrupt officials accountable, as their actions could severely undermine Liberia’s legislative process.
Former President George Weah added his voice to the outcry, condemning the alleged bribery as a dangerous attack on the country’s democratic institutions. Weah accused the current administration of orchestrating the scheme and warned that such behavior if confirmed, would erode public trust and harm Liberia’s reputation on the global stage.
As the investigation progresses, the LACC is under increasing pressure to ensure a transparent and impartial inquiry. If the allegations are substantiated, it could lead to significant legal and political ramifications in Liberia’s ongoing struggle to combat corruption.
Liberian-born Emmanuel Orlind Cooper is an accomplished multimedia journalist with extensive experience covering news and stories on a variety of media platforms. Orlind's work frequently demonstrates his profound grasp of the region and its complexity, given his Liberian heritage.
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