-To finance Personal Projects
By Vaye Abel Lepolu
Monrovia – A new wave of public concern is sweeping through Liberia after the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) accused Montserrado County Senator Saah Joseph of allegedly diverting state resources to finance the construction of a luxurious private school.
The claims were made in a sharply worded statement issued Monday by CENTAL’s Executive Director, Anderson Miamen, who questioned the origin of funds behind what he described as a “multimillion-dollar” educational facility allegedly tied to the senator.
“One sitting senator and an official of government can afford to build this structure—and perhaps many more,” Miamen said, referring to the elaborate building under construction. “Such developments raise serious red flags about potential misuse of office and illicit enrichment.”
CENTAL’s statement drew attention to the contrast between the senator’s upscale private venture and the crumbling condition of Liberia’s public schools and hospitals, calling the disparity “a troubling sign of deep-rooted inequality and lack of accountability.”
Miamen further pointed to what he called a pattern of questionable wealth accumulation among public officials, recalling the case of a former lawmaker whose lavish lifestyle unraveled shortly after leaving office.
“The day Liberia decides to truly fight corruption and recover looted state assets, the people will finally start to reap the true benefits of their resources,” Miamen stated. “Accountability delayed is not accountability denied.”
The accusations come at a time of growing public dissatisfaction over poor governance, lack of basic social services, and limited access to quality education and healthcare. CENTAL believes the senator’s alleged actions are symptomatic of a broader culture of impunity among Liberia’s ruling class.
Despite efforts to reach him, Senator Joseph has yet to respond publicly to the allegations. His office also did not return multiple requests for comment.
The unfolding scandal adds to a rising tide of corruption concerns in the country, as civil society organizations intensify calls for mandatory asset declarations, greater transparency, and stricter enforcement of anti-corruption laws.
