The Liberian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dismissed allegations of interference with Japanese government-funded projects made by Steve Flahn Paye of the Secretariat. The Ministry reiterates its commitment to transparency and oversight, as evidenced by new measures for the distribution of rice aid from Japan. Paye’s claims have been characterized as misleading, following communication from the Japanese Embassy reaffirming its support for the Secretariat’s management.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Liberia has rejected accusations of interfering with the management of Japanese government-funded projects. These allegations were brought forth by Steve Flahn Paye, Coordinator of the Secretariat managing such initiatives, who claimed that Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti was attempting to undermine the Secretariat’s role in Japanese-sponsored programs. The establishment of the Secretariat followed a report from the General Auditing Commission that exposed corruption in several projects previously funded by Japan, necessitating a more structured oversight.
During an interview on OK FM’s Morning Rush Show, Paye asserted that Minister Nyanti requested the Japanese government to circumvent the Secretariat. He argued that the Secretariat was intentionally placed at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure expert management of the programs and claimed that unprecedented interference had begun under Nyanti’s leadership. Paye noted that the Japanese Ambassador had refuted this request, affirming Japan’s contentment with the Secretariat’s management.
In response, Assistant Minister for Public Affairs Saywhar Gbaa issued a statement, labeling Paye’s claims as misleading. The Foreign Ministry referenced a communication from Japanese Ambassador Yoshimoto Hiroshi, dated March 11, 2025, which cautioned Paye against making statements that distort Japan’s stance on Liberia’s internal matters. The Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of accuracy and neutrality, denouncing any misleading allegations that could harm Japan’s reputation.
Additionally, the Foreign Ministry announced new protocols established by the Japan Rice Aid Steering Committee. These protocols involve several ministries and agencies to oversee food donations and ensure transparent distribution. The committee has designated Fouta Corporation, Northwest Commodities, and United Commodities Inc. for the sale and distribution of rice donations, setting logistical prices to maintain fairness in the market.
In summary, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Liberia has firmly discredited allegations of interference in Japanese-funded projects, asserting that these claims are unfounded and misleading. The establishment of the Secretariat aims to enhance oversight in managing such projects, following prior corruption incidents. Moreover, the Ministry has introduced new measures to ensure the efficient distribution of Japan’s rice aid, focusing on transparency and collaboration among various governmental bodies.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
