MONROVIA, Liberia — Nimba County Electoral District #5 Rep. Kortor Sehwongbay Kwagrue is calling on the Plenary of the House of Representatives to summon the Ministry of Public Works and representatives of East International Group to explain concerns surrounding the construction of the Roberts International Airport (RIA) Road project.
Speaking during Thursday’s plenary session, Kwagrue said the proposed summoning is intended to protect public funds and ensure that road construction projects across Liberia meet acceptable engineering and construction standards.
The lawmaker raised concerns about cracks reportedly observed along the road from Tiawan Junction toward Roberts International Airport, questioning whether the construction work complies with the required technical specifications.
According to Kwagrue, a properly constructed road must have multiple layers designed to provide strength, stability, and durability.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that road projects meet the necessary engineering standards to withstand traffic and remain usable over time.
The Nimba County lawmaker also expressed concern over reports that workers were using manual tools, including shovels and diggers, to excavate sections of the road.
He questioned whether the construction methods being used were appropriate for a project of such scale and called for clarification from the responsible authorities and the contractor.
Kwagrue’s request seeks to give lawmakers an opportunity to question the Ministry of Public Works and East International Group about the reported defects, construction methods, and compliance with the project’s technical requirements.
The proposed summoning would also allow the ministry and the contractor to provide explanations regarding the reported cracks and the standards being applied during construction.
However, the reported cracks and concerns over the use of manual tools have not, on their own, established whether the road project violates engineering specifications. A technical assessment would be needed to determine the cause and extent of any defects.
The proposed action underscores the Legislature’s oversight role in examining public infrastructure projects and ensuring that public resources are used in accordance with approved standards and contractual obligations.
By Eric Valentine Pyne | HOR Reporter