- Samuel D. Tweah calls for investigation of WFP, not himself.
- He denies mismanagement of COVID-19 stimulus funds.
- Stanton Witherspoon accused of spreading false information about Tweah.
- Tweah claims WFP is solely responsible for fund distribution.
- Legal action is being pursued against Witherspoon for defamation.
Tweah Condemns Allegations About Fund Mismanagement
Former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah has recently urged the Liberian government to look into the World Food Programme (WFP) concerning the COVID-19 stimulus funds, instead of investigating him. At a press conference held in Congo Town on Friday, Tweah firmly rejected accusations of mismanaging the US$30 million that was allocated for COVID-19 food distribution by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. He labeled these allegations as false and part of a politically motivated effort aimed at tarnishing his name and reputation.
Accusations of Misinformation by Media Figure
Tweah emphasized that Stanton Witherspoon, a media figure, has been allegedly perpetuating misinformation regarding his supposed involvement in the management of the fund. According to him, Witherspoon has been suggesting a warrant for his arrest based on these unfounded claims, which Tweah believes have instigated unnecessary concern and speculation among the public. He insisted that the management and implementation of the COVID-19 Household Food Support Program (COHFSP) falls directly under the WFP, distancing himself from any financial wrongdoings related to the fund.
Financial Breakdown and Call for Investigation
According to the former minister, the financial arrangement made sense, as it prevented allegations of government corruption. The funds from the IMF and World Bank went directly to the WFP, thereby limiting the role of government financial agencies. He expressed dissatisfaction with the recent reports regarding unreturned funds, claiming that the total disbursed by the WFP thus far amounts to US$23.8 million, leaving over US$2 million that had yet to be reimbursed to the Liberian government and the World Bank, which he stated should be under scrutiny.
Questions of Fund Reallocation and Approval
Further complicating matters, Tweah shared that he had been approached by Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuah to clarify the allocation of $234,350 designated for school feeding from the remaining COVID-19 funds. Despite WFP’s requests for this reallocation, Tweah mentioned that it had never been given approval during his term. He was rather surprised to learn that this reallocation was later approved by the current minister, raising questions about consistency and fairness in the handling of these sensitive financial decisions.
Defamation Lawsuit Announced Against Media Figure
In light of these developments, Tweah has decided to take legal action against Witherspoon, citing defamation and the spread of damaging claims that he believes have manipulated public perception. He argued that such tactics are politically motivated and detrimental to honest political discourse in Liberia. In his assertion, Tweah denounced the manipulation of facts for political gain, expressing his determination to uphold his integrity through legal means against the unfounded allegations.
In conclusion, Samuel D. Tweah has categorically denied any wrongdoing in the management of COVID-19 funds and is instead redirecting attention towards the World Food Programme. He has called for an end to misinformation propagated by media sources and emphasizes the need for honest political conversation. As he prepares for a defamation lawsuit against Stanton Witherspoon, Tweah stands firm in defending his character amid what he characterizes as a politically charged attack on his reputation.
