By: Samuel B. Johnson
WhatsApp: 0778815473
A prominent citizen, James Papy Kwabo Jr., has written an open letter to Hon. Augustine B. Cheiwolo, Representative of Lofa County Electoral District #5, questioning the funding source of the Bluyeama Road Rehabilitation Project. Hon. Cheiwolo had earlier claimed that the project was entirely financed by him using personal resources, with no public funds involved.
The citizen's inquiry stems from official records from the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, which show that over $67 million was disbursed to the National Legislature between January 2024 and March 2025. Of this amount, $19.95 million was released under categories such as grants and non-financial assets, which could be used for district-level development projects.
Based on this information, it is estimated that each lawmaker could have had access to approximately $193,689 for district-level engagements or service-related initiatives. The citizen is therefore questioning whether a portion of these funds was allocated to District Five and, if so, why it was not used to support the Bluyeama Road project.
The letter emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in public service, particularly when it comes to the use of public funds. While appreciating Hon. Cheiwolo's contribution to the road project, the citizen is seeking clarity on whether public funds were involved and, if so, how they were utilized.
The citizen's inquiry has raised several important questions that remain unanswered, including whether public funds were disbursed to Hon. Cheiwolo's office and remain unaccounted for. The letter concludes by emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in governance, and the importance of bringing light to the financial pathway that made the project possible.
The development has sparked a heated debate, with many citizens calling for greater transparency and accountability from their lawmakers. As the issue continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Hon. Cheiwolo will respond to the citizen's inquiry and whether he will provide the clarity being sought.
The incident highlights the growing demand for transparency and accountability in governance, and the need for lawmakers to be more open and honest with their constituents about the use of public funds.
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