Monrovia, Liberia – February 22, 2025: The Montserrado Legislative Caucus is demanding the immediate disbursement of the county’s Social Development Funds (SDF), insisting that they have not received their rightful share for the 2023/2024 fiscal year.
In a strongly worded statement, the Caucus, comprising 17 Representatives and two Senators, refuted President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s claim that all counties have received their SDF allocations. The lawmakers emphasized that, contrary to the President’s pronouncement during his recent State of the Nation Address, Montserrado County has yet to receive its portion of the funds meant for development projects.
The Caucus expressed frustration that their constituents now hold them accountable for funds they have not received and warned government institutions responsible for disbursing the money to act immediately.
“The SDF is intended for the county and its people, yet Montserrado County remains excluded while other counties have received their share. This is unacceptable,” the lawmakers stated.
The Caucus further revealed that the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning had earlier indicated an allotment of $500,000 USD for Montserrado from Firestone, only for the amount to be reportedly redirected without explanation.
Demands and Ultimatum
To ensure the immediate release of the funds, the Montserrado Legislative Caucus outlined the following actions:
- Summon all concessionaires responsible for contributing to the Social Development Funds for 2023/2024.
- Hold a live public hearing to expose any discrepancies in SDF payments.
- Commission the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to conduct a full audit of the funds.
- Mobilize citizens to present a petition demanding the release of their overdue development funds.
- Request a financial statement of Montserrado County’s account for 2023 and 2024.
The lawmakers issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the Ministry of Finance and other relevant government institutions, demanding the immediate release of Montserrado County’s SDF or face further action.
“The people of Montserrado will not be denied what rightfully belongs to them,” the statement concluded.
The Caucus remains firm in its stance, warning that failure to disburse the funds as required by law will not be tolerated.
