Min. Ngafuan Warns Samuel Tweah to Halt 'Smear Campaign'

Liberia’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Hon. Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, has issued a strong public warning to his predecessor, Mr. Samuel D. Tweah, Jr., to immediately cease what he described as a “smear campaign” aimed at tarnishing his reputation through false and politically motivated allegations concerning the management of residual COVID-19 funds. Appearing on the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, Minister Ngafuan dismissed recent claims suggesting that he had written to the World Food Programme (WFP) seeking access to remaining COVID-19 emergency relief funds for personal use. He described the allegations as "baseless, malicious, and a desperate attempt to shift attention from real issues." “At no point did I, or any official of this government, request the use of COVID-19 funds for personal gain,” Ngafuan stated. “These lies are not only reckless but dangerous. Mr. Tweah must immediately desist from this smear campaign or face the legal and political consequences of his actions.” Minister Ngafuan emphasized that all COVID-19 funds, including those managed by multilateral partners such as the WFP, were accounted for during the previous administration, under Minister Tweah’s own stewardship. He further clarified that any correspondence with international agencies concerning COVID-19-related funding has been professional, transparent, and well documented. “Ironically, the only unresolved questions around COVID-19 resources lie squarely with the former administration,” he added. “Liberians deserve answers, not distractions.” Minister Ngafuan also challenged Tweah to provide evidence to substantiate his claims, noting that such allegations threaten not only the credibility of individuals but also the trust Liberia has built with its international partners. In a firm tone, the Finance Minister reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and accountability and said his ministry remains open to independent audits or investigations into all public financial matters, including the use of pandemic-related funds. “We are here to restore integrity to public service, not to engage in petty political fights,” he said. “This administration will not be bullied into silence by those trying to rewrite history or evade responsibility.” Minister Ngafuan concluded by warning that if Mr. Tweah continues to spread misinformation, he will have no option but to pursue legal redress.