The recent scandal involving National Port Authority (NPA) Managing Director Sekou A.M. Dukuly and Chinese investor Yang Dan has sent shockwaves through Liberia’s investment community and raised serious concerns about the country’s relationship with China. At the center of the controversy is a failed mineral water bottling and mining venture, in which Yang Dan alleges that he invested over US$2.5 million.
According to legal filings and public statements, Dukuly is accused of diverting funds, forging documents, and misappropriating resources intended for the joint venture. The situation escalated when Ding Li Jun, another Chinese investor affiliated with Duke Global Investment Limited, accused Dukuly of fabricating court documents to implicate Yang Dan in a broader US$8 million fraud scheme. The Liberia National Police has launched a formal investigation into the matter, and Dukuly has publicly denied all allegations, claiming they are part of a smear campaign.
However, the damage to Liberia’s investment reputation may already be done. Foreign investors, particularly those from China, are now questioning the safety and reliability of doing business in Liberia. The perception that high-level government officials can allegedly engage in fraudulent activities without immediate accountability undermines investor confidence and threatens future capital inflows. This scandal could have far-reaching implications for Liberia’s economic development.
Foreign direct investment is a critical driver of infrastructure, job creation, and technological advancement in the country. If investors perceive Liberia as a risky or unstable environment, they may redirect their capital to more secure markets. The lack of clear legal recourse and the apparent vulnerability of foreign investors to political manipulation could deter future partnerships, especially in sectors like mining, logistics, and manufacturing where Chinese firms have historically played a dominant role.
Moreover, the incident risks straining Liberia’s diplomatic and economic ties with China. China has been one of Liberia’s most important development partners, funding major infrastructure projects such as the Ministerial Complex and the Roberts International Airport terminal. The mistreatment of Chinese nationals and investors could prompt Beijing to reevaluate its engagement strategy with Liberia. Chinese authorities may demand stronger protections for their citizens and businesses, and failure to address these concerns could result in reduced financial support, fewer joint ventures, and a cooling of bilateral relations.
President Joseph Boakai’s administration now faces a critical test. How it handles the investigation and its aftermath will determine whether Liberia can restore investor confidence and preserve its diplomatic standing. Transparency, swift legal action, and institutional reforms will be essential to reassure both domestic and international stakeholders.
The scandal serves as a stark reminder that economic partnerships must be built on trust, accountability, and the rule of law. Without these foundations, Liberia risks not only losing billions in potential investment but also damaging relationships that have taken decades to build.
