By Jerromie S. Walters
Senate Pro-Temp Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence is under criticism for allegedly purchasing a new Hyundai Stratia 2025, priced at SAR203,780.00 (approximately US$54,314), according to the Hyundai Wallan website.
As a Senator of Grand Bassa County, one of Liberia’s least developed regions, her purchase raises eyebrows. The county struggles with inadequate access to electricity, poor infrastructure, and necessities.
Recently, the Director of Fire Service in Grand Bassa revealed that the county’s only fire truck is damaged and requires US$1,200 for repairs. Many Liberians are baffled by the contrast between this urgent need and Pro-Temp Lawrence’s luxury vehicle purchase. As of now, her office has not responded to the allegations.
The 2024 National Budget allocates only US$186,000 for the County Development Fund in Grand Bassa, while the Government Hospital in Buchanan receives US$242,163, and Bassa Community College is allotted US$642,022. This totals US$1,070,185 for essential services in the county.
In contrast, Pro-Temp Lawrence’s budget for her office is US$1,419,282, which includes a salary of US$254,250, travel allowances of US$31,697, and nearly US$60,000 for fuel. Senate Pro-Temp Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence is also an influential supporter id the ruling establishment. She is famously considered a “Rescue Mother”.
On October 8, 2024, Liberia’s former Commerce Minister Amin Modad tendered his resignation following a storm of public outcry and scrutiny over his alleged extravagant spending on a luxury vehicle. The controversy centers around allegations that Modad authorized the purchase of a customized vehicle valued at US$96,000 by the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) for his personal use.
This purchase was alleged to have violated the 2024 budget law, which stipulates that vehicle procurement costs, except for the highest-ranking officials such as the President, Vice President, Speaker, Pro-Tempore, Deputy Speaker, and the Chief Justice of Liberia, should not exceed US$45,000 after duty.
“Poverty in Liberia is man-made”
A pro-UP activist, Martin K. N. Kollie criticized the situation. He stated, “Poverty in Liberia is man-made. It’s created by greed and institutionalized thievery. Every Liberian could live a better and happier life if Liberia’s resources were/are efficiently and equitably allocated. We have so many resources, but why are we still POOR after 177 years?
He argues that the country’s abundant resources are not being allocated equitably, leaving many citizens in poverty.
Despite already having a fleet of expensive vehicles funded by taxpayers, Pro-Temp Lawrence’s new Hyundai Stratia (Plate # 0-8) has sparked outrage. The Government of Liberia’s Car Import and Purchasing Policy states that the cost of a vehicle for public officials should not exceed US$45,000.
Residents of Grand Bassa are frustrated. The bridge connecting Pensburry and Buchanan is in disrepair, and Senate staffers are protesting for five months of unpaid wages. Yet, Pro-Temp Lawrence continues to spend on luxury vehicles.
Critics argue that while lawmakers claim there’s no money for essential services like health, education, and job creation, they find funds for lavish lifestyles. “The money they waste comes from your tax dollars,” they say.
The disparity is stark. The budget for Pro-Temp Lawrence’s office far exceeds the allocations for Grand Bassa’s development, the Government Hospital, and Bassa Community College combined.
Some Liberians are calling for a change. They demand that public funds be used to improve citizens’ lives rather than finance the luxuries of a privileged few. “The suffering in Liberia is artificial. It’s man-made,” they insist.
