EPA Fights Off Exorbitant Cars Purchase Allegation -Says Purchases Consistent with Regulatory Threshold

MONROVIA – The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has refuted claims that it had procured some vehicles beyond approved Government’s threshold set for such purchases.

A local daily reported that the EPA purchase had involved a Toyota Land Cruiser priced at US$78,000 and another vehicle reportedly bought for US$46,000 — both intended for use by top officials at the EPA, but the agency in a release categorically denied, clarifying that under the leadership of its Executive Director, Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, no vehicle—personal or official—has been purchased above the regulatory threshold of US$45,000.00.

The newspaper quoted a Senate committee on Autonomous Commission and Agency as revealing that the EPA had bought a Toyota Land Cruiser SUV for US$78,000 and another vehicle for US$46,000, and terming the move as a breach of rules set by the Boakai administration to control public spending.

In a release issued on the allegations, the EPA noted that its current procurement involves five vehicles, four of which were acquired from CICA Motors and one from Alliance Motor Corporation.

“These acquisitions strictly adhered to the established procedures outlined by the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC), including bidding, vendor vetting, selection, contracting, and a transparent payment plan,” the public institution said.

The EPA said the procurement covered a 30-seated bus for Us$78,000, two Toyota Land Cruiser jeep for $44,000 each and a Toyato Prado for $45,000.

The release further added that, a 17-seated bus for staff commuting was purchased from Alliance Motor Corporation at a cost of US$38,500.00, was paid for in full upon delivery.

“Payment for the four vehicles is being made in two installments, with 60% already paid,” said the EPA release. “To date, the EPA has taken delivery of the 30-seated bus, the Toyota Prado, and one Toyota Land Cruiser. The final Land Cruiser is pending delivery, contingent upon settlement of the remaining 40% balance.”

EPA also clarified that the Toyota Prado is currently assigned to the Deputy Executive Director, who previously had no official vehicle and the Executive Director, Dr. Yarkpawolo, continues to use a Toyota Hilux Pickup inherited from his predecessor.

“These assignments were made based on operational needs and in compliance with internal asset management policies,” the EPA noted also, adding that as a regulatory institution it remains committed to transparency, accountability, and adherence to the laws and policies governing the Republic of Liberia.

Providing further information about the purchases in an interview with reporters, the Executive Director, Dr. Yarkpawolo, said the original price for the employees’ bus was about $91,000 but the EPA negotiated for $78,000

Dr. Yarkpawolo said he was not given any of the newly procured vehicle as he was still using the one left behind by his predecessor, Prof. Wilson Tarpeh.