LRA Vindicates Commerce Boss Says It Gives No Vehicle to Modad; Clarifies Other ‘False Reporting’

The Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) has firmly refuted claims that it had given a vehicle to the Minister of Commerce and industry, Amina Modad.

The LRA in a press statement emphasized that all procurement processes were properly followed, and the vehicle in question is a government property, not the personal asset of Minister Amin Modad, as some reports have implied.

In a press release issued in Monrovia Monday, the LRA clarified that it has over the years provided logistical support to several government ministries and agencies involved in revenue mobilization, including the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Transport, Mines and Energy, and Labor, as well as the Liberia Immigration Service, Liberia National Fire Service, and the National Legislature.

This collaboration has played a pivotal role in boosting revenue collection, contributing to an impressive increase of over US$53 million as of August 31, 2024, compared to the same period last year.

Compared to 2023 during which the MoCI generated 1.9 million throughout year, falling short of its projected 3.8 million, the Ministry of Commerce, under Amin Modad, generated more than 1.6 million within the first five months of leadership

It can be recalled that during the budget hearing earlier this year, Minister Modad committed to raise 3 million dollars if the ministry was supported.

However, the annual budget request for the Ministry of Commerce was not provided for by the government.

“The LRA’s support to these agencies is part of a coordinated effort to strengthen revenue generation across the government,” the release further said. “The vehicle procured for the Ministry of Commerce follows similar assistance provided to other entities in line with our mandate.”

Responding to additional allegations, including claims that Minister Modad received duty-free clearance for a yacht, the LRA dismissed the accusations as false.

The revenue house confirmed that in July 2024, Minister Modad cleared a “motor vessel”, and paid all applicable duties, with no special exemptions or duty waivers granted, and that in fact it was a motor boat for which the duty was paid in full.

“The LRA has no record of granting duty-free clearance for any yacht or boat to Minister Modad,” said the state-owned enterprise contrary to reports that suggested otherwise. “He fulfilled his obligations by paying the required duties.”

On accusations of bribery, the LRA also denied any involvement in alleged bribery related to MEDTECH or any other business.

“We take these allegations seriously, but there is no evidence to support claims that the LRA has engaged in any bribery,” the agency said.

The LRA stressed that why it welcomes public scrutiny to promote transparency and accountability, it urged media outlets to verify information before publishing, to avoid spreading misinformation that could harm public trust and revenue collection efforts.

As part of its continued commitment to upholding professional standards, the LRA reiterated its dedication to collecting lawful revenue for the Government and people of Liberia in a transparent manner while it collaborates and supports partner government institutions.