Warati told the Liberia News Agency Thursday that many citizens usually take road construction companies to court over simple issues that could be resolved through discussion and negotiation with the Ministry of Public Works.

His cited the China Henan International Cooperation (CHICO) which is paving the Gbarnga-Ganta highway but has been hit by lawsuits on allegations of damaging homes or properties without compensation.

Warati pointed out that issues bordering on encroachment and resettlement for properties in the roadway are the responsibility of the Liberian Government, and not CHICO.

“As such, issues surrounding implementation of the zoning law of Liberia should be addressed by the Ministry of Public Works and not any construction company hired to pave or grade roads across the country,” he stressed.

Warati recalled that four cases have been filed against CHICO by citizens in over a month, including the breaking of a vault, damage to cash crops and homes erected in the thoroughfare.

He said such lawsuits have the propensity to delay the implementation of contracts signed between government and partners.

He asked aggrieved citizens to work with the Ministry of Public Works local offices in their counties to channel dissatisfaction through dialogue, adding, “If dialogue fails, anyone could use court measures, if still necessary.”
LINA WGP/TSS/PTK