According to Moore, there is a distinction between “a credible media house and a gossip column where anyone can write anything,” whether on social media or make a claim on the radio without checking the facts.

He added that the public’s suspicion of corruption is based on how media houses publish and discuss the issue.

Addressing the regular Ministry of Information press briefing recently, the Public Works Minister said he was proud of his record and level of work at the ministry despite claims by some media institutions to the contrary.

Moore disclosed that he cancelled a contract awarded to a company owned by the mother of his Chief of Office Staff which, he said, was intended to avoid conflict of interest, issues of suspicion, perception and public sentiments on the contract.

“Few weeks ago we completed a procurement process on the ELWA to Roberts International Airport road which we broke down into four lots and requested a bid under SBA to secure it for only Liberian companies.
“It was won by B&N owned by a female which excited us but later disappointed me after hearing that the company was owned by the mother of my Chief of Office Staff, leading to the cancellation of the contract,” Moore explained.

He noted: “That is my decision and should the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) decide to award the contract to B&N that will be its decision with which I will have no problem with as the records will speak.”

In remarks, Deputy Information Minister Isaac Jackson emphasized the need for government officials to operate beyond suspicion of any kind.

He lauded Public Works Minister Moore for his courage to cancel the B&N contract, adding: “Imagine had Minister Moore not cancelled that contract what would have been the perception of the public?”

He noted that it was very important to clarify perceptions, especially so when they are in the negative.

Jackson described as “wise” Minister Moore’s decision to cancel the contract, leaving it with the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission to either overturn or accept the minister’s decision on the matter.
LINA BMK/TSS/PTK