MONROVIA – Montserrado County Senator Saah Joseph has expressed grave concerns over the failure of both past and current Liberian administrations to procure nearly $2 million worth of firefighting equipment for the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), despite budget allocations.

Thursday, January 16, 2025, Senator Joseph highlighted the devastating impact of fire incidents on Liberians, particularly those already struggling with economic hardships. He criticized the LNFS for not delivering on its mandate to acquire fire trucks and train personnel, leaving citizens vulnerable to property destruction and homelessness.

Budget Allocations and Unfulfilled Promises

Senator Joseph revealed that funds for firefighting equipment were allocated in both the 2023 and 2024 national budgets. However, the LNFS has yet to procure the equipment, including fire trucks and pickups, despite awarding contracts to vendors through a competitive bidding process.

“Money was appropriated and approved in the 2023 budget of the previous administration, which we learned went through the PPCC process for a company to bring in two fire trucks and other pickups. Up to now, the government has not received those items,” Senator Joseph stated.

He emphasized that an additional $1.7 million was approved in the 2024 budget, but no tangible results have been seen. “When do we expect the fire trucks? One year has already gone, and we are still waiting. This lack of action endangers lives and properties,” he said.

Calls for Accountability and Transparency

The senator urged the Liberian Senate to summon LNFS and Ministry of Finance officials to explain the delays in procuring the equipment. He also criticized LNFS for relying on external support, such as fire trucks from LPRC, Sethi Brothers, and the National Port Authority (NPA), rather than developing internal capacity.

“Why are the fire trucks not here? Why is it taking so long? The Liberian people will not accept this,” Senator Joseph asserted. He demanded answers on why no new manpower has been trained and why the LNFS is not meeting its responsibilities.

Concerns Over Political Arson and Fire Investigations

Senator Joseph also called on the LNFS and Liberia National Police (LNP) to investigate frequent fire incidents amid allegations of politically motivated arson. While he did not confirm or deny these claims, he stressed the importance of addressing such concerns to ensure public safety.

LNFS Response and Controversy

LNFS Director G. Warsuwah Barvoul confirmed that vendors had been paid 60% of the contract value to procure six fire trucks, three water tankers, and three fire jeeps. However, he failed to provide a timeline for the equipment’s arrival or disclose the names of the contracted companies.

Barvoul’s refusal to disclose vendor details has sparked allegations of kickbacks and a lack of transparency in the procurement process.

The Role of LNFS and Public Concerns

The LNFS, established in 1963, is tasked with safeguarding lives and properties through fire prevention, firefighting, ambulance services, and fire investigations. However, its failure to deliver on these responsibilities has drawn widespread criticism.

Senator Joseph urged citizens to take precautionary measures to prevent fire outbreaks, emphasizing that the LNFS must act swiftly to fulfill its obligations.

As the situation unfolds, Liberians await further developments, with growing calls for transparency and accountability in the procurement of life-saving firefighting equipment.