
30/09/2025
Mano River Union Denies Involvement in the $10 Million Presidential Palace Construction in Liberia
In a recent development that has sparked public interest and debate, the Mano River Union (MRU), an influential regional organization, has issued a firm statement denying any involvement in the construction of a $10 million presidential villa in Liberia’s Foya District, Lofa County. This clarification comes amidst claims made by Liberia’s Deputy Information Minister, Daniel Sando, who suggested that the MRU was funding and hosting the project due to its strategic location near the borders of Guinea and Sierra Leone.
The MRU, established in 1973, is a regional bloc comprising Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire. Its core mission is to foster economic cooperation, social progress, and cultural development among member states. The organization’s priorities include promoting regional stability, economic integration, and cross-border collaboration—objectives that do not encompass the construction of presidential palaces or similar infrastructure projects.
In an official statement released on September 29, 2025, the MRU’s Secretary General, Ambassador Simeon Moribah, explicitly dismissed the rumors, stating, “Constructing presidential residences is not within our mandate or agenda. Our focus remains on advancing trade, security, and human development initiatives that benefit our member nations.”
This denial follows recent assertions by Deputy Minister Sando, who indicated on his social media platform that the project was an MRU-funded initiative, chosen for its geographical advantages in Foya, which serves as a strategic link to neighboring countries. However, the Union’s leadership urges the public to disregard these claims, emphasizing that no such project is underway or authorized by the organization.
The controversy underscores the importance of transparency and accurate information in regional development efforts. While the government has been reported to be utilizing unbudgeted funds for projects in Foya, the MRU has reaffirmed its commitment to its foundational goals—strengthening regional ties, promoting peace, and fostering sustainable economic growth—without engaging in the construction of presidential residences or similar high-profile infrastructure.
As the situation develops, authorities and stakeholders are encouraged to rely on verified information and official statements to foster informed discussions about regional development and governance.
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