Transport Minister, Sirleaf R. Tyler, has termed as unfounded recent rumor in the public domain about the Ministry of Transport’s alleged involvement in the processing of insurance documents for commercial motorbikes in the country.
Transport Minister Tyler did not only view the rumor in the public glare as unfounded, but opined that it is also misinformation meant to put the government, through the Ministry of Transport, and commercial motorbikes operators at loggerhead and bring the ministry’s statutory mandate into disrepute.
Minister Tyler’s clarification stemmed from the backdrop of the recent tension that brewed between authorities of his ministry and scores of motorcyclists regarding alleged issuance of insurance documents for commercial motorbikes, which has reportedly backfired.
In chat with journalists on Thursday, June 6, 2024 in the ministry’s conference room in Monrovia, the Transport Ministry boss unequivocally clarified that the ministry is not, and has never been, in the business of processing insurance documents for commercial motorbikes or any other vehicle.
Minister Tyler’s press briefing was attended by a member of the Liberia Insurance Association, Jackie C. Smith, who happens to be the Manager of Non-Life Insurance of Mutual Benefits Assurance Company, and flanked by other ministers and technocrats of the Ministry of Transport.
“The baseless allegation undermines the integrity and purpose of the Ministry of Transport,” stated Minister Tyler.
According to Minister Tyler, in the light of the allegation the ministry has taken a decisive action, thus side brushing the rumor in the society.
“We have issued a directive to all insurance companies to recall their agents from within and around the facilities of the ministry,” Minister Tyler hinted newsmen.
He said, “This measure is to ensure that there is no confusion about the role and responsibilities of the Ministry. The Ministry of Transport does not facilitate insurance processes; this remains the domain of licensed insurance companies operating in Liberia.”
He further explained that the Ministry of Transport is currently conducting what he termed a thorough investigation into the alleged involvement of certain ministry employees in illegal activities related to faking insurance documents.
Minister Tyler assured the media and general public that if any employee is found culpable of such misconduct, as it relates to the issuance of bogus insurance document to motorbikes owners/operators, he or she will face the full consequences as per the laws that govern the civil servants’ standing order.
Accordingly, Minister Tyler noted that he and his hardworking team of the ministry are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability within the workplace.
“We understand the public’s concern, and we are working diligently to resolve this matter. We ask for your patience and support as we navigate this challenging situation. Our primary goal is to ensure the safety, reliability, and transparency of all transport services in our jurisdiction,” he stated.
