Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe has voiced support for the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) and on-going efforts surrounding the Telecommunications Infrastructure Agreement (TIA), underscoring that Liberia must uphold the sanctity of contracts and avoid actions that could damage investor confidence.
Speaking during an interview on OK FM with broadcaster Clarence Jackson, the Bomi County Senator warned against the outright cancellation of legally executed agreements, noting that while concerns may exist regarding the manner in which contracts were signed, disputes should be resolved through legal and constitutional channels.
According to Snowe, the Constitution protects contractual obligations, and any attempt to abruptly terminate agreements without due process could send the wrong message to the international community and potential investors.
“You can question the procedures through which the contract was signed.
“There are legal processes available you can go for litigation or file court action,” Snowe stated. “But to outrightly cancel a contract and immediately enter into another one does not speak well for the country.”
The Senator said he had been in discussions with several members of the Liberian Senate regarding the issue and maintained that the Legislature’s concern was not necessarily opposition to negotiations, but ensuring that Liberia’s interests remain protected.
Snowe emphasized that agreements connected to the telecommunications sector should be handled with caution because of their potential impact on the country’s economic image and investment climate.
He also referenced concerns raised by lawmakers during legislative discussions, noting that some senators believe the country must avoid creating uncertainty around contractual commitments.
The former Speaker of the House of Representatives further underscored the importance of judicial independence, arguing that the courts should be allowed to interpret disputes arising from controversial agreements.
“That is why the courts must speak. The independence of the judiciary is very important,” he emphasized.
Drawing from his own experience in government, Snowe recalled challenging actions taken against him during his tenure as Speaker, insisting that due process and the rule of law must always take precedence over political pressure.
The Senator’s remarks come amid increasing national debate surrounding the Telecommunications Infrastructure Agreement and reported discussions over renegotiation efforts involving the Liberia Telecommunications Authority.
Snowe urged government officials and lawmakers to prioritize transparency, legality, and the protection of Liberia’s reputation as a country that respects contracts and democratic processes.
