MONROVIA — Montserrado County District #14 Representative Kerkula Muka Kamara has defended the cost of a footbridge currently under construction in his constituency, rejecting claims that public money is being used to finance his personal development efforts.
Appearing on the OK Conversation program, Kamara responded to concerns over the project’s estimated cost of about US$190,000, explaining that the price reflects the engineering standards required for a structure being built in a swampy environment.
According to the lawmaker, a cheaper project would have been possible if the goal had simply been to make a temporary political statement. Instead, engineers recommended digging down to solid sand, placing heavy boulder rocks as a foundation, and reinforcing each support pillar with as many as 15 bags of cement and crushed stones to ensure the bridge remains stable for years.
Kamara also disclosed that repeated theft at the construction site has increased the project’s challenges. He said criminals have made away with construction materials, including ten truckloads of boulder rocks valued at approximately US$650 per truck, along with lumber and safety railings.
Although some residents advised him to forgo reinstalling the stolen guardrails, the representative said they will be replaced because they are essential for protecting pedestrians, especially schoolchildren and other vulnerable users.
Responding to allegations about the source of his finances, Kamara maintained that his community projects are funded through his private business activities rather than government resources. He noted that he has operated businesses since 1993, arguing that more than three decades in the private sector have enabled him to invest in local development.
As evidence, he pointed to income earned from his rubber plantation, saying a recent sale to Firestone generated more than US$19,000. He also referenced international business dealings involving the supply of industrial machinery and spare parts to clients in Kumasi and Dakar.
The District #14 representative further explained that lawmakers do not personally receive government development funds, noting that such allocations are managed and disbursed through relevant state institutions. He criticized delays in releasing development funds and said his office has requested legislative audits to determine the status of allocations that have yet to reach the district.
Concluding his remarks, Kamara appealed for cooperation among residents and political stakeholders, urging them to set aside partisan differences and work together to improve the district.
He emphasized that the current priority should be governance and development, leaving political competition for the appropriate campaign period.
Rep. Kamara Explains Bridge Project Costs, Says Community Initiatives Are Privately Financed
