Public Verdict: Amin Modad Unfit For Commerce Ministry

Rumors are circulating in some quarters of the Liberian society that there are plans by the incoming Unity Party (UP) administration to nominate the party’s former Chairman, Mr. Amin Modad as Minister of Commerce and Industry, but the Liberian businessman has been adjudged unfit for the position.

Following victory in the November 14 Presidential Run-off Election, the UP will on January 22, 2024 assume leadership of the country, hence, the President of the day, Mr. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, will have the Executive power under Article 54 of the Liberian Constitution to nominate his corps of officials. 

And one of said persons believed to be on the radar of former Vice President and President-elect Boakai is the former Chairman of the UP, businessman Modad for the Commerce and Industry Ministry.

But this gossip has not gone down well in the public domain as several Liberians from different walks of life continue to express serious opposition to the news on ground he (Modad) would not be a proper pick for the position.

According to them, the business sector needs reawakening and as such, it needs a more proactive person and innovative leadership that will make the difference and Mr. Modad does not have the charisma to do so. 

They also pointed out that many businesses owned by Modad have been mismanaged and miserably failed over the years and as such, it would be one of the biggest mistakes to entrust the country’s commerce under the stewardship of such a person.

Also, Mr. Modad is said to be indebted to several banks in the country over US$1M, meaning it would be a serious risk were he to be appointed to the position of Commerce Minister to lead the business sector.

Furthermore, public opinion has it that the former UP Chairman lacks the personality to steer the affairs of the Ministry of Commerce due to his physical outlook or appearance. 

Though Mr. Boakai is yet to take over the mantle of authority to begin announcing his cabinet officials, these early warning signs are being signaled to the Liberian leader-elect not to nominate Mr. Modad for said position.