Rep. Toles Demands Explanation from Public Works Minister Over Planned Demolitions in Saye Town

MONROVIA, LIBERIA: Montserrado County District #8 Representative, Prince Toles, has requested that the Plenary of the House of Representatives summon Public Works Minister Roland Giddings to explain the reasons behind the widespread marking of properties in Saye Town, Sinkor, for demolition.

The lawmaker’s communication to the Plenary comes amid public outcry from residents who claim their homes have been marked without prior notice or due process, with demolitions pending by the Ministry.

In his communication, Representative Toles stated that frightened property owners are waking up to red marks on their structures without knowing of any violation or what steps they could take to protect their investments.

He urged the House to take urgent steps to hold the Public Works Ministry accountable. According to him, a democratic state must follow due process on issues that could ignite conflicts.

“This is not how a democratic government treats its people. You cannot wake up one morning and place marks on citizens’ homes as if they are criminals without due process and clear justification. This is creating panic and uncertainty across District #8,” the lawmaker noted.

Toles said the Ministry of Public Works must justify the criteria being used to mark properties and whether any legal notices or environmental and zoning assessments were carried out before any exercise. There are reports that some families have already fallen victim.

He emphasized: “This Legislature will not sit and watch our people be pushed into homelessness. ‘Development must be guided by law, not by force.’”

Following heated discussions on the floor, the leadership of the House of Representatives has officially taken up the matter and scheduled a meeting with aggrieved residents of District #8, especially those in Saye Town, for Monday, February 9, 2026.

House leaders said the meeting will allow lawmakers to “hear directly from the victims” and determine whether the demolitions and markings were carried out within the bounds of the law.

With public anger rising in Saye Town, all eyes are now on the Ministry of Public Works as residents and lawmakers await answers that could determine the fate of hundreds of homes.