Samuel Tweh Denies US$21 Million Rice Subsidy Claim, Says Allegations Are Political Distraction After Acquittal”

Monrovia, Liberia: Former Finance and Development Planning Minister Samuel Tweh has strongly denied allegations that he authorized or transferred a reported US$21 million rice subsidy to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MOCI), describing the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.

In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, Tweh accused unnamed government officials and sources of spreading “diabolically delusional” information in an apparent attempt to divert public attention from his recent acquittal on multiple criminal charges.

“The Government folks are lying again that there is a US$21 million subsidy given to the Ministry of Commerce for which they may invite me for questioning,” Tweh wrote.

The former minister maintained that no such transaction exists within the records of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) during his tenure.

“At no time as Minister of Finance did I transfer US$21 million to MOCI for rice subsidy. No such records exist at MFDP,” he stated.

Tweh further clarified that all rice subsidy transfers made to the Ministry of Commerce in 2021 and 2022 were legally approved through established government processes, including authorization by the President of Liberia, the National Legislature, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

“All rice subsidy transfers made to MOCI in 2021 and 2022 were duly approved by the President of the Republic, the National Legislature and the IMF,” he noted, adding that he welcomes “any bogus investigation.”

The former finance minister also defended the role and responsibilities of the Finance Ministry, emphasizing that while the minister oversees public financial management, lawful transfers to government spending entities fall within the legal scope of the office.

“In closing, let me remind your sources that the Minister of Finance and Development Planning has responsibility to manage public finances but bears no direct responsibility for lawful transfers made to spending entities under his legal authority,” Tweh wrote.

He also cautioned members of the media against publishing unverified information, stressing the importance of responsible journalism.

“These sources are only aiming to distract the news of my acquittal. So we understand the tactic,” he added.

Tweh recently made headlines after being acquitted and found not guilty on multiple charges, including economic sabotage, theft of property, money laundering, and criminal facilitation by a Liberian court.