By By: Alphanso G. Kalama
Monrovia, Liberia – Tension reported at the Ministry of Public Works have escalated, with Minister Roland Giddings and Deputy Minister of Technical Services Prince Tambah reportedly engaging in a physical altercation.
According to media reports, the alleged incident unfolded during a meeting on Thursday, where sources claim a heated argument spiraled into a fistfight, shocking both senior and junior staff. However, Ben Myers, the Ministry’s Communications Director, vehemently denied these claims, labeling them as a “propaganda stunt.”
“There was honestly never an argument, let alone a fight,” Myers asserted. “The two may diverge in their opinions, but are too mature and professional to condescend to this low. This narrative is an unjust attack on the integrity of both officials.”
Despite the Ministry’s swift denial, insiders indicate that the tension between Giddings and Tambah has been simmering for weeks, disrupting critical operations. Sources reveal that the conflict intensified last week when Giddings issued a formal warning to Tambah, citing “gross insubordination” and “unproductive conduct” that has hindered the Ministry’s objectives.
Sources furthered that Giddings had earlier expressed frustration over Tambah’s refusal to sign necessary vouchers, crucial for timely funding disbursement to engineers working on the 100-day corridor project. “Your actions have stagnated the Ministry’s goals and undermined my authority as Minister,” Giddings wrote, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
The friction has drawn the attention of President Joseph Boakai, who, while currently out of the country, has reportedly expressed disappointment over the internal disputes at the Ministry. Sources close to the President say he has urged both officials to resolve their differences swiftly or face potential administrative repercussions.
In a formal statement released on October 6, 2024, the Ministry of Public Works reiterated its stance, calling for responsible journalism and cautioning against the spread of misinformation. “Such unfounded claims undermine the hard work and dedication of the Ministry and its leadership,” the statement read.
Myers emphasized the importance of ethical reporting, stating, “Accusations of this nature only serve to distract from their important work aimed at improving Liberia’s infrastructure sector. We urge the media to adhere to ethical standards and focus on facts rather than sensational narratives.”
As the Ministry navigates this turbulent period, the future of its leadership remains uncertain, and the impact of this internal strife could resonate beyond the walls of the Ministry. Both Minister Giddings and Deputy Minister Tambah, despite the tensions, have publicly committed to their roles, vowing not to let baseless allegations hinder their mission to serve the public effectively.
The unfolding drama at the Ministry of Public Works serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that can arise in governmental agencies, and the potential consequences of miscommunication and media sensationalism. As this story develops, stakeholders and the public alike are left to ponder the ramifications of this rift on Liberia’s infrastructural ambitions.
