By 
MONROVIA – Former Commerce Minister Amin Modad has publicly addressed the wave of speculation surrounding his recent resignation, offering clarifications on issues ranging from alleged tensions with President Joseph Boakai to the controversy over a high-priced government vehicle.
For weeks, Modad’s departure from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has fueled political gossip, with many suggesting a rift within the administration or possible misconduct. In a detailed statement, the former minister attempted to set the record straight, while also acknowledging the toxic political climate that has shaped the public debate.
Modad denied reports of a breakdown in his relationship with President Boakai, insisting that his resignation was voluntary. He cited threats to his family and growing public hostility triggered by misinformation surrounding his tenure as factors that pushed him to step aside.
He claimed that false narratives, including allegations about a luxury bulletproof vehicle, created security concerns and made it difficult to perform his duties. According to him, the situation escalated when his wife’s vehicle was allegedly attacked.
A large portion of Modad’s statement defended the procurement of a ministry vehicle that drew public backlash earlier this year.
He said the vehicle was purchased months before a budget law capped the cost of government vehicles, and that the Ministry later attempted—but failed—to return it due to financial loss. Modad reiterated that the Liberia Revenue Authority, not his ministry, handled the actual payment.
The explanation comes after weeks of heated public discussion, with critics accusing the former minister of excess, and others pointing to longstanding procurement flaws across government institutions.
Modad also disclosed that upon resigning, he wrote to the General Auditing Commission and Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission, submitting himself for review. The Senate reportedly held its own hearing.
According to him, none of these bodies found wrongdoing. However, he acknowledged that the political climate allowed rumors to gain traction before any official findings could be communicated to the public.
Although Modad described himself as a “committed Unity Partisan” who continues to advise the president, his statement did little to silence questions about internal tensions within the administration. Political observers note that his resignation—despite official denials—adds to a growing list of early internal shake-ups under the Boakai administration.
Some analysts argue that Modad’s account reflects a wider governance challenge in which public officials face pressure from both political rivals and citizens frustrated by the slow pace of reforms.
Despite Modad’s explanations, critics say several issues remain unresolved, particularly regarding transparency in procurement and the government’s handling of public information.
His statement, while detailed, appears unlikely to end the debate over his exit. Instead, it has added new layers to an already polarized discussion.
As Liberia’s political temperature continues to rise, Modad’s departure—and the public reaction that followed—may serve as an early indicator of the challenges the administration faces in balancing reform, public expectations, and internal cohesion.
