Ministries of Youth & Sports, Justice Summoned
IPNEWS: The Liberian Senate has opened a full-scale investigation into a controversial 25-year lease agreement reportedly involving the hotel facility at the Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex in Paynesville.
The inquiry was triggered by a formal communication from River Gee County Senator Jonathan BoyCharles Sogbie, who alerted the Senate that the government-funded hotel, constructed to host Liberia’s national football teams and technical staff, has been leased out to a group of Chinese investors in partnership with a Liberian businessman.
According to Senator Sogbie, the agreement has resulted in the national teams being forced to rent lodging in private facilities—an arrangement he believes runs contrary to the purpose for which the hotel was originally built.
He raised concerns over transparency surrounding the deal, arguing that public infrastructure intended to support national sports development should not be handed over to foreign interests without accountability and clear benefits to the country.
“This deal is troubling. It defeats the intent of the project and denies our national teams access to facilities funded by the Liberian people,” Senator Sogbie warned.
He further noted that such arrangements could deprive the Government of Liberia of much-needed revenue to strengthen sports programs.
Senate Demands Clarity
In response, the Senate Plenary unanimously voted to summon authorities from the Ministry of Youth and Sports along with officials of the Ministry of Justice. Lawmakers expect them to explain:
• Who authorized the lease agreement
• The legal basis for the contract
• The full terms and conditions of the arrangement
• Whether the transaction aligns with national interests and the law
Prior to the vote, the Senate assigned its Committee on Youth and Sports, chaired by Rivercess County Senator Bill Twehway, to lead the probe and report findings to Plenary.
The summoned officials are expected to appear within two weeks to respond to all concerns surrounding the extended lease of the SKD Sports Complex Hotel.
As the investigation unfolds, the Senate says it remains committed to safeguarding public assets and ensuring that national sports infrastructure is utilized for the benefit of Liberians. By: Andrew B Weah, 0770637216/0886419103, andrewbweah@gmail.com
