The leadership of the House of Representatives has summoned Ambassador at Large Sheikh Moustapha Kouyateh to appear before its leadership over bribery allegations. Plenary of the House of Representatives summoned Ambassador-at-Large Sheikh Moustapha Kouyateh to appear before its leadership on Monday regarding allegations he reportedly made against members of the Legislature.
Plenary reached the decision on Tuesday during the first day sitting of the Second Quarter of the third session following a communication submitted by Montserrado County Electoral District #5 Representative Priscilla Abram Cooper.
In her communication titled, “Request for Plenary’s Indulgence to Invite Sheikh Moustapha Kouyateh Before Plenary,” Representative Cooper requested that the Ambassador be invited to provide clarification on statements allegedly made during an appearance on a local media outlet, “OK FM.”
According to the communication, Kouyateh reportedly claimed that members of the Legislature received bribes from Europeans in connection with concession agreements signed by the Government of Liberia.
Representative Cooper said, given the seriousness and sensitivity of the allegations, it was important in the interest of transparency, accountability, and the integrity of the Legislature that Kouyateh be allowed to substantiate his claims before the House.
“As lawmakers entrusted with the confidence of the Liberian people, it is incumbent upon us to ensure that allegations of corruption or misconduct are thoroughly addressed through the appropriate legislative processes to protect the credibility of the Legislature and uphold public trust,” the communication stated.
Although Representative Cooper requested that the Ambassador appear before Plenary, the House decided that Kouyateh should instead appear before the leadership of the House on Monday. The appearance is expected to provide an opportunity for the House leadership to seek clarification and evidence regarding the allegations raised publicly by the Ambassador-at-Large.
