Two senior Liberian government officials have downplayed mounting criticism over the extravagant display of cash at a recent birthday celebration, describing the backlash as “real yen-yen talk” from “less busy people.”
The controversy began after a video surfaced on social media showing Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) Commissioner Patrick Honna showering live musicians and gospel singers with money during Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah’s 58th birthday party.
The footage, which quickly went viral, sparked widespread condemnation from Liberians at home and abroad, many of whom accused Honna of abusing public funds at a time when many citizens struggle with basic needs.
One of the most vocal critics was social media commentator Martin K.N. Kollie, who described the incident as a “disgusting” and “abusive” display of privilege.
“Flaunting💰was wrong yesterday. It is also wrong now amid joblessness. Patrick Honnah per year earns US$102,193 in salary, US$18,866.40 in transportation, excluding his US$3,622 for generator. He earns around $11K every month while civil servants get US$150,” Kollie wrote.
But officials were quick to hit back.
Mohammed Ali, Managing Director of the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC), argued that critics were simply stirring up “cheap, flimsy, and lousy propaganda.”
“When an official goes to a friend’s birthday party, and a band is playing, and that official is in a joyous mood, gives the band some money, boom, that becomes a crime. There is absolutely nothing wrong with giving money to a playing band or traditional dancers; it’s part of our culture… Less busy people!” he said.
Minister Piah also joined the rebuttal, dismissing the online backlash and mocking suggestions that the celebration reflected corruption or extravagance.
“Mo Ali, the crazy part is for some networks to claim that the Communications Manager of Firestone could not feed himself, while out of government – Real yen yen yen talk,” Piah quipped.
Despite the officials’ defiance, public scrutiny over the stewardship of state resources and accountability remains high, especially amid ongoing economic hardships facing ordinary Liberians.
About The Author
