By E. J. Nathaniel Daygbor
The Ministry of Transport has been rocked by a scandal that has sent shockwaves through Liberia’s regulatory system, after revelations that a senior official allegedly masterminded a $30,000 fraud scheme involving fake eligibility certificates.
At the center of the storm is Mr. Gaspare White, Director for Land Transport, who is accused of issuing fraudulent certificates to business owners — including Nigerian nationals — in exchange for cash payments. Investigators revealed that out of 30 certificates examined, at least 15 were fake, each reportedly sold for $2,000, netting White an estimated $30,000 fraud.
Eligibility certificates are vital documents required for the licensing and operation of used car garages, driving schools, auto parks, and dealerships across Liberia. Their falsification not only undermines the credibility of the transport sector but also raises serious concerns about public safety and institutional integrity.
The scandal was uncovered by DN News Liberia, whose investigation exposed the alleged scheme and prompted swift police action. On April 23, 2026, White was arrested and detained overnight following complaints from defrauded clients.
Victims claimed the certificates were knowingly falsified and distributed under White’s authority. The probe is being spearheaded by Liberia National Police Unit 116 officer Fred Gaye, who confirmed that multiple clients had lodged formal complaints.
Despite the arrest, White astonishingly remained in his position as Director of Land Transport for days without disciplinary action. This glaring lapse has fueled public outrage and raised urgent questions about accountability and internal controls within the Ministry of Transport.
Critics argue that the ministry’s silence reflects a troubling culture of impunity. Transport Minister Sirleaf Tyler and his leadership team have failed to publicly address the allegations, further stoking suspicions of a cover-up.
Repeated attempts to reach the ministry’s Public Affairs Department were met with silence. Calls and text messages directed to spokesperson Mr. Shadrack Brown went unanswered, leaving the public in the dark.
The scandal has ignited fierce debate across Monrovia, with civil society groups demanding immediate reforms and disciplinary action. Analysts warn that unless swift measures are taken, Liberia risks eroding public trust in its institutions and deterring legitimate investors from engaging in the transport sector.
Observers say the case highlights systemic weaknesses in governance, where corruption often festers unchecked. For many Liberians, the scandal is yet another reminder of how deeply entrenched malpractice remains within public institutions.
As investigations continue, the fate of Mr. White hangs in the balance. But the damage to the ministry’s reputation is already profound. What began as whispers of misconduct has erupted into a full-blown scandal — one that threatens to redefine the public’s perception of Liberia’s transport governance.
The unanswered question remains: will this case mark a turning point in Liberia’s fight against corruption, or will it fade into yet another chapter of unpunished scandal?
