Former Minister of Public Works Writes An Open Letter to Minister Roland Giddings

January 19, 2026

Honorable Minister and Esteemed Colleagues,

I write with respect and a sincere sense of national responsibility regarding the Infrastructure Conference being held in Gompa City, Nimba County that is organized by the Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Public Works.

As the immediate past Minister of Public Works, a professional and career engineer who has served this country diligently, I am concerned and particularly note that I was not invited to participate in this important national dialogue.

Infrastructure development is a continuous national endeavor that transcends beyond political parties and administrations. It should rather be fundamentally about our collective expertise, institutional memory, and shared commitment to Liberia’s development.

Such conferences provide valuable opportunities for knowledge-sharing, reflection on lessons learned, and strengthening professional collaboration across generations of leadership within the sector. Inclusion of former ministers and senior professionals helps ensure continuity, enriches policy discourse, and reinforces the principle that national development is a shared responsibility.

I wish to emphasize that my concern is raised not in the spirit of criticism, but in good faith and with the hope that future national infrastructure engagements will embrace broader professional participation for the benefit of our country.

I remain fully committed to supporting Liberia’s infrastructure development in whatever capacity my experience and expertise may be useful, and I look forward to continued collaboration in the national interest.

Please accept my assurances of highest consideration.

Respectfully,

Hon. Ruth Coker Collins

Former Minister of Public Works

Republic of Liberia