FreedomNews
In recent developments, a disturbing narrative surrounding Deputy Minister of Finance, Bill McGill Jones, has come to light, alleging corruption and abuse of power. Accusations indicate that Jones sought kickbacks and tampered with contract values for personal benefit. On May 16, 2024, reports emerged that Deputy Minister Jones sacked procurement director Eric Arkoi and Comptroller Sekou Alhaji Dukuly for their refusal to inflate a contract for the Budget Management System as requested.
Eric Arkoi, the dismissed procurement director, stood firm against the unjustifiable increase in contract value, contending its lack of merit. Despite the objections raised by Arkoi and Dukuly, Jones persisted in his demands, resulting in their ousting.
Jones’ defense, invoking the PPC Act of 2010, was criticized as a misinterpretation of the law. The section cited did not align with the circumstances of the contract, casting doubt on the legitimacy of Jones’ decisions.
Furthermore, Eric Arkoi’s suspension concerning a procurement agreement without substantial evidence of wrongdoing raised further skepticism regarding Jones’ intentions. The evident lack of transparency in the internal reviews and dismissals implied a potential targeting of those opposing misconduct.