UDP calls for independent investigation into Ministry of Transport corruption allegations

Published by BBNTEAM at May 24, 2025

Posted: Saturday, May 24, 2025. 5:12 pm CST.

By Aaron Humes: The United Democratic Party (UDP) has renewed its call for a thorough and impartial investigation into widespread allegations of corruption within the Ministry of Transport. In a bold press release, party officials emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency, particularly in light of recent troubling revelations.

The UDP’s call comes in response to comments made by the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Chester Williams, who suggested that the problems within the Ministry are largely limited to underreporting by mid-level staff. The UDP argues that such assertions are an attempt to deflect responsibility and protect influential political figures from scrutiny.

The Opposition argues that there is a pattern of corruption that has been ignored for too long, and they are determined to see it addressed. The party’s concerns date back to early 2022, when credible reports indicated that law enforcement agencies were investigating a stolen vehicle ring involving key personnel within the Ministry. This was highlighted further by the Yhoni Rosado scandal, which unveiled an international vehicle smuggling operation connected to Marconi Leal Sr., then a Member of the House of Representatives and the father of then-CEO Marconi Leal Jr. The UDP criticized the government for dismissing their warnings and allowing these serious allegations to be brushed aside.

In early 2023, former Minister of Transport Rodwell Ferguson revealed that he had received alarming information that prompted him to restrict spending by CEO Leal Jr. without prior approval. Following Leal Jr.’s removal, CEO Adele Catzim-Sanchez took over and swiftly uncovered additional questionable activities, notably involving a non-competitive procurement process for license plates from a company allegedly owned by a relative of Minister Ferguson. The UDP highlighted these conflicts of interest as indicative of deeper systemic issues within the Ministry.

“We cannot allow the same individuals implicated in these scandals to lead any form of investigation,” the UDP statement emphasized. “An independent investigation conducted by the Office of the Auditor General is essential to restore public trust and uncover the truth behind these serious allegations.”

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