Monrovia, Jan. 23 -- The Government of Liberia has announced plans to return 35 earth-moving machines, commonly referred to as "yellow machines," that were imported under a controversial arrangement negotiated by Minister of State without Portfolio Mamaka Bility, as a newly negotiated procurement deal nears completion-rekindling public concern over wasteful spending and weak due diligence.

Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah disclosed the decision during the Ministry of Information's regular press briefing, saying the return of the equipment followed a settlement reached with the supplier.

"When the yellow machines story started, 35 yellow machines were brought into this country," Piah said. "Based on the settlement that was reached be...