Articles (29)
CENTAL’s ALAC and the Impact in Curbing Corruption
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CENTAL’s ALAC and the Impact in Curbing Corruption
Imagine critical funds needed to assist in the design of policies and implement initiatives to prevent unwanted pregnancies amongst adolescent girls and women being misused to feather the nests of a few individuals. That was the story of corruption at the Planned Parenthood Association of Liberia (PPAL) reported to the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) through its Advocacy and Legal Advice Center (ALAC) sometimes in 2022.
What started as allegations of corruption in the tone of $ 96, 875.00 forwarded to ALAC against the former officials including Madam Miatta K.K. Cojolo, former Executive Director, Ernree Bee Neeplo, former Program Manager, Ernest Vobah, former Finance and Administrative Manager, William Gibson, former Human Resource Manager, and Peter Collins, Board Vice Chairman, turned into an indictment and a guilty verdict by the Criminal Court “C”.
In all began in 2020, when the Planned Parenthood Association of Liberia with support from IPPFARO commissioned a Forensic Auditor, Parker & Company LLC to undertake a forensic audit of activities covering a period of 6 years (2013-2018). Findings from the audit amongst others accused the former staff of financial malpractices. Based on the audit findings, a Steering Committee comprising 8 members was constituted to hold conferences with the accused staff (former and current) and former Honorary Members of the Association.
The purpose of the conferences, as mentioned supra, was to ascertain from the staff the allegations about their culpability and the possibility of their ability to restitute the amounts for which they were found wanting. As an independent corruption reporting platform of CENTAL, ALAC was alerted to help track the progress of the allegations through the legal system.
In October 2021, upon completion of the conference by the steering committee in collaboration with CENTAL, the team submitted its report to the board that recommended among many things that the accused staff be forwarded to the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission for investigation and subsequent prosecution and where and when possible.
The Forensic audit report was then submitted to the LACC by ALAC in Oct. 2021 which led to the commencement of investigation, drawing of indictment and legal proceedings into the matter at the Criminal Court “C”. The investigation had established that Kadiyatu Sheriff, Victoria Gibson, and Syma Aaron Diawon were named as incorporators, with Kadiyatu Sheriff being Cojolo’s niece and representing her interest in the firm. Similarly, Vobah, Gibson, and Collins had their spouses listed as shareholders without their knowledge.
Despite not following Public Procurement and Concession Commission’s (PPCC) Procedures, PPAL entered into a contract with PEWETA Security Inc. on September 1, 2014, two months prior to illegally establishing the company. The contract was for guard services at PPAL’s Headquarters and other Offices, valued at $37,500.00 annually and renewed until 2018. The Defendants conspired to have PPAL paid $96,875.00 to PEWETA Security Company, of which they were beneficial owners, for security guard services during the specified period.
During the trial, the Defendants denied all allegations against them. Importantly, CENTAL, through its Executive Director, Anderson D. Miamen, was subpoenaed by the court to testify in the proceedings as to its knowledge of the matter. A mandate that was complied with. Following about two years of court proceedings into the matter, the accused were slapped with a guilty verdict by Judge Kennedy Peabody on charges of economic sabotage, theft, illegal disbursement and expenditure of public money, misapplication of entrusted property, speculation or wagering on official action or information, and criminal conspiracy.
Following the verdict, the court requested the Ministry of Justice’s Probation Office to conduct an investigation into the defendants’ character and report back within one week. Judge Peabody sentenced the defendants, who are being incarcerated at the Monrovia Central Prison and required to restitute the stolen funds.
The guilty verdict against the officials is a testament to the amount of progress which could be achieved through ALAC when citizens play active and not passive roles in the fight against corruption by reporting corrupt dealings and not sitting on the fence. Already, ALAC has resolved several cases through the provision of legal advice and mediation while some were referred to the Ministry of Education, Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation, Liberia Electricity Corporation, Ministry of Internal Affairs and the United Methodist University, amongst others.
Assessing the Risk of Corruption in Universities and High Schools
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Assessing the Risk of Corruption in Universities and High Schools
By Mark Boahndao
Of all the forms of corruption, bribery and sextortion (favors in exchange for sex) are believed to be the most prevalent in schools. To understand the risks and factors that fuels corruption in universities and high schools, a corruption risk assessment survey has been conducted by students of the very universities and schools.
These activities have been conducted as part of the Youth Engagement Activities. The Corruption Risk Assessment was commissioned amongst others, to ascertain issues and concerns students are faced with on their various campuses. This process was aimed at gathering information and data on the state and level of corruption in the education sector.
Moreover, it helped to identify key problems that tend to hinder students’ learning, access to quality education as well as faculty-to-student relationship and student-to-student relationship.
The key objectives of this exercise was to identify issues and challenges students are faced with on their various campuses (schools and universities) and to use the findings to tackle issues identified from the survey and tailor it into our program’s activities for robust interventions.
The survey employed non-probability sampling which is generally considered as convenience sampling approach of obtaining data by using non-random means based on availability, geographical proximity or expert knowledge of individuals in a study.
Participants were largely selected based on accessibility, and were allowed to get involved with practical and feasible data collection processes. This survey approach involved Key Informant Interviews (KII), Focus Group Discussions (FDG) aimed at gauging the perspectives and insights of selected respondents from high schools and universities. The total of twenty-five (25) enumerators were carefully chosen from four universities and high schools. Each enumerator was tasked with conducting interviews with 25 participants.
Consequently, these students gathered at their various campuses to initiate this process and came up with interesting findings. The total number of participants interviewed were three hundred thirty-two (332) constituting 38.8 % male and 41.8% female. They predominantly comprised of students and administrators, including those from high schools and universities.
Nearly after a month of the assessment exercise, students from different universities and a high school represent by the Ford Madden Christian Academy assembled to validate the document at the United Methodist University Campus on Ashmun Street in Monrovia.
Though tense, however, the validation process had many recommendations. For instance, the overall results from the survey conducted on how accessible is the school facilities to Persons with Disability (PWD) indicated that 31% noted that it was inaccessible while 21% said it was accessible. 18% said very accessible while 20% said, they do not know. This signifies that there is need to make school facilities disable friendly and accessible to all persons including disadvantaged people.
Few among the recommendations emanating from the validation calls for strengthening relationships among students, teachers and administrators. For the most part, there should be a cordial learning environment wherein student leaders, teachers and administrators can freely discuss issues, share ideas, information and collaborate. This could help improve trust and enhance two ways communication within the institution.
More importantly, information on all institutional and academic policies, including code of conduct, student’s handbook and other procedures to keep students informed and abrupt. Additionally, copies of these documents should be shared with if not all students, especially during registration, admission, and orientation processes to help students understand and adhere to academic policies more appropriately.
Since 2004, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has been combatting corruption, promoting anti-corruption and transparency efforts as well as good governance principles and integrity building through various programs across Liberia. With the involvement of youth in preaching integrity and anti-corruption messages in universities and high schools through the establishment of integrity clubs, the narratives of youth inclusion in the fight against corruption is being manifested regardless of age, ethnicity, color or religion.
The IClub, also referred to as Youth Engagement Program was established at the state-run University of Liberia in 2018. Serving as a frontier force to reach young people in universities, high school, and communities, it was later expanded to three private universities in 2020 through the Swedish International Development Cooperation (SIDA)’s support. With the aim of training and empowering students to become ambassadors of integrity and agents of change in the respective areas of learning and society, the Integrity Club has stretched its tentacles to seven (7) counties: Nimba, Bong, Rivercess, Grand Bassa, Gbarpolu, and Bomi with Montserrado at the zenith of the activities.
The success for IClub can be primarily alluded to university and school’s administrators and students for playing active roles in improving the quality of educational services and ensuring a corruption-free learning environment.
Considering the trend of corruption and the risk involved in universities and high schools, the strides for ensuring a corruption-free learning environment continues as different activities are being innovatively thought-out.
Supporting Efficient County Councils for Improved Service Delivery -CENTAL Works to Empower 27 County Council Members in Nimba, Grand Bassa and Bong Counties
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Supporting Efficient County Councils for Improved Service Delivery—CENTAL Works to Empower 27 County Council Members in Nimba, Grand Bassa and Bong Counties
By: Clara K. Mallah
Considered as the last ‘kick of a dying horse’ in a quest to decentralize governance in Liberia, the efficient workings of County Councils spread across the 15 political subdivisions of Liberia, equipped with the requisite support including training on their roles and mandates cannot be overemphasized. Established as an upshot of Chapter 2.2 of the Local Government Act (LGA) of 2018, County Councils are part of efforts aimed at ensuring adequate citizens participation in the governance of their counties irrespective of gender or physical impairment.
According to the (LGA), members of the council include a Women Association representative, two county youth organization (a male and a female) representatives, a representative from the county organization of people living with disabilities; two representatives from the County organization of the Civil Society associations ( a male and a female); two chiefs from the Council of Chiefs of the County and an elder all of who have got the power to impose local taxes, rates, duties, fees and fines within limits prescribed by the Legislature.
But despite the existence of such authority, wielding them has been a hurdle members of the council have struggled to surmount due to several challenges. In addition to financial and logistical constraints, most county council members have capacity challenges.
An assessment of the councils revealed that some members lack basic skills including reading and analyzing critical instruments like county budget, financial reports and others. These are amongst the many reasons why, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has placed premium on capacity building for county councils members.
A series of training sessions have been conducted under the auspices of CENTAL’s Open Expenditure Initiative (OEI), in six counties including Grand Bassa, Nimba, Bong, Rivercess, Bomi, Gbarpolu. The sessions were focused on understanding the local government law, roles and responsibilities of the council members and entrenching transparency and accountability in all the plans and activates of the councils. Throughout the sessions, council’s members were reminded about the significance of an efficient local governance structure that provides effective oversight of the development priorities and projects of the counties for improved service delivery.
Also, the training helped enhanced their knowledge of the national budget process as well as specific allotments made for counties including health and education, the County Social Development (CSDF), and the County Social Funds (CSF).
On the overall, the engagements recorded some fruitful outcomes. Of the funds allotted in the National Budget, some counties have so far received their full allotment, while others were still going through the process of receiving theirs.
Most of the Superintendents in the six-project counties, including the County Council Members, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Women’ groups and others spoken to during the engagement promised to ensure that funds allotted in the 2024 National Budget will be used for the completion of past projects earmarked during the administration of former President George M. Weah. And new projects will also be undertaken during the 2025 budget period. They named the construction and rehabilitation of bridges, clinics, schools, town halls, as some of the projects to be completed.
Meanwhile, CENTAL’s assessment shows that the perennial challenges of lack of adequate financial resources to fund development projects, human and technical resources constraints, infrastructure, social difficulties, difficulties associated with farm-market roads, and others still persist. Also, the local county officials have placed emphasis on addressing issues of capacity building, resolving political disagreements, diversifying the economy to lessen reliance of the people and counties, improving marketing, and improving infrastructure.
In all this, CENTAL is determined to continue its advocacy and awareness around the National Budget to ensure the national envelope is more effective to meet the demands of the people. Indeed, the national budget must work for all.
Finding Intersections Between Gender and Anti-Corruption
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Finding Intersections Between Gender and Anti-Corruption
By: Clara K. Mallah
Since 2018, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has made deliberate strides to mainstream gender across its projects and activities. One example of those efforts is the formulation and adaptation of a Gender Policy framework which includes measures to advocate for equality and equal participation in the society through various anti-corruption messages. In furtherance of this policy, we have worked not only to mainstream gender in our programs but to ensure that gender-related activities are also laced with anti-corruption themes. Our engagements in commemoration of the 16-Days of activism is one way in which this is done.
In commemoration of the 2024 edition of the celebration, and to mark the 25th Anniversary of the celebration, CENTAL collaborated with the Ministry of Gender Children and Social Protection (MOGCSP) for a series of activities held from 25 November to 10 December 2024. These activities included a grand march followed by an official indoor program at the Ministerial Complex in Monrovia, under the global theme: “From Pledges to Impact: Account, Resource, and Recommit to End Violence against Women and Girls” and on the national theme, “From Talk to Action! Let’s Join Hands to End Violence Against Women and Girls”. As part of CENTAL’s contribution to the celebration, we availed two editions of our Integrity-Watch radio program to the MOGCSP where they appeared and provided public awareness about the significance of observing the period of activism.
On top of this, a one-day debate with students of the Ford Madden Christian Academy (FMCA) on the importance of the 16 Days of Activism, and the impact of corruption on gender was organized. The event helped enlightened the students on the subject of Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), gender and corruption, and its effects on people and the society.
During the debate, Augustus Mckeever, Principal of Ford-Madden Christian Academy, welcomed the team to the school and expressed joy that such an event was brought to the students to enlighten them. “This is will go a long way for the students...The fight against corruption and SBGV is an important discussion…CENTAL taking the lead to create awareness among the students is a great initiative,” Mckeever added.
A total of 73 students were present during the event. Of this number, 37 were males and 36 females, excluding the two judges, Solomon Ware, and Amos Williams. The debate session was held between the 11th and 12th graders, and they debated on the topic: Teachers bear the responsibility for bribery in schools. This was followed by a presentation on the 16 Days of Activism, Gender and Corruption, from Clara K. Mallah, CENTAL’s Gender and Inclusion Officer.
The 11th graders, debate team, comprised of three students, argued ‘For’ and 12th graders, debate team, also comprised of three students, argued ‘against’. The debate was epic, educating, impactful, when the students provided essential points in defense of their respective arguments. The both teams provided key information, or facts as to why bribery in school is teachers’ responsibility, and why teachers are not responsible for bribery in schools.
The intersections of the discussion sparked meaningful dialogue among the students. The debate was climaxed with a fascinating learning and sharing session, which provided a platform for the participants and the students (audience) to exchange ideas, answered questions, shared experiences, and put-forth ways in finding solutions to the day-day-problems surrounding corruption and SGBV.
At the end of the debate, the 11th grade team, emerged as winner, due to accurate research, composition and presentation, and received a cash prize of USD50.00, while the 12th Grade Team, came second place, and received a cash prize of USD$25.00. 11th grader, Cornelius D. Horace, 16, led his team to victory, and expressed great appreciation to CENTAL for the event, and expressed ‘joy and pride’ for his team to have emerged as ‘winner’. “This win was based on teamwork. We studied hard, did our research and got prepared for the debate. Anything you want do or achieve, you have to work hard…we are very grateful for the achievement,” Horace said.
For Second place winner, Naomi E. White, who led her team, said, despite taking second place, her team found the debate very educative, and hopes CENTAL continues to create such an opportunity for young people to learn. “Yes! We are happy to have participated, we will get prepared better for future programme. Thanks to CENTAL for the programme…It was educating,” the 16-Year-Old said. Horace and White then encouraged fellow students to keep studying for a better future. “To our fellow classmates, and schoolmates, don’t’ give up! Study, one day, you will be a winner” both said.
The activity encapsulates CENTAL’s commitment to continue the SGBV outreach across its project counties: Bomi, Gbarpolu, Rivercess, Grand Bassa, Nimba, Bong and Montserrado. The celebration was climaxed on December 10, 2024, following a series of engagements all geared towards spreading the word against SGBV through social media pages, Facebook, LinkedIn, radio program ‘Integrity TV’, universities, schools, and communities.
Entrenching Transparency and Accountability in Local Governance...CENTAL Conducts Training For Local Officials in Grand Cape Mount County
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Entrenching Transparency and Accountability in Local Governance
—CENTAL Conducts Training For Local Officials in Grand Cape Mount County
In a society like Liberia where corruption levels are high, it is seldom you find political actors take practical steps to stop corruption from its track. But this seems to be the reality for the new leadership of Grand Cape Mount County. “We have called you here to help train members of our leadership team on anti-corruption strategies and transparency measures”, Isaac Johnson, County Administrative Officer, said at the commencement of the daylong training in Sinje City, Grand Cape Mount County.
The training was one of several already had as part of an ongoing effort by the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) to entrench the culture of transparency, accountability and integrity across public in institutions in Liberia.
It all happened at the Administrative Building in Sinje City, Friday, July 12, 2024, as an upshot of a formal letter of request made by the county administration led Superintendent Folley Kiatamba, to have its leadership in entirety including lawmakers, County Council members, Commissioners, Chiefs, Superintendent and other officials capacity built in mainstreaming accountability, transparency and good governance in their development priorities by CENTAL.
The request came on the backs of an initial engagement by the new County Finance Officer, Andrew Massalay, who had served CENTAL previously as County Field Officer for Grand Cape Mount County. “Before I assumed this role, I learned a lot about how to live a life of integrity whilst working for CENTAL. This is why I lobbied with my colleagues to have this session to help us gain the people’s trust by promoting transparency and accountability in our work”, Massalay said.
During the session, County Administrator, Isaac Johnson presented highlights of development initiatives of the leadership. CENTAL’s Program Manager Atty. Gerald D. Yeakula drilled participants on the significance of understanding frameworks, prospects, and roles of stakeholders in decentralization and local administration. Gender and Inclusion Officer, Clara K. Mallah spoke on strategies, challenges, benefits and way forward for mainstreaming gender in local administration and public service delivery.
Also, Executive Director, Anderson D. Miamen drilled participants through approaches, benefits and challenges of anti-corruption and good governance in Liberia as well as the role of Civil Society and Community Based Organizations.
Throughout the sessions, major focus was placed on anti-corruption, decentralization, good governance, building trust and integrity, ethical leadership and public service delivery. Amongst many others, participant’s knowledge and understanding of key decentralization, anti-corruption, accountability, integrity and performance related issues to make informed decisions were enhanced.
At the end of the exercise, participants got deepened understanding of anti-corruption, decentralization and other topics. As a result, individual and collective commitments were made to support the fight against corruption. Both county administration and CENTAL bore the cost of the training with CENTAL handling the provision of training module and logistics for staff while the county administration handled venue and cost of feeding for participants. “The efforts applied by the county authorities to have us here is unprecedented”, said Miamen.
Tracking Corruption Allegations: A look at the Corruption Case Tracker’s Role in the Fight against Corruption
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Tracking Corruption Allegations
A look at the Corruption Case Tracker’s Role in the Fight against Corruption
By: Mark Boahndao
Before now, accessing information about allegations of corruption and their statuses in Liberia would require hours of surfing the internet. The need to have readily available, independent, up-to-date, and consolidated details about various corruption cases became blatant. The drawback presented by this dearth of data is that impunity flourished as persons accused of corruption moved around freely without actions taken against them. With accusations in Liberia rising and falling like ‘Coca-Cola’ bubbles, it became difficult for civil society and citizens to persist in demanding accountability for past allegations of corruption.
Also, LACC and other agencies or departments could hardly be monitored and engaged regarding the slow pace of investigations or outcome of cases since information on particular cases eluded many.
To support ongoing national efforts to address this pressing issue, CENTAL developed the Corruption Case Tracker (CCT), under her National Integrity Building and Anti-Corruption Program, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). The Corruption Case Tracker is a groundbreaking online platform designed to enhance transparency and accountability in the handling of corruption cases, in part through making information about their nature, scope, location, timeline, and other details available and accessible to the public.
Since its official launch on October 9, 2024 by Nikolina Stalhand, Program Officer at the Embassy of Sweden in Liberia, the Tracker has endeavored to address information gap about corruption by offering a transparent and accessible platform that provides real-time updates on corruption cases, ensuring accountability from relevant authorities and empowering Liberians, the media, civil society and other stakeholders to monitor and meaningfully engage with the process.
“As citizens gain easy access to information about corruption cases, they become more engaged in the process of justice. They can monitor the progress of cases that matter to them and advocate for timely resolutions”, said, Anderson D. Miamen, CENTAL’s Executive Director at the formal launch of the tracker in Monrovia.
The tracker, amongst many others, seeks to enhance transparency and foster increased engagement by providing the public and stakeholders with real-time access to case details and updates. By doing so, citizens are expected to increase demand for accountability by holding government agencies responsible for investigating and prosecuting corruption cases. These efforts would lead to a strengthened collaboration among citizens, media, civil society, government agencies, and international organizations in addressing corruption in Liberia.
As timely investigations and resolutions of corruption cases are essential for maintaining public trust and ensuring that justice is served, the tracker is acting as a catalyst by highlighting cases that have been pending for extended periods and putting pressure on relevant authorities to expedite their investigation and conclusion.
By shining a light on delayed cases, the Tracker provides a platform where citizens are empowered to demand accountability from their leaders. They can see which cases have stagnated and question why. This public scrutiny would incentivize authorities to act more swiftly and efficiently, knowing that their actions are under constant watch by the public. In this way, the Tracker fosters a sense of urgency in addressing corruption issues, ultimately leading to a more transparent and accountable society.
With just a click on the link or a search in Google: https://cct.cental.org.lr, anyone can have their fill and experience this remarkable technological and web-based platform.
Moreover, the Tracker's user-friendly interface ensures that even those with limited technological literacy can access and understand the information. With just a few clicks, users can find detailed information about ongoing and concluded corruption cases, including the names of individuals involved, the nature of the allegations, and the current status of each case. This accessibility not only fosters a sense of empowerment among citizens but also encourages them to participate in the fight against corruption
Sweden was Never Wrong To Trust Us
There’s no denying that the civil war (1989-2003) affected the viability of state and non-state institutions. Civil society institutions emerging after the conflict were confronted by a poor economy, bad governance, and a deflated donor landscape.
It was this environment that CENTAL encountered and endured since its establishment in 2004. For the forebearers, a firm conviction that Liberia can be corruption-free is what was needed to keep the torch burning. Thus, limited availability of resources and threats and opposition from government could not dissuade them from pursuing an objective in the public interest. Lack of salaries for staff, inadequate staffing, limited office space, and inadequate logistics and funding for program interventions were amongst challenges that beset the organization.
In the years that followed, CENTAL began to earn the trust of different donors, including: the Open Society Initiative West Africa (OSIWA), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the German International Cooperation Society (GIZ). With resources at its disposal, the organization began to rollout interventions in sectors such as natural resources and education while remaining robust in its advocacy for anti-corruption reforms.
While earlier partnerships with donors propelled CENTAL to great heights of impact, these fell short of addressing capacity and sustainability challenges of the organization. Attention was mostly placed on project activities and related outcomes with very little consideration on institutional capacity or the life of the organization beyond a given project period. For instance, a proje5ct lasted for a year on average and, in many cases, did not undertake to pay other staff essential to the project and the smooth running of the organization. Donors preferred vehicle rental to vehicle purchase, even in cases were amount for rental could clearly purchase a vehicle. Administrative costs indirectly related to the projects could hardly come by to support institutional sustainability.
By 2017, however, CENTAL would become exposed to what would later be revealed as a ‘life-changing’ encounter. The Embassy of Sweden approached CENTAL over the possibility of holding activities in commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD). Without hesitation and with support from the Embassy of Sweden, CENTAL organized activities celebrating IACD for three successive years. Then in August 2020, a partnership agreement was finally executed between CENTAL and the Embassy of Sweden with focus not only on the fight against corruption but enhancing the viability and contribution to the sustainability of CENTAL.
Since 2020, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) and the government and people of Sweden through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) have enjoyed a healthy and rewarding marriage which has significantly addressed challenges facing the organization.
The initial 15 million SEK (US$1.8 million) agreement was indeed pivotal in supporting the implementation of a National Integrity Building and Anti-Corruption Program (NIBA) with objectives including Increasing Citizens’ Access to Relevant Information and Mechanisms, increasing advocacy efforts and CENTAL’s capacity to independently monitor and advocate Against Corruption in Liberia by December 2023.
As the tenure of the agreement elapsed in December 2023, discussions for the commencement of a second phase of the program were already well advanced. In February 2024, CENTAL represented by Executive Director, Anderson D. Miamen and Swedish Ambassador to Liberia Urban Sjostrom put pen to paper to consummate the agreement for a new three years program January 2024 to December 2026. The support from Sweden represents the biggest single donor support so far to CENTAL’s quest to tackle the corruption scourge since its founding in 2004, and arguably, the largest donor support to a local Civil Society Organization (CSO).
On one hand, it has enabled us to sustain partnerships with community-based organizations through a Joint Civil Society Anti-Corruption Initiative (JOSCAI) which has rallied citizens to petition members of the Legislature for the passage and amendments of anti-corruption bills. On the other hand, our Advocacy and Legal Advice Center (ALAC), has been positioned as a foremost platform for citizens to report and seek redress to corruption and get free legal advice for other pertinent issues affecting them.
Also, it has given impetus to our efforts to increase transparency and inclusivity among citizens and local county officials in the governance and management of County Social Development Funds (CSDF) through our Open Expenditure Initiative (OEI).
In a nutshell, the support from Sweden has not only strengthened the capacity of CENTAL in support of its vision of a corruption-free Liberia but it has positioned the organization as one of the leading voices in promoting accountability and integrity in Liberia.
This demonstration of trust and confidence on the part of Sweden has further opened the doors for much more support from other donors many of whom have come knocking. Because of the confidence reposed by Sweden, there has been an avalanche of new support from almost every nook and cranny of the donor community including UN Women, UNDP, IRISH Aid, and USAID amongst others.
This support from Sweden coupled with the results achieved so far in our quest to build a Liberia where good governance, a culture of accountability, and transparency remain the hallmark of governance point to one conclusion, ‘Sweden Was Never Wrong to Trust’.
To the government and people of Sweden, we raise our heads; lift up our right hand to a salute for the continuous support to not just the works of CENTAL but the tons of other local Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Liberia you are supporting to stay engaged and afloat.
Harvesting the Outcomes ...CENTAL’s NIBA Program Phase Two Scores Success in Ending the Corruption Conundrum
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Harvesting the Outcomes
CENTAL’s NIBA Program Phase Two Scores Success in Ending the Corruption Conundrum
By: Edward W. Blamo and Gerald D. Yeakula
Liberia’s quest to end corruption is gaining steam, not just from the increased level of awareness about the existence of the menace but the wave of innovative approaches which are contributing to curbing the corruption scourge. And without any doubt, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has contributed and continues to play its part in changing the narrative. Through its National Integrity Building and Anti-corruption Program (NIBA) funded by the government and people of Sweden, a horde of approaches which have already been implemented are yielding positive outcomes.
These initiatives include the Advocacy and Legal Advice Center (ALAC), an independent platform that allows citizens to report corruption; National Integrity Forum (NIF), a collaborative effort with government anti-graft institutions that promotes transparency in service delivery; Joint Civil Society and Anti-corruption Initiative, (JOSCAI), a conglomeration of community-based organizations working to tackle corruption; Youth Engagement Program - Integrity Club (IClub), an initiative that works with students to become anti-corruption ambassadors; Open Expenditure Initiative (OEI), a program that promotes transparency and inclusivity in the expenditure of county social development fund;, media and visibility, amongst others.
Several positive outcomes have already been achieved so far. For example, an allegation of corruption reported to our Advocacy and Legal Advice Center (ALAC) in 2022 has been adjudicated and a guilty verdict rendered in 2024 by Criminal Court “C” Judge Kennedy Peabody. The matter was centered around the mismanagement of funds in the tone of $96, 875.00 involving several former and current officials of the Planned Parenthood Association of Liberia (PPAL) including Madam Miatta K.K. Cojolo, former Executive Director, Ernree Bee Neeplo, former Program Manager, Ernest Vobah, former Finance and Administrative Manager, William Gibson, former Human Resource Manager, and Peter Collins, Board Vice Chairman.
These experiences have spurred us to work to build capacity of those public offices with a view to getting them to comply with relevant anti-corruption laws. “The training on anti-corruption laws has been rewarding for us especially so that we are new council”, said J. Aaron Sackie Fenlah, Chairman, Bong County Council of the capacity building session organized for members as part of CENTAL’s Open Expenditure Initiative (OEI). Another leg of capacity-building support was provided to local authorities including the Superintendent and other officials of Grand Cape Mount County on corruption prevention strategies, the management team of the Liberia Water and Sewer Cooperation (LWSC), the leadership of the Liberia National Police (LNP), amongst others.
On the other hand, the sum of US$2000 of the Gbarpolu County Disabled Community Development fund which was said to have been mismanagement by Sunny M. Winnie, former chair of the disabled community was ordered refunded. This follows CENTAL’s County Field Officer consistent highlight of the incident.
Also, the program has worked to entrench the culture of transparency and accountability within public service delivery through the conduct of a varied of anti-corruption and capacity building trainings for public sector officials, media, and other actors.
From honing the skills of senior managers of the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) in the deployment of best practices to curb corruption to the training of County council members on accountability strategies for improved service delivery, the different capacity-building supports have strengthened public institutions' capacities to provide improved services.
Due to the significant role, the media plays in holding public officials to account, separate training sessions were conducted for journalists assigned at the national legislature, the Executive Mansion, and the Ministry of Information Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT), including those regularly honoring CENTAL’s press conference invitations, on anti-corruption laws and accountability strategies.
One groundbreaking outcome of the program so far is the launch of the Corruption Case Tracker, an online repository of everything corruption including allegations, cases, and their statuses amongst others. The tracker, a feature of CENTAL’s website is being achieved through a close collaboration with stakeholders including the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), General Auditing Commission (GAC), and others.
As an army of young people against corruption, the Integrity Club Outreach Program (ICLUB) is active in four universities –United Methodist University (UMU), University of Liberia (UL), Stella Maries Polytechnic University (SMPU), and the African Methodist Episcopal University (AMEU) has accelerated outreach activities with students at the forefront. Also, members of the ICLUB have conducted a ‘corruption risk assessment’ initiative to examine the risks and danger of corruption within schools as part of an effort to help curb the pervasive nature of the menace. Augustina Appleton, Vice President of the Integrity club chapter, University of Liberia who joined in 2021 said the education gained from involvement with IClub activities has led to an improved engagement with the local community leadership. “Through the IClub, I am currently serving as the secretary for my community. Additionally, my community has asked me to run for public relations officer position during the next election. This is all happening due to my involvement with the integrity club.”
These activities are contributing to the overall vision to ensure that promoting accountability and increasing citizens' demand for accountability are placed at the front and center of national discourses in Liberia.
Despite these efforts, fighting corruption in Liberia still remains somehow cumbersome. When one is indicted for any act of corruption and the matter is not finalized within five years, he or she is deemed free of all charges and could parade the streets of Monrovia with a head lifted high and chest popped up- thanks to a statute of limitation clause in the panel law of Liberia. This scenario is just one of several legal and political roadblocks that need to be cleared to end the pervasive nature of corruption which has wreaked havoc on the livelihoods of citizens.
Already, successive global anti-corruption ratings have been dismal. For example, the 2023 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) released by Transparency International gives a 25 out of 100 score, a huge decline from 32 scored in 2018. All of these have signaled the need for concerted efforts from diverse actors including government, civil society, media, and citizens, to change course.
2025 IACD Keynote Address Delivered by Ms. Christiana Sonpon
Written by Editor
International Anti-Corruption Day – December 9
Distinguished guests, fellow young people, ladies and gentlemen:
Today, we join the world to reflect on a challenge that threatens our development, dignity, and democracy. This year’s global theme calls on us to unite with young people to build a future rooted in integrity, and our national sub-theme reminds us that this fight must reach beyond Monrovia into every village, community, and county.
Global Theme: ‘Uniting with Youth against Corruption: Shaping tomorrow’s Integrity’
Sub-Theme: ‘Decentralizing the Fight against Corruption; Mobilizing Rural Youth to Demand Accountability and Better Service Delivery’
before we point fingers upward, we must face an uncomfortable truth: the foundation of corruption is the mindset of the people.
Transparency International defines corruption as the “abuse of entrusted power for private gain.” Yet corruption does not begin in high offices. It begins with small wrongs we justify, shortcuts we celebrate, and a culture that elevates corrupt individuals simply because we expect favors in return. We “name and shame,” but often, we praise, elect, and empower the very people we accuse.
This is why accountability is not only a government problem, it starts with us.
EXAMINING THE SYSTEM
Before we demand accountability, we must ask:
- Are systems in place?
- How effective are they?
- Who monitors them?
- And when they fail, who do we run to?
But equally important is another question we must ask ourselves: Are our own hands free from the cookie jar?
We criticize public officials, yet corruption lives in our homes, schools, communities, and institutions.
- Some civil society organizations issue blank receipts.
- Some journalists collect “carto.”
- Some religious leaders sell anointing oil for prosperity.
- Some community leaders receive money meant for the people but never report it.
If we must demand accountability from the top, then we must practice accountability at the bottom. We cannot clean the nation without first cleaning our corners.
CORRUPTION AND SERVICE DELIVERY
Corruption affects education, health care, agriculture, justice, and infrastructure. But systems themselves are not corrupt, people build systems, and mindsets sustain them.
A corrupt system exists because:
Someone approved the wrong contract.
Someone inflated a budget.
Someone diverted public funds.
And someone else stayed silent.
This is why decentralization matters. When rural youth are empowered to question, monitor, and demand accountability, corruption has nowhere to hide.
The County Service Centers (CSCs), created in 2015, were designed to bring government services closer to the people. By presidential directive, 40% of revenue generated by each CSC should remain in the county for operations.
But are we accessing these services without hindrance? Are we tracking how that 40% is used?
Too often we celebrate leaders based on what they give us personally rather than what they deliver for society. We honor titles instead of honoring the true heroes, the charcoal sellers, pepper sellers, market women, and young hustlers who keep our communities alive.
When politicians buy support with personal money, they enter office indebted to everyone except the citizens. And how do they repay? By exploiting the system meant to provide services to the people.
Corruption becomes systematic, not by accident, but by design, sustained by our silence.
WHY YOUTH?
Liberia has a youthful population, about 63% under age 25 and nearly 70% under age 35. Youth make up roughly half of registered voters. This makes young people powerful agents of change.
But are we asking the hard questions?
The 2025 national budget is US$880,661,874.
- How much of that is allocated to Margibi?
- How much goes to health, education, sanitation, roads, and youth development?
- How are county sitting representatives selected?
- Why are schools charging extra graduation fees not approved by the Ministry of Education?
These questions are not for lawmakers alone; they are for every young person.
If we do not ask, rooms remain silent.
If we do not ask, budgets pass unnoticed.
If we do not ask, corruption continues unchecked.
If young people in Monrovia can demand accountability for justice, health care, and governance, then young people in rural counties must do the same. That is why local government structures exist to bring oversight closer to the people.
CONCLUSION
The fight against corruption will not be won by laws alone, institutions alone, or speeches alone. It must be won through mindset change, community involvement, and personal accountability.
Let this be the generation that refuses to celebrate corrupt individuals.
Let this be the generation that honors true heroes, the hardworking mothers, fathers, teachers, market women, and honest public servants.
Corruption is not a distant enemy; it is a daily test of conscience.
If we unite as youth, decentralize the fight, demand accountability, insist on quality service delivery, and challenge the system from the community level upward, then we will not only talk about integrity, we will shape it, build it, and live it.
Together, we can shape tomorrow’s integrity.
Thank you.
Liberia: Inadequate Support to the Disabled Hampered Livelihood
Written by EditorLiberia: Inadequate Support to the Disabled Hampered Livelihood
Written by: Akiah P. Glay. Dormoh
August 7, 2023, 2023
_________________
Introduction:
For ages, the quality of life for people living with disabilities has been negatively impacted by a combination of societal attitudes, limited accessibility, inadequate educational structures, and system. poverty. And living in Liberia, whose economy is still struggling to recover from the effects of the Ebola and COVID-19 pandemic, access to basic life necessities like education, healthcare, and economic empowerment for persons living with disabilities has become even more cumbersome.
Globally, an estimated 1.3 billion people, or 16% according to the World Health Organization (WHO) experience a significant disability. The WHO Global Report[1] on health equity for persons with disabilities demonstrates that while some progress has been made in recent years, the world is still far from realizing this right for many persons with disabilities who continue to die earlier, have poorer health, and experience more limitations in everyday functioning than others. And in Africa, according to World Bank data, approximately 80 million[2] people are living with a disability.
Sadly, in Liberia, current and accurate data on disability is unknown. Nevertheless, Population Services International believes that the war may have contributed to the increase of disability in Liberia from an initially reported 16% in 1997[3] to nearly 20%, which is significantly higher than the world’s average of 10%[4]. According to HOPE, a group whose mandate is to provide vital support for children who have lost their limbs through war, accidents, and lack of access to medical care, about 99%[5] of people with disabilities live in extreme poverty compared to 48% of the population, and only one-third 1/3 of school-age disability children are enrolled in school. This means people living with disabilities in Liberia are at a heightened vulnerability of legal and economic inequalities, abuse, and human rights violations which increases their risk of living in extreme poverty. The article calls for the promotion, accessibility, and inclusion of persons with disability in all areas of society in Liberia including education, employment, public spaces, and healthcare. It highlights the importance of removing physical and attitudinal barriers that hinders the full participation of individuals with a disability. This includes providing reasonable accommodations, ensuring equal access to information, and services, and fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity.
Disability in Context:
Disability is a complex concept that can be defined and understood in various ways depending on the context and perspective. While the definition may seem similar, the Medical Model of Disability defines it as an impairment or conduction that limits an individual’s physical, sensory, cognitive, or mental abilities. According to the model, disability is seen as a personal problem that needs to be diagnosed, treated, or cured discretely. There are various types of disability in Liberia ranging from speech impairment to mental inability. Due to a lack of data on disabilities, it is difficult to mention accurately all forms of disabilities. The 2008 National census indicated the different kinds of disabilities in Liberia, including persons with limited use of legs and arms or amputees, hearing, sight, and speech difficulty, persons with mental retardation, and persons with multiple disabilities[6]. In the years since the end of the war in 2003, Liberia has taken steps towards ensuring disabilities population is recognized, but numerous challenges still remain. In 2005, the National Commission on Disabilities was established and the 2018[7] National Action Plan for Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities was also adopted for the inclusion of persons with disabilities. The goal of the plan is to promote the welfare and rights of the disabled in Liberia, while also aiming to include them in the governance process and provide financial assistance through social security. These fine-drafted policies and institutions will continue to encounter challenges if deliberate efforts are not made to promote education and eliminate poor standards of living among disabled people in Liberia.
Though persons living with disabilities could be classified as male or female, in many cases, it is appropriate to disaggregate women, men, and persons living with disabilities data in order to understand and address their specific needs. For instance, women may experience gender-based discrimination and inequality, as such unequal pay, limited access to education, and gender-based violence. On the other hand, persons living with disabilities may face barriers related to accessibility, discrimination in employment, or limited access to healthcare. Therefore, it is important to strike a balance between recognizing the specific needs and experiences of different groups while also acknowledging the potential intersections of identities and the challenges faced by individuals who belong to multiple marginalized groups. It helps to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach to addressing inequalities and promoting social justice.
Challenges
First and foremost, the lack of accurate and up-to-date data on disability could affect capacity building, policy development and implementation, awareness and advocacy, and a lot more. Without accurate data, it becomes difficult for governments and organizations to allocate resources effectively. Funding and support may not be allocated in proportion to the actual number and specific needs of individuals with disability resulting in limited access to essential services, such as healthcare, employment, and social support[8]. Funding allotted to disability does not seem to produce a better outcome as persons with a disability still find it difficult to integrate into society[9].
|
Support to persons living with disability in two years 2022-2023 |
|||||
|
Year |
support to NCD |
Support under the office of the Vice President (Group of 77 |
Education Sector (Liberia School of the Blind) |
Youth and Sport (Deaf & Dumb Alethic Association |
Total |
|
2022 |
$629 098 |
$423 727 |
$50 000 |
$2 000 |
$1 104 825 |
|
2023 |
$555 897 |
$413 727 |
$50 000 |
$2 000 |
$1 021 624 |
Support from the national government to education for persons living with disability is limited as seen in the table above. The evaluation of the Liberia National Action Plan 2018-2022, undertaken in tandem with the development of the next disability inclusion plan NAP 2023 – 2027, with support from UNDP, found that disabilities livelihood has seen very little improvement; and it can be contributed lack of political will, a systemic belief that disability is a low priority issue, and lack of accountability is grossly undermining the rights, wellbeing, and inclusion of people with disabilities[10] financial allotment from the government to disabilities organizations clearly show the lack of interest exerted.
The 2022 and 2023 fiscal year budget shows US$ 50.000 to support education for the blind. That amount divided by fifteen counties will mean, each county will receive US% 3,333 annually for education, which is relatively nothing. Not to mention the US$ 2,000 that is allotted for sports. There are numerous constraints amongst persons living with disability in Liberia that need to be addressed. In employment, persons with disability are barely spotted, and income-generating opportunities are limited. Most of them have limited vocational training skills because of the lack of educational opportunities. Also, many public infrastructures and facilities in Liberia, such as transportation, buildings, and public spaces, lack adequate accommodation for disabled people. A Report of Community-Based Emancipatory Disability Research (CB-EDR) 2018- done by AIFO expresses the many challenges encountered by persons with disabilities. The report acknowledges that there exist barriers to educational opportunities for persons with disability. According to the report, in Grand Gedeh County, out of 600 disabled children, only 10 were in school, and in Nimba, out of 22 visual impair persons, only 2 had had higher education while the remaining 20 had no education. Aside from educational opportunity, Issues related to lack of livelihood opportunities and widespread poverty was key component found in the report[11]. With the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals, and Pro-Poor Government Agenda pillar 5 that promotes inclusion and the NCD Act of Liberia, there should be a national momentum to ensure that marginalized groups, not least people with disabilities, are included, and accounted for in the mainstream development efforts in Liberia. Policies are not enough, enforcement and implementation of the policies and the government’s willingness to vigorously engaged and address issues relating to disabilities will to some extent elevate disabled people from poverty. This will require robust evidence on both the current situation of people with disabilities and the effectiveness of various approaches to support inclusion. It is visible that other countries including South Africa are initiating policies to promote employment opportunities for the disabled such as its 1998 Employment Equity Act and its Skill Development Act that recognizes
people with disabilities as one of the target groups for the purposes of skills development and advancement in the workplace. Also, the implementation of the 2011 Sierra Leone Disability Act led to the recruitment of four (4) police officers to work in the communication center. This is a great lesson and Liberia must learn and enhance the livelihood of persons with disability.
Conclusion and Recommendation
The government needs to conduct regular surveys, studies, or data to ensure the information on persons with disabilities remains up to date in order to be informed on how to tailor programs and services for persons with disability. Also, the governments shall create policies and initiatives that promote the employment of persons with disabilities. This may include setting quotas for disability representation in the workforce and providing incentives to employers who hire persons with disabilities. Finally, the government needs to allocate adequate financial resources to support programs and services to meet the needs of persons with disabilities. This includes funding for inclusive education, vocational training, assistive technologies, and other support services. In conclusion, promoting equality for disabled individuals is a fundamental aspect of a just and inclusive society. identifying and treating disability issues discreetly is a way to challenge societal biases and stereotypes associated with disabilities. It encourages a shift in focus from the disability itself to the abilities and potential of each person. By emphasizing equality, we can create an environment that embraces diversity and provides equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
[1] Kamenov. D; Barrett, D; Pearce, E; et al (2022); Global Report on Health Equity for Persons with Disability (World Health Organization; (P; 16) retrieved July 17, 2023
[2] The World Bank: “ Challenges Facing Persons with Disabilities in Sub-Saharan Africa-in 5 Charts (Retrieved 17/07/23): https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/poverty/brief/challenges-facing-people-with-disabilities-in-sub-saharan-africa-in-5-charts
[3] Azubike C Onuora-Oguno: “African Disability Right Year Book: (retrieved July 18, 2023)
https://www.adry.up.ac.za/country-reports-2020/liberia
[4] Building Market “Changing Liberian Attitude Towards the Disabled (2013) Retrieved (July 18, 2023): https://buildingmarkets.org/changing-liberian-attitudes-toward-the-disabled/
[5] Elizabeth’s Legacy of HOPE: Some Facts about Liberia (Retrieved July 18, 2023) https://elizabethslegacyofhope.org/amputees/country-profiles/country-profile-liberia/
[6] Deepak, Sunil (2021) “Barriers Faced by Persons Living with Disabilities in Liberia Report of a Community-Based Emancipatory Disabilities Research (CB-EDR 2018-2019): Retrieved july, 2023: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/356357123_Barriers_Faced_by_Persons_with_Disabilities_in_Liberia_Report_of_a_Community-Based_Emancipatory_Disability_Research_CB-ED
[7] The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) 2018-2022 National Action Plan for Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in Liberia https://changemakersforchildren.community/system/files/2021-05/National%20Action%20Plan%20on%20the%20Inclusion%20of%20Persons%20with%20Disabilities.pdf
[8] Liberia National Budget Fiscal Year 2022 (P: 321; 103; 314; 301) file:///C:/Users/Admin/Downloads/BudgetBook2022%20_V2%20(4).pdf
[9] Disability and Poverty in Liberia (October 2021) Retrieved, July 18, 2023: https://borgenproject.org/disability-and-poverty-in-liberia/
[11] AIFO Report of a Community-Based Emancipatory Disability Research (CB-EDR) “Barrier Faced by Persons Living with Disabilities in Liberia-2018-2021: https://aifoliberia.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Liberia_EDR_Full-Report.pdf
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Education, Health, and Sports Top Rivercess’s CDF Projects Priorities
Written by EditorBy Gabiel Sawah
Education, health, and sports top the priority projects to be implemented with funding from the County Development Fund (CDF) for Rivercess County. In a resolution at the 2023 county sitting, about 18.4% of the fund was allotted to health, and 23.25% to education. This means 41.65% of US$ 200.000, the total amount disbursed to the County as County Development Fund (CDF) was allotted to education and health. Also, complying with the 2018 Local Government Act that promotes decentralization and the establishment of the County Council, nine persons were inducted into office as County Council members to provide supervision and oversight on funds allocated for county development. Those inducted into office included women, youth chiefs, elders, and persons living with a disability.
Citizen-driven projects have been a major concern for ordinary citizens in the county, including, the media, and local and national civil society organizations. During the 7th County Sitting in Rivercess County, US$141,000.00 was allotted to the reconstruction of Commissioners’ compounds. Also, earlier this year, the County Received US$636,385.08 or L$99,267,074.81 as County Social Development fund (CSDF) arrears. Of that amount, over 51% (i.e. $327,041.08 ) was allocated to building, renovating, and reconstructing commissioner’s offices, and superintendent residences, and purchasing motorbikes for county officials. Thankfully, the July 2023 allotment has prioritized citizens to a larger extent.
During the just-ended July 2023 Special County Development Council Sitting for the appropriation of US$ 200,000.00 received from the government as the 2023 County.
Development Fund(CDF), the county allocated US$ 31,500.00 to construct an Elementary and Junior High School in Samgbalor Administrative District, US$ 29,800.00 for the construction of an Operational Theater at the Boegeezay Health Center in Morweh Statutory District, and US$ 28,000.00 for the construction of players and referees dressing rooms and Bathrooms at Darsaw Town Sports Pitch. Also, US$ 4,500 was allocated for the completion of the Darsaw Town Elementary School Annex in Zarflahn Administrative District. Delegates also allocated US$ 21,500 to rehabilitate the 44-kilometer road from Yarpah Town to Garpu Town and US$ 7,000.00 was allotted for the Renovation of the Gblorseo Town Community Clinic in Nywoine Administrative District.
In Central River Cess Administrative District, the county allotted US$ 5,000.00 for the replacement of the entire roof of the Zammine Town Elementary School. In addition to education, delegates allotted US$ 3,000 to subsidize the River Cess University Student Union (RUSU) tuition and US$ 2,500 as a stipend for volunteer teachers at the Cestos High School. Basic infrastructure received US$ 134,400.00, constituting 67.2%, and subsidy provided to over seven institutions and local administration was allotted US$ 36,800 thus, constituting 18.4%. While US$ 180,000 was allocated for activities and projects, US$ 5,300 was for liability, and US$ 20,000 was for Administrative and Operational Costs. Also, in compliance with the Local Government Act 2018, a County Council sitting was held and nine persons were sworn into office to supervise and provide oversight on developments in the county.
As part of efforts to curb abuse and mismanagement of public resources, and ensure accountability and impact-driven citizens-led development in the county, members of the council were selected from diverse sectors in the county including, the youth, women, persons living with disability, women, chief and Elder.
As a leading civil society voice promoting transparency and accountability in Liberia, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) was represented at the sitting in a bid to contribute to the promotion of transparency and the equal participation of citizens of diverse backgrounds. Through its Open Expenditure Initiative (OEI) activities, CENTAL has educated and trained county officials and ordinary citizens about development funds and encouraged them to ensure transparency, accountability, and citizens’ equal participation in all implementation.
Citizens Accuse Health Facility of Charging Higher Fees for Newborn Boys
Written by EditorCitizens Accuse Health Facility of Charging Higher Fees for Newborn Boys
By: Akiah P. Glay Dormoh
In Grand Bassa County, the Gorblee Health Center, a government hospital stands accused of charging fees according to the sex of a newborn child. It is well-known that resources allotted to hospitals are stretched thin. Nonetheless, the disparity in fee payment has considerably raised eyebrows.
In Gaye Peter Town, Compound #3, Grand Bassa County, citizens did not only accuse the facility of charging excessively when pregnant women go to the hospital to give birth, they also laid a charge that the amount the facility collects after the delivery of a boy differs from that which is charged for the delivery of a girl. Citizens have told CENTAL that Five Thousand Liberian Dollars (L$ 5,000) is charged as fees for a girl child born at the facility and Seven Thousand Liberian Dollars (L$7,000) is charged for a newborn boy. Speaking with CENTAL’s Open Expenditure Initiative team members, Madam Victoria (not her real name) who occupies a key position in the community alluded to the impact of the situation. “I have three children, two boys, and a girl. I was told to pay L$4,000 for my daughter and L$7,000 for my sons. I begged and paid 4,500 and 6,500 each. This has made me stop giving birth because I don’t have that kind of money to pay every time,” she said. Several other citizens confirmed the allegation, including prominent and eminent citizens in the community.
Meanwhile, Madam Lydia Kanneh, Officer-In-Charge (OIC) of the health center, denied the allegations. “The minimum amount charged at the hospital is 2,500 and this is cut across, whether male or female. Unless in extreme cases, then more than that will be required. Otherwise, the aforementioned amount is constant,” Madam Kanneh noted. According to her, the purpose of such a fee is to buy hospital materials and compensate midwives who serve as Community Health Providers. In 2016, the government and its partner launched a National Health Assistant Program that ensured traditional midwives were trained to serve and provide assistance to pregnant women living five kilometers or further from a health facility before referrer to a hospital. This remedy emerged due to the high maternal mortality rate observed in the country. The most alarming thing is that pregnant women are charged to access public health facilities that the National Health Policy deemed free.
The 2011-2021 National Health Policy plan[i] mandates free health services for pregnant women. According to the policy, even low fees could deter health-seeking behavior. Therefore, to encourage the uptake of priority services by all people, there should be no fee attached. Imagine if a pregnant woman comes to give birth and doesn’t have money, what will be the outcome? Even as Liberia encourages hospital deliveries to lower newborn maternal death rates, the policy has the opposite impact. Liberia has one of the highest rates of death for newborns in the world. According to UNICEF, 76 of 1,000 births. The maternal mortality rate from the 2019-2020 Country Health[ii] Survey indicates 93 deaths per 1,000 live births in the 5 years in Liberia preceding the survey, while child mortality was 33 deaths per 1,000 live births and infant mortality is 63 deaths per 1,000 live births. this situation cannot be unique to the Gorblee health center, but other centers in Liberia alike; For instance, FrontPage Africa Reported in 2020 that the acting administrator of Phebe[iii] Hospital warned that patients, who require surgery and emergency services would be made to pay for the cost of fuel. This, according to Rev. Victor Padmore, would help sustain the services at the hospital. Though the policy indicates free, but citizens have always either brought their own supplies or paid some fees. Viola Makor, a resident midwife at the Link Maternal Waiting Home and the reproductive health supervisor for Suakoko District in Bong County attested when she spoke with Yassah Levelah, the CEO of Comfort Closet that many[iv] women in the community shy away from hospitals because of the demand from the hospitals. For the policy to impact the general public, one of the primary concentrations of the government should be to prioritize health, including ensuring information about healthcare prices is clear and accessible to the public together with increasing healthcare workers’ salaries.
[i] http://moh.gov.lr/wp-content/uploads/National-Health-Policy-Plan-MOH-2011-2021.pdf
[ii] Libera Demographic and Health Survey 2019-20
[iii] https://frontpageafricaonline.com/health/liberia-stranded-phebe-hospital-charging-patients-for-fuel-fee-before-treatment/
[iv] https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2022/10/15/1126110420/giving-birth-in-liberia-you-might-need-to-bring-your-own-bleach-to-get-in-a-hosp
John Doe ‘Liberia Stranded Phebe Hospital’ (2022) Frontpage Africa < https://frontpageafricaonline.com/health/liberia-stranded-phebe-hospital-charging-patients-for-fuel-fee-before-treatmen t/> accessed 5 June 2023.
By: Torwon F. Gensee
The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has assured residents of Grand Bassa County that blowing the whistle on corruption is one key way to stop it. LACC engaged citizens during an anti-corruption forum organized by the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), under the Anti-Corruption Innovation Initiative project on April 28, 2023. The project is funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) through the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
During the event, Cllr. Jerry D.K. Garlawolu, Program Manager and Chief Prosecutor of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) began by explaining the mandate and functions of the LACC as a lead anti-graft institution in Liberia. In addition, he delivered a presentation on the Whistleblower and Witness Protection Acts as well as the mandate of the LACC. Not only did the presentation give participants an understanding of the mandate of the LACC; it enlightened them on the different laws that exist to make corruption reporting a less risky adventure.
The one-day event brought citizens together citizens, the media, CSOs, Local County Officials, the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), and other stakeholders. It was aimed at engaging with stakeholders on the effectiveness of the Talkay platform and citizens’ willingness to use it for reporting and tracking corruption-related cases. TALKAY is an e-platform - that encourages citizens to report corruption-related cases without uncovering their identities.
Corruption affects every sector of society; it erodes the citizens’ trust in their government while at the same time stalling national growth and development. Within the Liberian society, the presence of corruption is nothing strange; it takes the lion’s share of the reasons why the country is still notably lacking behind - when it comes to growth and development despite having abundant natural resources.
And one sector that has borne the brunt of corruption is education. Mr. Nathaniel Cisco, the County Education Officer of Grand Bassa, stated at the forum. Cisco lamented corruption within the educational sector. According to him, one of the ways the Ministry of Education is spreading anti-corruption messages in schools is to develop textbooks that contain anti-graft lessons. “As a way of helping to spread anti-corruption messages in schools, the government through the Ministry of Education is developing textbooks for six graders; those textbooks contain anti-corruption lessons,” said Cisco.
One of the hindrances to having citizens report corrupt practices has been the lack of adequate protection for whistleblowers. However, after attending the forum, the participants now understand that with the introduction of the Talkay platform, one can now report allegations of corruption without revealing their identity. “At first, we were afraid to report corruption because we feared that the accused would come running after us, but now that we have this Talkay Platform that allows us to report without anyone seeing us, we will use it to report whenever and wherever we see acts of corruption happen,” said the Alternative Education Supervisor/NGO Focal Person of Grand Bassa, Mr. J. Mayoud Toure.
Additionally, King Brown, a reporter at Magic FM, acknowledged the importance of the e-platform. According to him, they will now not only discuss the issue of corruption on the radio. Still, they will also use the Talkay platform to rally against individuals involved with corrupt practices. “The media has a key role to play in tackling corruption. We are thankful for this platform; it will enable us to take a step beyond just talking about it on the radio and start to report,” Mr. Brown indicated.
The fight against corruption is everyone’s business because the end product will benefit every member of society. Winning this war will lead to improved public service delivery and a nation whose leaders lead accountably with integrity and transparency. However, to achieve this, the citizens must jointly take ownership of the fight. In a closing remark, Executive Director of the LACC, Moses Kowo, urged participants: “Let us take ownership of the fight against corruption; this country cannot remain like this. Let this serve - as a wake-up call to ensure corrupt individuals are held accountable. Let us ensure that the monies that come to the counties do not end up in the pockets of corrupt individuals. We cannot eradicate corruption instantly; similarly, we cannot make it a way of life.”
Women and 2023 Election: Why Must Women Get Fully Involved
Written by Editor
By Dr. Akiah P. Glay Dormoh
In Liberia, there is a famous adage that says “Anything a man can do, a woman can do even better”. This adage was manifest in the 2005 general and presidential elections when, Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, took the helm of the Liberian Presidency and became the first woman to be elected as an African head of state after an electoral process dominated by male candidates.
Although it wasn’t all rosy for the ‘iron lady’, as she was often referred to, especially taking over a country with a dysfunctional infrastructure, system, and checkered international image, she rallied support and repositioned Liberia as a respectable member of the international community. If there is a lesson to be learned from Liberia’s experiment of women’s leadership, it is that women have what it takes to deliver the kind of transformative leadership a country need.
Background
Women play a critical role in the body politics of Liberia. This is so because the 2022 census result indicates that the total population of Liberia is 5.2 million (5,248.621)[1]. Out of the total population, 50.4% (2,644,450) are male and 49.6% (2,604,171) are female, which means, the ratio between male and female population is at 5 percent. Considering the margin, the need for equal participation cannot be more emphasized. Equal participation overall is much needed in Liberia because it breeds a more shared economy and enhances development and also alleviates poverty, especially among the most marginalized group (the women precisely). Women as they are the most vulnerable groups.
The national and local governments can support women’s political participation in multiple ways, but firstly, they need to consider specific measures that will overcome barriers of gender discrimination; especially, specific gaps in capacities or resources that prevent women from competing effectively.
And the fact that Liberia has gained great recognition as being the first nation to elect a female president and in the 2017 election, elected a female vice president. This could have set the pace for more women’s involvement in politics. However, women’s representation remains low in most institutions in Liberia. Whether in private or public institutions, it is largely dominated by males. Currently, women occupied 11% of the 103 seat[2]s in the National Legislature, 20% of managerial positions in public institutions, and 20.1% of senior and middle managerial positions in the government. Liberia ranked 156th of 162 countries[3] on the Gender Inequality Index and 94 on the Global Gender Gap. The aforementioned statistic shows a crisis of under-representation of women in the public sphere in Liberia given that women and girls make up close to 50% of the total[4] population. Without affirmative action legislation, and enforcement mechanisms structured to help address women’s participation in elections, Liberia’s democratic, development, and equality goals will not be achieved.
Biases Against Women Politicians
There are various reasons for the under-representation of women in political institutions. Stereotyping, or assigning characteristics to political leaders of a certain group is considered one of the many factors. For instance, females are seen as kind, mothers, warm and compassionate, whereas males are typically viewed as assertive, tough, and competent. Although the extent to which these stereotypes help or hurt female candidates electorally is debatable. Perhaps, they could indicate that women are often not considered ‘leadership material’. Particularly, voters tend to show a preference for stereotypically[5] masculine traits over feminine characteristics when determining who should hold high office. Secondly, even when women are brave enough to enter politics, female politicians face a paradoxical challenge. Here are classic examples, In 2019, Ms. Telia Urey ran for the District 15 Representative seat but was faced with several forms of discrimination. Again, Cllr. Charlyne Brumskine's intention to[6] run in the 2023 Representative election in Grand Bassa County has begun to alarm death threats. Long before now, her excellency Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf testified of being victimized throughout her political career. True be told, gender equality contributes immensely to speedy growth and development. It is about time Liberians think deeply to equalize the margin between males and females. The mechanism to have an equitable society should be at the peak of all political parties and the government. Though gender biases cannot be eliminated overnight, concrete actions can be taken toward eliminating all forms of gender biases. Before effective changes can be made, it is imperative to recognize how power is structured in electoral institutions, political parties, the media, and in our everyday lives but we have a way forward through legislation.
Legal Framework that can set the Pace for more affirmative actions in the 2023 Election
Article 5 of the 1986[7] Constitution of Liberia makes provisions for the national unity of Liberians into one body politic and for the enactment of laws encouraging the participation of all citizens in government including women and men. Also, national policies have been adopted to address different aspects of women’s political participation and representation such as the National Gender Policy (2018-2022)[8] that commits to promoting gender parity in all spheres of governance, the affirmative action policy, and legislation for women’s participation, and the National Government’s Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD) (2018-2023). Specifically, Pillar One: Power to the People seeks to emphasize the political participation of women at the national and local levels to reach a target of 30% by 2023. Internationally, Liberia has adopted a range of regional and international legal frameworks on the advancement of women’s political and civic rights at local and national levels, including ratification of the 1979 Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and its Optional Protocol; adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action; and ratification of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (The Maputo Protocol). These frameworks provide a perfect reason for vigorous affirmative action especially when taking into account the 2005 gender quota [9]that mandates political parties or coalitions to endeavor and ensure that the governing body and its list of candidates have no less than 30% of its member from each gender.
Conclusion
Meaningful participation of women in politics and decision-making brings different perspectives and experiences to addressing national problems. In order to address many different issues women and men are faced with, equal representation is required. Liberia will not be able to meet the myriad of development challenges it faces if women are not at the decision-making table. UN Women Executive Director [10] Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, seeing the need for equality in politics commented on the 2021 Women in Politics data and said “No country prospers without the engagement of women. We need women’s representation that reflects all women and girls in all their diversity and abilities, and across all cultural, social, economic, and political situations. we still need bold decisive action across the world to bring women into the heart of decision-making spaces in large numbers and as full partners. There’s no doubt this can and should be done. It should be done now.”
To conclude, now is the time to take action against stereotyping and promote gender equality in all political parties across the country, especially during the formulation of political parties’ leadership.
[1] https://liberia.un.org/en/220493-liberia-announces-provisional-results-its-5th-national-population-and-housing-census
[2] Country Fact Sheet | UN Women Data Hub
[4] Liberia announces provisional results of its 5th National Population and Housing Census | United Nations in Liberia
[5] https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2041905819838147
[6] Charlyne Brumskine alarms death threat - Liberia news The New Dawn Liberia, premier resource for latest news
[7] Liberia 1986 Constitution - Constitute (constituteproject.org)
[8] The Liberia National Gender Policy (fao.org)
[9] Liberia: Amended electoral laws (2014) — (aceproject.org)
[10] https://www.unwomen.org/en/news/stories/2021/3/press-release-women-in-politics-new-data-shows-growth-but-also-setbacks
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