CENTAL Wants President Boakai to Recall New Appointments at PPCC Over Procedural Breach
- Says all appointees, except one, were handpicked and did not participate in the competitive recruitment process.
Monrovia, Tuesday, September 3, 2024- Distinguish ladies and gentlemen of the press, thank you for gracing this press conference with your presence; we are forever grateful.
Over the years, CENTAL has been a staunch advocate of integrity, transparency, and accountability in Liberia. We have supported efforts geared towards strengthening public integrity institutions and enhancing the fight against corruption, which include: robust and timely actions on audit findings and recommendations of the General Auditing Commission, increasing budgetary support to integrity institutions, enactment of relevant anti-corruption laws, and competitive recruitment to public integrity institutions. We remain committed to supporting the government in attaining positive anti-corruption outcomes.
Ladies and gentlemen of the press, our attention has been drawn to the recent appointments made by His Excellency President Joseph Nyumah Boakai affecting the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC). On August 29, 2024, President Boakai appointed five individuals to the Complaints, Appeal, and Review Panel (CARP) of the Public Procurement and Concession Commission (PPCC). The appointment is provided for in the Amended and Restated Public Procurement and Concessions Commission Act of 2010. Those appointed include Cllr. Sundaway E. Nelson Amagashie, Cllr. Vincent Smith, Cllr. Morris Davis, Mr. Ezekiel F. Nyumah, and Mr. Michael C.G George.
Following a thorough review of those appointed and considering the findings of an independent panel established, in line with the PPCC Act of 2010, CENTAL has observed a significant procedural and legal breach by the president over the appointment of the officials in question. This is because, Part II, Section 10, Sub-section 3 of the Amended and Restated PPCC Act of 2010 provides that appointments to said positions shall be derived from a competitive process held under the auspices of the PPCC, with a list of ten (10) candidates submitted to the President for the five positions—three (3) for lawyers and two (2) for non-lawyers.
The Act further states that, in the event where the President finds only few candidates worthy of appointment, the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission is then required to submit an additional list of vetted candidates for consideration by the President. Thus, the law gives the President significant latitude in appointment. However, it provides for a process that ensures persons appointed to the integrity body are properly vetted and have the required competence and character.
Ladies and gentlemen of the press, CENTAL notes that consistent with its duties under the Public Procurement and Concessions Act (PPCA), in March 2024, the PPCC informed the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, that vacancy existed at Complaint, Appeal and Review Panel (CARP) due to expiration of the tenure of CARP members and that the recruitment process would commence. The request for Expression of Interest was published for a period of one month on the PPCC website, the Executive Mansion website, and two widely read newspapers: Frontpage Africa and Daily Observer. It is worth noting that Eighty-four (84) applications were received for the five (5) positions.
For further transparency in the recruitment process, PPCC invited four institutions to participate in the evaluation process. Three (3) agreed to participate: the Civil Service Agency (CSA), the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA), and the Center for Transparency and Accountability of Liberia (CENTAL). Representatives of these institutions were then joined by representatives of PPCC to constitute the evaluation committee.
As a member of the vetting committee, we report that thirty-seven (37) applicants were qualified to take the aptitude test, from which twenty-two (22) persons, including three (3) lawyers and nineteen (19) non-lawyers qualified for interview. The panel then recommended the top ten (10) candidates from which the President could make the appointments, consistent with law. The scores of all candidates qualified for the interview stage were also submitted to the President for transparency purposes.
Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, CENTAL is shocked over the President’s decision to disregard the competitive recruitment procedure, as outlined by law. This is because, unlike Mr. Ezekiel Nyumah, one of 10 candidates recommended for appointment by the vetting panel, Cllr. Vincent Smith, Cllr. Morris Davis, and Mr. Michael C. G. George did not participate in the recruitment process at all. Also, although Cllr. Sundayway E. Nelson Amegashie participated in the testing phase of the evaluation, she did not participate in the interview stage as she was unavailable. As such, she was not recommended by the committee for appointment.
The decision of the president to appoint individuals outside of the established competitive and transparent procedure, as contained in the Public Procurement and Concession Act flagrantly violates the Act. Additionally, it undermines transparency and accountability and an utter disregard of the work performed by the committee members, including LNBA, CSA, CENTAL and PPCC. More so, this amounts to ‘business as usual’ and serves to frustrate and discourage not only successful candidates but the Eighty-four (84) applicants who exerted valuable time to participate in the recruitment process. What is even more concerning is the fact that the vacancy announcement was published on the official Executive Mansion website, signaling a clear intent to comply with transparency and due diligence requirements.
Recommendations:
In view of this worrisome development, which borders on commitment to the rule of law and established transparency and accountability mechanism and frameworks, CENTAL calls on President Boakai to Recall the appointment of individuals never independently vetted and recommended for appointment by the Panel, in line with relevant provisions of the amended PPCC Act of 2010. We believe this action will somehow demonstrate a commitment to the rule of law and the fight against corruption, in deeds and not words. The President must respect the independence and sanctity of public integrity institutions and refrain from actions that have the proclivity to undermine public confidence in their leadership and work, the Complaints, Appeal, and Review Panel of the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission in this instant case.
Finally, it is important that the decisions of the President and other public officials support and strengthen integrity-building, transparency, and accountability efforts in Liberia and not otherwise. Commitment to the rule of law and anti-corruption efforts must be matched by the required actions, if Liberians and development partners must be confident that the president Boakai is truly committed to and respecting anti-corruption and other laws governing key sectors, institutions, activities, and processes.
Thank you.
Signed: Management
Press Statement for Immediate Release
Monrovia, Friday, August 2, 2024
CENTAL Lauds Indictment of Former Officials
-Solicits President Boakai’s Action Against Those Non-compliant with Asset Declaration
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the media, fellow Liberians, and development partners. Thank you for gracing this press conference with your presence; we are forever grateful.
Over the last few weeks, CENTAL has followed laudable efforts by the Liberian Government towards ensuring accountability and transparency, especially in government. For example, integrity bodies such as the Liberia Anti-corruption Commission (LACC), General Auditing Commission (GAC), and Public Accounts Committee of the Legislature have been in the media for the right reasons. We have seen the Joint Public Accounts Committee of the Legislature holding public hearings on audit reports submitted by the General Auditing Commission. We need more robust and transparent public hearings to give opportunities to those implicated to respond to the issues raised against them as well as enable the Committee and the executive to hold them accountable for their actions. Also, many audit reports of the GAC have been subjects of discussions on traditional and social media in terms of discrepancies identified and the need to hold responsible parties accountable.
While these efforts are insufficient, they are highly welcoming, especially considering our unpalatable history in the fight against corruption. For Liberia to fully turn the tide against corruption and mismanagement, a more concerted, impartial, and sustained effort will be required. This is one reason why we are calling for adequate support, including moral, financial, and others from the public and national government to integrity institutions to perform their respective tasks in leading Liberia on the path of integrity, transparency, and accountability.
LACC’s Indictment of Former Officials of Government
Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, we have followed with keen interest, the indictment of several former officials on multiple allegations of corruption by the Liberia Anti-corruption Commission. Former Finance Minister, Samuel D. Tweah Jr., former director general of the Financial Intelligence Agency, Stanley Ford, and other individuals have been investigated and indicted for allegedly siphoning the amounts of L$l,055,152,540.00 and US$5000,000.00.” We highly welcome the move to have former officials of government account for their stewardship.
Meanwhile, we are appalled by former President George M. Weah’s attempt to sidestep allegations levied against his former officials during his press conference held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. We would think that former President Weah who professes to be an ardent supporter of the fight against corruption, would encourage those indicted to present themselves before the law to be exonerated, if innocent, as indictments are not convictions.
Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, while we admonish former President Weah to encourage his officials to face the law, we are also admonishing Joseph N. Boakai’s administration to ensure that its anti-corruption efforts are impartial. From reactions to the indictment on social and traditional media, it has become crystal clear that Liberians are tired of corruption and want a genuine, robust, and impartial fight against it. One could tell that most Liberians appreciate a fight that does not see any sacred cows, protection of regime elements and their collaborators, as well as the weaponization of audit and other investigative and due diligence processes. So far, CENTAL does not see any witch-hunt in the case under review. However, LACC and other integrity institutions must ensure to lead an impartial charge against corruption, fraud, waste, and abuse in Liberia. We support genuine calls for an impartial, independent, and holistic fight against corruption, irrespective of who is involved.
While CENTAL commends LACC on this matter, we urge the body to investigate and prosecute former officials of government sanctioned by the U.S. government for significant public sector corruption. These include Senator Nathaniel McGill of Margibi County; Senator Prince Y. Johnson of Nimba County, Senator Emmanuel Nuquaye of Margibi County; former Grand Cape Mount County Senator, Cllr. Varney Sherman, Senator Albert Chie of Grand Kru County, Jefferson T. Koijee, former Mayor of Monrovia, Andrew Wonplue, former director of passport at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Cllr. Cyrenus Cephus, former solicitor general of the Republic of Liberia. They, too, should be given the space to exonerate themselves in a court of competent jurisdiction. While we call on the Commission to engage with the US Government to seek evidence against the accused, it is also important that investigations, including audit of their stewardship be conducted, where applicable, to serve as an important starting point for insight into their alleged corrupt dealings.
Low Compliance with Asset Declaration Law and Process
On Thursday, August 1, 2024, the LACC through its Executive Chairperson Cllr. Alexandra K. Zoe reported a low level of compliance by officials of the Boakai-led administration with the law on the declaration of assets, incomes, and liabilities before taking office. LACC report states that only 322 of a possible 1,281 public officials have declared their assets, incomes, and liabilities. We applaud the few officials of the government that comply. However, we are concerned about the gross violation of the asset declaration law by the majority of officials of the Boakai-led administration. This is disappointing, especially for a President and government that is going after former officials for corruption and defrauding of the state. More so, the President’s lack of action against his officials on this matter raises questions in terms of his willpower to deal with his officials. The process leading to holding people accountable should be holistic and impartial.
We conclude with the following Recommendations:
Thanks.
Signed
Management
Press Statement for Immediate Release
Monrovia, Thursday, May 30, 2024
CENTAL Wants GoL Address Critical Questions Around Sourcing of 285 Earth-Moving Equipment
--Says GoL Response so far Does Not Address Core Concerns
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the Press, fellow Liberians, greetings to all.
Last week, the Government of Liberia (GoL) held a Three-Day Cabinet Retreat during which the Minister of State Without Portfolio, Madam Mamaka Bility announced that 285 pieces of earth-moving equipment had been presented to the Government of Liberia in a virtual turnover ceremony attended by her, Hon. Sylvester M. Grigsby, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs and Hon. Roland Layfette Giddings, Minister of Public Works. A video released in this regard also features Mr. Xu Ming, Senior Vice President of Sany Group, a Chinese multi-national heavy equipment manufacturing company and the 3rd-largest heavy equipment manufacturer in the world, and Robert Gumede, Chairman of the Guma Group based in South Africa. The pronouncement has been greeted with mixed reactions from the public. On social media and other platforms, Liberians have welcomed the development, but call for transparency, accountability, and full compliance with procurement and other related laws in acquiring the equipment.
At a Press briefing at the Ministry of Information, Culture Affairs, and Tourism on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah said the announcement made by Minister Bility was not as a result of an agreement reached but rather an update on plans of the government. He stressed that even though the government of Liberia has the power to negotiate deals in the interest of the country, such deals will be negotiated with respect for the rule of law and separation of powers.
October
The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has closely followed developments and discussions surrounding the saga, especially the Government of Liberia’s official position, as communicated by the Minister of Information. We wholeheartedly welcome the Government’s plans to acquire multiple key assets and logistics to facilitate works and development in different sectors, including road/infrastructure in this instant case. If used for the intended purpose (s), this will help to bring much-needed development to the Country and transform the lives of Liberians, in the wake of increased levels of poverty and infrastructure deficit. Who wouldn’t want development for the Country? Who wouldn’t want their County, District, Town, or Village road (s) constructed, rehabilitated or maintained?
However, we are deeply concerned about the Pronouncement and the entire process surrounding it. Equally, we are appalled by the Liberian Government’s official response, which leaves more questions than answers. First, Minister Bility’s pronouncement lacked the required details to adequately inform the public about the process. The Government was not compelled to speak on the matter, since it claims that the arrangement is premature or in its formative stage. Yet, if the video presented by Minister Bility is anything to go by, the pieces of equipment have already been marked with the photos of President Joseph N. Boakai, decorated with the Liberian Flag, and in motion as if en route to Liberia. Secondly, there is no publicly available information regarding a competitive bidding or tendering process that informed the government’s decision to begin negotiation with a group to provide such huge quantity of earth-moving equipment reportedly valued over 20 million USD, above the 1 million USD required for International Competitive Bidding by the amended Public Procurement and Concessions Commission Act of 2010. Many questions linger. At what point of process, the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission would have been involved? When the deal is in an advanced stage or concluded, as it appears to be? How then will be process be Competitive and Transparent?
Third, that the government is reneging on divulging the source of the equipment nor the company behind the deal, which reportedly has business interests in Liberia is highly concerning. This singular act raises more questions about transparency, robustness and integrity of ongoing discussion and even have implications for future processes that will occasion the award of any contract or concession to them (the company or those at the center of saga) for works and services in Liberia.
Ladies and gentlemen of the Media, Liberia’s history is replete with government negotiating deals that end up benefiting businesses and the officials involved, at the expense of Liberians. We are also aware of the dangers of government receiving donations or gifts from companies with business interests in Liberia. May we remind the Government of the situation involving the 100 Toyota Hilux DXD4 double cabin pickups donated to members of the 52nd National Legislature by Arcelor Mittal, the company mining iron ore in Nimba County. Following the donation, the Liberian Legislature ratified the company’s new Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) in 2007. Since then, there have been claims and counterclaims about the Pickups influencing the decision of the government to ratify the new deal, which is believed to be largely favorable to the Company. There have been multiple incidences of violence, resulting from reported poor treatment of citizens by the company, especially those within the concession area, with little to no redress. It would be very difficult, if not impossible to argue against the thought that the 100 Pickups given then, in the midst of the negotiation of the deal played a key role in government’s treatment of the Company.
Recommendations:
Fellow Liberians, the Country deserves more transparency, openness, and integrity from her leaders. We urge President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Sr. and his team to look into history and proceed with extreme caution in initiating discussions around potential support from individuals and groups, especially those with business interest in Liberia. The ‘no business as usual’ promise of the President should be applied in this instant case. As important as the procurement of this equipment may be in alleviating the deplorable road constraints faced by citizens, the lack of transparency around the acquisition, source of funding, and tendering may paint a dark picture and erode public trust and acceptability of the project. We call for more transparency, competition, and inclusiveness of processes around transfer of our national assets as well as acquisition of equipment for road, agriculture and other critical sectors and activities. We urge President Boakai and his team to fully comply with the PPCC Guidelines in any procurement related matters. Equally, we call on the Legislature to lead by example and be robust and independent in performing its duties, especially through ensuring transparency, accountability, and integrity around this and other related critical matters.
In conclusion, we applaud Liberians for their courage in speaking out on governance, accountability and other issues bordering on their interest and the wellbeing of the country. We applaud their stance on this issue and encourage them to keep constructively engaged with their government to ensure more transparency, accountability, inclusion and robustness in decision-making and implementation, especially those with implications for the future and well-being of the state.
Thanks.
Signed: Management
Press Statement for Immediate Release
CENTAL Commends Supreme Court Ruling on Tenured Positions: Wants President Boakai Uphold the Sanctity of Tenure
Monrovia, Tuesday, April 30, 2024 - Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, thank you for showing up here for this press conference. We look forward to our continued partnership in promoting the culture of accountability and the fight against corruption in Liberia.
Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, President Joseph N. Boakai nominated several individuals to the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), the Governance Commission (GC), the National Lottery Authority (NLA), and the National Identification Registry (NIR), all of which are already occupied by officials protected by tenure. Following a wave of public backlash over the decision, Cllr. Bushuben Keita, Legal Advisor to President Boakai referenced the constitutional powers of the President to appoint and dismiss those in the executive branch by “will and pleasure”. In a press statement released on February 22, 2024, CENTAL voiced disappointment over the action of the President citing disregard for relevant laws. CENTAL argued that tenure security is a settled matter and that interferences with it in the form of appointments to positions of active tenures were unlawful. Thankfully, in its April 25, 2024 ruling on the matter, the Supreme Court of Liberia upheld its previous decisions on the matter, noting that President Boakai did not act in line with the law.
Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, barely 24 hours after public acceptance of the Court’s ruling, President Boakai suspended the Chairman of the Governance Commission and the entire board of commissioners of the LTA and appointed acting board of commissioners Abdullah Kamara, Patrick Honnah, Clarence Massaquoi, Ben Fofana, and Angela Bush, the very individuals earlier nominated against which the court ruled. We are deeply concerned over these developments, including the suspension of the very officials who won the lawsuit against the government of Liberia. While we acknowledge the powers of the President to suspend officials of government involved in corruption and other suspicious dealings, we believe such powers must not be exercised as part of a scheme to accomplish an agenda. We are also concerned that audits and investigations are being weaponized to get rid of those suspected to be political opponents, especially in this instant case. CENTAL believes that a true fight against corruption should be holistic or dispassionate and not one that sets out to find fault at all costs in order to settle scores for political and other reasons.
We are on record calling out the suspended Chairman of the Governance Commission, Atty. Garrison Yealue for his active role played during the 2023 election campaign, whilst still serving at the GC. Even as we criticized his actions and do not believe he should continue to head the GC, we hold the position that his removal from office must not be arbitrary, but lawful—be in line with established legal procedures, including due process. But as with the other affected tenure positions, it appears that audits or investigations commissioned by the President do not seek to accord those investigated substantive due process but a mere procedural one to justify removal from tenured positions.
Ladies and gentlemen of the press, we therefore recommend the following to President Boakai:
We conclude by reaffirming our commitment to remaining robust in meaningfully supporting national efforts/initiatives to promote and entrench the culture of accountability, transparency, and integrity in Liberia, in all sectors, institutions and places. We call on Liberians to denounce corruption and demand accountability and improved services and performance from their leaders, as we seek to build a transparent, accountable, value-driven and merit-based society and government that holistically and sustainably address the needs of her citizens.
Thanks.
Signed: Management
Monrovia, Thursday, March 28, 2024, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, thank you for showing up for today’s presser. Thank you for being a partner in the fight against corruption. We deeply appreciate your commitment.
Ladies and Gentlemen, on February 27, 2024, Frontpage Africa reported that the Financial Intelligence Agency of Liberia (FIA), which is mandated to investigate financial crimes is itself alleged to have been caught in the web of dubious financial dealings and crimes. According to the report, over one million United States Dollars was disbursed in the name of the Comptroller, including over US$500 Thousand withdrawn on the same day it was transferred by the Central Bank of Liberia.
Another report placed the total amount involved in the scandal to over US$6 million. For us, these reports are not just disturbing but have the proclivity to erode citizens and development partners’ trust in institutions like the FIA clothed with the authority to fight corruption and other shady financial dealings, including money laundering. If not properly disposed of, these allegations could hamper the credibility of the institution, including the outcomes of sanctions and other efforts made to enforce their very important mandate. For example, fines imposed on insurance companies, banks, gaming companies and other entities for violation of financial procedures could face stiff challenges. Also, responsible institutions might hesitate to make suspicious transaction reports to FIA, as required by its 2022 amended act.
We note multiple occasions during which FIA sanctioned individuals and institutions accused and investigated for alleged dubious financial dealings and money laundering, similar to that which the current leadership is accused of. For example, in 2021, granting a motion filed by FIA, the Presiding Judge of Criminal Court C ordered the proceeds of over US$234,000 confiscated and transferred to the General Revenue Account of Liberia. The company at the center of the saga, Korlane Investment Limited Liability Company and its corporate owners were investigated by FIA for alleged wire fraud and money laundering. The very FIA with a mandate to fight such a crime cannot be at the center of similar and even more egregious incidents; it thus needs timely and appropriate action (s) from the leadership of the Country.
Distinguished media partners, we have reliably learned that Mr. Ford is undergoing investigation by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC). This is highly welcoming. However, given the gravity of this corruption scandal and its implications for the work and reputation of FIA and by extension the country’s integrity sector, we strongly recommend an administrative sanction, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation. Therefore, we call on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. to immediately Suspend Mr. Stanley Ford, director general of the institution and all those at the center of the saga, as their continued presence as leaders and managers casts dark shadow over the institution and neutralize its ability to fight financial crimes and other related crimes. Also, we encourage the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission to timely complete her ongoing investigation into the matter as well as provide regular updates to the public.
In conclusion, we urge institutions and individuals leading anti-corruption efforts to set very high standards for others to follow, both in and out of government. The latest incident at FIA does not only damage the entity’s reputation but affects the morale of staff who are working diligently and may sometimes sacrifice to perform their assigned responsibilities. President Boakai must act and do so now if stakeholders must have the required level of confidence in and continue to do business with the Financial Intelligence Agency of Liberia.
Thank You All.
Signed_______________________
Management
CENTAL Welcomes President Boakai’s determination to recover public assets; But Says Assets Recovery Task Force Usurps LACC’s Mandate Monrovia, Monday, March 11, 2024.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, we would like to thank you for always being just a call away from us. You have proven to be a reliable partner as we all strive to ensure Liberia is free of corruption, mismanagement, and bad governance.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, on March 5, 2024, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai issued Executive Order No. 126 (EO# 126), establishing the Office of Assets Recovery. As we have read, the office has been empowered with the legal mandate and state funding to investigate and retrieve wrongfully acquired government assets and seek the extradition of suspects involved if they were found to be out of the country.
This action was later followed by the March 8, 2024 appointment of Task Force members including Cllr. Edwin Kla Martin, a former Executive Chairman of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) as chair of the committee, and members including Mr. Alexander Cuffy, former head of the Financial Intelligence Unit now Agency (FIA), Dr. Ranny B. Jackson, former Superintended of Bong County amongst others.
Whilst we welcome President Boakai’s determination to follow through on earlier statements regarding tackling corruption, we believe that the Task Force is not the appropriate channel for the attainment of anti-corruption objectives due to the following reasons:
On the question of the Task Force assuming the role of the LACC, we recall the following parallels in relation to the LACC Act of 2022 and EO # 126:
Our next point regarding the task force goes to its independence. Laws establishing key anti-graft institutions provide for their operational and financial independence. It is, therefore, surprising that a Task Force mandated to recover stolen assets resides in the Office of the President (i.e. Ministry of State). CENTAL believes that such a move is reminiscent of the past where anti-graft functions were an extension of the Presidency and were used at the whims and caprices of the President. Also, CENTAL holds the view that anti-corruption efforts need not be politicized. With anti-corruption efforts often regarded as ‘witch-hunts”, any related mechanism having a dependent or political character will soon crumble under the weight of machinations. It is for this reason that persons leading anti-corruption efforts at integrity institutions are required to be politically neutral. It is for similar reasons that we now have laws requiring open and competitive recruitment to anti-graft institutions. Thus, assuming that the Task Force should be allowed to stand, its membership would not meet the neutrality benchmark. For instance, Mr. Martin N. Kollie and Ms. Victoria Moinsemah were big supporters of the 2023 bid of President Boakai. Further, it is common knowledge that Cllr. Edwin Kla Martin lost his position at the LACC under the CDC administration. Having him to head an asset recovery process that might involve officials of the immediate past administration will be construed as a witch-hunt, even if there is a reasonable basis for the task force’s actions.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, we are of the opinion that the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission is empowered by law to recover assets lost to corruption. Hence, as has been done with EO#126 requiring the provision of funds, we believe that the LACC should be adequately supported to fulfill its mandate. We therefore recommend the following
Thanks.
Signed: Management
Monrovia, Tuesday, January 30, 2024, In its 2023 Corruption Perception Index (CPI), Transparency International (TI), a global coalition against corruption, reported that Liberia has declined by 7 points from 32 in 2018 to 25 in 2023. The Corruption Perception Index scores and ranks countries based on how corrupt their public sectors are perceived, according to experts and business executives. The score ranges from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean), where 0 equals the highest level of perceived public sector corruption and 100 equals the lowest level of perceived public sector corruption. 180 Countries were targeted in 2023 as in 2022.
In a statement issued in Monrovia, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), the National Chapter of Transparency International through its Executive Director Anderson D. Miamen said it is deeply concerned over Liberia’s consistently poor performance, especially her place among the Worst Decliners globally.
CENTAL’s statement said, the poor performance speaks to the Liberian Government’s inability to address the entrenched culture of impunity for corruption, despite enacting new anti-corruption laws and amending existing ones to make them stronger. The anti-corruption watchdog group cited the lack of investigation and prosecution of current and former government officials sanctioned by the US Government for corruption as some of the reasons behind the country’s decline. Additionally, the statement said the weak enforcement of anti-corruption laws and limited financial support to public integrity institutions such as the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission and Public Procurement and Concession Commission have contributed to the decline.
“This year’s poor result shows the scale of the problem the Boakai-led administration is inheriting. On the other hand, it is a test of his anti-corruption credentials--whether bold commitments being made will be matched by visible concrete actions to end impunity for corruption, reverse the decline, and take Liberia up the CPI ladder”, the statement said.
The CPI draws upon 13 data sources, which capture the assessment of experts and business executives on several corrupt behaviors in the public sector. These corrupt practices and behaviors include bribery, diversion of public funds and supplies, use of public office for private gain, procurement irregularities, state capture, and nepotism in the civil service.
Also, some of the sources assess mechanisms available to prevent and address corruption in a country. Examples include the government’s ability to enforce integrity mechanisms; financial, logistical, and moral support to anti-graft institutions; independence and viability of anti-graft institutions; the effective prosecution of corrupt officials and others accused of corruption; conflict of interest prevention; access to information; freedom of speech and the media; and legal protection for whistleblowers, witnesses, journalists, and investigators.
Ranked 145/180 among countries covered by CPI 2023, Liberia's position as one of the biggest decliners on the CPI has been cemented dropping by a massive 16 points from 41 in 2012 to 25 in 2023. In West Africa and the Mano River Union, Liberia is the only country that has declined by 7 points over the last 6 years. This is corroborated by CENTAL’s 2021, 2022, and 2023 State of Corruption Reports, which reveal that 90% of Liberians think the Corruption level is high in the country, with low citizens’ confidence in the executive branch of government to fight against corruption.
The Sub-Saharan Africa average is 33, the lowest in the world. Ninety percent of countries in Sub-Saharan Africa scored under 50. In the last decade, 43 countries in the region have either declined or made no significant progress. Since 2012, Liberia (25), Mali (28), and South Sudan (11) have significantly declined on the CPI. On the other hand, some significant improvers over the last few years include Seychelles (71), Senegal (43), Ethiopia (37), Tanzania (40), Kenya (31), Côte d'Ivoire (40) and Angola (33). With a score of 71, the Seychelles earned the highest mark in the region, followed by Cape Verde (64) and Botswana (59) as second and third-place holders. Equatorial Guinea (17), South Sudan (13), and Somalia (11) are the region’s worst performers.
January 26, 2024
His Excellency Ambassador Joseph Nyuma Boakai
26th President of the Republic of Liberia
Liberia, West Africa
Your Excellency:
Re: Key Anti-Corruption Efforts and Reforms to Pursue
Kindly accept compliments from the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), the national chapter of Transparency International (TI). We congratulate you on your ascendency as 26th President of the Republic of Liberia.
Your Excellency, we wish you good health and wisdom, as you lead during this critical period of the Country’s history, whereby, despite appreciable progress, enormous governance and development challenges, amongst others, remain. While we are cognizant of the need for collective efforts of all players to move the country forward, as President and first citizen, we believe you need to provide very strong leadership by leading by example, adhering to the rule of law, setting high standards, and requiring the same of your officials and all others in the Liberian Society.
Mr. President, we welcome your bold public utterances and commitment to tackle corruption, one of the country’s major challenges. At the same time, we look forward to working with your administration to achieve this very important objective, which aligns with the vision and mission of CENTAL. Corruption remains a major governance challenge in Liberia, despite ongoing efforts to address it. Much more efforts are needed, with your office providing the necessary leadership at the top, exhibiting zero-tolerance for corruption and demanding your officials to do likewise through the required lawful administrative and prosecutorial actions.
Mr. President, we need actions that go beyond pronouncements. Leaders before you recognized that corruption is a plague and made several declarations against it. Yet, they did little to match those pronouncements with actions. This inertia has largely contributed to our dismal show in major indices, including the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) of Transparency International, showing a massive decline in the country’s score from 41 in 2012 to 25 in 2023. This is corroborated by our State of Corruption Reports, which indicate that, over the last three years, nine out of ten Liberians believe that corruption is high. Majority of citizens also believe that government’s commitment to tackling corruption is low. Lack of prosecution, rampant allegations of corruption, lack of political will and lack of transparency fuel these perceptions. For instance, government has failed to investigate and prosecute former and current government officials sanctioned by the United States Government for involvement in significant public sector corruption. Besides, corruption allegations involving high-profile public officials have been lingering for many years, with the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission not doing enough to either complete those investigations or prosecute the accused.
Mr. President, the responsibility is now yours to reverse this negative trend. This is because you have made very strong commitments to do so, during the election and recently, while delivering your inaugural address in Monrovia. There are already signs that the necessary conditions exist to support a robust anti-corruption effort. For instance, we have seen members of the House of Representatives voting through a resolution to declare and make their assets public—the publication goes one significant step beyond the declaration requirement. We have heard President Pro Tempore of the Senate, Madam Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence committing to declare and make her assets public within a month. We have heard the Speaker of the House, Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa's open commitment to subject the House of Representatives to audit. We appreciate the open commitment of our elected officials to respect the tenant of good governance and accountability. While we believe these actions are steps in the right direction, we expect that members of the legislature will not rest on their laurels, but do more to make legislative dealings and activities more transparent.
Like all previous governments, we look forward to working with your administration to enhance the fight against corruption, especially by making impunity for corruption an issue of the past. We wish to recommend the following, which are important actions your administration can take, working collaboratively with other actors, to robustly tackle corruption and bad governance in Liberia:
We conclude by reemphasizing the importance of the Presidency to provide true leadership in the fight against corruption and bad governance in Liberia. Once the top leads by example, the message is bound to filter down to your appointed officials and those elected. CENTAL recommits to maintaining her stance against corruption and bad governance in Liberia. With the support of Transparency International, our donors, citizens, and partners with whom we work, we promise to remain robust, constructive, and engaging, in supporting well-meaning efforts to tackle corruption and other governance challenges in Liberia.
Kind regards.
Sincerely,
Anderson D. Miamen
Executive Director
CENTAL Challenges LACC to follow US’ Example
Calls for Prompt and Credible Actions to Investigate and Prosecute All Sanctioned/Designated Liberian Government Officials
Friday, December 15, 2023
The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia is deeply concerned about the alleged involvement of an additional four (4) high-profile Liberian Government officials in corruption and human rights abuses, against their mandates and the trust and confidence reposed in them to diligently and dutifully serve the country. CENTAL wholeheartedly welcomes the courage and latest actions of the U.S. Government to impose sanctions on additional Liberian officials believed to have abused their offices by stealing from poor Liberians and engaging in human rights violations. We appreciate the visibly strong commitment of the Americans and other development partners to support efforts to defend democracy and fight against corruption and other crimes and abuses in the country. Therefore, we call on the US Government and other development partners to continuously take strong and decisive actions against public officials and other individuals believed to have abused human rights, engaged in corruption, and undermined the country’s democracy.
Meanwhile, in line with the due process of law, we call on the Liberian Government, through the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and other relevant state institutions, to seek the support of the US Government to timely investigate and credibly prosecute current and previous government officials sanctioned/designated by the US Government. In part, this is important to ensure that those culpable for the allegations levied against them are made to fully account for their unscrupulous behaviors. It would be unfortunate that our partners are exerting efforts to deal with corruption while we who experience the devastating effects of corruption sit supinely and refuse to act meaningfully. It is, therefore, high time that the LACC grabs the baton and takes this process forward. We conclude by calling on all well-meaning Liberians to join efforts to demand the Liberian Government to timely and credibly prosecute persons accused of corruption in the country.
It can be recalled that on Monday, December 11, 2023, under Executive Order 13818, the Treasury Department of the United States of America designated Samuel D. Tweah, Minister of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), and Senators Albert Chie and J. Emmanuel Nuquay for their alleged involvement in corruption in Liberia. The three (3) designated high-ranking Liberian Government officials are accused of soliciting, accepting, and offering bribes to manipulate legislative processes and public funding, including activities in the mining sector. Earlier, on December 8, 2023, the US Government similarly designated Monrovia City Mayor, Jefferson T. Koijee for his alleged involvement in human rights violations and corruption. Mayor Koijee allegedly has engaged in corrupt acts, including bribery and misappropriation of state assets for private political movements. Additionally, he is accused of controlling paramilitary organizations allegedly comprised of former combatants and recently releasing prisoners who are believed to have violently disrupted government critics’ demonstrations and opposition activities.
According to the United States Department of State, the sanctions underscore the United States’ commitment to holding accountable those involved in corrupt practices and human rights abuses globally. The US Secretary of the Treasury, Janet L. Yellen said the sanctions reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to promoting respect for human rights and holding perpetrators accountable.
Thank you.
Signed:
Management
0886818855/0776391481
Joint Press Statement
By Civil Society Organizations on the November 14, 2023 Runoff Election
Monday, November 20, 2023
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the press, fellow Liberians. A very warm welcome to our joint press conference on the state of Liberia’s democracy and the outcome of the November 14 presidential runoff election. This Press Conference is organized by the following civil society organizations: The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), Organization for Women and Children (ORWOCH), Accountability Lab Liberia (Alab), Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, Public Health Initiative Liberia (PHIL), Community Healthcare Initiative (CHI), and Integrity Watch Liberia (IWL).
Liberia has made remarkable peace gains after 20 years since the conflict ended in 2003. The election of President-elect, Ambassador Joseph Nyuma Boakai from the November 14 runoff election marks an important milestone in terms of a peaceful transition from one democratically elected government to another. We applaud all those who played important roles during the process, including citizens who exercised their rights to vote for various elect leaders of their choice.
As civil society organizations and leaders, we wish to congratulate Ambassador Joseph Nyuma Boakai for his election as President from the November 14, 2023, Presidential Runoff Election, having obtained 814,428 (50.64%) of the total valid votes counted by the National Elections Commission as of November 18, 2023, with only 0.017% remaining nationwide.
Fellow Liberians and partners, with great joy, we wish to commend the President of Liberia, George Manneh Weah for honoring his commitment to Liberians and the world to conduct free, fair, transparent, and credible elections. This joy stems from individual and collective efforts and the resolve of Liberians to uphold and nurture their nascent democracy. As civil society organizations and leaders, we welcome President Weah’s concession speech, in which he said, “The CDC has lost the election, but Liberia has won. This is a time for graciousness in defeat, a time to place our country above party, and patriotism above personal interest. Let us heal the divisions caused by the campaign and come together as one nation and one united people.”
We wholeheartedly applaud President Weah for not only doing so but courageously conceding defeat by congratulating the winner (Ambassador Joseph Nyumah Boakai), prior to the announcement of the final results by the National Elections Commission. This singular act is a show of strong will and commitment to preserving and strengthening Liberia’s peace and democracy, the latter of which is notably maturing. This solidifies Liberia’s position as one of the torchbearers and enablers of democracy in Africa, in the wake of coup d’états in many countries due to the extension of presidential terms and election manipulation by a number of African presidents. To President Weah, thank you for allowing the will of the Liberian people to prevail, likely amidst intense pressure from some of your supporters and confidantes to do otherwise. We hope that this great legacy will be built upon by successful presidents, especially your successor.
Again, Liberia has made history and endeared herself to the world by being one of the leaders of democracy in Africa, especially by holding credible elections and seeing the peaceful transfer of presidential power. Considering the multiple bad examples in Africa, especially within the West Africa sub-region, this is highly commendable. We are proud of the collaborative efforts of government, NEC, civil society, the media, citizens, and other stakeholders that made this possible. We applaud our international partners for providing financial, technical, moral, and other support that significantly impacted the process, a final outcome of which we are so proud today.
Members of the media, we recognize the divisions currently existing within the Liberian political system due to heated campaigns that saw brothers, sisters, friends, professional colleagues, families, and others going against each other. We also note the cyber bullying currently unfolding on social media after the concession and therefore call all Liberians to put peace and reconciliation at the center of their agendas. However, while we encourage post-election peace and reconciliation, we are in no way calling for the abandonment of the need for true accountability for past actions, decisions taken, and any crimes committed. Genuine peace and reconciliation cannot be achieved in the absence of the rule of law and full accountability.
Recommendations:
We conclude by making the following recommendations to the outgoing and incoming Governments:
Conclusion
Civil society remains a critical partner in strengthening Liberia’s democracy and accountability cultures. We commit to be steadfast, robust, and objectively critical in engaging with the current and incoming administrations to hold them accountable for their commitments and core mandates. If anyone thinks that CSOs will change gears and lower their standards, they are grossly mistaken. We will continue to hold every administration to a very high standard, this new administration being no exception. We will continue to demand that public officials are more accountable to the people and that government dealings are transparent so as to weed out the menace of corruption which has destroyed the fabric of our nation for many years.
Thank you.
Signed:
______________________________________________________________
Anderson D. Miamen, (Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia)
______________________________________________
Naomi Tulay-Solanke, (Community Healthcare Initiative)
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________
Atty. Mmonbeydo Joah, (Organization for Women and Children)
____________________________________
Harold Marvin Aidoo, (Integrity Watch Liberia)
_____________________________________
Lawrence Yealue, (Accountability Lab Liberia)
_______________________________________
Joyce Kilikpo, (Public Health Initiative of Liberia)
______________________________________________
Eddie Jarwolo ( Naymote Partners for Democratic Development)
Press Statement for Immediate Release
CENTAL Commends National Government for Passing Fiscal Year 2024 MCC Score Card, Calls for Greater Actions to Address Impunity for Corruption_Monrovia, Friday, November 10, 2023
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the Press, fellow Liberians. Thank you for supporting our work; we warmly appreciate the partnership.
On Tuesday, November 7, 2023, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) released its fiscal year (FY) 2024 country scorecards. The Millennium Challenge Corporation is an independent U.S. government agency working to reduce global poverty through economic growth. The Scorecards consist of a collection of 20 independent, third-party indicators that measure a country’s policy performance in the areas of economic freedom, ruling justly, and investing in people. Also, the scorecards are a key component in MCC’s competitive country selection process that determines which countries are eligible to develop a five-year grant agreement, known as a compact, especially in FY 2024.
Accordingly, of the 80 country scorecards created by MCC for Fiscal Year 2024, 25 countries passed (Liberia included), while 55 countries failed. The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) applauds the Liberian Government for passing 14 (70%) of the 20 indicators covered by the scorecard. We are glad about the progress made in different areas, including but not limited to controlling corruption, fiscal policy, and employment opportunities. It is particularly pleasing to note that, overall, Liberia outperformed her immediate neighbors and Mano River Union counterparts. The Country passed 14 out of the 20 indicators (70%), compared to 11 out of 20 (55%) for Ivory Coast; 10 out of 20 (50%) for Sierra Leone; and 6 out of 20 (30%) for Guinea respectively.
While we acknowledge this feat, significant efforts are still needed, especially regarding the Controlling Corruption indicator directly linked to the country’s fight against Corruption. The improvement in the controlling corruption indicator, from 54% in 2023 to 59% in 2024 is well-noted. However, we would like to stress the need for more efforts in addressing the culture of impunity. Just as the need to address impunity existed in 2012, when Liberia obtained her second-highest controlling corruption score of 78% and the biggest score of 41/100 on the corruption perception index of Transparency International, the issue still persists today.
Despite always passing this indicator, with the maiden 2008 edition being the only exemption when Liberia obtained a 45% failing mark, the country is still faced with the challenge of robustly enforcing its anti-corruption laws and policies. Also, ending impunity for corruption remains a major hurdle, especially in cases and issues involving high-profile public officials and other individuals. The US Government recognizes this fact, evidenced by sanctions it has imposed on Senator Prince Y. Johnson, Senator Varney Sherman, and other former senior public officials for significant corruption. These persons are yet to be investigated and prosecuted by the Liberian Government. Further, multiple past and current audit reports released by the General Auditing Commission(GAC) are still lingering, despite implicating several individuals and requiring administrative and other concrete actions. Therefore, we urge the government to intensify anti-corruption efforts and not remain complacent due to its performance on the scorecard. As stated earlier, while Liberia has nearly always passed the Control of Corruption indicator, seemingly due to improvements in the anti-corruption policy framework, corruption remains a challenge due to a lack of political will and poor implementation of laws.
Recommendations:
Once again, CENTAL welcomes the progress made and lauds the Liberian Government for the said improvement. However, we call for greater actions from the national government to ensure that the passage is not only on paper but translates into tangible results and improvements in the quality of life/living conditions of the people. We call for continuous efforts to improve indicators with passing scores, such as Controlling Corruption where impunity for corruption remains high, despite the country's very good anti-corruption laws and policies. Also, we encourage the Government to pay keen attention to areas in which it failed, including regulatory quality, government effectiveness, girls’ primary education completion rate, education expenditure, natural resource protection, and child health. Finally, we call for greater support and partnership from development partners, civil society, the media, and other stakeholders to help the national government sustain and significantly improve upon the gains made.
Signed:
Anderson Miamen
Executive Director
0886818855/0776391481
Press Statement for Immediate Release
Electing Sanctioned Individuals, a Bad Signal: CENTAL Frowns on Citizens’ Action and Calls on LACC to Timely Investigate and Prosecute Those Concerned
Monrovia, Friday, November 3, 2023
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the media, fellow Liberians, and development partners. We would like to begin by appreciating the National Elections Commission for conducting a largely free, fair, and transparent process, despite some pockets of issues identified. We call for greater fairness, transparency, and freeness during the remaining periods of the election.
Most of all, we like to appreciate all Liberians who queued up on October 10, 2023, to exercise their democratic rights of voting for the leaders of their choice. The turnout of about 78%, as announced by the National Elections Commission (NEC) is particularly pleasing. In part, it signifies that Liberians have increased faith in the democratic process. We hail the exuberance exhibited by voters, some of whom trekked for hours in remote areas to cast their ballots. This is a demonstration of the belief of voters in the fact that elections remain the ultimate trump card to change the course of their futures.
During the period of the election, we at CENTAL developed a “Reference Guide” to help voters to make informed choices during the election. Amongst other things, we warned against voting people with questionable track records, particularly those sanctioned by the US government for significant corruption in government that undermine public interest and the country’s democracy. However, the results from the polls have shown otherwise. Three of the four newly sanctioned officials who contested were elected. While we are appalled by this decision, we will continue to engage with our fellow citizens about their roles in tackling corruption and holding officials accountable. We must also hasten to note that the government’s failure to engage the United States Government for evidence to aid in prosecution of sanctioned officials has made it possible that allegedly corrupt officials access state power, without having their days in court.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, On October 24, 2023, during a congressional hearing to confirm his nomination as the new US Ambassador to Liberia, Mr. Mark Toner promised a firm position on corruption, accountability, and the rule of law when he shall have taken the helm of the US Mission in Liberia. He also expressed the commitment to continue the partnership between the United States government and her Liberian partners to help strengthen democracy and secure a brighter and more prosperous future for the next generation. His statement of commitment is similar to that made by his predecessor, Ambassador Michael McCarthy under whose administration several senior Liberian government officials were designated for corruption by the United States Department of Treasury, under the Global Magnitsky Act.
We are pleased by the anti-corruption commitments from the tipped US envoy and encourage him to do more to bring sanctioned and other allegedly corrupt officials to justice. Corruption remains the greatest threat to inclusive and sustainable economic growth and development in Liberia. We cannot afford to provide adequate drugs to our medical facilities when there are loopholes in the system being exploited by corrupt and unscrupulous politicians and other individuals. We cannot have quality teachers and students learning in a conducive environment in public schools across the country, when there are officials who use the national budget to channel public funds to their private businesses/facilities and those of their families and friends. These are just a few reasons why we will applaud any commitments to tackle corruption in Liberia, especially those from partners as critical as the United States Government.
Recommendations:
In conclusion, we wish to make the following recommendations:
Signed:
Anderson Miamen
Executive Director
0886818855/0776391481
LACC Joins CENTAL to Increase Knowledge Around Laws and Reporting Mechanisms in Nimba _By Edward Blamo
The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) have joined forces in engaging citizens around key components of the country’s anti-corruption framework. The effort proved helpful as citizens had the opportunity to directly engage with the LACC over concerns they have harbored. On October 6, 2023, a forum was held in Sanniquellie, Nimba County bringing together over 50 participants.
“We are here to talk about corruption. But most importantly, we are here to talk about the new ‘TALKAY’ platform and its effectiveness”, said Atty. Gerald D. Yeakula, Program Manager of CENTAL, gave an overview at the forum. The first two sessions of the day focused on the TALKAY platform for reporting corruption. Developed with support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), the mobile application called ‘TALKAY’ provides the public the platform to report corruption allegations from anywhere without disclosing their identities. The strategy allows the use of the mobile app and website to file complaints of corruption by attaching multiple files (video, audio, document, with an option to remain anonymous or not.
Lincoln J. Monbo of the Liberia Anti–Corruption Commission (LACC) informed participants that, so far, about 136 cases have been received through the TALKAY platform. Of these cases, he noted, bribery and molestation accounted for 49 and 30 respectively. He assured participants that the cases will be investigated. He encouraged the participants to report through the platform. All reports submitted using either the web app, mobile app, or SMS, he said will go to large-screen dashboards at the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) in real-time. The LACC then investigates the report and takes appropriate action. Once actions are taken, the system updates based on the action taken, and those filling reports can track the status of their report using their unique ID numbers issued when they submit their reports.
For his part, Cllr. Jerry D. K Garlawolo, LACC’s Chief Prosecutor, used the forum to give citizens insight into the new LACC law and how it will help the fight against corruption. “Now the investigators have police power. We can now go to court without the Ministry of Justice as was done in the past”, he stressed. Many believe that introducing this strategy is significant, especially when Liberia has reached its all-time low on the Corruption Perceptions Index of Transparency International, scoring 26 out of 100.
Sharing experiences with corruption, Jerry Myers, a member of the joint security explained a scenario where ‘arrest fees’ requested by a police officer at the station in Sanniquellie was refunded to the victim following his intervention. For her part, student Luise Tweh explained that a teacher in her school intentionally removed her name from those to sit the West Africa Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) because he did not favor her. But when she engaged the school authority and the District Education Officer (DEO), the issue was resolved and her name was returned to the roster. “Corruption impedes development”, Rev. Joe G. Wallace, a prominent clergyman reckons. To back his assertion, he referenced a book in the bible specifically Exodus Chapter 20 verses 15 which he said spoke strongly against corruption.
Meanwhile, Nelson Yador, a prominent Civil Society (CSO) actor in Nimba was quick to commend CENTAL for its efforts in fighting corruption in the county over the years. “CENTAL is always here to teach us about ways to fight corruption. And we are extremely grateful to you”, he stated.
Like many other counties, Nimba, still reeling from a fourteen-year civil war that ended in 2003, still faces the challenge of social exclusion, poverty, and underdevelopment, all of which are byproducts of corruption and bad governance. About 90 percent of people surveyed in the 2022 State of Corruption Report released by CENTAL, think that the level of corruption in Liberia is high. But despite these, a new strategy to utilize the use of technology to nip the scourge of corruption in the bud is gaining steam in Nimba County.
In Bomi County, Citizens Encouraged To Utilize New Mobile App To Report Corruption
By: Mark W. Boahndao
In the ongoing battle against corruption, a significant roadblock that often hinders progress is the pervasive fear of retaliation. In some instances, whistleblowers, some of whom are public servants, who dare to expose corrupt practices often find themselves in precarious situations threatening their livelihood and safety. This culture of fear undermines the effectiveness of anti-corruption efforts in multiple ways—silencing the whistleblower, impeding transparency, et cetera.
To reduce the risk of exposure for whistleblowers and improve citizens' confidence to report corruption without revealing their identities, the Anti-Corruption Innovation Initiative project is encouraging citizens to make use of a mobile application ‘TALKAY’ developed to report corruption. To implement the project, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) is working in partnership with the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), Integrity Watch Liberia, and Accountability Lab Liberia with support from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) through the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).
On the 29th of September 2023, the one-day dialogue held at the multipurpose building in Tubmanburg, Bomi County, citizens were not only introduced to the app, including issues arising therefrom but were provided insights into the anti-corruption laws as well as an election reference guide developed by CENTAL.
“Corruption is difficult to report. When we report happenings of corruption, limited action is taken. In the end, we will remain the victim of it. How can we report?” – Miatta A. Kanneh, a marketer pointed out stoutly. Thankfully, the LACC graced the occasion and afforded citizens the express burning concerns. Making a presentation, Cllr. Jerry D.K. Garlawolu, Chief Prosecutor of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) succinctly explained the mandate and functions of the LACC as a lead anti-graft institution in Liberia. He further emphasized the relevance and advantages of the Whistleblower and Witness Protection Acts. His presentation opened the minds of the participants to the workings of LACC and the different laws that exist to discourage them from hiding acts of corruption when it is visible.
“We will try to report, but actions must be taken to serve as a deterrent for people who want to get involved with corruption” – Saamo Peters, a member of the disabled community. Continuous reporting of corruption is a crucial tool in the fight against this pervasive issue. When citizens witness corruption daily but are afraid to report it due to potential negative outcomes, it perpetuates a culture of impunity and allows corruption to thrive. However, optimism is high that making maximum use of technology will thrive in the war against corruption.
The one-day dialogue which brought over forty (40) citizens including heads of women's groups, religious heads, county officials, youth, and persons with disabilities representatives stimulated provocative talks and reemphasized the usage of the Talkay mobile app and other mediums of reporting. This gathering espoused the need for more citizen engagement around the country. Additionally, with the elections at the heart-point of the discussions, citizens were encouraged to make use of a Decision-Making Reference Guide that was developed to guide citizens about ways to go about in the upcoming general and presidential elections. The guide among other things highlighted issue-based decisions citizens are to make and take into consideration when voting before and after elections.
22nd Street, Sinkor
Tubman Boulevard
Monrovia, Liberia
Phone: +231 88 681 8855
Email: info@cental.org.lr
Website: www.cental.org.lr
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