MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Auditor General P. Garswa Jackson has called on young Liberians to play an active role in combating corruption, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in public service. His remarks came during a symposium at the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) University on Friday, February 28, 2025, where he addressed over 100 students and alumni of the Young Political Leadership School Africa (YPLS Africa).
Reflecting on the event in a Facebook post on Saturday, March 1, 2025, Jackson praised the students’ enthusiasm and engagement. He described their interest in public accountability as a promising sign for the future and expressed gratitude to NAYMOTE-Liberia for organizing the discussion. Jackson highlighted the General Auditing Commission’s (GAC) critical role in ensuring public funds are used responsibly and shared his commitment to offering practical recommendations to improve governance.
During his address, Jackson stressed that corruption remains a major obstacle to Liberia’s development. He pointed out that misuse of public resources directly impacts essential services such as education and healthcare, denying citizens access to basic needs. He also underscored the GAC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen financial oversight and foster a culture of accountability across government institutions.
The symposium, organized by NAYMOTE-Liberia’s YPLS Africa Alumni with support from the Embassy of Sweden, focused on educating young people about the damaging effects of corruption. It also encouraged them to take an active stance in advocating for stronger public financial management.
Days before the event, NAYMOTE-Liberia’s Executive Director, Eddie D. Jarwolo, used social media to rally young Liberians around the fight against corruption. In a Facebook post on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, he urged the country’s youth to become more informed and engaged. Jarwolo emphasized that more than 75 percent of Liberians under 35 are directly affected by corruption and poor governance, calling on them to “Listen, Learn, and ACT.”
He warned that the future of the country depends on young people recognizing how corruption limits opportunities and taking action to demand better leadership. Jarwolo stressed that youth voices are essential to driving change and building a more just and equitable society.
The event highlighted the growing momentum among young Liberians to hold public officials accountable and reinforced the importance of collective action in addressing corruption’s far-reaching impact.