MONROVIA – In a formal communication to the plenary of the Liberian Senate on Thursday, May, 23, Nathaniel McGill, the former Minister of State for Presidential Affairs and current Senator of Margibi County, has raised serious concerns regarding the actions of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) under the leadership of Minister Boima S. Kamara. In his letter dated May 21, 2024, Senator McGill highlighted potential constitutional violations by the Ministry of Finance and its officials related to authorizing and guaranteeing loans on behalf of the Republic of Liberia.
McGill’s letter began by expressing his compliments to the Senate before delving into the crux of the issue. “I present compliments and write to bring to your attention a matter of grave concern regarding the actions of the Minister of Finance and officials of the Ministry in relation to authorizing and guaranteeing loans on behalf of the Republic of Liberia and other public institutions of government,” McGill stated.
He emphasized that these activities appear to contravene Article 34 (d) Section III of the Liberian Constitution. This section specifies that the procedures and mandates for authorizing loans on behalf of the Republic require legislative enactment. The Constitution explicitly states, “No loans shall be raised by the government on behalf of the Republic or guarantees given for any public institution or authority otherwise than by or under the authority of a legislative enactment.”
Senator McGill argued that the Finance Ministry’s actions bypass these constitutional requirements, undermining the rule of law and the principles of transparency and accountability. “It has come to our knowledge that these activities are being carried out in total violation of Article 34 (d) Section III of the Constitution of Liberia,” he wrote.
The Senator called on the Senate to take immediate action by summoning the Minister of Finance, Boima S. Kamara to explain and justify these actions. “I respectfully request that the Minister of Finance be summoned by the Senate to provide an explanation and show cause as to why he should not be held in violation of Article 34 (d) Section III,” McGill urged.
He stressed the importance of adherence to the Constitution to maintain the integrity of Liberia’s governance. “It is imperative that we uphold the rule of law as a prerequisite to ensuring that all government officials act in accordance with the Constitution to maintain transparency, accountability, and the best interests of the Republic of Liberia,” McGill stated.
Senator McGill concluded his letter by expressing his anticipation for the Senate’s prompt action and guidance on addressing this issue. “Your swift attention to this matter is greatly appreciated, and I look forward to your guidance on the next steps to address this issue effectively,” he wrote.
This development has sparked significant discussion among lawmakers and political analysts, highlighting the ongoing challenges in Liberia’s governance and the critical role of legislative oversight in maintaining constitutional order. The Senate’s response and the subsequent actions taken will be closely watched as they will set a precedent for how similar issues are handled in the future.
However, as Liberia continues to navigate its political and economic landscape, the adherence to constitutional provisions remains a cornerstone for ensuring sustainable development and good governance.
