MONROVIA – In a decisive move to combat corruption, President Joseph Boakai has authorized the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General, Cllr. J. Oswald Tweh, to take immediate and unhesitant action against individuals implicated in corruption. This directive was issued during the fifth cabinet meeting of his administration, held on Friday, August 2, 2023, at the Executive Mansion.
President Boakai’s instructions to the Justice Minister were clear and unequivocal: “Do not be afraid, Minister of Justice. Just make sure you do the right thing to bring them to justice.” This strong mandate stresses Boakai’s commitment to accountability and transparency, setting a tone of zero tolerance for corruption within his government.
The President emphasized that his administration would relentlessly pursue those who have looted state resources. “We will run after them and bring them to justice, even if they call it a witch-hunt. The Liberian people will appreciate it,” he affirmed. This statement comes amid growing public demand for accountability and justice for past misdeeds.
The Ministry of Justice and the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission recently issued writs of arrest for five key former officials of the previous ruling CDC administration. Those targeted include former Solicitor General Cllr. Nyenati Tuan, former Security Advisor Jefferson Karmo, former Finance and Development Planning Minister Samuel D. Tweah, former Director of the Financial Intelligence Agency Stanley Ford, and former Controller of the Financial Intelligence Agency Moses Copper. They face allegations of economic sabotage, theft, illegal disbursement of public funds, theft of property, and criminal conspiracy.
President Boakai’s commitment to justice was further highlighted by his stern warning to his cabinet members. He assured that any government officials found to have hidden agendas or who undermine his administration would face immediate dismissal. “If you come to the cabinet to do the same thing that you think used to happen, with adequate information we are going to come behind you. Once we identify and make sure we know them, you are going to leave, and when you leave, I don’t care who asks for you to come back, you are not coming back,” Boakai declared.
This message underscores the President’s dedication to maintaining a transparent and effective government, free from corruption and inefficiency. He stressed the importance of integrity among his ministers, noting that his appointments were made with the intention of bringing individuals who love their country and want to see it prosper. “When we started bringing ministers, we decided to bring people with integrity. People that love the country and want a good country. The moment you start missing that, you are telling me that I made a mistake, and I don’t think I made a mistake,” President Boakai asserted.
The President has also made it clear that he expects all government officials to adhere to the highest ethical standards. Any deviation from these standards will not be tolerated, signaling that the days of “business as usual” are over. Boakai’s administration aims to set a new precedent for governance in Liberia, where accountability is paramount and corruption is systematically eradicated.
Boakai’s robust stance on corruption is a significant step towards restoring public trust in the government. By empowering the Justice Minister to prosecute corrupt individuals and holding his cabinet to stringent ethical standards, the President is laying the groundwork for a more transparent and accountable administration. This approach not only addresses past corruption but also sets a deterrent for future misconduct, ensuring that Liberia moves towards a more just and equitable society.
In conclusion, President Boakai’s directive to the Justice Minister and his stern warning to cabinet members demonstrate a strong commitment to combating corruption. His administration’s actions reflect a clear departure from previous practices, emphasizing the need for integrity and accountability in public service. This bold approach is a beacon of hope for many Liberians who have longed for a government that truly serves its people with honesty and dedication.
