MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Council of Patriots of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC-COP) has criticized President Joseph N. Boakai’s Assets Recovery Team, labeling it as a group of political accusers on a witch-hunt mission. The CDC-COP emphasized that asset recovery should be carried out by impartial professionals, not political zealots. Despite recommending that the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) oversee the process for transparency, President Boakai rejected the suggestion, leading to what the CDC-COP describes as the wasteful use of taxpayers’ money.
In a press statement on Sunday, May 12th, 2024, the group expressed disappointment at the recent resignations from Pres. Boakai’s Asset Recovery Team, viewing them as attempts to escape accountability. The CDC-COP demanded that all 15 members of the team be held individually accountable for alleged corruption within the group.
The CDC-COP highlighted the misuse of funds, stating that the US$750,000 approved by the National Legislature for the team’s operations had been misappropriated, calling it “the most disgraceful daylight looting under the Liberian Leader’s administration.” The group also criticized the reported expenditure of US$400,000 on office rent and US$30,000 on billboard rental, calling it unreasonable and a violation of financial management laws.
The group further called for an urgent intervention in the Assets Recovery Team, stating that every member must account for mismanagement and corruption. The CDC-COP condemned the team’s refusal to declare assets and liabilities before taking office, accusing them of violating the law.
In conclusion, the CDC-COP blamed President Boakai for the alleged corruption within the Asset Recovery Team, accusing him of appointing unprofessional individuals for political purposes. The group demanded immediate investigation and prosecution of those involved.
