MONROVIA – In the wake of a growing corruption scandal within Liberia’s Legislature, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) on Thursday, October 24, 2024, issued a series of recommendations aimed at addressing the unfolding bribery allegations in the House of Representatives. At a press conference held at CENTAL’s headquarters, Executive Director Anderson D. Miamen expressed deep concerns about the ongoing efforts to unseat Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, which have been marred by accusations of bribery and budget manipulation.
Miamen commended the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) for its prompt action in launching an independent investigation into the bribery scandal but urged the commission to ensure the process is thorough and timely. “We welcome the LACC’s swift move to publicly announce the initiation of an investigation,” Miamen said. “However, we urge the Commission to not only investigate the bribery scandal but also other emerging issues, including Speaker Koffa’s revelations about budget corruption and manipulation involving some representatives.”
CENTAL stressed the importance of transparency throughout the investigation process, calling for the involvement of other stakeholders to ensure credibility and public confidence. “This presents an opportunity for the LACC to provide clear information on the outcomes, and where necessary, involve development partners and stakeholders in the process,” Miamen stated. He emphasized the need for the investigation to go beyond the bribery allegations and to examine the broader issue of how some lawmakers have accumulated wealth far beyond what their official salaries can justify.
In his remarks, Miamen also called for the Legislature to undergo a comprehensive audit of its financial dealings. CENTAL urged the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to partner with internationally recognized audit institutions to conduct a detailed review of the Legislature’s budgetary expenditures. “Liberians, along with development partners and even some lawmakers, have long demanded a financial audit of the Legislature. It is time for a thorough, transparent review to provide the public with credible and inclusive information on how resources have been utilized,” Miamen argued.
CENTAL’s recommendations also included a call for the Ministry of Justice to collaborate with the LACC in prosecuting past and current lawmakers implicated in corrupt financial dealings. Miamen pointed out that the culture of impunity surrounding the Legislature must end. “It is time we erase the notion that lawmakers are above the law or immune from accountability,” he said, stressing that lawmakers must be held to the same standards as other public officials.
Additionally, Miamen encouraged Liberia’s international development partners to closely monitor the situation and push for greater transparency and accountability in the government. “We urge our partners to engage deeply and frankly with all actors in government, ensuring true accountability in public service,” he stated. Miamen concluded his remarks by calling for stronger leadership within the Legislature, urging lawmakers to uphold the principles of integrity, transparency, and the rule of law in their decision-making processes.
As the country struggles with yet another high-profile corruption scandal, CENTAL’s recommendations serve as a rallying cry for reform in the country’s legislative body. With public trust in the government at an all-time low, the outcome of this investigation will play a critical role in shaping the future of governance and accountability in Liberia. “Liberians deserve better leadership, selflessness, and transparency from their elected officials,” Miamen concluded. “It is time for the Legislature to rise to the occasion and restore faith in its ability to serve the people.”
