MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has expressed deep concern over recent developments, particularly the suspension of officials who won a lawsuit against President Joseph N. Boakai’s government.
In a press conference on Tuesday, April 30, Anderson D. Miamen, Executive Director of CENTAL, voiced disappointment in President Boakai’s decision to appoint individuals to tenure positions after the Supreme Court ruled against him. Miamen acknowledged the President’s powers to suspend officials involved in corruption but emphasized that such powers should not be used to achieve a hidden agenda. He also criticized the use of audits and investigations to target political opponents, stating that the fight against corruption should be impartial.
The controversy began on February 20, 2024, when President Boakai nominated several individuals to tenure-protected positions, including the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), the Governance Commission (GC), National Lottery Authority (NLA), and the National Identification Registry (NIR). Despite public backlash, Cllr. Bushuben Keita, Legal Advisor to President Boakai, cited the President’s constitutional powers to appoint and dismiss officials at his discretion.
CENTAL released a press statement on February 22, 2024, expressing disappointment in President Boakai’s actions and arguing that tenure security is a settled matter. The Supreme Court’s ruling on April 25, 2024, upheld previous decisions, stating that President Boakai did not act in accordance with the law.
Miamen criticized President Boakai’s decision to suspend the Chairman of the Governance Commission and the entire board of commissioners of the LTA, appointing individuals earlier nominated against whom the court ruled. While acknowledging the need for accountability, Miamen emphasized that due process must be followed in the removal of officials.
CENTAL recommended that President Boakai reconsider his decision to appoint individuals whose appointments sparked controversy, ensure substantive due process for tenured officials, and provide support for the Office of the Ombudsman. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability, transparency, and integrity in Liberia.
In conclusion, Miamen called on Liberians to denounce corruption and demand accountability from their leaders, emphasizing the need to build a transparent and accountable society and government.
