MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Corruption is systemic in every sector of Liberian society, especially in government institutions. In response, non-governmental anti-corruption institutions are increasingly calling for the prosecution of public officials found guilty of corruption.
The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has specifically urged the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) to investigate and prosecute former government officials sanctioned by the U.S. government. During a press conference held on Friday, August 2, 2024, at CENTAL headquarters in Sinkor, Monrovia, CENTAL Executive Director Anderson D. Miamen emphasized the need for thorough investigations into these officials.
Miamen highlighted that while CENTAL commends LACC for its ongoing efforts, it is essential to extend these efforts to include officials such as Senator Nathaniel McGill of Margibi County, Senator Prince Y. Johnson of Nimba County, Senator Emmanuel Nuquaye of Margibi County, former Grand Cape Mount County Senator Cllr. Varney Sherman, Senator Albert Chie of Grand Kru County, former Mayor of Monrovia Jefferson T. Koijee, former Director of Passports at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Andrew Wonplue, and former Solicitor General Cllr. Cyrenus Cephus.
“These individuals should be given the space to exonerate themselves in a court of competent jurisdiction,” Miamen stated. He called for the LACC to engage with the U.S. government to seek evidence against the accused and conduct audits of their stewardship where applicable. This would provide an important starting point for understanding their alleged corrupt dealings.
Miamen also noted CENTAL’s keen interest in the indictment of several former officials on multiple allegations of corruption by the LACC. Notable among these are former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah Jr. and former Director General of the Financial Intelligence Agency Stanley Ford, who have been investigated and indicted for allegedly siphoning L$1,055,152,540.00 and US$500,000.00.
“We highly welcome the move to have former officials of government account for their stewardship,” Miamen declared. He criticized former President George M. Weah for attempting to sidestep allegations against his former officials during a press conference on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. Miamen urged Weah to encourage these officials to present themselves before the law, emphasizing that indictments are not convictions and that facing the law is essential for exoneration if innocent.
CENTAL also called on President Joseph N. Boakai’s administration to ensure that its anti-corruption efforts are impartial. Public reactions on social and traditional media indicate that Liberians are tired of corruption and desire a genuine, robust, and impartial fight against it. The organization stressed that Liberians appreciate an anti-corruption fight that does not protect regime elements and their collaborators or weaponize audits and investigations.
“So far, CENTAL does not see any witch-hunt in the case under review,” Miamen concluded. “However, LACC and other integrity institutions must lead an impartial charge against corruption, fraud, waste, and abuse in Liberia. We support genuine calls for an impartial, independent, and holistic fight against corruption, irrespective of who is involved.”
This strong stance from CENTAL reflects the growing demand for accountability and transparency in Liberia’s fight against corruption, emphasizing the need for thorough and impartial investigations to restore public trust in the government.
