MONROVIA – In a surprising move, President Weah of Liberia has appointed Samora P. Z. Wolokolie as the new Chief of the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), replacing the late Thomas Doe Nah who passed away after battling an illness in India. While this appointment may come as a shock to some, given Wolokolie’s previous actions as the Deputy Minister of Finance for Fiscal Affairs, concerns arise over whether he is the right person for the job.
Wolokolie’s tenure as Deputy Minister of Finance has been marked by controversy, particularly surrounding the handling of domestic debts and his failure to provide full disclosure to the National Legislature. His involvement in the controversial payment of domestic debts without sufficient transparency has raised suspicions among lawmakers and the public alike.
Despite the controversies, Wolokolie has consistently stressed the importance of making full disclosure. It remains to be seen whether his previous actions were a result of limitations within the system or a reflection of his own decision-making.
President Weah’s decision to appoint Wolokolie as the head of Liberia’s revenue collection agency has sparked debate among various stakeholders. While some argue that his knowledge and experience in fiscal affairs make him a suitable candidate for the role, others contend that his past actions raise concerns about his ability to lead the LRA effectively.
The Liberia Revenue Authority plays a critical role in the country’s economic growth and income generation, making it essential that its leadership is trustworthy, transparent, and accountable. As Wolokolie assumes this important position, he will undoubtedly face scrutiny and will be expected to demonstrate strong leadership in ensuring the proper collection and management of Liberia’s revenue.
In light of this appointment, it becomes imperative for Wolokollie to address the concerns raised by lawmakers and the public regarding his previous actions. He must prioritize transparency, work closely with the National Legislature, and provide clear and comprehensive reports on revenue generation and expenditure. Rebuilding trust and enhancing confidence in the LRA will be key to his success as the new Chief.
It remains to be seen how Wolokolie will perform in his new role and whether he will rise to the occasion, assuaging doubts and proving his critics wrong. Only time will tell if President Weah’s decision to appoint him will yield positive results for Liberia’s revenue collection efforts and overall financial transparency.
