MONROVIA – In a move that has glowed debate, President Joseph Boskai has appointed Mr. Augustine Ngafuan as the new Minister of Finance of Liberia. This appointment completes a trio of Lofa citizens from the Gbandi tribe who now head the country’s major financial sectors. Ngafuan joins James Dorbor Jallah, the Commissioner General of the Liberia Revenue Authority, and Henry F. Saamoi, the Acting Governor of the Central Bank, in a striking consolidation of power among members of the same tribe.
Ngafuan’s appointment has raised eyebrows, especially considering his controversial history. Previously serving as Minister of Finance during Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s presidency, he faced allegations of corruption, which have continued to shadow his career. Following his resignation, in 2015, a group of students from the University of Liberia had called for a full audit of Ngafuan, questioning his integrity and suitability for the role, particularly in light of his past.
“Ngafuan cannot claim to be a major player in the 2017 elections while also being under scrutiny from the General Auditing Commission for misappropriating funds,” remarked student Jerome Azango II. He expressed concern over the implications of appointing individuals from the same tribe, suggesting a potential conflict of interest and nepotism in the management of the nation’s finances.
The students highlighted the need for transparency, with calls for the government to conduct a thorough audit of Ngafuan’s dealings, especially regarding funds reportedly misappropriated from a Japanese grant designated for diplomatic projects. “These allegations could have serious ramifications for his future and the credibility of the government’s commitment to fighting corruption,” added student Assatu Kabba.
Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf once staunchly defended Ngafuan against corruption allegations, declaring, “I swear I can lay my head on the chopping block that Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan is not corrupt.” However, this defense has only fueled skepticism among the public regarding the government’s stance on corruption.
As the reappointment of Ngafuan and his fellow Lofa tribe members unfolds, the question remains: Can President Boakai maintain public trust while consolidating financial power among a select group? The demand for accountability and transparency in Liberia’s financial leadership has never been more urgent, as citizens seek assurance that their government is committed to ethical governance and the fight against corruption.
