MONROVIA, LIBERIA – In a significant move to enhance financial integrity and efficiency, the Civil Service Agency (CSA) has removed 421 ghost names from its payroll. This action is expected to save the government approximately $1.9 million annually. CSA Director Josiah F. Joekia made this announcement at a special press conference held at the Ministry of Information (MICAT) on Wednesday, 22, 2024.
“Today is a great opportunity to learn about the work we are doing at the Civil Service Agency, particularly the refocus initiatives we’ve started,” Joekia stated. He emphasized that the CSA plans to continue these periodic updates to maintain transparency and accountability. Joekia also highlighted the strong strategic partnership between the CSA and other government entities, which promotes their efforts and dispels misconceptions about their operations.
Joekia detailed the CSA’s implementation of the auditor general’s recommendations from the 2022 payroll compliance audit report. These recommendations, he noted, were straightforward and did not require collaboration with other agencies. The CSA has been proactive in addressing these recommendations, which include both payroll and non-payroll related actions.
One significant issue addressed by the CSA was the incomplete personnel action notices for about 40,000 employees within the civil service. Joekia assured that measures are being taken to regularize these employees’ statuses, ensuring they are legitimately employed and can enjoy the rights and benefits of their positions. This step is crucial for maintaining an accurate and transparent payroll system.
The CSA has also initiated a consultancy process across all spending entities. This process aims to streamline operations and improve efficiency within the civil service. The official announcement of this consultancy process marks a new phase in the CSA’s ongoing reforms.
Another notable reform is the introduction of a salary advance program, allowing civil servants to access up to 50% of their salaries in advance. This initiative, developed in collaboration with commercial banks, ensures that civil servants have financial flexibility and do not have to wait until the end of the year to receive their salaries.
Joekia also announced the upcoming implementation of credential evaluation, verification, and background checks. This measure is designed to ensure that all employees within the civil service meet the required standards set by laws and policies. By preventing credential falsification, the CSA aims to maintain the integrity and quality of its workforce.
In summarizing the CSA’s actions, Joekia reiterated the agency’s commitment to transparency and accountability. He provided an overview of the actions taken so far, emphasizing the importance of implementing the auditor general’s recommendations and other reforms to improve the efficiency and credibility of the civil service.
The removal of ghost names from the payroll is a critical step in ensuring financial integrity within the government. By saving $1.9 million annually, the CSA is not only improving its own operations but also contributing to the broader goal of financial prudence and accountability in the public sector.
Overall, the CSA’s efforts to reform and streamline its operations demonstrate a strong commitment to improving the efficiency and integrity of the civil service. These actions reflect a broader strategy to enhance transparency, accountability, and financial prudence within the government, ensuring that public resources are used effectively and responsibly.
