MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The global community commemorated International Anti-Corruption Day on December 9, 2024, shining a spotlight on the fight against corruption and its far-reaching impact. In Liberia, the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) led the charge with a vibrant event held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at Monrovia City Hall under the theme, “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.”
According to an LACC press release, the event drew diverse participants, including students, local and international partners, and representatives from institutions such as the Internal Auditing Agency (IAA), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), European Union, German Embassy, CENTAL, UNOCHR, USAID, Swedish Embassy, British Embassy, and the Ministry of Justice. The day began with a colorful parade from Vomoma House to the Monrovia City Hall, where an indoor program featured powerful speeches and discussions.
Delivering the keynote International Anti-Corruption Day message, Cllr. Alexandra K. Zoe, Chairperson of the LACC, underscored the critical role of youth in combating corruption. She highlighted the importance of engaging Liberia’s young population, which makes up over 63% of the nation, in governance and decision-making processes.
“With youth constituting more than 63% of Liberia’s population, we must ask ourselves: to what extent are they involved in governance and decision-making processes at national and subnational levels?” Cllr. Zoe questioned.
She emphasized the need for education that instills values of integrity, accountability, and fairness, while promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills. “Mentorship should be integrated into leadership development at all levels to shape tomorrow’s integrity,” she added.
The highlight of the event was the keynote address by Joyceline Kerkula, a student of the University of Liberia, who delivered a passionate appeal for youth activism in the fight against corruption.
“We, the youth, have the power to raise awareness about corruption and its impacts through social media and digital platforms. By leveraging technology, we can create tools and campaigns that promote transparency and accountability,” Kerkula asserted.
She also encouraged young people to actively participate in politics by voting, running for office, and advocating for policies that strengthen good governance and anti-corruption initiatives. “Our voices must resonate in decision-making rooms,” she declared.
Trokon Bryant of the UNDP reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting Liberia in promoting good governance and combating corruption. Other representatives, including those from Accountability Lab, CENTAL, the Internal Auditing Agency, the Ministry of Justice, and USAID, pledged continued efforts toward creating a corruption-free society.
The LACC’s commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day reflects its determination to build a culture of integrity by engaging young people and encouraging collaboration among stakeholders. As the fight against corruption continues, the Commission called on all Liberians to join hands in securing a brighter, more transparent future for the nation.
This year’s theme emphasizes that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow but critical partners in shaping the ethical foundation needed to combat corruption today.
