MONROVIA, LIBERIA – President Joseph N. Boakai has issued a strict directive requiring all appointed government officials to declare their assets within ten days, effective November 27, 2024.
In a statement from the Executive Mansion released on Thursday, November 28, 2024, the President highlighted his administration’s dedication to accountability and good governance, emphasizing that non-compliance with the 2014 Code of Conduct Law undermines public trust. The directive comes in response to widespread violations of Article 2, Section 10.2(h), which mandates that officials must declare their assets within 30 days of appointment. The law further stipulates that failure to comply will result in immediate suspension until the requirement is fulfilled.
It can be recalled that the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) on Thursday, September 5, 2024, revealed widespread non-compliance among high-ranking government officials regarding asset declarations, even after a grace period from August 1 to August 31, 2024. According to the LACC, this failure to adhere to the law undermines Liberia’s fight against corruption and erodes public confidence in governance. Asset declaration serves as a critical tool for monitoring officials’ wealth and detecting potential cases of illicit enrichment or conflicts of interest. By refusing to declare their assets, these officials not only violate the law but betray the trust of the Liberian people. The LACC report highlighted several high-profile figures, including Julius M. Sele, Eugene L. Fahngon, Major General Daniel Ziankahn, and Ambassador George Wallace, as non-compliant, raising significant concerns about accountability at the highest levels of government.
Despite previous calls for compliance, numerous officials have failed to submit their asset declarations. In response, President Boakai has issued a final warning: all non-compliant officials must complete and file their declarations within the next ten days or face suspension from their positions.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to enforcing transparency and the rule of law in government operations. “Integrity and accountability are fundamental to public service,” he stated. “This directive is not optional; it is a legal obligation, and adherence is expected without delay.”
