MONROVIA, LIBERIA — As Liberia strives for greater transparency and accountability, Senator Amara M. Konneh of Gbarpolu County has detailed his achievements since taking office in 2024. Speaking on July 19, 2024, Konneh shared his ongoing efforts to combat corruption and promote good governance within the Senate.
Konneh began his update by addressing a significant issue he identified early in his tenure: discrepancies between the approved Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations, the National Budget Act, and the Detailed National Budget. These inconsistencies have led the Senate to launch an investigation to resolve these financial misalignments. Ensuring that the figures in these documents align is crucial for maintaining trust and transparency in government financial management.
In addition, Konneh highlighted the work of the Senate Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which he co-chairs. The PAC recently released an analysis of the First Quarter 2024 Budget Execution Report. This report revealed that tax revenue exceeded projections by 11%, reaching $163.4 million compared to the anticipated $151.4 million. Despite this positive revenue trend, expenditures were lower than expected. The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) allocated $144.9 million but disbursed only $77.1 million, accounting for just 53% of the allotted funds in Q1. This slow disbursement could potentially hinder economic activity and impact the government’s ability to deliver essential services, especially with major events like the July 26 independence celebrations approaching.
Konneh’s commitment to transparency is further demonstrated by the PAC’s initiation of public hearings on around 180 audit reports from the Auditor General. These hearings are a testament to the Senate’s dedication to promoting financial accountability and transparency. By scrutinizing these reports, the Senate aims to ensure that public funds are used appropriately and that any financial mismanagement is addressed.
Another significant issue Konneh has raised is the practice of the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) issuing guarantees on non-performing loans, advances, deposits, and lawsuit liabilities associated with Sapelle International Bank Liberia Limited (SIBLL) and Bloom Bank. He has expressed concern that these guarantees could increase the CBL’s contingent liabilities and negatively affect its reserve position. As the custodian of Liberia’s monetary policy, Konneh believes the CBL should avoid functioning as a charity for insolvent banks, particularly foreign-owned ones, to maintain financial stability.
Konneh also introduced several key pieces of legislation aimed at improving governance and ensuring a smooth transfer of state power. These include the Presidential Transition Act of 2024 and the Former Presidents Benefits Act. These legislative efforts are designed to facilitate a transparent transition process and provide long-term benefits to former presidents who have completed their terms in office.
Another area of concern for Konneh has been the use of pension funds by the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP). He has been actively following up on a communication he sent with Senator Dillon of Montserrado in April regarding the use of pensioners’ funds to purchase vehicles for the Ministry of State. Konneh stresses the importance of ensuring that pensioners’ money is used properly to safeguard their fixed income in retirement and uphold good governance practices.
Konneh’s efforts also include addressing the status of various loan agreements that Liberia has entered into with international financial institutions. In collaboration with Senator Francis Dopoh of River Gee, he expressed concerns about the impact of these agreements on the nation’s development. The rising national debt, which grew by 15.3% to $2.3 billion by the end of December 2023, poses a significant challenge. Konneh is working with the Committee on Ways and Means and the MFDP to gather necessary information and address the debt issues effectively.
Furthermore, Konneh has led an Adhoc Committee investigating contracts related to Customs Destination Inspection with MedTech Scientific Dubai and Container Tracking (CTN) with Global Tracking & Maritime Solutions. While the investigation into the MedTech contract continues, the CTN contract has been thoroughly reviewed. The committee has recommended a comprehensive renegotiation of the CTN contract to improve transparency, contract terms, and financial management, ensuring that the services are cost-effective and beneficial to the Liberian economy.
On local matters concerning Gbarpolu County, Konneh has made significant strides in addressing illegal mining activities. In April, he, alongside Senator Botoe Kanneh, brought attention to illegal mining by Chinese nationals and their Liberian collaborators. Their efforts led to the indictment of two Chinese-owned companies for economic sabotage, tax evasion, and criminal conspiracy, marking a significant victory for the county and Liberia as a whole. Konneh hopes the justice system will ensure accountability for these actions.
Additionally, Konneh has collaborated with the Executive Branch, including the Ministry of Public Works and the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), to investigate the alleged misappropriation of funds intended for Bopolu Streets development. He has praised Minister Giddings and Chairlady Alexandria Zoe for their dedication to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice for the county and the nation.
Konneh concluded his update by expressing gratitude for the support he has received and reflecting on his experiences working with colleagues in the Senate. He acknowledged the learning curve compared to working with the Executive Branch, the private sector, and multilateral development banks. Despite the challenges, Konneh remains committed to driving positive change and enhancing governance in Liberia.
