Published: February 6, 2026
MONROVIA — Bernard Blue Benson, representative of Electoral District No. 17 in Montserrado County, has written government authorities seeking detailed clarification on the legal basis, procedures and oversight mechanisms governing salary tax withholding for members of the House of Representatives and legislative staff.
Benson said the inquiry is aimed at ensuring transparency, consistency and accountability in how payroll deductions are calculated, withheld and remitted to the government.
In his communication, Benson asked for clear guidance on how salary tax deductions are applied to elected officials and legislative employees, including how withholding rates are determined and uniformly enforced.
He said lawmakers and staff must have a clear understanding of payroll deductions to ensure full compliance with Liberia’s tax laws and to avoid discrepancies that could undermine confidence in public financial administration.
Benson requested clarification on the statutory and regulatory framework authorizing salary tax withholding for legislators and their employees, as well as identification of the institutions responsible for payroll administration, tax deduction and remittance.
He also sought information on the roles played by the Legislature’s administrative offices and national revenue authorities in managing the process.
The lawmaker further emphasized the need for effective oversight mechanisms that allow affected officials to verify that deductions are accurately calculated, properly documented and fully transferred to government accounts.
He noted that accessible records and clear procedures are essential not only for personal accountability but also for strengthening public trust in the handling of public funds.
Benson’s inquiry also highlighted the importance of coordination between legislative payroll offices and revenue collection agencies, including reporting systems, audit trails and reconciliation processes designed to prevent delays or inconsistencies in tax remittances.
Observers say such coordination remains a recurring challenge across public institutions.
The communication comes amid broader calls for improved financial governance and compliance within government, as public attention increasingly focuses on payroll integrity, tax enforcement and accountability in the use of state resources.
Benson called for a timely and comprehensive response, including relevant policy documents, guidelines and statutory references governing salary tax withholding for lawmakers and their staff.
He said access to such information would support informed discussions on potential administrative improvements or legislative action, if required, to strengthen transparency and compliance in public-sector payroll management.
Discussion about this post