The recent revelation by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) of the alarmingly low compliance rates for asset declaration among public officials is not just a statistic—it’s a glaring indictment of the pervasive corruption that continues to plague our nation. With only 26.5% of officials across the three branches of government adhering to asset declaration requirements, it is clear that the very fabric of our governance is fraying under the weight of dishonesty and non-transparency.
Asset declaration is not merely a bureaucratic formality; it is a critical tool in the fight against corruption. In a country like Liberia, where deep-rooted corruption has kept us among the poorest in the world, the importance of such measures cannot be overstated. It is a mechanism designed to prevent illicit enrichment, detect conflicts of interest, and ensure that those who serve the public do so with integrity and transparency.
President Joseph Boakai, the onus is on you to lead by example. The Executive Branch, under your leadership, has shown a dismal compliance rate, with only 332 out of 1,281 officials declaring their assets. This is unacceptable. As the head of the government, you must take immediate and decisive action against those within the Executive Branch who have failed to comply. This is not just about enforcing a regulation; it is about restoring public trust and demonstrating a genuine commitment to the rule of law.
The Legislature is no better. With 47 out of 73 lawmakers in the House of Representatives and 18 out of 30 senators failing to declare their assets, we see a significant gap that undermines the integrity of our legislative processes. These are the individuals who are supposed to represent the interests of the people, yet their reluctance to adhere to asset declaration requirements raises serious questions about their commitment to transparency and accountability.
The Judiciary, too, is not immune. With only 28 out of 333 officials, including seven judges, complying with asset declaration, the very institution that should embody justice and integrity is falling short. Transparency in the Judiciary is paramount for maintaining public trust, and this low compliance rate is deeply disappointing.
The LACC’s commitment to enforcing compliance through stringent measures such as suspension and withholding of salaries is a step in the right direction. However, more must be done. Publishing the full list of asset declarations for public consumption will not only hold officials accountable but also empower citizens to demand better from their leaders.
Heads of all branches of government must institute immediate measures to ensure conformity with the law. Continuous monitoring and public awareness campaigns are essential, but they must be backed by a genuine political will to root out corruption at all levels.
The fight against corruption in Liberia must begin with our leaders. It is time for President Boakai, lawmakers, judges, and all public officials to demonstrate their commitment to serving the people with honesty and integrity. Asset declaration is a crucial step in this journey, and non-compliance cannot and must not be tolerated. Let us seize this moment to build a more transparent, accountable, and prosperous Liberia.
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