Published: October 1, 2024
Monrovia –The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has opened an official investigation into allegations of off-budget spending by the Liberian government, totaling a reported $15 million. This move comes after mounting public concerns over possible financial mismanagement.
In a statement, the LACC assured the public of a thorough and independent inquiry into the allegations. “We take these allegations seriously, as they touch on matters that are core to our institutional objectives. Off-budget expenditures, if confirmed, can undermine public trust in governance, weaken fiscal discipline, and pose risks to the country’s financial integrity,” said Cllr. Alexandra Zoe, Executive Chairperson of the LACC.
The Commission has already begun a preliminary review of the allegations, which will be followed by a full-scale investigation. “We wish to assure the public that the LACC has commenced a preliminary review of the allegations. This will be followed by a comprehensive investigation to determine the accuracy of the claims, establish accountability, and ensure that proper legal procedures are followed,” Zoe continued.
Focus on Transparency
The LACC stressed its commitment to conducting the investigation with full transparency and impartiality. “We are committed to conducting this investigation with utmost transparency and independence,” Zoe said, highlighting that the Commission would be working closely with stakeholders like the Ministry of Finance and other oversight bodies. She further emphasized that the Commission would engage with relevant institutions to ensure a fair and thorough inquiry.
Legal Consequences if Misconduct Is Found
The Executive Chairperson reiterated that if any evidence of wrongdoing is uncovered, the Commission would take decisive action. “As an institution charged with safeguarding public resources, we assure the public that we will leave no stone unturned in this investigation. If evidence of wrongdoing is found, we will take the necessary legal actions, including recommending sanctions, prosecutions, and other corrective measures,” Zoe affirmed.
Call for Patience and Due Process
Cllr. Zoe also called on the public and the media to avoid jumping to conclusions as the investigation progresses. “We urge the public, media, and all stakeholders to allow the investigation to proceed without undue speculation or assumptions. Let us collectively uphold the principles of due process, ensuring that all findings are based on verifiable facts and evidence,” she stated.
The Commission promised that updates would be provided as the investigation develops. “Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses,” Zoe asserts
The LACC’s investigation comes at a time when public trust in government accountability is under scrutiny. The Commission’s stance signals its determination to uphold its mandate of fighting corruption and promoting transparency within Liberia’s governance structures.
It can be recalled that report being unearthed that Liberian government spent US$2,307,609 on “unexplained miscellaneous” and an additional US$2.5 million on covert operations through the National Security Agency (NSA). The House of Representatives used US$1.5 million for its special sitting, while the Senate expended US$812,612 for the same purpose.
Further expenditures include US$65,000 by the Ministry of State for the funeral of former Liberia Revenue Authority’s Commissioner General Thomas Doe Nah, and US$191,679 for the President’s contributions to the Muslim community.
Additional spending by the Ministry of State includes US$30,880 for the funeral of Associate Justice Joseph Nagbe, US$250,000 for the completion of the VIP lounge at Roberts International Airport, US$28,000 in operational expenses for the Office of the Vice President and US$25,000 as a contribution to the funeral of James Quiqui among others
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