Published: July 16, 2024
Monrovia – The 55th Legislature Joint Public Accounts Audit & Expenditure Committee has officially launched public hearings into the Auditor General’s Reports, marking a significant step towards enhancing transparency and accountability in Liberia’s government operations. The hearings, which comply with Article 89 of the 1986 Constitution of the Republic of Liberia and Section 4.2(g) of the General Auditing Commission Act of 2015, will commence today in the William R. Tolbert joint chambers.
The launch ceremony was attended by House Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa and President Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karngar Lawrence, both of whom expressed their strong support for the committee’s initiatives.
Key stakeholders, such as the General Auditing Commission Auditor General, civil society organizations, integrity institutions, and international partners including GIZ, USAID, the EU, and the World Bank, were also present, highlighting their commitment to this crucial national effort.
In his opening address, Joint Public Accounts Committee Chairman Rep. Clarence Gahr emphasized the committee’s dedication to ensuring effective public spending amidst fiscal challenges. He outlined the committee’s ambitious 2024 agenda, which includes publishing between five to ten consolidated reports and conducting timely reviews of the Auditor General reports within ninety days of receipt.
Chairman Gahr also called upon the executive branch, through the office of President Joseph Nyumah Boakai Sr., to grant full financial independence to anti-graft institutions, underscoring the importance of their autonomy for effective functioning.
The initial focus of the hearings will be on entities such as the Public Works Ministry, Monrovia City Corporation, and the LOIC, among others. The committee has urged all current and former public officials to cooperate fully, ensuring the impartial and professional nature of the proceedings.
“We are committed to conducting these hearings with utmost professionalism, independence, and patriotism,” stated Chairman Gahr. “Our goal is to ensure that opinions expressed in these reports are free from partisanship and bias, serving the best interests of Liberia.”
Chairman Gahr expressed gratitude to the legislative leadership and all partners for their steadfast support in the fight against corruption, pledging to uphold the highest standards of accountability in service to the nation.
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