Press Statement for Immediate Release

International Anti-corruption Day 2024: CENTAL Craves the Government of Liberia to End Impunity for Corruption

• Describes it as the missing link in Country’s anti-corruption efforts

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the press, fellow Liberians. Today, December 9, 2024, marks another International Anti-corruption Day, recognized globally as the day to reflect on the fight against corruption by identifying progress made, challenges encountered, lessons learned, and plans for the future. We applaud all Liberians, the government of Liberia, development partners, and other stakeholders for playing key roles in driving the country’s anti-corruption and accountability agenda.

We celebrate this year’s International Anti-corruption Day knowing that we have public integrity institutions, civil society, development partners, and other groups to look up to in the fight against corruption. Recently passed laws such as the Whistleblower Law and the Witness Protection also give us reason to celebrate. Somehow, the Liberia Anti-corruption Commission, General Auditing Commission, Internal Audit Agency, Liberia Extractives Industries Transparency Initiative, and other institutions continue to play their roles in leading and shaping the country’s anti-corruption efforts. In particular, there have been welcoming efforts to track, investigate, and prosecute a few corruption cases and even suspend and dismiss public officials and others at the center of corruption allegations and other abuses.  Even citizens, civil society, and the media have shown great interest in the process and played crucial roles in this regard, as well as development partners that are supporting government, civil society, and other groups to tackle the menace of corruption.

However, the Liberian Government’s efforts have not been good enough to send a very strong message to the corrupt and deter others from feasting on public resources and assets. The biggest threat and missing link of the country’s anti-corruption drive is the government’s gross failure to end the culture of impunity for corruption, heavily fueled by inadequate funding of public integrity institutions and limited presidential and legislative willpowers. This continues to be the biggest challenge, which has haunted the country for too long. Successive governments have made flowery anti-corruption promises/commitments. Sadly, they have not matched them with the required individual and collective robust and holistic actions/deeds. If the fight against corruption must succeed, the President must lead by example and set a very high standard for others to follow. While leadership from lawmakers and other actors in government is important, President Boakai has the greatest power and responsibility to shape the country’s fight against corruption in the right direction.

As we celebrate this year’s international anti-corruption, we wish to remind President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. that Liberia’s score on the Corruption Perception Index of Transparency International is 25/100. This means that the Liberian public sector is at its lowest level in terms of being corrupt. While a challenge, it presents an opportunity for the President and his government to boldly lead the country in ways that help to reverse this negative trend.

To reverse this situation, end the culture of impunity, and move Liberia upward with the Corruption Perception Index of Transparency International and other key governance indices, we strongly recommend the following:

• President Boakai should lead by example and set a very high standard for others in government and Liberia to follow. At the moment, the President has not raised the anti-corruption, transparency, and accountability standards very high, as he is still pampering his officials, including those in gross violation of the Code of Conduct for Public Officials, especially the component on asset declaration. In part, strong political will means timely acting on matters involving those perceived to be closer to the presidency and ruling party. To this end, the President must suspend and dismiss those at the center of corruption and violators of the code of conduct and other related laws.
• The Liberia Government should provide adequate financial and logistical support to the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission and other public integrity institutions and respect their independence and financial autonomy. Adequate financial and logistical support will enable these institutions to fully execute their mandates by identifying, investigating, and prosecuting corruption cases involving current and past public officials. This will go a long way in ending the culture of impunity for corruption and other abuses in Liberia.

• LACC, GAC, and other public integrity institutions must be robust, more engaging, innovative, and result-driven in their work. LACC now has enormous assets declaration information and corruption cases. They must move to make the most of these cases of asset declaration and other vital information in their possession. They must investigate and prosecute current and former government officials sanctioned by the US Government on time for public sector corruption. While the public fully supports anti-graft institutions, they must do enough to continue enjoying the support and confidence of the public.

• Civil society and the media should continue to raise consciousness regarding the dangers of corruption and rally citizens to take decisive actions against those engaging in corruption and those whose inactions lead corruption to flourish. In doing so, members of civil society and the media should lead by example in their respective organizations and their engagements with partners and members of the public.

Signed:

The Management

Press Statement for Immediate Release

CENTAL Commends GOL for Initial Good Governance Efforts; Frowns on Nonchalant Approach to Punishing Officials Accused of Corruption  

Monrovia, Tuesday, November 25, 2024 - Distinguish ladies and gentlemen of the press, we are happy to have you join us for today’s press conference. 

Liberia has established the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission, General Auditing Commission, Finance Intelligence Agency, and other integrity institutions as well as passed the Whittle Blower Protection, Witness Protection, Code of Conduct for public officials, and other key laws to tackle corruption. However, Corruption remains a major governance and development challenge in Liberia. Impunity for corruption, fueled largely by limited political will and or the lack of strong presidential willpower, has been a major stumbling block to credible, impartial, and robust anti-corruption efforts in the country. As a result, public sector corruption remains high, as Liberia scored 25 out of 100 on the 2023 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) of Transparency International, a huge decline from 32 in 2018. This is not surprising, as CENTAL’s 2023 State of Corruption Report shows that over 90% of Liberians believe that corruption level in government is very high and that their government is not doing enough to tackle it. The country continues her long wait to end gross impunity for corruption, especially in government.

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr, assumed state power in January 2024 and made bold commitments to tackle corruption, as a part of broader efforts to break away from “business as usual” in constituting and running government. Since then, his Unity Party-led administration has made strides in promoting good governance and other efforts across the government. Notable mentions include payroll and credential audits that have led to removal of ghost names from the government’s payroll; the establishment of the Office of the war and economic crimes court; and the commission of audits that have further shed light on corruption in public service. Recent actions by President Boakai include the suspension of officials, including Steve Zargo, Commissioner-General of the Liberia Immigration Service and several officials of the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC). These include Mr. Patrick Worzie, executive director, Mr. Richard Hoff, deputy executive director for operation; and Mr. AJ Armah Karneh, deputy executive director for administration respectively. Others include the dismissals of Colonel Abraham Kromah from the position of Director General of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) and Mr. Hassan Fadiga and Mr. Gbawou Kowou, who held the positions of Deputy Director General for Operations and Deputy Director General for Administration, respectively. CENTAL believes that these somehow signify a level of political will against corruption and other forms of abuse of power.

However, several challenges still abound, which significantly undermine the fight against corruption and rule-based dealings in government. On equally important matters and those of perhaps greater proportion and implications for overall accountability and transparency in government, President Boakai is very slow to act or turns a blind eye, fueling allegations of relative partiality in his accountability efforts. CENTAL has observed a tacit attempt by the government to turn a blind eye to critical decisions against some officials alleged to have violated key anti-corruption laws or indulged in corruption and other misdeeds. For instance, part 10 of the amended 2022 Code of Conduct requires both elected and appointed officials of government to declare their assets, incomes, and liabilities before assuming office. As of August 2024, the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) reported that over 70% of officials appointed by President Boakai have refused to declare their assets, incomes, and liabilities. Unfortunately, such wanton disregard for a very crucial transparency and accountability process in government has not claimed the attention of President Boakai, as he is yet to warn, suspend, and even dismiss the non-compliant officials. This is highly troubling, as it undermines the president’s anti-corruption commitment.  

Also, an audit by the General Auditing Commission (GAC) reveals that Mr. Abdullai Kamara, the current Acting Chair of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), has been embroiled in violation of the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) Law when he served as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TAMMA Corporation. The GAC audit found that payments totaling L$262,844,500 and US$450,000 were made to TAMMA Corporation and 231 Data Incorporated without adherence to procurement protocols or documentation.

Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, in the face of this damming report from the GAC, CENTAL is surprised that no public action, including investigation or otherwise, has since been taken against Mr. Kamara. As far as we know, Mr. Kamara still enjoys the confidence of the presidency, as long as he continues to serve at the LTA, the same institution whose resources he is accused of joining ranks with key members of the previous administration to pillage. Ironically, early this year, the President swiftly acted on allegations of corruption at LTA to suspend the former board of commissioners and made new appointments. How come the President has not acted on GAC’s report on the same LTA implicating Mr. Kamara is a mystery. It is also further concerning that Mr. Kamara and the other Commissioners of the LTA continue to serve in an acting capacity and enjoy all benefits appertaining to the office, since April 2024. We believe this action is counter-productive, especially in the face of GAC audit findings regarding suspended LTA officials and Mr. Kamara. There is a need for definite position of the President regarding the LTA.

Similarly, ladies and gentlemen of the Press, in the weeks following the commencement convocation of the University of Liberia (UL), Commerce Inspector General, Mr. Dorr Cooper was said to have dressed up in the official graduation regalia, proceeded for the commencement convocation, but could not find his name in the program as a graduate. This situation drew public attention, especially so that a highly-placed public official would attempt to defraud the University by graduating, even though he did not complete the courses required for graduation. Following an investigation into the matter by authorities of the university, Mr. Cooper was found guilty of fraud and recommended for prosecution. Despite the gravity of the incident and the findings from the investigation, based upon which UL authorities dismissed and suspended some employees, Mr. Cooper has not been dismissed by the President, neither has he been prosecuted. We wonder why.

On the other hand, officials of the ruling Unity Party (UP) appointed by the President, including the Managing Director of the Liberia Petroleum Refinery Company (LPRC), and Secretary General of the UP, Mr. Amos Tweh, and National Port Authority (NPA) Board Chair and National Chairman of the UP, Rev. Luther Tarpeh, amongst others, are being pressured by the Office of Ombudsman to relinquish one position to avoid violation of the Code of Conduct for public officials.  The Unity Party (UP) and the Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR) objected to the position of the ombudsman, through a petition to the Supreme Court of Liberia to halt the enforcement of said portion of the Code of Conduct. In a ruling, the Supreme Court has upheld the enforcement of the code of conduct against officials of government occupying political party positions. As majority of the officials concerned have not honored the affirmed Ombudsman’s decision, again, the President is yet to publicly demand the officials concerned to relinquish one of their positions.  

These and other developments significantly undermine the fight against corruption and President’s anti-corruption agenda, despite some positive efforts at other ends. If anything, the President must build upon his positive efforts to send stronger messages to government officials, citizens and development partners about his commitment to pursue a robust, transparent, public-interest-driven, and impartial fight against corruption, waste and other misdeeds in government. The President’s apparent shielding of some officials, relative selective actions against persons accused of wrongdoing in his administration, and slow pace of actions/decision-making on critical matters run contrary to his anti-corruption promises.

In conclusion, we call on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. to do the needful to send a stern warning against corruption and abuse of office by taking timely and decisive administrative actions against officials found wanting. The President must remove Mr. Abdullai Kamara as acting chairperson of LTA, dismiss Mr. Dorr Cooper, Inspector General of the Ministry of Commence and Industry and act against others accused of grave acts of corruption and other abuses. Also, the President must suspend and dismiss public officials who have knowingly and recklessly refused to declare their assets, incomes, and liabilities, in violation of the Code of Conduct. Hence, they should be suspended or dismissed. Meanwhile, the President compels his officials to comply with the mandate of the Office of Ombudsman; shows leadership by timely and decisively acting on crucial matters, including those bordering on the fight against corruption; and provides adequate moral and financial support to anti-graft institutions to operate at full capacity. Lastly, we encourage civil society, the media, and citizens to remain vocal, robust and constructive in engaging with national and local government processes by demanding accountability from policymakers and denouncing corruption themselves.

Thank you.

Signed: Management

CENTAL Wants Speedy Investigation into Bribery Allegations at the House of Representatives

- Calls for Probe into Speaker Koffa’s Budget Manipulation Revelation

Monrovia, Thursday, October 24, 2024- Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the press, we are happy to have you join us for today’s press conference.  

Over the years, CENTAL has been a staunch advocate of integrity, transparency, and accountability in Liberia. We have supported efforts to strengthen public integrity institutions and enhance the fight against corruption. One of our latest efforts is the development of a Corruption Case Tracker, an online platform for documenting and tracking the status of corruption cases in Liberia. The Tracker can be accessed at  www.cct.cental.org.lr. We remain committed to supporting the government in attaining positive anti-corruption outcomes.

Allegations of corruption in the legislature have been widespread. In successive elections, voters have expressed disdain for most corrupt and underperforming lawmakers through the ballot box.  During the October 2023 presidential and legislative elections, only 28 (43%) of 65 representatives who sought reelection were retained by their constituents.  Of the 8 sitting representatives who sought election to the Senate, only 2 (25%) were successful. Combined, this means that only 30 (41%) of representatives who sought reelection were successful. Amongst many other factors responsible for the mass dismissal of lawmakers were sustained allegations and incidences of bribery and other corruption involving senators and representatives, most of which were never fully investigated. By their rejection, Liberians sent a very strong message that they are becoming increasingly enlightened and will no longer tolerate underperformance, bribery, and other forms of corruption from their leaders. It was expected that this new batch of officials/lawmakers would be circumspect, lawful, and public-interest-driven in their decision-making, at all times.

However, this does not seem to be the case, unfortunately, if recent developments at the House of Representatives and others prior are the basis for drawing conclusions. Over the last few days, the House of Representatives has been embroiled in a conflict resulting from attempts to remove the current Speaker, Hon. J. Fonati Koffa. CENTAL recognizes the right and power of Representatives to remove the Speaker and other elected leaders, according to Article 49 of the 1986 Constitution, which provides that two-thirds of the membership can do so, in line with due process of law. We are deeply troubled by new and sustained allegations of bribery characterizing the process.

Early this week, in a petition read to the media, “majority lawmakers” seeking the removal of Speaker Koffa accused him of bad leadership, corruption, and other misdeeds, including conflict of interest. The Speaker stands accused of providing legal consultancy to several public and private institutions, claims he has since rebuffed, stating that he has since divested his shares in his law firm (International Law Group).  In the face of all these, we Call for a full-scale independent investigation into these allegations to establish their veracity.     

Meanwhile, in a video widely circulated on social media, Representative Luther Collins of District #2 in Gbarpolu County was seen displaying cash amounting to 15,000 USD allegedly received from his colleague, Representative James N. Kolleh of District #2 in Bong County, on behalf of the group of representatives seeking the Speaker’s removal. According to him, the total bribe involved is 25,000 USD, with an upfront payment of 15,000 USD, to be followed by 10,000 USD after the successful removal of the Speaker. Representative Collins’ startling revelations, which have been refuted by the accused, come amidst widespread allegations of corruption and bribery at the legislature, similar to many others previously reported, characterizing legislative decision-making. This is highly troubling and typical of national leaders on whose shoulders the hopes and aspirations of citizens lie.

Further to Re presentative Collins’ bribery allegations, in a late-night live interview on the Spoon Communications Network on October 22, 2024, Speaker Fonati Koffa reaffirmed longstanding reports and allegations of budget manipulation and corruption by some representatives and relevant committees of the lower house. Also, the Speaker accused some of his colleagues of demanding monies from the executive branch of government to pass on key legislations and bills.

For us at CENTAL, this revelation is highly troubling, especially so that they are emanating from the Speaker who is a highly-placed source at the legislature, a former deputy speaker, and the current leader of the body. Among other things, these claims and counterclaims further validate CENTAL’S 2021, 2022, and 2023 State of Corruption Research Reports and other publications that have highlighted budget manipulation and corruption by some members of the Legislature, which only benefits them and their collaborators.

For too long, Liberians have been robbed of their taxes and other resources and assets by unscrupulous individuals and officials, including some members of the legislature. We are disappointed in the Legislature’s continuous link to corruption and bad decision-making. Coupled with previous occurrences, these bribery allegations have demonstrated that the Legislature has not properly and independently performed its oversight, lawmaking, and other functions. It is widely believed that, often, laws passed and financial instruments concluded are not properly scrutinized, due to reported receipt of bribes and other undue payments by businesses and others alike. The body directly representing Liberians and overseeing the work of the two other branches of government cannot be the weakest link, evident by their often-poor decision-making and alleged corrupt dealings.

Liberians deserve better representation and decision-making from their elected officials.  It is concerning that the majority of members of this very 55^th legislature have refused to comply with the Code of Conduct for public officials to declare their assets, incomes, and liabilities. Although President Boakai has disappointingly not prevailed on the majority of his appointed officials to declare their assets, incomes, and liabilities, representatives and senators need to act differently and set high standards for others to emulate, both in and out of government.  The legislature must rise above negativities and adopt a more positive attitude and reputation if it must be taken seriously and regarded by citizens and partners as a key and reliable pillar of the country’s democracy and governance process. Individual lawmakers have the responsibility to set high standards and provide leadership and direction for the country. The current wave of allegations of bribery to unseat the current speaker does not help to place lawmakers in a morally upright position to play such very important roles.

Recommendations:

• We welcome the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission’s swift move to publicly announce the initiation of any independent investigation into the bribery scandal characterizing the ongoing process to remove Speaker Koffa. We urge the Commission to be timely and holistic in investigating the matter and all other emerging issues and allegations, including accusations of wrongdoing by the Speaker. This latest bribery scandal and other emerging issues present an opportunity for LACC to thoroughly investigate these matters and provide clear information to the public on the outcomes. Where necessary, we call for the involvement of other partners and stakeholders in taking on this process, ensuring that it is transparent, holistic, and involves all actors and players concerned. Additionally, encourage the Commission to go beyond the allegation of bribery to remove the speaker and investigate other issues that are emerging, including revelations from the Speaker about budget corruption and manipulation involving some representatives.
• The decisions of the Legislature, the Lower House in this instant case, must be lawful, transparent, and void of alleged and confirmed incidences of bribery and other forms of corruption. Again, we call for a thorough investigation into the current bribery allegations and other issues emerging regarding budget corruption and tempering, which may be undisputable due to how some representatives and senators have acquired stolen wealth, which their salaries and incomes cannot justify.
• We strongly urge the Legislature to open itself up for all forms of audit and other review processes, as may be prescribed by the General Auditing Commission and other statutorily-mandated institutions. Where necessary, we urge the GAC to collaborate with other internationally-acclaimed audit institutions to conduct the process and provide credible and timely reports on financial and other dealings of the Legislature. This is a call Liberians have been making for ever so long, along with development partners and some members of the legislature itself. Liberians are eagerly awaiting the conclusion of such comprehensive financial and other forms of audit that provide detailed, inclusive, and credible information on how budgeted resources of the Legislature have been expended, over the years.

• We call on the Ministry of Justice to collaborate with LACC to investigate and prosecute past and current lawmakers embroiled in alleged corrupt financial and other dealings. It is about time that we erase the notion and insinuations that lawmakers are above the law and or immune from accountability or prosecution for their alleged wrongdoings.
• We call on our development partners to closely follow these and other developments to take the necessary actions to help ensure transparency and accountability in public service in Liberia. We encourage deeper and frank engagement with all actors in government to ensure true accountability and transparency in government.

In conclusion, we call for greater leadership in the Legislature. We urge members and the leadership to ensure that transparency, integrity, rule of law, and other good governance principles characterize their actions and decision-making.  We call for a full investigation of the publicized bribery allegations and other issues by the state. Liberians deserve better leadership, selflessness, transparency, and other attributes of leaders.

Thank you.

Signed: Management

CENTAL Wants President Boakai to Recall New Appointments at PPCC Over Procedural Breach

- Says all appointees, except one, were handpicked and did not participate in the competitive recruitment process.

Monrovia, Tuesday, September 3, 2024- Distinguish ladies and gentlemen of the press, thank you for gracing this press conference with your presence; we are forever grateful.

Over the years, CENTAL has been a staunch advocate of integrity, transparency, and accountability in Liberia. We have supported efforts geared towards strengthening public integrity institutions and enhancing the fight against corruption, which include: robust and timely actions on audit findings and recommendations of the General Auditing Commission, increasing budgetary support to integrity institutions, enactment of relevant anti-corruption laws, and competitive recruitment to public integrity institutions. We remain committed to supporting the government in attaining positive anti-corruption outcomes.

Ladies and gentlemen of the press, our attention has been drawn to the recent appointments made by His Excellency President Joseph Nyumah Boakai affecting the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC). On August 29, 2024, President Boakai appointed five individuals to the Complaints, Appeal, and Review Panel (CARP) of the Public Procurement and Concession Commission (PPCC). The appointment is provided for in the Amended and Restated Public Procurement and Concessions Commission Act of 2010. Those appointed include Cllr. Sundaway E. Nelson Amagashie, Cllr. Vincent Smith, Cllr. Morris Davis, Mr. Ezekiel F. Nyumah, and Mr. Michael C.G George.

Following a thorough review of those appointed and considering the findings of an independent panel established, in line with the PPCC Act of 2010, CENTAL has observed a significant procedural and legal breach by the president over the appointment of the officials in question. This is because, Part II, Section 10, Sub-section 3 of the Amended and Restated PPCC Act of 2010 provides that appointments to said positions shall be derived from a competitive process held under the auspices of the PPCC, with a list of ten (10) candidates submitted to the President for the five positions—three (3) for lawyers and two (2) for non-lawyers.

The Act further states that, in the event where the President finds only few candidates worthy of appointment, the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission is then required to submit an additional list of vetted candidates for consideration by the President. Thus, the law gives the President significant latitude in appointment. However, it provides for a process that ensures persons appointed to the integrity body are properly vetted and have the required competence and character.

Ladies and gentlemen of the press, CENTAL notes that consistent with its duties under the Public Procurement and Concessions Act (PPCA), in March 2024, the PPCC informed the Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, that vacancy existed at Complaint, Appeal and Review Panel (CARP) due to expiration of the tenure of CARP members and that the recruitment process would commence. The request for Expression of Interest was published for a period of one month on the PPCC website, the Executive Mansion website, and two widely read newspapers: Frontpage Africa and Daily Observer. It is worth noting that Eighty-four (84) applications were received for the five (5) positions.

For further transparency in the recruitment process, PPCC invited four institutions to participate in the evaluation process. Three (3) agreed to participate: the Civil Service Agency (CSA), the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA), and the Center for Transparency and Accountability of Liberia (CENTAL). Representatives of these institutions were then joined by representatives of PPCC to constitute the evaluation committee.

As a member of the vetting committee, we report that thirty-seven (37) applicants were qualified to take the aptitude test, from which twenty-two (22) persons, including three (3) lawyers and nineteen (19) non-lawyers qualified for interview. The panel then recommended the top ten (10) candidates from which the President could make the appointments, consistent with law. The scores of all candidates qualified for the interview stage were also submitted to the President for transparency purposes.

Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, CENTAL is shocked over the President’s decision to disregard the competitive recruitment procedure, as outlined by law. This is because, unlike Mr. Ezekiel Nyumah, one of 10 candidates recommended for appointment by the vetting panel, Cllr. Vincent Smith, Cllr. Morris Davis, and Mr. Michael C. G. George did not participate in the recruitment process at all. Also, although Cllr. Sundayway E. Nelson Amegashie participated in the testing phase of the evaluation, she did not participate in the interview stage as she was unavailable. As such, she was not recommended by the committee for appointment.

The decision of the president to appoint individuals outside of the established competitive and transparent procedure, as contained in the Public Procurement and Concession Act flagrantly violates the Act. Additionally, it undermines transparency and accountability and an utter disregard of the work performed by the committee members, including LNBA, CSA, CENTAL and PPCC. More so, this amounts to ‘business as usual’ and serves to frustrate and discourage not only successful candidates but the Eighty-four (84) applicants who exerted valuable time to participate in the recruitment process. What is even more concerning is the fact that the vacancy announcement was published on the official Executive Mansion website, signaling a clear intent to comply with transparency and due diligence requirements.

Recommendations:

In view of this worrisome development, which borders on commitment to the rule of law and established transparency and accountability mechanism and frameworks, CENTAL calls on President Boakai to Recall the appointment of individuals never independently vetted and recommended for appointment by the Panel, in line with relevant provisions of the amended PPCC Act of 2010. We believe this action will somehow demonstrate a commitment to the rule of law and the fight against corruption, in deeds and not words. The President must respect the independence and sanctity of public integrity institutions and refrain from actions that have the proclivity to undermine public confidence in their leadership and work, the Complaints, Appeal, and Review Panel of the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission in this instant case.

Finally, it is important that the decisions of the President and other public officials support and strengthen integrity-building, transparency, and accountability efforts in Liberia and not otherwise. Commitment to the rule of law and anti-corruption efforts must be matched by the required actions, if Liberians and development partners must be confident that the president Boakai is truly committed to and respecting anti-corruption and other laws governing key sectors, institutions, activities, and processes.

Thank you.

Signed: Management

Press Statement for Immediate Release

Monrovia, Friday, August 2, 2024

CENTAL Lauds Indictment of Former Officials

 -Solicits President Boakai’s Action Against Those Non-compliant with Asset Declaration

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the media, fellow Liberians, and development partners. Thank you for gracing this press conference with your presence; we are forever grateful.

Over the last few weeks, CENTAL has followed laudable efforts by the Liberian Government towards ensuring accountability and transparency, especially in government. For example, integrity bodies such as the Liberia Anti-corruption Commission (LACC), General Auditing Commission (GAC), and Public Accounts Committee of the Legislature have been in the media for the right reasons. We have seen the Joint Public Accounts Committee of the Legislature holding public hearings on audit reports submitted by the General Auditing Commission. We need more robust and transparent public hearings to give opportunities to those implicated to respond to the issues raised against them as well as enable the Committee and the executive to hold them accountable for their actions. Also, many audit reports of the GAC have been subjects of discussions on traditional and social media in terms of discrepancies identified and the need to hold responsible parties accountable.

While these efforts are insufficient, they are highly welcoming, especially considering our unpalatable history in the fight against corruption. For Liberia to fully turn the tide against corruption and mismanagement, a more concerted, impartial, and sustained effort will be required. This is one reason why we are calling for adequate support, including moral, financial, and others from the public and national government to integrity institutions to perform their respective tasks in leading Liberia on the path of integrity, transparency, and accountability.

 LACC’s Indictment of Former Officials of Government

Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, we have followed with keen interest, the indictment of several former officials on multiple allegations of corruption by the Liberia Anti-corruption Commission.  Former Finance Minister, Samuel D. Tweah Jr., former director general of the Financial Intelligence Agency, Stanley Ford, and other individuals have been investigated and indicted for allegedly siphoning the amounts of L$l,055,152,540.00 and US$5000,000.00.” We highly welcome the move to have former officials of government account for their stewardship.

Meanwhile, we are appalled by former President George M. Weah’s attempt to sidestep allegations levied against his former officials during his press conference held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. We would think that former President Weah who professes to be an ardent supporter of the fight against corruption, would encourage those indicted to present themselves before the law to be exonerated, if innocent, as indictments are not convictions.    

Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, while we admonish former President Weah to encourage his officials to face the law, we are also admonishing Joseph N. Boakai’s administration to ensure that its anti-corruption efforts are impartial. From reactions to the indictment on social and traditional media, it has become crystal clear that Liberians are tired of corruption and want a genuine, robust, and impartial fight against it. One could tell that most Liberians appreciate a fight that does not see any sacred cows, protection of regime elements and their collaborators, as well as the weaponization of audit and other investigative and due diligence processes.  So far, CENTAL does not see any witch-hunt in the case under review. However, LACC and other integrity institutions must ensure to lead an impartial charge against corruption, fraud, waste, and abuse in Liberia. We support genuine calls for an impartial, independent, and holistic fight against corruption, irrespective of who is involved.

While CENTAL commends LACC on this matter, we urge the body to investigate and prosecute former officials of government sanctioned by the U.S. government for significant public sector corruption. These include Senator Nathaniel McGill of Margibi County; Senator Prince Y. Johnson of Nimba County, Senator Emmanuel Nuquaye of Margibi County; former Grand Cape Mount County Senator, Cllr. Varney Sherman, Senator Albert Chie of Grand Kru County, Jefferson T. Koijee, former Mayor of Monrovia, Andrew Wonplue, former director of passport at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and Cllr. Cyrenus Cephus, former solicitor general of the Republic of Liberia. They, too, should be given the space to exonerate themselves in a court of competent jurisdiction. While we call on the Commission to engage with the US Government to seek evidence against the accused, it is also important that investigations, including audit of their stewardship be conducted, where applicable, to serve as an important starting point for insight into their alleged corrupt dealings.

Low Compliance with Asset Declaration Law and Process

On Thursday, August 1, 2024, the LACC through its Executive Chairperson Cllr. Alexandra K. Zoe reported a low level of compliance by officials of the Boakai-led administration with the law on the declaration of assets, incomes, and liabilities before taking office. LACC report states that only 322 of a possible 1,281 public officials have declared their assets, incomes, and liabilities. We applaud the few officials of the government that comply. However, we are concerned about the gross violation of the asset declaration law by the majority of officials of the Boakai-led administration. This is disappointing, especially for a President and government that is going after former officials for corruption and defrauding of the state. More so, the President’s lack of action against his officials on this matter raises questions in terms of his willpower to deal with his officials. The process leading to holding people accountable should be holistic and impartial.

We conclude with the following Recommendations:

• We applaud the LACC and other integrity institutions for their ongoing efforts. They must continue to partner in meaningful ways in the fight against corruption, working with civil society, the media, and other independent players and actors.

• We call on President Boakai to suspend his officials who have not yet declared their assets, incomes, and liabilities, some after more than five months in office. If the president must be seen as being impartial in dealing with corruption and other accountability issues, he has to punish his officials for violating the laws of Liberia, the code of conduct in the case in question.
• We call on the President and legislature to provide adequate support to anti-graft institutions to investigate and prosecute more cases, conduct audits, and perform other critical functions. This is important if impunity for corruption and other offenses will become issues of the past.
• We admonish former president Weah to encourage his supporters and those indicted to present themselves before the law to exonerate themselves.
• We encourage the Judiciary to comply with the law on asset declaration and other accountability frameworks. Reports from the LACC regarding limited compliance with the asset declaration law by the Judicial officials is troubling, as they need to do better in leading by example.
• We encourage the leadership and members of the Legislature to fully comply with the asset declaration law. Reports of the very low compliance level of the Legislature are concerning and need urgent action by the leadership and individual lawmakers.
• Finally, we encourage Liberians to support LACC, GAC, and other entities that are leading anti-corruption and accountability efforts in Liberia. The Public must continue to demand accountability from the government, especially concerted, impartial, and sustained efforts to address the culture of impunity for corruption and other offenses in the Country.

Thanks.

Signed

Management

Press Statement for Immediate Release

Monrovia, Thursday, May 30, 2024

CENTAL Wants GoL Address Critical Questions Around Sourcing of 285 Earth-Moving Equipment

--Says GoL Response so far Does Not Address Core Concerns

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the Press, fellow Liberians, greetings to all.

Last week, the Government of Liberia (GoL) held a Three-Day Cabinet Retreat during which the Minister of State Without Portfolio, Madam Mamaka Bility announced that 285 pieces of earth-moving equipment had been presented to the Government of Liberia in a virtual turnover ceremony attended by her, Hon. Sylvester M. Grigsby, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs and Hon. Roland Layfette Giddings, Minister of Public Works.  A video released in this regard also features Mr. Xu Ming, Senior Vice President of Sany Group, a Chinese multi-national heavy equipment manufacturing company and the 3rd-largest heavy equipment manufacturer in the world, and Robert Gumede, Chairman of the Guma Group based in South Africa. The pronouncement has been greeted with mixed reactions from the public. On social media and other platforms, Liberians have welcomed the development, but call for transparency, accountability, and full compliance with procurement and other related laws in acquiring the equipment.

At a Press briefing at the Ministry of Information, Culture Affairs, and Tourism on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah said the announcement made by Minister Bility was not as a result of an agreement reached but rather an update on plans of the government. He stressed that even though the government of Liberia has the power to negotiate deals in the interest of the country, such deals will be negotiated with respect for the rule of law and separation of powers.

 October

The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has closely followed developments and discussions surrounding the saga, especially the Government of Liberia’s official position, as communicated by the Minister of Information. We wholeheartedly welcome the Government’s plans to acquire multiple key assets and logistics to facilitate works and development in different sectors, including road/infrastructure in this instant case. If used for the intended purpose (s), this will help to bring much-needed development to the Country and transform the lives of Liberians, in the wake of increased levels of poverty and infrastructure deficit. Who wouldn’t want development for the Country? Who wouldn’t want their County, District, Town, or Village road (s) constructed, rehabilitated or maintained?

However, we are deeply concerned about the Pronouncement and the entire process surrounding it. Equally, we are appalled by the Liberian Government’s official response, which leaves more questions than answers. First, Minister Bility’s pronouncement lacked the required details to adequately inform the public about the process. The Government was not compelled to speak on the matter, since it claims that the arrangement is premature or in its formative stage. Yet, if the video presented by Minister Bility is anything to go by, the pieces of equipment have already been marked with the photos of President Joseph N. Boakai, decorated with the Liberian Flag, and in motion as if en route to Liberia.  Secondly, there is no publicly available information regarding a competitive bidding or tendering process that informed the government’s decision to begin negotiation with a group to provide such huge quantity of earth-moving equipment reportedly valued over 20 million USD, above the 1 million USD required for International Competitive Bidding by the amended Public Procurement and Concessions Commission Act of 2010. Many questions linger. At what point of process, the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission would have been involved? When the deal is in an advanced stage or concluded, as it appears to be? How then will be process be Competitive and Transparent?  

Third, that the government is reneging on divulging the source of the equipment nor the company behind the deal, which reportedly has business interests in Liberia is highly concerning. This singular act raises more questions about transparency, robustness and integrity of ongoing discussion and even have implications for future processes that will occasion the award of any contract or concession to them (the company or those at the center of saga) for works and services in Liberia.

Ladies and gentlemen of the Media, Liberia’s history is replete with government negotiating deals that end up benefiting businesses and the officials involved, at the expense of Liberians. We are also aware of the dangers of government receiving donations or gifts from companies with business interests in Liberia. May we remind the Government of the situation involving the 100 Toyota Hilux DXD4 double cabin pickups donated to members of the 52nd National Legislature by Arcelor Mittal, the company mining iron ore in Nimba County. Following the donation, the Liberian Legislature ratified the company’s new Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) in 2007. Since then, there have been claims and counterclaims about the Pickups influencing the decision of the government to ratify the new deal, which is believed to be largely favorable to the Company. There have been multiple incidences of violence, resulting from reported poor treatment of citizens by the company, especially those within the concession area, with little to no redress. It would be very difficult, if not impossible to argue against the thought that the 100 Pickups given then, in the midst of the negotiation of the deal played a key role in government’s treatment of the Company.

Recommendations:

Fellow Liberians, the Country deserves more transparency, openness, and integrity from her leaders. We urge President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Sr. and his team to look into history and proceed with extreme caution in initiating discussions around potential support from individuals and groups, especially those with business interest in Liberia. The ‘no business as usual’  promise of the President should be applied in this instant case. As important as the procurement of this equipment may be in alleviating the deplorable road constraints faced by citizens, the lack of transparency around the acquisition, source of funding, and tendering may paint a dark picture and erode public trust and acceptability of the project. We call for more transparency, competition, and inclusiveness of processes around transfer of our national assets as well as acquisition of equipment for road, agriculture and other critical sectors and activities. We urge President Boakai and his team to fully comply with the PPCC Guidelines in any procurement related matters. Equally, we call on the Legislature to lead by example and be robust and independent in performing its duties, especially through ensuring transparency, accountability, and integrity around this and other related critical matters.

In conclusion, we applaud Liberians for their courage in speaking out on governance, accountability and other issues bordering on their interest and the wellbeing of the country. We applaud their stance on this issue and encourage them to keep constructively engaged with their government to ensure more transparency, accountability, inclusion and robustness in decision-making and implementation, especially those with implications for the future and well-being of the state.

 Thanks.

Signed: Management

Press Statement for Immediate Release

CENTAL Commends Supreme Court Ruling on Tenured Positions: Wants President Boakai Uphold the Sanctity of Tenure

Monrovia, Tuesday, April 30, 2024 - Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, thank you for showing up here for this press conference. We look forward to our continued partnership in promoting the culture of accountability and the fight against corruption in Liberia.

Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, President Joseph N. Boakai nominated several individuals to the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), the Governance Commission (GC), the National Lottery Authority (NLA), and the National Identification Registry (NIR), all of which are already occupied by officials protected by tenure. Following a wave of public backlash over the decision, Cllr. Bushuben Keita, Legal Advisor to President Boakai referenced the constitutional powers of the President to appoint and dismiss those in the executive branch by “will and pleasure”. In a press statement released on February 22, 2024, CENTAL voiced disappointment over the action of the President citing disregard for relevant laws. CENTAL argued that tenure security is a settled matter and that interferences with it in the form of appointments to positions of active tenures were unlawful. Thankfully, in its April 25, 2024 ruling on the matter, the Supreme Court of Liberia upheld its previous decisions on the matter, noting that President Boakai did not act in line with the law.

 Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, barely 24 hours after public acceptance of the Court’s ruling, President Boakai suspended the Chairman of the Governance Commission and the entire board of commissioners of the LTA and appointed acting board of commissioners Abdullah Kamara, Patrick Honnah, Clarence Massaquoi, Ben Fofana, and Angela Bush, the very individuals earlier nominated against which the court ruled. We are deeply concerned over these developments, including the suspension of the very officials who won the lawsuit against the government of Liberia. While we acknowledge the powers of the President to suspend officials of government involved in corruption and other suspicious dealings, we believe such powers must not be exercised as part of a scheme to accomplish an agenda. We are also concerned that audits and investigations are being weaponized to get rid of those suspected to be political opponents, especially in this instant case. CENTAL believes that a true fight against corruption should be holistic or dispassionate and not one that sets out to find fault at all costs in order to settle scores for political and other reasons.

We are on record calling out the suspended Chairman of the Governance Commission, Atty. Garrison Yealue for his active role played during the 2023 election campaign, whilst still serving at the GC. Even as we criticized his actions and do not believe he should continue to head the GC, we hold the position that his removal from office must not be arbitrary, but lawful—be in line with established legal procedures, including due process. But as with the other affected tenure positions, it appears that audits or investigations commissioned by the President do not seek to accord those investigated substantive due process but a mere procedural one to justify removal from tenured positions.

Ladies and gentlemen of the press, we therefore recommend the following to President Boakai:

• That President Boakai reconsiders his decision to appoint the very individuals whose appointments sparked the controversy leading to the Supreme Court’ ruling. We believe that this sends a very wrong signal about the President’s dedication to the rule of law, especially in this instant case.

• That President Boakai genuinely accords tenured officials substantive due process and not a mere procedural one that helps attain the president’s goal of replacing tenured officials. We believe that such is important if the Supreme Court’s ruling must be sincerely respected and upheld.

• As the office of the Ombudsman has been established, we encourage the government of Liberia to provide it with the needed financial, logistical and other support to commence full operation. This includes alleged violation of the code of conduct by the chairperson of the governance commission and other similarly-situated tenure officials, especially during the 2023 presidential and legislative elections.

We conclude by reaffirming our commitment to remaining robust in meaningfully supporting national efforts/initiatives to promote and entrench the culture of accountability, transparency, and integrity in Liberia, in all sectors, institutions and places. We call on Liberians to denounce corruption and demand accountability and improved services and performance from their leaders, as we seek to build a transparent, accountable, value-driven and merit-based society and government that holistically and sustainably address the needs of her citizens.

Thanks.

Signed: Management

Monrovia, Thursday, March 28, 2024, Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, thank you for showing up for today’s presser. Thank you for being a partner in the fight against corruption. We deeply appreciate your commitment.  

Ladies and Gentlemen, on February 27, 2024, Frontpage Africa reported that the Financial Intelligence Agency of Liberia (FIA), which is mandated to investigate financial crimes is itself alleged to have been caught in the web of dubious financial dealings and crimes. According to the report, over one million United States Dollars was disbursed in the name of the Comptroller, including over US$500 Thousand withdrawn on the same day it was transferred by the Central Bank of Liberia.

Another report placed the total amount involved in the scandal to over US$6 million.  For us, these reports are not just disturbing but have the proclivity to erode citizens and development partners’ trust in institutions like the FIA clothed with the authority to fight corruption and other shady financial dealings, including money laundering. If not properly disposed of, these allegations could hamper the credibility of the institution, including the outcomes of sanctions and other efforts made to enforce their very important mandate. For example, fines imposed on insurance companies, banks, gaming companies and other entities for violation of financial procedures could face stiff challenges. Also, responsible institutions might hesitate to make suspicious transaction reports to FIA, as required by its 2022 amended act.

We note multiple occasions during which FIA sanctioned individuals and institutions accused and investigated for alleged dubious financial dealings and money laundering, similar to that which the current leadership is accused of. For example, in 2021, granting a motion filed by FIA, the Presiding Judge of Criminal Court C ordered the proceeds of over US$234,000 confiscated and transferred to the General Revenue Account of Liberia. The company at the center of the saga, Korlane Investment Limited Liability Company and its corporate owners were investigated by FIA for alleged wire fraud and money laundering. The very FIA with a mandate to fight such a crime cannot be at the center of similar and even more egregious incidents; it thus needs timely and appropriate action (s) from the leadership of the Country.  

Distinguished media partners, we have reliably learned that Mr. Ford is undergoing investigation by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC). This is highly welcoming. However, given the gravity of this corruption scandal and its implications for the work and reputation of FIA and by extension the country’s integrity sector, we strongly recommend an administrative sanction, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.  Therefore, we call on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. to immediately Suspend Mr. Stanley Ford, director general of the institution and all those at the center of the saga, as their continued presence as leaders and managers casts dark shadow over the institution and neutralize its ability to fight financial crimes and other related crimes. Also, we encourage the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission to timely complete her ongoing investigation into the matter as well as provide regular updates to the public.

In conclusion, we urge institutions and individuals leading anti-corruption efforts to set very high standards for others to follow, both in and out of government. The latest incident at FIA does not only damage the entity’s reputation but affects the morale of staff who are working diligently and may sometimes sacrifice to perform their assigned responsibilities. President Boakai must act and do so now if stakeholders must have the required level of confidence in and continue to do business with the Financial Intelligence Agency of Liberia.

Thank You All.

Signed_______________________

Management 

Monrovia, Tuesday, January 30, 2024, In its 2023 Corruption Perception Index (CPI), Transparency International (TI), a global coalition against corruption, reported that Liberia has declined by 7 points from 32 in 2018 to 25 in 2023. The Corruption Perception Index scores and ranks countries based on how corrupt their public sectors are perceived, according to experts and business executives. The score ranges from 0 (highly corrupt) to 100 (very clean), where 0 equals the highest level of perceived public sector corruption and 100 equals the lowest level of perceived public sector corruption. 180 Countries were targeted in 2023 as in 2022.

In a statement issued in Monrovia, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), the National Chapter of Transparency International through its Executive Director Anderson D. Miamen said it is deeply concerned over Liberia’s consistently poor performance, especially her place among the Worst Decliners globally.

CENTAL’s statement said, the poor performance speaks to the Liberian Government’s inability to address the entrenched culture of impunity for corruption, despite enacting new anti-corruption laws and amending existing ones to make them stronger. The anti-corruption watchdog group cited the lack of investigation and prosecution of current and former government officials sanctioned by the US Government for corruption as some of the reasons behind the country’s decline. Additionally, the statement said the weak enforcement of anti-corruption laws and limited financial support to public integrity institutions such as the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission and Public Procurement and Concession Commission have contributed to the decline.

“This year’s poor result shows the scale of the problem the Boakai-led administration is inheriting. On the other hand, it is a test of his anti-corruption credentials--whether bold commitments being made will be matched by visible concrete actions to end impunity for corruption, reverse the decline, and take Liberia up the CPI ladder”, the statement said.

The CPI draws upon 13 data sources, which capture the assessment of experts and business executives on several corrupt behaviors in the public sector. These corrupt practices and behaviors include bribery, diversion of public funds and supplies, use of public office for private gain, procurement irregularities, state capture, and nepotism in the civil service.

Also, some of the sources assess mechanisms available to prevent and address corruption in a country. Examples include the government’s ability to enforce integrity mechanisms; financial, logistical, and moral support to anti-graft institutions; independence and viability of anti-graft institutions; the effective prosecution of corrupt officials and others accused of corruption; conflict of interest prevention; access to information; freedom of speech and the media; and legal protection for whistleblowers, witnesses, journalists, and investigators.

Ranked 145/180 among countries covered by CPI 2023, Liberia's position as one of the biggest decliners on the CPI has been cemented dropping by a massive 16 points from 41 in 2012 to 25 in 2023.  In West Africa and the Mano River Union, Liberia is the only country that has declined by 7 points over the last 6 years. This is corroborated by CENTAL’s 2021, 2022, and 2023 State of Corruption Reports, which reveal that 90% of Liberians think the Corruption level is high in the country, with low citizens’ confidence in the executive branch of government to fight against corruption.

The Sub-Saharan Africa average is 33, the lowest in the world. Ninety percent of countries in Sub-Saharan Africa scored under 50. In the last decade, 43 countries in the region have either declined or made no significant progress.  Since 2012, Liberia (25), Mali (28), and South Sudan (11) have significantly declined on the CPI. On the other hand, some significant improvers over the last few years include Seychelles (71), Senegal (43), Ethiopia (37), Tanzania (40), Kenya (31), Côte d'Ivoire (40) and Angola (33).  With a score of 71, the Seychelles earned the highest mark in the region, followed by Cape Verde (64) and Botswana (59) as second and third-place holders. Equatorial Guinea (17), South Sudan (13), and Somalia (11) are the region’s worst performers.