News (93)
CENTAL Wants Concrete Actions in LACC Corruption Saga and Wider Stakeholders’ Consultation in Making New Nominations at LACC
Written by Editor
Thursday, March 04, 2021 - The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) expresses grave concern over recent allegations of corruption involving the Vice-Chairperson of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), Cllr. Kanio Bai Gbala and Executive Director, Mohammed E. Fahnbulleh. Such allegations are extremely troubling and damaging to the image of an institution of Government leading the fight against the cancer of corruption in Liberia.
If the LACC must maintain its credibility as an entity of Government mandated to investigate and prosecute acts of corruption, as well as educate the public about the ills of corruption and the benefits of its eradication, the Commission and the Government of Liberia must do everything to ensure that the allegations are timely investigated to establish the truthfulness or falsity of the matter.
Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, upon learning of the LACC corruption saga, CENTAL reached out to the Commission to inquire about claims and counterclaims raised by the parties including, but not limited to, unlawful salary payments, unaccountability of cash advances received, purchase of Government property, amongst others.
Also, we reached out to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to get clarity on the date and other facts regarding the resignation of Cllr. Kanio Bai Gbala, who is alleged to have been within their employ while simultaneously being paid by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Corruption, during the latter part of 2019. We wish to inform the public that we have received positive feedback from these institutions. Both the LACC and UNDP have launched separate investigations to establish the facts, which we hope will be timely communicated to the public.
However, while we welcome the LACC’s internal investigation, we strongly believe that such grave allegations involving senior officials of the Commission cannot be left to the institution alone to investigate.
Therefore, we call on President George Manneh Weah to constitute an independent committee to timely investigate the matter and inform the public about its outcomes. If not timely and properly investigated and the recommendations fully implemented, these allegations may detract from the goodwill anti-corruption institutions have received from the public over the years, including dampening public confidence in the country’s leading anti-corruption institution.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the Press, fellow Liberians, in the wake of the resignation of its former chairperson, Cllr. Ndubuisi Nwabudike, currently, the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission has an all-male Board of Commissioners, thus falling short of the gender sensitivity provided for in section six (6) of the LACC Act. With all three (3) Commissioners being males, the need for ensuring gender mainstreaming at the highest level of the Commission cannot be overly emphasized.
Also, given that the LACC has been in the media for all the wrong reasons lately, especially claims and counterclaims about the citizenship and credibility of the immediate past chairperson and allegations of corruption involving its vice-chairperson, in the spirit of collaboration and partnership, as provided for in section 6.2 of the LACC Act, CENTAL urges President George Manneh Weah to widely consult with critical stakeholders (civil society and development partners) in making new nominations at the LACC.
And that qualified females should be strongly considered in such appointments to avoid an all-male and gender-biased Board of Commissioners, in violation of section 6.3 of the 2008 LACC Act. In part, the above will help to increase public confidence in and support for the leadership and work of the Commission. Also, they will somehow satisfy minimum requirements for making key appointments at anti-corruption and integrity institutions whose leaderships and key staff must be independent as well as enjoy the full confidence and support of the public.
To conclude, CENTAL reassures the public of her commitment to the fight against corruption and call on citizens to remain constructively engaged in demanding for and taking actions against corruption in Liberia. Also, we reiterate the call for a sincere, genuine, and impartial fight against corruption in the country.
CENTAL Welcomes Supreme Court’s Ruling in Samukai Case; Calls for Speedy Determination of Corruption Cases
Press Statement for Immediate Release
Wednesday, February 10, 2021
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) expresses delight over the Supreme Court ruling affirming the judgment of the First Judicial Circuit Court Criminal Assizes “C” in the case Republic of Liberia v. J. Brownie Samukai et al, holding the Defendants guilty of the crimes of Theft of Property, Criminal Conspiracy, and Misuse of Public Money in respect of funds contributed by men and women of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) towards the AFL Pension Fund.
Members of the Press, fellow citizens, one and all, while we hold that the Court missed an opportunity to call corruption by its name, we are however optimistic about the decision of the Court for the following reasons:
- The Court’s unambiguous exposition of key corruption issues, including its reference to “integrity” and the “universal principle of accountability”. We believe that the Court’s acknowledgment and elaboration of these concepts represent a significant step in mainstreaming the fight against corruption at the highest levels of society as well as entrenching integrity values.
- The Court’s admonition that public officials “must have legal reliance and a legal basis” for the fulfillment of both their “statutory responsibilities as laid down by statute” and their “special duties as commanded by the head of state/president”. Expanding on this point, the Court explained that a public official is required to perform and implement the commander-in-chief/President’s orders with public funds as budgeted by the government in accordance with the government budget process. We are of the opinion that this position by the Court presents a teaching moment to public officials who go to any lengths to endear themselves to the Presidency or any authorized individuals at the expense of our laws and public interest. We further agree with the Court that a Minister or Public Official receiving Presidential orders, whose obedience requires violation of an existing policy or law, has a duty to advise the President or cause the Minister of Justice to advise the President and “that if the President insists on the implementation of the illegal order, the Minister has the option to disobey the President and honorably resign his position with integrity.” While the ruling of the Court references the presidency due to the facts presented by the case under review, we strongly believe that it applies to other public officials and individuals taking instructions from their superiors. This, we believe, sends a very clear message that the utmost duty of public service is the state and its people and not the power-that-be.
We applaud the Court for its decision and further urge it to decide corruption cases with an even higher speed. Appeals to the Supreme Court has long been used to stifle justice, especially in corruption-related cases. The Court must therefore exert all efforts to ensure that cases are speedily determined according to the due process of law, ensuring that the rights of all accused persons are respected and protected.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, we would like to use this opportunity to also call on President George M. Weah to timely appoint the Executive Chairperson of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission, the government entity leading the fight against corruption in the country. We call for broad-based consultation with civil society, development partners, and other critical stakeholders in processes leading to the recruitment of the next LACC chairperson and officials of other public integrity institutions, including but not limited to the New Auditor General (AG) of the Republic of Liberia. Increased stakeholders’ confidence in those appointed or recruited to key positions of public trust, especially at anti-corruption and integrity institutions is essential to receiving the required moral and financial support as well as cooperation to effectively and efficiently perform.
To conclude, we reiterate our commitment to supporting the fight against corruption in Liberia and overall national integrity building efforts. Also, we call for strong collaboration and partnership between government and other stakeholders, especially ordinary citizens with critical roles in denouncing corruption, demanding accountability from their leaders, as well as providing moral support to public integrity institutions and other key anti-corruption actors.
Thanks.
Management
Phone: +231886474563/0770175162
CENTAL Ends Strategic Planning Retreat
The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has completed a two-day retreat aimed at reviewing the successes and challenges experienced by the Organization in 2020 and to strategically plan for the improvement of its overall performance in the New Year. Held at the Tropicana Beach and Resort from January 7 to 8, the event was intended to reflect on and review lessons learned from 2020; enhance staffs’ capacity in project design and implementation; increase internal coordination, information sharing and collaboration; as well as to equip staffs with the needed document and tools for timely reporting.
During closing ceremonies, staffs of the Organization were lauded for their commitment to serve their country through CENTAL over the years and encouraged to work even harder for the building of integrity and the promotion of transparency and accountability across all sectors of the country. CENTAL Board Chairman, Cllr. T. Negbalee Warner, said the retreat was necessary to allow the Organization plan properly to effectively and efficiently execute the task of fighting corruption and bad governance in Liberia.
Cllr. Warner stated that continuous capacity building remains very critical to the survival as well as enhancement of productivity, efficiency and growth of the Organization. He said making Liberia better and a corruption free nation requires the honest effort of everyone including staffs of CENTAL who have signed off to a pledge of fighting the menace of corruption and to build a culture of transparency and accountability in Liberia.
Cllr. Warner , who is also Dean of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law at the University of Liberia, lauded the Management of CENTAL through its Executive Director, Anderson D. Miamen for the exceptional leadership role in leading the Organization in the right trajectory over the years.
For his part, Director Miamen lauded the staff for the level of commitment and dedication shown over time as well as their expressed willingness to always acquire new skills for the improvement of their individual capacity as well as the operational capacity of the Organization.
He told staffs to return to their respective places of assignment with renewed dynamism and further commitment to achieving the organization’s targets for 2021. Also speaking, the Program Manager of CENTAL, Gerald D. Yeakula thanked the County Field Officers (CFOs) for attending the retreat despite short notice. He said that the participation of the CFOs is a demonstration of their commitment to the organization and rallied them to remain diligent in the performance of their duties.
The retreat brought together CENTAL’s central office staffs and CFOs from seven counties: Montserrado, Bong, Nimba, Grand Bassa, Rivercess, Gbarpolu and Bomi. The retreat was held under the theme: “Reflecting and Planning for Greater Impact.” With funding from the Government and people of Sweden through the Swedish International Development Corporation Agency (SIDA), CENTAL is currently implementing a three-year National Integrity Building and Anti-Corruption (NIBA) Program in seven counties: Montserrado, Bong, Nimba, Grand Bassa, Rivercess, Gbarpolu and Bomi.
CENTAL calls for Probe into Bribery Saga involving Sherman, Judges and Legislators
Written by Editor
Press Statement for Immediate Release
Thursday, December 10, 2020
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, in our press release issued on yesterday, Wednesday, December 9, in commemoration of the International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD 2020), we reiterated our commitment to thefight against corruption in Liberiaand urged the Government of Liberia to show concrete commitment to the fight by providing adequate moral, financial, and logistical support to public integrity institutions and ensuring timely and impartial prosecution of those accused of corruption.
On the heels of this pronouncement, however, a damning report was issued by the United States Department of Treasury, designating perpetrators of corruption and serious human rights abuses, especially in Liberia. Grand Cape Mount County Senator, Cllr. H. Varney G. Sherman, was listed as a government official being either responsible for or complicit in, or directly or indirectly engaged in corruption, including the misappropriation of state assets, the expropriation of private assets for personal gain, corruption related to government contracts or the extraction of natural resources, or bribery. Particularly, the report states that Senator Sherman offered bribes to multiple judges associated with his trial for the 2010 Sable Mining bribery scheme, and that he had an undisclosed conflict of interest with the judge who ultimately returned a not guilty verdict in July 2019. It is further asserted that the Senator routinely paid judges to decide cases in his favor, and allegedly facilitated payments to Liberian politicians to support impeachment of a judge who has ruled against him. As a consequence of this designation, Cllr. Sherman has been sanctioned with implications to property interests and transactions in the United States.
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, this report comes only three (3) months after the United States Department of State publicly designated Mr. Andrew Wonplo, former Director of Passport and Visas at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for involvement in significant corruption. According to the Department of State, in his official capacity at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 2018 to 2019, Mr. Wonplo was involved in passport fraud that undermined the rule of law, reduced the Liberian public’s faith in their government’s management of identification and travel documents, and compromised the integrity and security of immigration processes.
Taken together, a strange parallel can be drawn from the Sherman-Wonplo scenario. Both men had been arrested on corruption-related charges and processed through our justice system. Sherman’s case was dismissed because, according the Judge, the prosecution did not prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt as stated in the indictment, and that the testimonies of the prosecution witnesses were nothing but “hearsay”.[1]Wonplo’s case, however, was dismissed due to failure by the prosecution team at the Ministry of Justice to prosecute the matter.[2]In spite of these happenings, nonetheless, the United States government continues to raise red flags concerning acts of corruption in Liberia and the vulnerabilities of our justice system.
We welcome the actions of the United States as a step in the right direction, as it has the proclivity to move state actors to take concrete actions against corruption, including but not limited to increasing public awareness of the dangers of corruption, strengthening legal frameworks (laws, policies, and institutions) to fight against it as well as timely and impartial prosecution of accused corrupt individuals. For instance, a new indictment was issued for Mr. Andrew Wonplo following the action of the U.S. Government. While we believe that such knee-jerk reactions by the Liberian government does little to demonstrate sincerity in the fight against corruption, we are convinced that recent measures by the U.S. Government and other partners are doing well to send a very strong message and deterrent to those occupying positions of trust and responsibility, especially those manning our justice system.
Furthermore, We call on the Government of Liberia, especially the Judiciary, to investigate reported payment and receipt of bribe by Judges in the case involving Cllr. Varney Sherman. Such grave report and allegation should not be taken lightly by the administration, in the wake of appropriate initial actions by our partners. Such reported judicial corruption, especially in the Sable Mining Case, undermine its enviable position of independence, fairness, and upholding of the rule of law. These actions also violate the Judicial canons and the code of moral and professional ethics of lawyers. Also, we call on the Liberian Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) to investigate reports of corruption and bribery involving Cllr. Sherman and members of the national Legislature in respect of the impeachment of Justice Kabina J’aneh.
Finally, we reiterate call for increased moral and financial support to public integrity institutions to enable them independently and effectively operate. Also, we call for increased citizens’ engagement with the fight corruption in the country as well as the independent civil society and the media that are critical players.
Thanks.
Signed: Management
[1]https://frontpageafricaonline.com/news/liberia-sable-mining-indictees-acquitted-of-bribery-allegations/
[2]https://newspublictrust.com/liberias-former-passport-director-cleared-of-criminal-charges/
CENTAL Board Chair Calls For Concerted Efforts …To Tackle Corruption In Liberia
Written by Editor
Monrovia, Liberia: December 04, 2020- The Board Chairman of the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) says tackling the menace of corruption in Liberia requires more robust and concerted efforts of every citizen as well as actors in the private and public sectors.
Cllr. Negbalee Warner said there is a need to foster partnership and stronger collaborations in the fight against corruption as it remains a battle that cannot be easily won by a single institution or sector of the country.
Cllr. Warner is also the Dean of the Arthur Grimes School of Law at the University of Liberia (UL). He made the statement recently in Monrovia at a program marking the observance of the 2020 International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD).
Held under the theme: “Reducing Corruption in the Private Sector as a Drive to Enhancing Economic Development and Good Governance,” the program was organized by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) in collaboration with the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) with support from the Government and people of Sweden through the Swedish International Development Corporation Agency (SIDA).
"In order to tackle the menace of corruption, we, at CENTAL have embarked on building a partnership. We need collaboration and partnership in fighting corruption because it will take more than an institution or sector to fight. This can't be a government alone thing; it is the responsibility of every one of us in here and out there to fight corruption," Cllr Warner said.
Representing the Minister of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), Samuel Tweah, Deputy Minister for Budget and Development Planning, Tanneh G. Brunson said in an environment like Liberia where unethical practices are prevalent, the private sector of the country needs to resort to collective action in order to change the status quo by getting regulators to intervene or set standards.
Madam Brunson stated that it was important for the sector to put in place institutional systems and incentives to prevent corruption from occurring.
The Deputy Finance and Development Planning Minister indicated that the need for preventive measures that call for credible deterrence relying on accountability and enforcement mechanisms sufficiently strong enough to send a message to potential wrongdoers of the possible risk associated with their misconducts was necessary.
“We must, however, recognize that the local political and social context influences both the level of corruption and the reform approaches likely to meet with success or failure,” Madam Brunson said.
This year’s IACD provided a platform to state actors and the business community to dialogue on the mechanisms and approaches that heighten transparency and accountability for a conducive business environment and sustainable economic growth and development in Liberia.
Speaking earlier, the Chairperson of LACC, Cllr. Ndubusi Nwabudike called on the private sector to join the battle against corruption because according to him, the private sector is in most cases the main facilitator of corruption.
"We must intensify effort to reduce corruption. This year's theme is about the private sector because corruption goes beyond government, but in all sectors of the country,” Cllr. Nwabudike stated.
The day-long dialogue forum which took plays on Wednesday, December 2, 2020, brought together experts and actors from both public and private sectors to present on various topics, including Liberia’s business climate in the context of the Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD) and international anti-corruption standards; diagnosis of the critical elements to improve the business climate and fight corruption; business as an active player in preventing corruption, among others.
COTAE Launches Report On Innovative Domestic Budgeting For Education
Written by Editor
The Coalition for Transparency and Accountability in Education (COTAE) has formally launched a research report on innovative domestic education budgeting.
Titled: 'Improving Education through Democracy: More 4 Education- The Case for Innovative Domestic Education Budgeting: Assuring Access and Quality Outcomes,’ the research seeks to mobilize additional sources of revenue/funding for the education sector separate from the traditional national budget allocation for public institutions through alternative strategies, a process that is more innovative and feasible over short, medium, and long terms.
"To whom much is given, much is expected" -Cllr. Warner challenges CENTAL staff
Written by Editor
Monrovia, Liberia; October 13, 2020- The Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has challenged staff of the organization to serve by examples as they endeavor for a society that is free of corruption, transparent and accountable.
CENTAL is the National Chapter of Transparency International (TI) which has more than 120 chapters and networks around the world.
Cllr. T. Negbalee Warner said individuals serving as staff of the organization must live above the ordinary and have personal integrity as well as develop a sense of commitment and dedication to match their deeds with work as they serve in their different communities, places of assignments, and homes.
“We have to make efforts to match our deeds with our works. To whom much is given, much is expected,” Cllr. Warner said at the opening of a one-day pre-project implementation workshop for staff on CENTAL’s National Integrity Building and Anti-Corruption (NIBA) program held at the Corina Hotel in Sinkor.
The Dean of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law at the University of Liberia (UL) said the NIBA project represents the largest funding received by CENTAL since its establishment in 2004 to fight against corruption and bad governance in Liberia.
The National Integrity Building and Anti-Corruption (NIBA) program is a US$1.7 million project covering 3.5 years (42 months) to be implemented in seven counties- Montserrado, Grand Bassa, Gbarpolu, Bomi, Nimba, Bong, and Rivercess, with funding from the Government and people of Sweden.
The project’s overall objective is to endeavor for ‘a corruption-free Liberia where citizens act with transparency and integrity in all their dealings.’
Also speaking, the First Secretary at the Embassy of Sweden, Arto Immonen said the Embassy seeks to support civil society and other organizations working in Liberia to promote accountability and good governance in Liberia.
Mr. Immonen said as part of the Embassy’s internal appraisal process on proposals, the team takes into consideration different perspectives, including human rights, gender, the poor and marginalized, and other dimensions that promote inclusion and accountability at all levels.
He thanked the team at CENTAL for the milestone in landing the NIBA program that seeks to work for a corruption-free Liberia and expressed optimism that CENTAL will work to achieve its objectives.
The one-day gathering was held under the theme: “Building Staff Capacity to Enhance Productivity and Tackle Corruption.” It seeks to facilitate interaction, learning, and information sharing among the Board, leadership, and staff of CENTAL as well as increase staff’s awareness and understanding of key policies, programs, and activities.
CENTAL’s Executive Director Anderson D. Miamen also stressed the need for the staff of the organization to serve with a high level of integrity at all times. Mr. Miamen said if CENTAL must fairly checkmate the system and tackle corruption in Liberia, people working with the organization must be people of high integrity.
During an overview of the workshop, the Program Manager of CENTAL, Gerald D. Yeakula further highlighted the importance of the training to the attendees. He also challenged the staff, especially incoming members, to consider working with the institution as an opportunity to improve their capacity and skills to enable them to excel in the institution, nationally, and otherwise.
The one-day training brought together members of the Board, partners, office, and project staff from across the seven targeted counties- Montserrado, Grand Bassa, Gbarpolu, Bomi, Nimba, Bong, and Rivercess.
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Press Statement for Immediate Release
(Monrovia, Thursday, July 16, 2020)
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the Press, Fellow Liberians
The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) strongly detests recent statements attributed to Senator J. Milton Teahjay of Sinoe County, in an audio released by Frontpage Africa on Friday, July 10, 2020. In that recording, the Senator alluded to what he coined as “his traditional form of corruption” before and after the confirmation process of nominees for particular positions before the Liberian Senate, especially the Standing Committee on Autonomous Agencies from which he was recently replaced.
This is extremely sad and unfortunate, as it undermines his due diligence and oversight role as a Lawmaker. What is even more concerning about the Senator’s action is desire, without any remorse, to continue with such action. Such conduct, appears to be a common practice at the Legislature, is gross disregard for Section 9.6 of the Code of Conduct for public officials, which states: “no public official shall use an official position to pursue private interest that may result in conflict of interest”. Also, it undermines the spirit and intent of the Code of Conduct, whose Preamble provides for impartiality, objectivity, transparency, integrity, efficiency and effectiveness in the performance of the duties and responsibilities of public officials and employees, including Senator Teahjay and other members of the Legislature.
This act of political and official corruption, which has led to recruitment of incompetent individuals in strategic positions in government, is one of key contributors to the increasing level of poor performance at many government ministries and agencies in Liberia. If the Senator can unduly solicit jobs for family members, supporters, and cronies, it is equally possible that he requests for monetary rewards in the performance of his duties. Furthermore, those recommended for employment could be required to commit portions of their salaries as precondition for their consideration by the Senator and his Committee. It must be noted that this is the same Senator who, in the Case R/L Vs. J. Milton Teahjay, the 14th Judicial Circuit of Rivercess County in 2018, was found guilty of violating the Public Procurement and Concession Commission (PPCC) guidelines and procedures in the awarding of contracts for the implementation of county development projects, while serving as Superintendent of Sinoe County. Accordingly, he was fined US$50,000.00 to be paid within the period of nine months in government’s revenue.
Such continuous misrepresentation and abuse of public trust and confidence by the Senator is totally unacceptable and should have no place in the Liberian Society, especially public service.
We call on the Leadership and members of the Liberian Senate to timely and thoroughly investigate reported payment of $20,000 USD by Cllr. Ndubusi Nwabudike, current head of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Corruption, to be confirmed as Chairperson of the National Elections Commission. Also, we call for appropriate punitive action against the Senator by his colleagues for practicing interest peddling and bribery[1] by soliciting jobs for his family members, friends, and confidantes as basis for confirming nominees, a clear violation of relevant Liberian Laws, including the Code of Conduct of 2014 and the 1986 Liberian Constitution. More broadly, the Legislature must do more to enhance public confidence in its work and activities. At the moment, the public perceives the Legislature as the weakest link in Liberia’s governance process, a view Senator Teahjay’s actions tend to validate. As Liberia strives to regain its position among the comity of nations, it is incumbent upon those serving in positions of public trust to exert every degree of particularity and nationalism in ensuring the system works better for all. And the Legislature, as the first branch of government and direct representation of the people, must lead by example on this.
Corruption/Fraud at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning
Distinguished members of the Press, our attention has equally been drawn to a recent media publication, which speaks to discovery of an alleged fraudulent situation at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning involving some unscrupulous individuals. It can be recalled that on Monday, July 13, 2020, the FrontPage Africa Newspaper reported that six employees at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) were arrested for an alleged criminal cartel. The scandal, which was unearthed by the Comptroller and Accountant General of the Republic of Liberia, Mr. Janka Kowo pertains to illegal withdrawal L$6M from an account owned by the MFDP. This incident further exposes loopholes within the financial management system, which need to be identified and addressed to prevent abuse of public resources by unscrupulous individuals in an already impoverished country like Liberia.
We like to appreciate the Ministry of Finance Development and Planning for its initial stance in uncovering the said plot, and also informing the public about the situation. We call on the relevant state actors, especially the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission to robustly and impartially investigate the incident. And the outcome of such investigation must be communicated to the public and fully implemented, including prosecution of those who masterminded and perpetrated the act. We would appreciate were other reported scandals and incidences of corruption and unethical conducts of public officials and employees given the same attention and prompt action, especially the $US25 million Mop-Up Exercise which is still being investigated by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission, despite the General Auditing Commission describing the process as being marred by “gross discrepancies”.
In conclusion, we urge the Government of Liberia to be more decisive and pragmatic in dealing with corruption in the country, including timely investigation and prosecution of all reported corruption scandals/cases. We wish to strongly caution against selective fight against corruption that mainly targets low-level individuals and those seemingly detached from higherups in the government and well-placed persons in society. Liberians deserve better! As such, their taxes and other resources must work for them and not few individuals in society, especially public officials.
Signed: Management
[1] Bribery, as defined by section 1.3.2 of the Code of Conduct: Any reward or inducement paid to a Public Official or Employee of Government for doing or forbearing to do anything in respect of any matter or transaction within the scope of their official duties. It is anything promised, offered, given, accepted or received by a Public Official and Employee of Government for or on account of favor given or to be given in the exercise of his or her official duties, and includes what is known widely in local terminology as “cold water” or “eating”.
COTAE Alarms Over Discrepancies in Schools' Adherence to Re-opening Guidelines
Written by EditorThe Coalition for Transparency and Accountability in Education (COTAE) is concerned over discrepancies in compliance with guidelines by re-opened schools amid increasing cases of COVID-19 in Liberia. It can be recalled that the Ministry of Education (MoE) on June 19th released “Guidelines for Safe School Environments in the Corona Virus (COVID-19) Outbreak in Liberia” to guide the re-opening of schools in Liberia, and to be observed by school administrators, teachers, students, staff etc.. According to the Ministry, the guidelines are intended to ensure safe school environments in the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Liberia as it defines the minimum requirements that must be in place in every school (Public and Private) to ensure that, from a health, water, sanitation and hygiene point of view, the school is a safe place for all students and school personnel. The guidelines cover hand washing facilities, Water sanitation and hygiene, general health, cleaning and eating and drinking practices. While COTAE applauds the government for its continuous effort in the fight, we seize this opportunity to re-emphasize the importance of having schools as safe places during this pandemic.
Between July 1-3, 2020, COTAE embarked on monitoring of schools within Montserrado to gauge compliance with guidelines issued by MoE. Our team of data collectors visited thirty-nine (39) schools in Gardnersville, Du-port Road, Old Road, Brewerville, Sinkor, Duala, etc. using a checklist approved by the MoE for data collection. Data gathered reveals that while there are substantial efforts being applied by both schools’ administrators and students to adhere to the guidelines, there are still gaps that need to be addressed. We note that all schools visited have hand washing stations installed at their entrances. However, discrepancies exist regarding classroom spacing, masks wearing, handwashing at bathrooms, and referral systems. 72% of schools surveyed were compliant with wearing of nose masks, while 28% were not. 33.3% of schools did not observe one-meter spacing in classrooms, while 64% of schools had at least two thermoflashes. Also, only 54% of schools surveyed had a functioning hand washing station at their bathrooms. As for referral system, only 46% of schools surveyed had agreed a system of referral with the County Health Team for likely cases of COVID-19.
From the above excerpt of data collected, it is clear that more needs to be done to ensure compliance with safety guidelines. COTAE therefore calls on government, through the Ministry of Education, to ensure that all health protocols are fully adhered to by all schools through a rigorous supervision process. The roles of school administrations, Parent-Teachers Associations, and civil society organizations are also significant in this regard and we call on these stakeholders to join efforts to keep learning spaces safe. This will ensure that a concerted effort is being made to protect students and school administrators in their return to the classroom. Given the spike in confirmed cases to Nine hundred and Twenty-Six (926) and a death toll of forty-one (41), the importance of instituting and supervising safety measures for students and administrators against this deadly disease cannot be overly emphasized.
We are also encouraging heads of academic institutions to ensure they put into place monitoring mechanisms on students aimed at ensuring they conform to the prescribed health protocols. Students also have a role to play in ensuring that they keep safe and compliant with the guidelines. We remain optimistic that this call will be heeded by all concerned as we fight COVID-19 in Liberia.
Thank you!
Signed:
Management
Online Learning Can Be a Reality with Increased Budgetary Support to Education, COTAE Says
The Coalition for Transparency and Accountability in Education (COTAE) is deeply concerned about the fate of the Education Sector, especially the inadequacy of resources that continues to undermine the quality, adequacy and accessibility, and gender sensitivity of educational services in Liberia. As you may be aware, Education is a fundamental human right, guaranteed by Article 6 of the 1986 Liberian Constitution, Sustainable Development Goal 4, the Abidjan Principles and other global, regional and national frameworks and policies. Such right cannot be downplayed by any nation, especially impoverished country like Liberia in urgent need of the required human capital to develop, fully implement and sustain its transformative agenda.
We wish to thank the Government of Liberia for steady progress towards increasing national budgetary support to education. Over the last two budget years, the allocation for education has increased, especially by 1 percent from 13.7 percent in fiscal year 2017/2018 to 14.7 percent in 2018/2019, as well as another percentage increment for fiscal year 2019/2020 representing 15.8%. Thanks to concerted efforts by the More 4 Education Campaign[1], funded by USAID through the Liberia Accountability and Voice Initiative; the Ministry of Education; Legislature, and other critical partners and stakeholders that made this possible.
Nevertheless, there’s not much to celebrate as Government’s support to education in Liberia lags far behind regional counterparts. A research conducted by COTAE in 2018 discovered that Sierra Leone allocated 27% to education, while Ghana and Senegal appropriated 35% of their budgets to education respectively. Besides, the actual education budget for fiscal year 2019/20 suffered an 8% decrease from US$570.14 million in FY 2018/19 to US$525.91 million in FY 2019/20. In other words, the percentage increment for education to 15.8% amounts to US$83.4 million, a US$1.9 million decline when compared to the US$85.3 million allocation for FY 2018/2019.
All of these are happening when the education sector is faced with numerous challenges due to low financing. The challenges have even been exacerbated by COVID-19, which has left schools closed for a protracted period and needing repair, fumigation, and other efforts to secure them for learning upon resumption of full academic activities. These add to existing challenges, including but not limited to lack of adequate learning facilities and supplies; shortage of trained and motivated teachers; lack of gender sensitive and responsive services; and limited opportunities to enroll and retain girls and persons with special needs in school.
Transforming education in Liberia, in part through addressing corruption and waste, decentralizing decision making and empowering local level structures; and addressing the plights of teachers, students and other educational workers requires timely, collective and well-coordinated efforts. The COVID-19 outbreak has heightened the need for keen attention to the education sector, given its critical role in keeping students and teachers engaged in academic and other productive activities, especially during emergencies. With the increasing gravitation towards online education, which has become apparent due to social distancing, restriction on movement, and other relevant health protocols announced by the government, the Ministry of Education needs to devise appropriate means to keep all students engaged. While the teaching by Radio Program introduced by the Ministry and partners somehow helped to keep students engaged, the quality and coverage left more to be desired. Among other things, the program was limited in scope and coverage, as remote areas were not adequately covered. This means that students without radio and those in rural areas still do not have access to education during this period, which is gross violation of their rights to education.
As the 2020/2021 national budget is being developed, we reiterate call for the Government of Liberia, especially the Executive and Legislature to honor their obligations to increase budgetary support to education to at least 20%. This will not only meet the minimum 20% benchmark/commitment required by the Global Partnership for Education, Incheon Declaration of 2015 and other global frameworks, but enable MOE, the National Commission on Higher Education and other key players to address enormous existing challenges, which have been compounded by the emergence of COVID-19. There is no better time to substantially invest in education than now when COVID-19 has exposed the weaknesses of the system, especially its inability to continue with academic and other productive activities during emergency.
Government must honor its commitment to satisfactorily fund and fulfil the right to education of its citizens, in line with Article 6 of the 1986 Liberian Constitution, Pillar One (Power to the People) of the Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD), and adopted international instruments such as the UN Convention on the Right of the Child (UNCRC), Incheon Declaration of 2015, Dakar Framework of 2000, Sustainable Development Goal 4, and Abidjan Principles of 2019.
Thank you.
Signed: Management
0886818855
[1] The More 4 Education Coalition is funded by USAID LAVI and is comprised of the Coalition for Transparency and Accountability in Education (COTAE), Youth Coalition for Education in Liberia (YOCEL), National Teachers Association of Liberia (NTAL), Inclusive Development Initiative (IDI), National PTA Network of Liberia (NAPTANOL), Helping Our People Excel (HOPE) and Youth Movement for Collective Action (UMovement).
CENTAL, NAYMOTE, IREDD,& ALab Denounce Violent June 25 Protest; Condemn Mayor's Remarks
Monrovia, Friday, June 26, 2020
JOINT CSO PRESS RELEASE
The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL); Institute for Research and Democratic Development (IREDD); Naymote Partners for Democratic Development (NAYMOTE-Liberia); and Accountability Lab Liberia Strongly Condemn the Thursday, June 25, 2020 violent demonstration in the Sinkor area, especially setting up of unauthorized road blocks and burning of car tires by unscrupulous individuals allegedly associated with the Council of Patriots (COP), organizer of the June 7, 2019 protest in Monrovia.
We are appalled by this unwholesome act of violence, as such action has the propensity to undermine Liberia’s peace and instill fear in citizens and development partners as well as create a sense of insecurity. While we recognize the rights of individuals or groups to protest and or voice out their frustration (s) about any happenings in the country, they must do so civilly and legally. We call on the Ministry of Justice and Liberian National Police to timely investigate the matter and prosecute those who masterminded and executed the Violence.
By the same token, we like to strongly condemn misjudged statement by the Mayor of the City of Monrovia, Mr. Jefferson Kojee that he will form a Citizens Action Unit (CAU) that will serve as first responder to violent demonstrations/protests in the city of Monrovia. Such statement is unwarranted, counterproductive to Liberia’s peace and undermines the roles of the Liberian National Police and other state security apparatuses in the country. We urge Mr. Kojee to desist from making such utterances as it equally tends to ferment violence and jeopardize the peace of the country.
Finally, we encourage all Liberians to jealously protect the Peace, as any violence and instability will worsen the already difficult economic condition of the Country.
Signed:
Lawrence Yealue Anderson Miamen
Country Representative , Accountability Lab Liberia Executive Director, CENTAL
Harold Marvin Aidoo, Sr. Eddie D. Jarwolo
Executive Director, IREDD Executive Director, NAYMOTE
LOCATION
22nd Street, Sinkor
Tubman Boulevard
Monrovia, Liberia
Phone: +231 88 681 8855
Email: info@cental.org.lr
Website: www.cental.org.lr
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