Capitol Hill, Monrovia – September 6, 2024
In a formal appeal to Hon. J. Fonati Koffa, Speaker of the House of Representatives, the pro-democracy advocacy group, Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), has called for the immediate public release of findings from the recent investigation into allegations of budget tampering. The group stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in addressing the misallocation of at least US$20 million.
In their letter to Speaker Koffa, STAND voiced concerns over the lack of public access to the investigation’s results, warning that this could be seen as an attempt to shield high-ranking officials involved in the scandal. The group emphasized that any alteration of an enacted budget without following legislative procedures constitutes forgery, and the delay in disclosing the findings hints at potential collusion or a cover-up.
“STAND seeks to notify Your Honorable Speaker of the growing public perception that your office may be protecting high-ranking officials from both the executive and legislative branches who could be implicated in this budget-related crime,” the letter stated.
The advocacy group also pointed to the broader consequences of failing to address the issue, noting that the credibility of the House of Representatives, as a check on the executive branch, was at risk. With public approval ratings of the House already low regarding transparency and accountability, STAND emphasized that acting decisively on the report would be an opportunity to rebuild trust.
“Mr. Speaker, with the House facing low public approval on transparency and accountability, this case presents an opportunity for lawmakers to show their commitment to upholding the law,” the letter added. “Failure to act risks undermining the House’s core responsibility of providing checks and balances.”
STAND urged Speaker Koffa to take swift and firm action, including suspending lawmakers implicated in the tampering scandal from their committee roles and pursuing legal prosecution. They also called for the dismissal or legal action against any members of the executive branch involved.
The letter concluded with a strong call for the full release of the special committee’s findings on the budget tampering investigation, highlighting the need for transparency in the fight against corruption.
“Honorable Speaker and distinguished leaders of the Legislature, we deeply appreciate your attention to this urgent national issue and look forward to your cooperation in advancing the interests of the state, good governance, and democracy,” the letter concluded.
STAND’s appeal comes at a crucial time for Liberia, as citizens continue to demand greater accountability from their leaders amidst allegations of corruption that threaten to erode public confidence in the country’s institutions.
