Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-02-20 20:28:25
The Republic of Liberia is currently at a pivotal moment in its socio-economic development. Despite making progress in terms of financial stability and economic growth, the nation still grapples with issues surrounding government expenditure. It is crucial for the government to prioritize responsible spending in order to foster development and reduce socio-economic disparities.
A concerned Liberian, Austin S. Fallah, urges President Boakai and Vice President Koung to streamline spending by reducing unnecessary costs such as fleets of cars, scratch cards, luxury fuel allowances, and an excess of administrative and special assistant positions. These unnecessary expenditures burden the Liberian people’s resources and signal a disregard for public funds. Furthermore, the issue of ‘Ghost Workers’ on payrolls draining substantial funds meant for genuine civil servants needs to be addressed urgently.
In 2018, Liberia’s expenditure on government vehicles, gasoline, and maintenance costs alone accounted for a staggering 17% of its total budget, according to The Economist. This level of disregard for public funds impedes socio-economic development and exacerbates economic hardships for the marginalized in Liberian society. It is essential to redirect budget allocations to prioritize public transportation, addressing mobility issues and urban-rural divides.
A robust public transport system serves the public good and is crucial for providing job accessibility and overall economic growth. Reallocating funds from unnecessary expenditures to support public transportation will benefit the citizens as a whole and reduce socio-economic disparities. Additionally, actions must be taken to tackle the recurring issue of ‘Ghost Workers’ on payrolls, as highlighted in a report by the World Bank.
The report emphasizes how these ghost workers devastate Liberia’s public finance management and the need to assign accountability to supervisors for their staff members, making it harder for ghost workers to embezzle salaries and increasing overall accountability. Fiscal prudence, accountability, and commitment to public welfare are indispensable for Liberia’s progress.
Reforming specific areas of government spending, eradicating ghost employees from the payroll, and encouraging public transportation as a public duty will foster mobility and reduce socio-economic disparities. By making necessary adjustments in Liberia’s governmental expenditure, unnecessary spending can be curbed, and the public sector can thrive, benefiting the citizens as a whole.
This analysis proposes a more inclusive, responsible, and sustainable path for Liberia’s government, emphasizing the need for responsible spending, accountability, and a commitment to public welfare. It is essential for the government to prioritize the well-being of its citizens and make the necessary adjustments to drive socio-economic development and reduce inequalities in Liberian society.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
