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Published on 2024-03-07 06:35:25
President Joseph N. Boakai has taken a strong stance on accountability and fighting corruption in Liberia by issuing an Executive Order to set up a committee tasked with recovering all government assets within and outside the country. This move aligns with his promise to govern differently and combat corruption in his administration.
During the inauguration of his cabinet, President Boakai warned his officials to refrain from engaging in corrupt practices and to separate their personal finances from public funds or properties. This zero-tolerance approach to corruption is further demonstrated by the establishment of the office of assets recovery to ensure that stolen government assets are identified, traced, and returned to the Liberian people.
In Executive Order #126 issued on March 6, 2024, President Boakai emphasized the need to retrieve and restore the country’s fixed and liquid assets that have been wrongfully converted for personal gain by government officials entrusted with public resources. The mandate of the taskforce includes identifying stolen assets, conducting investigations, and preparing legal cases to prosecute those responsible for misappropriating public funds.
Furthermore, the Executive Order authorizes the imposition of travel and other restrictions on individuals suspected of involvement in asset misappropriation and the use of diplomatic and Interpol channels to extradite suspects who flee the country. The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning has been directed to allocate funding for the implementation of the asset recovery exercise without delay.
Speaker Jonathon Fonati Koffa commended President Boakai’s initiative to recover government assets and called for the swift establishment of a Corruption Court to hold accountable those who have plundered the country’s resources. He emphasized the importance of ending impunity in Liberia and holding past and present individuals responsible for corruption and economic crimes.
The President’s actions signify a commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and addressing the pervasive issue of corruption in Liberia. The establishment of the assets recovery committee and the push for a War and Economic Crimes Court demonstrate a proactive approach to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in the country.
Overall, President Boakai’s Executive Order represents a significant step towards reclaiming stolen government assets, prosecuting offenders, and restoring public trust in the government’s commitment to combat corruption. The combined efforts of the taskforce, legal team, and law enforcement agencies signal a renewed focus on accountability and integrity in Liberia’s governance.
Read the original article on New Republic Liberia
