-LACC Unveils Compliance and Non-Compliance Data
By Vaye A. Lepolu
Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has released its 2024 compliance and non-compliance statistical data on asset declaration for government officials across the three branches of government. The report reveals that out of 1,986 employees required to declare their assets, only 1,370 have complied, while 616 officials are in non-compliance.
LACC Chairperson Cllr. Alexandra K. Zoe disclosed that the Judiciary Branch has achieved full compliance, with all 338 officials declaring their assets. In contrast, the Legislature shows mixed results: the House of Representatives which has 73 officials, only 36 complied while 37 are in non-compliance. Out of the 30 senators at the Liberian Senate, about 14 senators in compliance and 16 in non-compliance.
The Executive Branch, however, recorded the highest rate of non-compliance, with 1,333 officials required to declare their assets. Of these, 881 have complied, while 454 have failed to complete the process. Cllr. Zoe emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of asset declaration laws, particularly for non-compliant officials.
Ongoing Investigations and Legal Actions
Cllr. Zoe also provided updates on several high-profile cases currently under investigation by the LACC. These include cases involving the Central Bank of Liberia, the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority (LCA), the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC), and the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA). She assured the public that the LACC is working diligently to conclude these investigations by the end of the first quarter.
“We are a security institution, and we operate step by step. Our investigations are thorough and justified, and we ensure that those under investigation are fully aware of the process,” Cllr. Zoe stated. She added that the LACC will soon move to obtain bank account information for non-compliant officials to ensure transparency and accountability.
Strengthening Anti-Corruption Measures
The LACC Chairperson further revealed that the commission is collaborating with the Civil Service Agency (CSA) and banking institutions to suspend the salaries of non-compliant officials until they declare their assets. This measure, she said, is part of broader efforts to enforce compliance and deter corruption within government institutions.
Cllr. Zoe also highlighted the LACC’s progress in addressing corruption cases, noting that 24 cases have been investigated and documented in the commission’s annual report, which is publicly available on its website. She reiterated the LACC’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that government officials are held accountable for their actions.
President Boakai’s Leadership Applauded
Cllr. Zoe commended President Joseph N. Boakai for his decisive action in suspending non-compliant officials, describing it as a significant step in the fight against corruption. “The President’s actions demonstrate his commitment to reducing corruption in Liberia. This is a clear indication that Liberia is ready to tackle corruption head-on,” she said.
She urged President Boakai to remain steadfast in his efforts, warning that officials who continue to refuse to declare their assets should face dismissal. “The next step for non-compliant officials should be dismissal. We cannot allow individuals who disregard the law to remain in positions of public trust,” Cllr. Zoe emphasized.
A Call for Continued Vigilance
As Liberia continues its fight against corruption, the LACC’s latest report underscores the importance of asset declaration as a tool for promoting transparency and accountability. Cllr. Zoe called on all government officials to comply with the law and on the public to remain vigilant in holding leaders accountable.
“The fight against corruption is a collective effort. We urge all Liberians to support the LACC and the government in this critical endeavor,” she concluded.
