-Amid Corruption Allegation
By Vaye A. Lepolu
The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL) has called for the immediate suspension of officials within the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS), including Superintendent James Momo, following serious allegations of corruption and financial mismanagement.
According to CENTAL Executive Director Anderson Miamen, intelligence gathered by the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) revealed a potential insurance fraud scheme and misappropriation of funds intended for a teacher scholarship program. The FIA reportedly recommended a full investigation into these matters.
Miamen emphasized that such allegations are particularly troubling for Liberia’s education sector, which is already facing significant challenges. He urged President Joseph Boakai to take decisive action by suspending the implicated MCSS officials pending the outcome of an independent investigation by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC). Miamen warned that failure to address these allegations adequately could erode public trust and undermine the government’s anti-corruption efforts.
In a related development, CENTAL has expressed support for President Boakai’s decision to restructure the Asset Recovery Task Force. The task force, established under Executive Order #126, aims to recover public assets wrongfully acquired by officials. CENTAL commended the reduction of the task force’s membership from 15 to 5, viewing it as a move towards greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The organization also welcomed the explicit collaboration between the task force and key institutions such as the LACC, the Ministry of Justice, and the Financial Intelligence Agency, believing that such cooperation would enhance the task force’s effectiveness in asset recovery efforts.
However, CENTAL has previously raised concerns about the task force’s potential to usurp the LACC’s mandate, particularly regarding international mutual legal assistance and asset recovery. The organization has called for the dissolution of the task force and the redirection of its funds to support the LACC, emphasizing the need for a singular, independent body to lead anti-corruption initiatives.
CENTAL continues to advocate for transparency, impartiality, and political neutrality in the fight against corruption, urging the government to ensure adequate funding and independence for public integrity institutions. The organization pledges its support and cooperation to efforts aimed at promoting good governance and accountability in Liberia.
