Liberian President Joseph Boakai has taken strong action against government officials who failed to declare their assets, suspending over 450 individuals from their positions.
The officials, including the minister responsible for the budget and several ambassadors, were identified by the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) for not submitting asset declarations by the November deadline, as mandated by the country’s code of conduct for state officials.
The suspended individuals will remain out of work for one month without pay or until they comply with the asset declaration requirements.
Liberian law stipulates that public officials must declare their assets when they assume and leave office, ensuring transparency and accountability in the government.
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In a statement, President Boakai reiterated his commitment to good governance, integrity, and the rule of law.
He emphasized that failure to adhere to asset declaration rules undermines national efforts to combat corruption and build trust in public institutions. Boakai, who was elected in November 2023, has made fighting corruption a cornerstone of his administration.
Political analyst Abdullah Kiatamba praised the president’s decision, calling it a step in the right direction. “I think it’s good news,” he said. “I hope he maintains the trend, as it is in the best interest of the country.”
Liberia has long struggled with corruption, ranking 135th out of 180 countries on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index.
The suspension of these officials signals the government’s determination to take a firm stance against corruption and improve the country’s standing in global governance.
