The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ways, Means, Finance and Budget Committee has provided clarification on the actual amount used for the Senate’s Buchanan Retreat.
Addressing reporters during a press conference at the Capitol Building on Wednesday, 19 June 2024, Senator Prince Moye told reporters that the total budget for the retreat was $50,000, contrary to the $700,000 allegedly claimed by some media outlets and political pundits.
According to Senator Moye, the $50,000 budget was a recast, derived from previous line items such as Constituency Visit and Committee Hearings, in order to facilitate all expenses related to the retreat.
He further explained that out of the $50,000 requested, $47,000 was disbursed by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, of which $42,840 was expended on feeding, accommodation, DSA, staff compensation, and security operations, leaving an outstanding amount of $4,160 to be deposited in the Senate account.
The Bong County Senator emphasized that the Senate, under the leadership of President Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, will continue to tread the path of transparency and accountability, and will remain open to providing information to the public at all times.
He cautioned media outlets to desist from making unfounded allegations and challenged anyone to come forth with evidence contrary to what he has provided.
“The Senate will continue to walk the path of transparency and accountability in the interest of the Liberian people, under the ARREST agenda,” said Senator Moye.