A review of official government financial records suggests that the administration of President Joseph Boakai has engaged in more extravagant and wasteful spending outside of the country’s appropriated budget.
In just eight months, the government has spent a staggering $2.3 million on the presidency, besides funding approved by lawmakers.
This includes a $1.1 million upgrade of the President’s motorcade, over half a million dollars on expanded new hires in the Executive Mansion as the President has appointed more aides than his predecessors.
There have also been more recurrent expenditures, including a $100,000 credit card for the President.
Additionally, the government has spent $4.7 million on the recall of lawmakers to the capitol, raising further questions about the use of public funds.
In response to these allegations, the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has launched an investigation into the transactions. In a statement, the LACC said, “We take these allegations seriously, as they touch on matters that are core to our institutional objectives. Off-budget expenditures, if confirmed, can undermine public trust in governance, weaken fiscal discipline, and pose risks to the country’s financial integrity.”
The LACC has assured the public that they will conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the accuracy of the claims, establish accountability, and ensure that proper legal procedures are followed.
The Commission has pledged to engage with relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry of Finance, and other oversight institutions, to ensure a thorough and fair inquiry.
The statement further emphasized the LACC’s commitment to combating corruption in all forms, stating that if evidence of wrongdoing is found, they will take the necessary legal actions, including recommending sanctions, prosecutions, and other corrective measures.
Boakai was elected on a promise to fight corruption that has plagued the nation undermining economic growth. The administration is wrapped in series of high profile corruption. There has been no action against his officials linked to abuse of public resources.
