The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has given outgoing government officials up to Tuesday, December 12, 2023, to declare their assets with the Commission.
Speaking at her first press briefing, the Executive Chairperson quoted Part 10.1 of the National Code of Conduct which calls for among other things for every “Public Official and Employee of Government involved in making decisions affecting contracting, tendering or procurement, and issuance of licenses of various types shall sign performance or financial bonds and shall in addition declare his/her income, assets and liabilities prior to taking office.
Cllr. Alexandra Zoe added that the Code of Code prescribes that these officials should declare: a). at the end of every three years; b). on promotion or progression from one level to another; c). upon transfer to another public office; and d). upon retirement or resignation.
The LACC boss noted that the declaration process will involve providing a comprehensive list of assets, including but not limited to properties, financial holdings, investments, and any other relevant financial interests.
She assured that the information submitted will be treated with the utmost confidentiality as provided for by the New LACC Act of 2022 and will be subject to verification to ensure accuracy and compliance with legal standards.
She urged the exiting officials to cooperate and approach this declaration with seriousness as it is a vital step in ensuring transparency and accountability by outgoing officials of government.
“This exit declaration of assets also serves as a fundamental practice to demonstrate the commitment of outgoing officials to ethical conduct and integrity throughout their incumbency. By openly disclosing their financial interests, outgoing officials contribute to the promotion of a fair, just, and corruption-free system.”, she added.
The Executive Chairperson backed by her Body of Commissioners made it clear that in keeping with the Act establishing the New LACC, the Commission will not hesitate to enforce Part IV, Section 4.1 h & i on those persons who will not declare in keeping with the deadline.
Part IV, Section 4.1 h and i briefly states that the LACC can issue citations on those who fail to submit as well as recommend sanctions provided by the laws of Liberia.