LACC Opens Probe into Alleged $15 Million Off-Budget Government Expenditures.
By: Melvin Flomo
The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has initiated an official investigation into allegations of $15 million in off-budget spending by the Liberian government. This comes amid growing public concern over the possible mismanagement of national funds, raising questions about the government’s fiscal responsibility.
In a press release, LACC Executive Chairperson, Cllr. Alexandra Zoe, reassured the public of a thorough and independent inquiry. “We take these allegations seriously as they impact core institutional objectives. Off-budget expenditures can undermine public trust, weaken fiscal discipline, and harm financial integrity,” Zoe emphasized.
Meanwhile, the LACC has commenced a preliminary review of the allegations, which will be followed by a more detailed investigation. “We are committed to conducting this inquiry transparently and impartially. The next phase will involve a full investigation to establish accountability and verify the claims,” Zoe added.
Collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Finance and other oversight bodies will be central to the process. Zoe stressed the need for transparency and pledged that the public would be regularly updated as the investigation advances.
If wrongdoing is confirmed, the LACC has vowed to take swift legal action. “We will not hesitate to recommend sanctions, prosecutions, and other corrective measures should any evidence of financial misconduct surface,” said Zoe, reinforcing the Commission’s commitment to upholding public resource management.
Furthermore, Madam Zoe urged both the media and the public to refrain from speculating prematurely, calling for due process to be respected. “It is crucial that all findings are based on verified facts, and we ask that the investigation be allowed to unfold without unnecessary assumptions,” she stated.
Public trust in government accountability has been declining, making this investigation even more significant. The LACC’s stance sends a strong signal of its resolve to address corruption and enforce transparency in governance.
Additionally, the previous reports have revealed unexplained government spending, including over $2 million on miscellaneous expenses and covert National Security Agency (NSA) operations. Both legislative houses also reportedly spent over $2.3 million during special sessions.
Other notable expenditures include $65,000 for the funeral of Liberia Revenue Authority’s former Commissioner General Thomas Doe Nah, $250,000 for the completion of the VIP lounge at Roberts International Airport, and several others totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars.
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