The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission has come under criticism for speaking ahead of its ongoing corruption investigation.
By Stephen G. Fellajuah (contributor)
Monrovia, Liberia, November 8, 2024—The Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism, Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, criticizes the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) for what he terms a premature declaration of an investigation into alleged bribery involving the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) and the Ministry of Transport.
The investigation, which implicates several members of the House of Representatives, has been scrutinized for its timing and handling.
Minister Piah expresses concern that the LACC’s public disclosure of the investigation could harm the reputation of individuals involved before thoroughly examining the facts.
His comments highlight a need for more caution and professionalism in dealing with sensitive matters of national importance.
This development comes amid growing public interest and scrutiny over corruption issues in Liberia, where there have been calls for greater transparency and accountability in government operations.
Minister Piah: “My issue was and which was a representation of the Government of Liberia; you cannot be declaring that there will be an investigation into an accusation about bribery instead of waiting to commence that investigation. You made a conclusion before commencing the investigation by saying that you know where the money came from and that LWSC and the Ministry of Transport provided the money.”
He observed an appearance on Spoon Talk on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.
“If you are seeking to investigate, do it and bring the findings, which could include that you have discovered the source of the money,” Piah asserted. “To even make that pronouncement before the investigation, I think it was a ‘misstep.”
He criticizes the LACC for prematurely stating they knew the source of the funds, arguing that such a statement undermines the investigative process and risks prematurely influencing public opinion and potentially politicizing the case.
He explains that such statements seem contradictory, as revealing the source of the funds in advance could give the impression that the investigation was already concluded, thus undermining the process and raising questions about the impartiality of the commission’s actions.
Minister Piah emphasizes that those leading investigations should refrain from making public announcements during the process. He argues that the people of Liberia are more interested in the outcomes of investigations rather than every step along the way.
The MICAT boss further expresses concern that premature disclosures could politicize the issue, divert attention from the objective, and potentially undermine the process’s credibility. He urged the relevant authorities to focus on delivering results rather than seeking media attention during the investigation.
However, the center of controversy is the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission’s (LACC) statement, signed by Executive Chairperson Cllr. Alexandra Zoe, on October 21, 2024.
The statement disclosed allegations of channeling US$750,000 through the accounts of the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) and the Ministry of Transport.
This revelation has sparked public debate, with critics, including Minister Piah, arguing that such premature disclosure can lead to unnecessary political ramifications and damage the reputations of those implicated before any formal conclusions are reached.
The LACC’s handling of the case has raised questions about the timing and approach to such sensitive investigations.
The alleged bribery scheme, which reportedly aims to influence Speaker J. Fonati Koffa’s removal, represents a serious breach of Liberia’s legislative processes. The allegations suggest an attempt to manipulate the country’s political framework through financial inducements, undermining the integrity of the House of Representatives.
If proven true, such a scheme would not only violate ethical standards but could also have significant implications for Liberia’s governance and public trust in its institutions.
In its statement, the LACC emphasizes its commitment to investigating corruption, upholding transparency, and restoring public confidence in elected institutions.
The commission reiterates its responsibility to tackle corrupt practices and ensure accountability in Liberia’s governance. Despite the criticism of its public handling of the investigation, the LACC stresses that it would continue to pursue its mandate, aiming to foster a more transparent and just system for the Liberian people.
“Bribery and corruption in any form undermine public confidence in elected institutions and disrupt the rule of law,” the LACC emphasized, underscoring the gravity of the allegations. The Commission highlights that such practices tarnish the reputation of government bodies and threaten the integrity of Liberia’s democratic processes. By focusing on these serious concerns, the LACC reaffirmed its determination to address corruption at all levels, stressing that such misconduct must be dealt with to protect the stability and trust of the nation.
The Commission reassures the public that it would work in coordination with the Ministry of Justice, the Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA), and other relevant institutions to gather facts and hold accountable any individual found to be involved.
The LACC notes that its investigative efforts would be thorough, collaborative, and focused on ensuring justice, restoring public trust, and reinforcing the rule of law in Liberia. Editing by Jonathan Browne
