By Bill W. Cooper
The Liberian Senate has launched an inquiry into all financing agreements passed by members of the 54th Legislature.
The decision comes amid concerns about the transparency and accountability of these agreements, which involve millions of dollars in financing for various projects in Liberia.
Also, the Inquiry is to ascertain the impact on the development of the country, as well as to shed light on the financial management practices of the previous government.
According to our legislative reporter, the august body’s decision was triggered by a joint communication from Gbarpolu and Rivergee Counties’ Senators, Amara M. Konneh and Francis Doepoh respectively.
The Senators, in their communication, noted that their decision comes given the importance of transparency in the amendment and restatement of the Public Financial Management Act of 2009 and the effective utilization of financing instruments in fostering national development and progress.
As a result, there was a need for the 55th Senate to launch an inquiry into the status of the various financing agreements passed by the 54th Legislature.
According to them, the inquiry will take into account the extent to which the terms of the agreements have been adhered to by the parties.
Others are the effectiveness of the allocated funds in achieving what they call their intended developmental objectives, coupled with any potential irregularities or mismanagement in the execution of the agreements.
The Senators maintained that the inquiry is essential, not only for ensuring accountability and safeguarding the interests of the citizens, but also for strengthening public trust in the financial management practice of government.
Meanwhile, following the reading of the communication, the body then mandated its Committees on Ways, Means, Finance and Budget, Judiciary, Human Rights, Claim and Petition, and Public Account and Audits, to conduct the inquiry regarding the status of these various financing agreements.
The Senate Statutory Committee was also instructed to report to full plenary within two weeks for subsequent action by the entire body.
