The Liberia People’s Party (LPP) has voiced deep concern over what it describes as rampant corruption that continues to impede the nation’s growth and development.
At a major press conference held at the party’s headquarters in Congo Town on Thursday, the Acting National Chairman, Stephen Ricks, outlined a series of recommendations to address corruption and foster transparency in governance.
Mr. Ricks emphasized the need for the General Audit Commission (GAC) to publish all reports of audits conducted, including details of individuals implicated in alleged corruption cases.
He argued that the government’s delay in prosecuting those involved in corruption undermines the credibility of state institutions.
The LPP leader criticized the Boakai administration’s proposed $8.5 billion five-year development plan, which relies heavily on external borrowing, with 70% of the required funds expected to be sourced through loans.
He highlighted Liberia’s existing debt burden and warned that the plan could place an undue strain on the country’s finances. Instead, Mr. Ricks advocated for improved domestic revenue generation to fund economic and developmental initiatives.
The LPP called for the introduction of a 10% tax on all raw materials exported from Liberia. Mr. Ricks urged the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) and the Ministry of Mines and Energy to collaborate in auditing the value of raw materials exported annually, ensuring the country derives maximum benefit from its natural resources.
Mr. Ricks also expressed concern over the underfunding and lack of support for the Office of the War and Economic Crime Court, labeling it a sign of the government’s unwillingness to confront Liberia’s troubled past.
The LPP called for urgent allocation of resources to ensure accountability for those responsible for war and economic crimes.
The LPP criticized the government’s failure to enforce the mandatory assets declaration policy for public officials, which it claims has allowed corruption to thrive unchecked.
Mr. Ricks urged the Boakai administration to implement the policy fully, ensuring transparency and reducing opportunities for corrupt practices within the public sector.
The LPP further accused the government of failing to fulfill its promise to recover stolen public funds and assets.
According to Mr. Ricks, these resources could be reinvested in essential services and development programs. “The Liberian people deserve to see the recovery of stolen public funds and assets,” he said, calling on the administration to take immediate action toward recovering looted resources.
The Liberia People’s Party reiterated its commitment to advocating for good governance and urged the Boakai administration to prioritize fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability.
“The time to act is now,” Mr. Ricks concluded, as he called for decisive measures to address corruption and promote sustainable development.
The press conference reflects growing public frustration with corruption and governance issues in Liberia, signaling a call for urgent reforms to restore trust in government institutions and foster national progress.
