By Bill W. Cooper
The Joint Presidential Transitional Team (JPTT) has raised concerns over the alleged disappearance of vehicles and other valuable assets under the administration of the Liberia Agency for Community Empowerment’s (LACE) Executive Director.
The LACE ED, Pepci Yeke’s alleged action was discovered in an ongoing appraisal by the JPTT and National Transport Infrastructure committee, established to facilitate a smooth transition between the outgoing and incoming administrations.
In a communication dated January 7, 2024, the Team Lead-LACE (JPTT), Augustine Fredericks, wrote, accusing Yeke of withholding valuable financial and valuable assets information, including sources of funding and project expenditure.
In the communication in the possession of this paper, Fredericks also reminded the LACE boss of the refusal to avail himself or make public other financial and assets information, which raises questions about LACE’s adherence to proper financial practices.
LACE was established by the Community Empowerment Act, pursuant to Chapter 50B of Title 12 of the Liberian Code of Laws as of July 22, 2004.
The objectives of the Agency are to improve the living standards of poor communities through the provisions and strengthening of basic social services, promoting community-based approach in sub-project identification, preparation, implementation, administration, and maintenance.
Fredericks said, “LACE is not only hindering the incoming government’s ability to effectively access the Agency’s performance, but it raises questions about the Agency’s adherence to proper financial practices.”
“Transparency in financial matters is essential to ensure public funds are being used efficiently, effectively, and in line with the intended purposes, and the refusal to disclose Agency assets details and documentations raises concerns about the proper management and accountability of public resources.
Without a clear understanding of the assets held by LACE, it becomes difficult for the government and stakeholders to evaluate the Agency’s operations and make informed decisions regarding its future direction,” he maintained.
Fredericks further intoned, “I kindly request that you take immediate action to address these concerns. It is important for LACE to promptly provide the requested financial information, including sources of funding and project expenditures, as well as disclose the Agency’s assets details and documentation.”
“This will not only demonstrate the Agency’s commitment to transparency and accountability, but also contribute to building a strong partnership between LACE and the new government,” he emphasized.
Fredericks also advised Yeke to take crucial steps towards fostering a healthy working relationship between the government institutions and address himself to all the points raised in the communication within a stipulated timeframe.
It can be recalled that, following the October 10, 2023 Presidential and Legislative elections, there were reports of massive looting of Government Ministries and Agencies, doubt, and lack of transparency ahead of the incoming administration.
