The Special Presidential Assets Recovery Team, established by President Joseph Boakai to unearth and retrieve government assets, is now under scrutiny as it faces a summon from the Liberia Senate.
The move comes in the wake of internal discord and mounting criticism surrounding the team’s operations.
The Senate, particularly the Committee on Rules, Orders, and Administration chaired by Maryland County Senator Gbleh-Bo Brown, has announced its intention to interrogate the Special Presidential Assets Recovery Team. This inquiry aims to address concerns ranging from alleged corruption to procedural irregularities within the team.
Scheduled for next week Wednesday, the appearance of the Special Assets Recovery Team before the Senate signifies a critical juncture in its accountability and transparency. Members of the Senate seek clarification on internal conflicts and deviations from proper procedures.
The team’s credibility has come under fire, with Acting Chairman of the Opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), Janga Augustus Kowo, urging former officials to resist the team’s actions when not supported by court orders. The abrupt resignation of Emmanuel Gonquoi, Commander-in-Chief of the Economic Freedom Fighters of Liberia (EFFL), further fueled doubts about the team’s effectiveness.
Gonquoi’s departure, coupled with recent legal challenges, has cast doubt on President Boakai’s initiative. Public skepticism has intensified, fueled by questions surrounding fund allocation and the perceived lack of tangible results. Activist Martin K.N. Kollie’s leaked communication on social media highlighted concerns about procedural irregularities within the team.
In the communication dated May 5, Kollie cited ethical lapses, communication failures, and a lack of operational framework within the task force led by Cllr. Martin. Allegations of decision-making without input from team members and arbitrary arrests leading to court actions have tarnished the team’s reputation.
The Liberian Senate, tasked with overseeing the executive branch, including the Assets Recovery Team, recognizes the urgency of investigating these issues. As the upper arm of the National Legislature, the Senate holds the responsibility to ensure accountability and adherence to due process.
In light of these challenges, the Senate’s intervention underscores the importance of upholding transparency and integrity in governmental initiatives.
The outcome of the Senate’s inquiry will not only determine the future course of the Assets Recovery Team but also reflect Liberia’s commitment to combating corruption and promoting good governance.
