Monrovia – The Joint Legislative Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has issued a scathing critique of President Joseph Boakai’s anti-corruption efforts, describing them as superficial and politically driven. The committee contends that the administration is undermining accountability by favoring backdoor settlements and politically motivated appointments over transparent governance.
PAC Chairperson Clarence Gahr expressed concerns over the President’s use of institutions like the General Auditing Commission (GAC) and others, accusing the administration of manipulating these entities to oust officials under the guise of accountability while appointing loyalists in their place.
Recent incidents involving the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) and the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) were cited as examples of this alleged pattern. Gahr argued that such actions compromise the fight against corruption and erode public trust.
The controversy surrounding J. Aloysius Tarlue, Jr., the suspended Executive Governor of the CBL, has fueled the PAC’s criticisms. Tarlue, who had challenged his suspension in court, abruptly withdrew his lawsuit after reportedly agreeing to a settlement with the government. According to sources, the settlement amounted to $375,000.
Court records reveal that the case was dismissed with prejudice, barring Tarlue from reopening the matter. Gahr criticized the settlement, asserting that it represents a betrayal of the administration’s promises to uphold accountability.
“This settlement sends the wrong message. It shows that corruption cases can be quietly resolved without any real consequences, leaving the public to question the government’s commitment to transparency,” Gahr stated.
In the wake of Tarlue’s departure, the nomination of Henry Saamoi as the new Executive Governor of the CBL has sparked further debate. Saamoi, who previously served in an acting capacity, awaits Senate confirmation. However, his nomination has drawn criticism from those who view it as part of a broader trend of politically influenced appointments.
Critics argue that the administration’s focus on installing allies in key positions undermines the independence of institutions like the CBL, further complicating Liberia’s governance challenges.
The PAC has pledged to ramp up its oversight responsibilities in response to what it describes as systemic issues within the Boakai administration. Gahr warned that without meaningful reforms and political will, Liberia’s anti-corruption efforts will remain largely symbolic.
“We need more than rhetoric. The government must commit to enforcing the law and holding officials accountable through transparent legal processes, not secret settlements,” Gahr emphasized.
