The Unity Party-led government under President Joseph Nyumah Boakai faces mounting scrutiny over off-budget spending amounting to more than US$15 million, raising significant concerns about transparency and accountability.
The off-spending lines include US$1.5M of special sitting of HOR, US$812,612 for special sitting of The Senate, US$1.12M for armoured vehicles for President and Vice President, US$350,000 for Annual African Group Meeting of Judiciary, and US$2.3M unexplained among others.
The funds, primarily sourced from the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) and ECOWAS trade levies, have been designated for various purposes, including special legislative sessions, funeral expenses, and operational costs for government officials.
Key allocations include:
- 1. US$1.5 million for special sitting of the House of Representatives and US$812,612 for the Senate.
2. US$1.1 million for recovery operations for miners trapped in Rivercess. - 3. US$191,679 for contributions to the Muslim community and various funeral expenses.
- 4. US$1,123,000 for purchasing of armoured and unarmoured vehicles for president and vice president.
- 5. US$100K to procure credit card for the President Foreign Travel.
- 6. US$350,000 for hhostingof Annual African Group Meeting of the Judiciary.
- 7. US$2,307,609 for “unexplained, etc.
Additionally, the ECOWAS trade levy contributed US$2.84 million, mainly for judiciary salaries and hosting international meetings.
The distribution of these funds has drawn criticism from citizens who question the prioritization of these expenditures amid pressing public needs.
Critics argue that the lack of clear communication and justification for these off-budget expenditures undermines public trust, with many demanding increased oversight regarding taxpayer money, particularly when substantial amounts are directed toward ceremonial and operational costs for officials.
Some lawmakers have expressed dismay, labeling the situation as a potential avenue for corruption through questionable appropriations.
The Ministry of Finance is expected to submit a detailed report to the Legislature, as requested before debating the revised budget.
The government has yet to respond to calls for greater financial transparency, a situation that could further exacerbate public discontent.
As the matter unfolds, the need for clearer communication and accountability becomes increasingly vital to maintain public trust in government financial management.
The total allocation of US$15,731,813 highlights ongoing challenges in governance and fiscal responsibility in Liberia. Stakeholders and citizens alike await further clarification on the rationale behind these expenditures and their implications for national priorities.
