By Archie Boan
The Leadership of the 55th Legislature has announced the appointment of Mr. Othello S. Tarbah, an accomplished economist and public financial management expert, as the new Director of the Legislative Budget Office (LBO).
Mr. Tarbah’s appointment, jointly endorsed by House Speaker Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon and President Pro Tempore Hon. Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence, underscores the Legislature’s confidence in his extensive expertise and record of public service.
Before his elevation, Mr. Tarbah served as Deputy Director for Expenditure at the LBO, where he earned praise for his professionalism, analytical acumen, and dedication to institutional reform.
In a joint statement, Speaker Koon and Pro Tempore Lawrence said the Legislature expects Director Tarbah’s leadership to bring innovation, accountability, and renewed efficiency to the Office’s operations.
As Director, Mr. Tarbah will spearhead initiatives to strengthen the Legislature’s capacity in budget scrutiny, fiscal policy analysis, and public financial management reforms.
He is also expected to enhance collaboration across government institutions, improve accountability frameworks, and support lawmakers with data-driven analysis in their legislative duties.
Speaking during the official turnover ceremony, Director Tarbah reaffirmed his commitment to integrity, transparency, and institutional discipline.
“My induction as Director is a continuation of service, guided by the principles of integrity, institutional discipline, and excellence,” he stated. He pledged to promote budget transparency, expand staff capacity within the LBO, and foster stronger partnerships with government and civil society to advance the Office’s mandate.
With over two decades of professional experience in economic policy, public finance, and budget reform, Mr. Tarbah brings a wealth of expertise gained through extensive work across Africa, Europe, and the United States.
He has participated in several international programs and seminars, earning credentials from globally recognized institutions including Duke University, WAIFEM, the World Bank Institute, and the Kenya School of Government. Mr. Tarbah holds an MBA in Business Management and a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics, both from the University of Liberia.
Established by an Act of Legislature in 2011, the Legislative Budget Office operates as an independent, non-partisan body providing lawmakers with evidence-based fiscal analysis and policy advice to strengthen oversight of national finances.
The Legislature’s leadership expressed confidence that Mr. Tarbah’s vision and experience will enhance the operational efficiency of the LBO and contribute significantly to improved governance and fiscal accountability in Liberia.
