The Speaker of the House of Representatives, speaking on behalf of the legislative body, has issued a stern warning of a potential shutdown of operations if the Ministry of Finance fails to promptly disburse budgeted benefits owed to lawmakers.
The announcement was made during a heated session of the House, where Speaker Koffa criticized the Ministry’s inexplicable delay in releasing funds designated for critical legislative functions.
Expressing deep concern over the Ministry’s actions, Speaker Koffa emphasized the detrimental impact on lawmakers and the effective functioning of the House. He underscored the urgency of resolving the issue to maintain harmonious inter-branch relations within the government.
“Mr. Minister, the Ministry of Finance’s treatment of this House is leading us down a dangerous path, a situation we must avoid for the sake of governmental coordination.”
Speaker Koffa cautioned.”I am disappointed. If a resolution is not reached soon, we will be left with no choice but to shut down the House of Representatives.”
The Speaker’s declaration followed a presentation by Dorbor Jallah, Commissioner General of the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), who reported on the nation’s current revenue status. According to Jallah, the LRA has exceeded its revenue collection targets, a fact that sharply contrasts with the Ministry of Finance’s withholding of funds allocated for essentials such as gasoline and stationery.
Lawmakers have persistently voiced grievances regarding the Ministry’s prolonged failure to disburse approved funds, crucial for executing legislative duties. Speaker Koffa, facing mounting pressure from colleagues, denounced the Ministry’s stance, particularly given the LRA’s report of revenue surplus.
“It is baffling that while the Commissioner General reports revenue over performance, the House of Representatives—integral to the government’s first branch—is denied even a fraction of its allocated benefits,” Speaker Koffa remarked pointedly.
“We find ourselves borrowing money to provide basic supplies while the Senate’s retreat is fully funded and we must seek external assistance,” he added, highlighting the stark disparity in treatment between the two legislative bodies.
In his comprehensive assessment, Commissioner General Jallah disclosed that out of the approved budget of US$738,860,000, US$316,449,000 (43%) has already been collected, surpassing mid-year targets. However, concerns were raised over tax incentives impacting revenue, alongside delays in remittances from key agencies like the Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority (LPRA) and the National Port Authority (NPA).
Should the House proceed with a shutdown, constitutional provisions dictate that the Liberian Senate would similarly cease operations, underscoring the critical need for swift resolution to avert any legislative halt.
As tensions escalate, stakeholders await a decisive response from the Ministry of Finance amidst mounting pressure to restore financial normalcy and ensure uninterrupted governance.
