Tubmanburg, Liberia – The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funding from the United Nations Peace-building Fund, successfully held a three-day anti-corruption training held from Monday, November 4, to Wednesday, November 6, 2024.
The workshop, held under the Theme: “Enhancing Justice and Transparency and Building Integrity through Collaborative Governance,” brought together personnel from integrity institutions and the judiciary to deepen their understanding of anti-corruption legislation and accountability mechanisms.
Proxing for Bomi Superintendent Alphonso Sherman welcomed participants to Tubmanburg and emphasized the government’s dedication to transparency and good governance.
“This government is serious about governance; there is no business as usual. Our offices are open for the public to verify the management of development funds. Such transparency initiatives are essential for fostering accountability,” he remarked, praising the unprecedented nature of this training in Bomi County.
UNDP Programmed Associate, Atty. Marzu Stubblefield-Quaye highlighted the global challenge of corruption and the importance of empowering local communities.
“Corruption undermines democratic institutions and societal progress. This training aims to equip participants with the knowledge to champion transparency and accountability in their respective institutions,” she noted, expressing gratitude for the collaboration between LACC and the judiciary in addressing these critical issues.
Atty. Francis Gray, Deputy Executive Director of the Judiciary Institute, underscored the judiciary’s role in combating corruption and dispelling public perceptions of judicial misconduct.
“This workshop is a significant step toward enhancing public understanding of the judiciary’s workings and fostering transparency through initiatives like the public display of court fees and fines,” he stated.
His Honor, Nelson Tokpah, Resident Judge of the 11th Judicial Circuit, expressed hope for sustained collaboration in the fight against corruption.
“Corruption cases often face delays, particularly at the Supreme Court level. We need collective support to expedite these processes and ensure justice is served,” he emphasized, calling for the workshop to be part of an ongoing series to reinforce integrity within the judiciary.
LACC Executive Chairperson, Cllr. Alexandra K. Zoe commended the participants for their engagement and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to promoting integrity across Liberia.
“Integrity institutions and the judiciary are critical in the fight against corruption. This training has provided essential tools to enhance transparency and accountability, helping us build a future grounded in integrity,” she concluded.
The training addressed key topics, including the amended LACC Act, whistleblower and witness protection legislation, the role of civil society organizations, and judicial transparency practices.
This initiative represents a crucial step in Liberia’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption, enhance governance, and build public trust in public institutions.
