President Joseph Boakai has taken decisive action against corruption in Liberia by suspending over 450 top government officials, including cabinet ministers, for failing to declare their assets. The sweeping move affects officials across multiple departments, from education and health ministers to special envoys and county administrators.
The suspended officials face one month without pay or until they comply with the mandatory asset declaration requirement, a cornerstone of the country’s anti-corruption framework. The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission publicly listed all affected officials, emphasizing the legal obligation for transparency in public service.
Boakai’s action follows his earlier commitment to fiscal responsibility, including a personal 40% salary reduction announced last July. The initiative marks a significant departure from his predecessor George Weah’s administration, which faced criticism for corruption and excessive spending amid rising living costs.
The president’s decision has sparked mixed reactions. While some political analysts support the anti-corruption stance, they express concerns about practical challenges in the declaration process. Civil society groups argue the one-month suspension is too lenient, describing it as a “symbolic gesture.” Nevertheless, the move has prompted immediate compliance efforts, with numerous officials visiting the anti-corruption commission to submit their declarations, signaling a potential shift in governmental accountability standards.