By Lewis S. Teh
MONROVIA, Liberia, October 23, 2026: The Executive Vice Chairperson of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), Arthur W.B. Fumbah, says achieving a corruption-free Liberia is possible but requires stronger coordination among oversight institutions, the Legislature and Judiciary.
Speaking at the Governance Commission’s Multi-Stakeholder Policy Dialogue on Transparency, Accountability and Citizens’ Participation for Inclusive Development, Fumbah stressed that institutional cooperation and preventive measures are essential to combating corruption.
“Public accountability is not simply about identifying corruption after it occurs. It is about building a system in which public officials understand their authority is public trust,” he said.
Fumbah argued that eliminating corruption could significantly increase Liberia’s annual revenue to as much as US$5 billion, compared to the country’s recent efforts to reach US$1 billion.
However, he criticized what he described as weak penalties for corruption, citing a recent Supreme Court ruling in which a convicted official was reportedly ordered to pay US$10,000.
He said such penalties undermine accountability, particularly when substantial public resources are spent investigating and prosecuting corruption cases.
Fumbah also called for a review of the Public Financial Management Law, arguing that allowing heads of government institutions to influence the appointment of accountants, auditors and procurement officers creates opportunities for corruption.
He proposed that the Comptroller General’s Office, Internal Audit Agency, Public Procurement and Concessions Commission, and Civil Service Agency take responsibility for deploying qualified professionals to public institutions.
According to him, strengthening institutional independence, improving oversight and prioritizing corruption prevention would help reduce financial misconduct and restore public confidence in government.
He urged the Legislature, Judiciary and oversight bodies to work collectively to address systemic weaknesses and strengthen Liberia’s fight against corruption.
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