Africa-Press – Liberia. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has commissioned the first batch of cabinet ministers and other officials recently confirmed by the Senate and urged them to avoid engaging in corruption, or “pay the price.”
“Let it be known that we will not tolerate corruption and pilferage from the people’s coffers, as those found to be in breach of our anti-graft laws will give account and pay the price. As they say, a hint to the wise is enough,” he said.
According to him, his government promised to abolish the “business-as-usual” approach to government, therefore ministers, heads of agencies, and advisors should refrain from engaging in corrupt acts.
“The cabinet as the highest decision-making body of [the executive branch of] government must perform at the highest level, delivering on the government’s priorities to achieve the developmental agenda we have set for the next six years.”
“We will expect ministers and heads of agencies to demonstrate their capabilities and competencies in achieving our goals, including the execution of immediate interventions in the 100-day deliverable plan.”
President Boakai called on the legislature and the judiciary to work collectively with his administration in order to improve the lives of Liberians.
“As the government spans the three branches, we do not intend to pursue this development path without productive engagements with the other bodies,” the President said. “We, therefore, expect the legislature and the judiciary to do their part by fully working with us to improve the lives of our citizens.”
He noted that he will institute the Performance Management Compliance System to help improve the performance of ministers and encourage an open, transparent and accountable government.
“Integral to this is the requirement that every cabinet minister and head of agency signs a performance contract as a way of not only ensuring that deliverables are met, but also enhancing efficiency within the government.”
In addition, I am mandating all officials of government to immediately declare their assets to comply with anti-graft regulations as required and, more importantly, ensure the promotion of integrity in public service.
According to him, cabinet members will be monitored on their performance against the targets they set and hold in order to hold them accountable.
“Monitoring will not only be within, as we intend to support any mechanism that will ensure that citizens follow closely as well, to form part of the decision-making process. In this regard, the Citizens Feedback Mechanism Project, piloted in five counties will be activated and implemented across the country.”
“Fellow citizens, public service is not an entitlement; it is an opportunity to give back to your country and your fellow citizens.”
He urged them to work hard and ensure the government agendas are met. “To those about to be commissioned today, your compatriots have entrusted you with a responsibility to deliver the service they need. It is, therefore, incumbent upon you to give it everything by putting your talent and energy into what, frankly, has been described as the sweetest fruit of all — service.”
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