MONROVIA – As Liberians gear towards entering the campaign period for elected positions (beginning August 5, 2023), the GAC management has reminded its staff about the institution’s commitment to maintaining “Political Neutrality Policy”. Therefore, the GAC says, it is important that staff remain politically neutral within and outside of the workplace.
According to the GAC’s internal memo, issued on July 18, 2023, no Political Campaigning, it is important for each GAC’s employee to maintain both the actual and perceived political neutrality. Hence, it is important that employees maintain their independence from political influence in order to discharge their audit and other responsibilities in an impartial way. This is relevant for GAC employees since the GAC work closely with the legislative authorities, the Liberian people and other stakeholders. Engaging in political campaigning or promotion of any political candidate or party during or outside of working hours is strictly prohibited, the memo said. This include but is not limited to discussions, debates, and distribution of campaign materials, the memo continued.
Further, the memo indicated that the GAC respects the right of all citizens of Liberia to political and other affiliations in line with provisions in the constitution of the Republic of Liberia. Notwithstanding, the Commission will not tolerate any employee who will want to impose his/her official political standing into the workings of the GAC. While employees are entitled to their personal beliefs and opinions, it is important to engage in respectful conversation when discussing political topics. GAC added.
To ensure a productive work environment, the Commission will not allow any political party operator(s) to remain in its employ consistent with the requirements of independence and objectivity as detailed under Section 35 of ISSAI (Code of Ethics). Also, the GAC will not allow stalwarts of political parties (Chairman, Secretary General, Spokesman, etc.) or others who will be involved with active political party issues, including but not limited to articles and commentaries writing and publications, rallies etc. to be or remain in the employ of the Commission. It is therefore required that all employees of the GAC maintain independence in fact and in appearance and seen to be independent and politically neutral, the memo said.
GAC recognizes that social media offers a platform for the Commission’s employees to connect and stay in touch with relevant friends, organizations and family members. GAC also believes that social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.) is an excellent way for employees to make useful connections, share ideas and shape discussions provided that such is done in accordance with this policy. This social media policy has been designed to prescribe the rules and guidelines governing the use of social media by employees of the GAC, the memo included.