The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIAU is facing accusations of violating President George Weah’s executive order, which halted the appointment of individuals in government and the undertaking of operations at various ministries and agencies.
By Henry Karmo, [email protected]
The agency is reported to have promoted staff who are friends of the current Director-General, granting them a salary increment of two hundred percent of their current salary, potentially creating financial liabilities for the incoming government. However, the agency has denied these allegations.
The FIU asserts that no such action has been taken, citing a provision in the act that establishes the FIA, granting the head of the entity the authority to make appointments or promotions.
Mr. Stanley S. Ford, Director-General of the FIA, stated that staff promotions are conducted on a merit basis, with a three-month probation period during which no financial benefits are provided. Section 6 of the act creating the FIA outlines the Director-General’s responsibility for hiring and terminating employees in accordance with approved guidelines and labor laws.
The act also mandates the establishment of professional requirements, including knowledge, skills, integrity, and fitness, for FIA employees.
Since the issuance of the Executive Order, some government agencies and ministries have reportedly ignored the President’s mandate against financial transactions outside of salary payments and other administrative actions.
President Weah’s executive order is set to expire on January 22nd, when President-Elect Joseph Boakai will assume office, succeeding President George Weah, who served one term.
In December 2023, President Weah issued an executive order to safeguard state resources during the transition period amid Liberia’s economic challenges. The order suspended borrowings, accumulation of new debts, and repayment of domestic debts (excluding international borrowings with legislative implications) with specified timelines.
Approval from the Office of the President is required for expenditures exceeding US$10,000, excluding salaries and operational expenses. The order also mandates prior approval for payments of bonuses, severance allowances, and incentives to high-ranking officials of state-owned enterprises.
Additionally, the executive order suspends new employment and service contracts, promotions, salary increases, sales, and leases of public properties, buildings, and infrastructures. New investment incentives, concessions, and official travels are also temporarily suspended, unless approved by the Office of the President.