MONROVIA – Senator Edwin Snowe has raised concerns about President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s failure to act on the suspension of Commissioners at the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), calling it an affront to due process and the rule of law.
By Obediah Johnson, [email protected]
In a communication addressed to the Plenary of the Senate on March 18 the Bomi County Senator highlighted that nearly a year has passed since President Boakai suspended the LTA Commissioners in April 2024 due to reports of alleged financial misconduct.
The President had instructed the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to investigate and audit the activities of the suspended Commissioners, but Senator Snowe noted that the Senate has yet to receive any findings or report.
According to Snowe, the suspension of the LTA Commissioners has left them in a state of indefinite limbo, with no due process. Although their suspension did not include withholding their salaries and benefits, Snowe argued that they are still being denied their rightful entitlements.
Furthermore, individuals appointed to act in these positions have been making major policy decisions without Senate confirmation, undermining the legislative body’s role.
Snowe criticized the ongoing suspension and the appointment of acting Commissioners who are making key decisions without proper legal authority. He stressed that such actions violate Liberia’s legal framework and disrespect the role of the Senate.
“This prolonged inaction and disregard for due process are a direct affront to the rule of law and the integrity of our governance system,” Snowe said.
He called for an immediate response from the Senate, urging it to demand that the Executive branch present the findings of the GAC’s audit without further delay.
Snowe also called for action depending on the results of the audit. If financial improprieties are found, he urged that legal and administrative measures be taken. If no wrongdoing is discovered, the suspended Commissioners should be reinstated and given their full benefits, as stipulated by law.
While acknowledging President Boakai’s anti-corruption stance, Snowe emphasized that the Senate must uphold the rule of law and due process. He expressed concern over the alleged violation of the suspended officials’ rights and the growing disregard for constitutional procedures.
The Plenary of the Liberian Senate has now tasked its Joint Committee on Post and Telecommunications and Judiciary to investigate the matter further.