Grand Bassa County Senator Gbenzongar Milton Findley has called on members of the 55th National Legislature to set a precedent for transparency and integrity by declaring their assets in keeping with the National Code of Conduct law for public officials.
By Obediah Johnson
Section 10.1 of the Code of Conduct states that: “Every Public Official and Employee of Government involved in making decisions affecting contracting, tendering or procurement, and issuance of licenses of various types shall sign performance or financial bonds and shall in addition declare his or her income, assets and liabilities prior to taking office and thereafter: a. at the end of every three years; b. on promotion or progression from one level to another; c. upon transfer to another public office; and d. upon retirement or resignation.”
Members of both the House of Representatives and the Liberian Senate have been dragging to declare their assets in keeping with the law. In fact, nobody is on record for opening declaring and publishing their assets since they were sworn into their respective offices on Monday, January 15, 2024.
But in a statement issued in Monrovia over the weekend, Senator Findley, who has already declared his assets, encouraged his colleagues to follow suit.
He said lawmakers should “lead by example” by upholding the laws of the country.
“Today, I stand before you in adherence to the mandate set forth by Section 10.1 of the Code of Conduct Act of 2014 concerning the declaration of assets. In fulfillment with this crucial provision, I wish to inform you that on January 19, 2024, I have dutifully declared and submitted a comprehensive record of my assets and liabilities to the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC).”
“As legislators and guardians of our Republic’s legal framework, it is imperative that we not only enact laws but also embody the principles they represent. It is our bounden duty to lead by example, setting a precedent for transparency and integrity.”
Senator Findley maintained that by openly declaring their assets, Representatives and Senators could fortify the foundation of trust upon which their roles as public officials are built.
He added that such actions are vital in nurturing a culture of accountability that extends throughout all branches of government.
According to him, the journey towards transparent and accountable governance must commence within the walls of the “revered Legislature.”
“It is here that the torch of leadership must be kindled, casting its illuminating glows across the corridors of power and governance in Liberia. As we stand at the helm, it is incumbent upon us, the Liberian Senate, to pave the way and champion the cause of probity and openness.”
“In this spirit, I call upon my fellow senators and all public officials to embrace this call for transparency. Let us join hands in this endeavour to uphold the trust placed in us by the great people of Liberia. By doing so, we shall not only reinforce the mechanisms of accountability but also fortify the public’s confidence in our democratic institutions.”
He encouraged his colleagues to reaffirm their commitment to the principles enshrined in the laws of the country, ensuring that Liberia continues to stride along the path of progress and righteousness.
“Together, we can foster a governance culture that is accountable, transparent, and reflective of the aspirations of all Liberians.”
