The Pro- Tempore of Liberian Senate Nyonblee Kangar-Lawrence on Thursday, September 5, 2024, constituted a six-man ad hoc committee to investigate and report in one week on the 2024 budget alleged alteration.
Those appointed on Ad-hoc committees include, Grand Cape Mount County Senator Dabah Varpilah as chairperson, Thomas Yaya Nimely, James Biney, Momo Cyrus, Cllr. Augustine Chea, and Senator Numene T.H. Bartekwa.
She said the term of reference of the committee is to find out whether it was the budget that was passed by the Liberian Senate and transmitted to the House of Representatives with all signatures attached, and to also do a comparative analysis of the final budget that was signed by the Speaker and the Vice President as compared to the budget that was printed.
The Pro-Tempore said the committee was also mandated to establish whether or not there were alterations or shifting done in the budget and if so, who did the shifting and for what purpose was such action carried out. The Grand Bassa County Senator instructed the committee to publicly carry on the process of the investigation and report within the period of one (1) week for necessary action.
The decision of the Pro Tempore to setup a committee to investigate the alleged budget alteration is in line with her commitment for transparency and accountability as head of the Liberian Senate. This action is intended to respond to the public perception concerning the budget alterations and also provide a clearer understanding and direction on the saga.