The Plenary of the House of Representatives has passed “An Act to Prohibit Active Government Officials from Serving on the Boards or Management of Any Public Institution, and to Establish a Framework for Independent Supervision and Transparent Oversight.”
The decision followed the submission of a report by the House Committees on Judiciary and Good Governance, recommending the passage of the legislation after a thorough review.
The Act seeks to establish clear governance protocols for public institutions, ensuring accountability, independence, and efficiency in the management and oversight of state entities governed by boards. The draft legislation was introduced by Maryland County Electoral District #2 Representative, Anthony F. Williams.
In his communication to Plenary, Rep. Williams highlighted five key objectives to strengthen institutional integrity and promote good governance. These include enhancing effectiveness, oversight, accountability, and transparency, preventing conflict of interest, eliminating double compensation, promoting job creation, and expanding funding opportunities by enabling independent boards to attract and manage financial and development resources in a transparent and accountable manner.
Following deliberations, Plenary mandated its Joint Committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the proposed legislation and report back within two weeks. Based on the Committee’s findings and recommendations, the full body has now passed the Act.
The legislation has been forwarded to the Liberian Senate for concurrence, in keeping with legislative procedures. The House of Representatives reaffirms its commitment to strengthening governance systems, promoting transparency, and ensuring that public institutions operate in the best interest of the Liberian people.
