The Liberian Senate on Thursday, February 22, 2024, concurred with the House of Representatives to grant the President of Liberia the authorization to spend US$41,300,000.00 for operations for the month of February.
The Senate took the decision following a report from its Statutory Committee on Ways, Means, Finance and Budget under the Chairmanship of Bong County Senator Prince Moye.
Senator Moye said the decision was intended to fast-track funding for the operation of Government for the month of February 2024.
He said although there were some adjustments in the request made by the President, it could not however change the overall amount.
During the voting process, Senator Darius Dillon, Senator Nathaniel McGill, Senator Numene T.K Bartekwa and Gbleh-bo Brown voted against, while Senator Albert T. Chie and Simeon Taylor abstained.
Senators McGill and Dillon voted against the instrument on grounds that the detail surrounding the US$5.7 million meant for domestic debts was not provided.
Following a motion by Senator Gbehzohngar Findley of Grand Bassa County craving the body to concur with the House of Representatives, 20 duly seated senators voted.
It can be recalled that recently, President Joseph Nyumah Boakai communicated with the Legislature seeking authorization to spend the amount of US$41,300,000.00 to cover operations for the month of February.
According to the President’s communication, the authorization being sought for is based on the fact that the draft budget for the fiscal year 2024 was returned by the House of Representatives and is being finalized for resubmission.
The communication further stated that the operations of the government have to continue to avoid a shutdown.
