By Jamesetta D. Williams

MONROVIA-In a major move to uphold transparency and accountability in public service, the Chairperson of the Office of the Ombudsman, Cllr. Finley Y. Kangar, has recommended the suspension of several lawmakers, justices, and senior officials for their failure to declare assets in accordance with Liberia’s Code of Conduct.

Speaking during a formal compliance and recognition ceremony in Monrovia, Cllr. Kangar underscored that asset declaration is a legal duty, not a discretionary act, and is essential for fostering public trust and maintaining integrity across all branches of government.

“Public service is not a privilege but a duty, and the law requires all who serve to do so within the bounds of the Code of Conduct,” he stressed.

The Ombudsman disclosed that 29 members of the House of Representatives and 12 Senators have failed to comply with the asset declaration law.

He said his office has written both the Speaker of the House and the President Pro-tempore of the Senate, recommending the immediate suspension of all non-compliant lawmakers.

He further proposed that their salaries be redirected to fund public interest initiatives until they fulfill the legal requirement.

Non-Compliant Senators identified

Among those named for non-compliance are, Gboto Kanneh (Gbarpolu County), Zoe Emmanuel Pennue (Grand Gedeh County), James S. Banning (Maryland County), Saah Joseph (Montserrado County), Samuel Kogar (Nimba County), Bill Twehway (River Cess County), Wellington Smith (River Cess County), Crayton Duncan (Sinoe County) and Nominine Batiquan (Grand Kru County).

Others are, Alex Tayler (Bomi County), Simeon Taylor (Grand Cape Mount County) and Thomas Y. Nimely (Grand Gedeh County).

The Ombudsman also revealed that several members of the Judiciary, including four sitting or former Supreme Court Justices, failed to declare their assets. Those named include, Former Chief Justice Francis S. Korkpor Sr., Associate Justice Jamesetta Wolokollie, Associate Justice Yarmie Gbeisay, Chief Justice (retired) Sie-A-Nyene G. Youh, Associate Justice Yusuf D. Kabba and Associate Justice Siennieh D. Clinton-Johnson.

Cllr. Kangar recommended their suspension and a one-month salary deduction, describing their failure to comply as a “willful disregard for the law.”

While commending the executive branch for broader compliance, the Ombudsman revealed that 150 presidential appointees have not declared their assets, despite a moratorium and deadline issued by President Joseph N. Boakai.

Letters have been dispatched to the Executive Mansion recommending suspension for all violators.

In contrast, the Ministry of Public Works, under the leadership of Minister Roland Giddings, was recognized for outstanding service. The Office of the Ombudsman presented the ministry with a Certificate of Award for renovations and facility upgrades.

“The minister and his team have demonstrated the true meaning of public service. This recognition is not just for the building but for raising the flag of national pride,” said Cllr. Kangar.

The Office upheld a complaint filed by Mr. Jorma Sanchez, a researcher who accused the Central Agricultural Research Institute (CARI) of failing to provide him with work tools. CARI was found in violation of the Code of Conduct and given 90 days to supply the necessary equipment. Mr. Sanchez must submit a performance report or face dismissal.

The Ombudsman also ordered the reinstatement of three employees of the National Port Authority (NPA) who were dismissed without due process. NPA leadership, including Mr. Usman Dukuly  has been instructed to undergo public administration training at the Liberia Institute of Public Administration (LIPA).

Ms. Miatta Beysolow Nyanti, a former government official, was found guilty of violating political neutrality rules. She was fined LD$500, payable within 72 hours, with further disciplinary action pending.

Additionally, 20 government officials were identified for illegal political involvement, contravening Sections 5.1 and 5.18 of the Code of Conduct.

The Ombudsman has recommended their removal from public office in line with the law. Cllr. Kangar concluded with a firm reminder that government service requires both accountability and productivity.

“If you cannot work due to lack of tools, resign. Don’t receive taxpayers’ money while failing to serve,” he declared. “We will no longer entertain excuses. Failure to perform will be treated as economic sabotage.”

He expressed gratitude to all individuals and institutions that supported the Ombudsman’s 11-month investigation and urged Liberians to embrace the values of transparency, rule of law, and national integrity.