By: Princess Kossigba
The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia, (CENTAL) with funding from the Swedish Embassy near Monrovia and the Open Society Initiative for West Africa has ended a one-day dialogue on anti-corruption with presidential candidates in Liberia.
The dialogue was intended to remind Presidential Candidates contesting the October Elections about the fight against corruption and to also hear their views on how they would tackle the mince when given the chance to serve the Liberian People.
Anderson D. Miamen, CENTAL Executive Director said corruption continues to undermine the development of Liberia, therefore politicians must focus on finding solutions to the numerous challenges confronting the country and its people; pointing at how corruption can be battled.
Mr. Miamen stated that it is important to be committed to good governance, transparency, accountability and that they should uphold their integrities and the rule of law.
He also challenged them to adhere to the Farmington River Peace accord that was recently signed by Independent Candidates and Political Parties.
“The maintenance of Liberia’s peace should be all of us business because if there is no peace, you the Politicians will not lead, you will not serve the positions you are vying for,” he said
He called on them to develop strategies for preventing and solving electoral conflicts and to discourage factors that lead to corruption and bad governance for a better Liberia.
The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia as a civil society organization has been playing a significant role in promoting peace and fighting corruption over the last two decades.
Meanwhile, Cllr Taiwan Saye Gongloe, the Standard Bearer of the Liberian People’s Party making remarks at the event said when acted as President, he would never remain silent about corruption matters and would ensure accountability.
Cllr Gongloe added, that the salary of Civil Servants will be prioritized if elected, and he will ensure both past Presidents and their officials will be audited in achieving his goal of a good government.
The Standard Bearer for Liberia Rebuilding Party, Cllr Luthern N. Yorfee assured Liberians if elected as president, he would not succumb to any pressure of being silent about corrupt practices.
