The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) on May 18, 2024, launched a Nationwide Education and Awareness Campaign simultaneously in Tubmanburg, Bomi County, and Ganta, Nimba County on the theme “Strengthening the Rule of Law through Public Awareness on Enabling Anti-corruption Legislation”.

UNDP supports the campaigns with funding from the Government of Luxemburg and the Republic of Korea.

Speaking at the launch in Tubmanburg, the Executive Chairperson of the LACC said corruption in both the public and private sectors has undermined the institutional framework of good governance and hampered sustainable sociopolitical tranquility and the economic development and growth of Liberia. 

Counselor Alexandra Zoe said that due to the debilitating consequences of corruption, the people of Liberia have declared corruption as public enemy number one and resolved to combat and eradicate it. 

Counselor Zoe’s remarks were contained in a special message delivered on her behalf by her Executive Assistant Ms. Vivian Akoto.

The LACC boss noted that public awareness is critical to increasing citizens’ knowledge about the new LACC Act and other anti-corruption legislation intended to improve the public’s perception and appreciation of the mandate of the Commission.

She mentioned in her statement that the LACC has printed thousands of copies of various anti-corruption legislation including the acts on whistle-blower and witness protection, as well as IEC materials for distribution and installation/erection at strategic locations to increase visibility.

Speaking on behalf of the Superintendent of Bomi County, the County Administrative Officer, Alphonso Sherman said that he was overwhelmed to have the LACC’s presence in the county and reaffirmed the county’s preparedness to join in the fight against corruption.

At the launch in Nimba County, the LACC Prevention Officer, John Tommy in a statement read on behalf of the Institution, said by reporting corruption, Liberians will be saving the government millions of dollars for development purposes.

Tommy wants Liberians to make use of the Whistleblower and Witness Protection Acts by raising alarm wherever they suspect any act of corruption.

“Don’t sit there, do something! We invite you to join the anti-corruption fight. There is no time to sit on the fence. Liberia lies in squalor and poverty, and we must do everything to reclaim our enviable place among the comity of nations” he charged the audience.

The launch of the awareness campaigns brought together stakeholders and participants from different sectors of society including law enforcement, transport, civil society, and traditional and religious leaders among others.

In separate remarks, participants lauded the LACC describing corruption as a major public concern and promising to support efforts aimed at strengthening accountability.

The Mayor of Gompa City, Samuel Hardt acknowledged the importance of fighting corruption, expressing the government's strong commitment, and emphasizing the need for a collective approach.

The Anti-Corruption Awareness Campaign marked a significant step towards fostering a culture of integrity, laying the groundwork for a more transparent and accountable society.