By Pewu Y. Sumo
MONROVIA — In a major push to bolster transparent governance and combat corruption, the Governance Commission, in collaboration with Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, launched the National Dialogue on Strengthening Integrity and Accountability Systems today at the Governance Commission Conference Hall in Monrovia.
The dialogue was held under theme: ”Strengthening Anti-Corruption and Integrity systems to Advance Social Accountability, Inclusive Governance, Public Participation and Improved Service Delivery.” The high-level event brought together government officials, United Nations representatives, civil society leaders, and county officials to address the critical need for robust institutional oversight and inclusive citizen participation.
Delivering the welcome statement, Alaric K. Tokpa, Acting Chairman of the Governance Commission, emphasized that the true measure of national anti-corruption policies lies in their implementation at the local level. Tokpa extended a special welcome to local government authorities and County Finance Officers traveling from Gbarpolu, Bomi, Montserrado, Margibi, Bong, and Grand Bassa counties.
“While national policies are often formulated here in Monrovia, their true impact is measured in our counties and communities where public services are delivered and where citizens interact daily with government,” Tokpa stated.
He underscored that as custodians of public resources, local officials are indispensable to ensuring that public funds are managed responsibly and that development projects remain transparent.
The dialogue is a core component of the Empowering Citizens and Communities for Social Accountability, Transparent Governance and Public Service Delivery Project. The initiative is generously supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund.
According to Tokpa, the initiative comes at a pivotal moment in Liberia’s democratic journey, driven by a rising public demand for ethical leadership and quality service delivery.
The dialogue seeks to address core key areas of Liberia’s democratic governance including strengthening accountability, enhancing social cohesion, promoting Inclusivity and build public trust.
The Governance Commission reiterated its constitutional mandate to champion decentralization, public-sector accountability, and institutional reform. Calling on participants to engage in open and constructive deliberations, Tokpa urged stakeholders to look past mere achievements and confront ongoing systemic challenges.
“When we conclude today’s dialogue, I hope that we will leave not only with a deeper understanding of our collective responsibilities but also with renewed partnerships, clear commitments, and an actionable roadmap,” the GC Acting Chairman concluded, as he officially opened the National Dialogue.
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