In the wake of the launch of an audit at the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), the Liberian populace calls upon President Joseph Boakai to seize this golden opportunity to restore integrity and professionalism in the institution by ensuring the appointment of a highly qualified Governor.
The ongoing audit, aimed at revealing potential financial improprieties, could pave the way for the replacement of the current Governor. The present Governor’s tenure has been marred by allegations of financial misappropriation, purportedly to curry favor with his political masters, including former President Weah. Critics argue that the current Governor was severely unqualified for such a pivotal role, leading to a dependency on political benefactors to retain his position.
As the audit unfolds, it is incumbent on President Boakai to look beyond the immediate issue of resolving the alleged financial irregularities. A broader vision is needed – one of a Central Bank led by a Governor who is eminently qualified and free from political machinations.
The Liberian public urges President Boakai to endorse an independent selection process for the next Governor, ideally facilitated by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. This transparent and merit-based approach would ensure that the position is filled by the most qualified individual, irrespective of their political affiliations. The President is encouraged to open the application process to qualified Liberians both at home and abroad, showcasing the wealth of talent within the Liberian diaspora.
The appointment of a competent, apolitical Governor would ensure that the Central Bank’s actions are in the best interest of Liberia’s economy, rather than serving narrow political interests.
The initiation of this audit by President Boakai is already a step in the right direction. The Liberian populace now anticipates further commitment from his administration towards transparency, professionalism, and integrity in the public sector. We urge President Boakai to set a new precedent in Liberia’s public institutions by endorsing an independent, merit-based process for the appointment of the next Governor.
The transformation of the Central Bank of Liberia is not merely an institutional change; it is a fundamental shift towards a future where public institutions truly serve the Liberian people. A future where economic stability and growth are driven by competence, not political favoritism. President Boakai, the time to act is now.
