LACC Takes Asset Declaration and Decentralization to Gbarnga, Bong County

(Tuesday, February 25, 2025) Gbarnga, Bong County – In an effort to enhance transparency and decentralize its anti-corruption efforts, the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), led by Vice Executive Chairperson Mr. Ernest R. Hughes, visited Bong County on Monday. The delegation's visit focused on the establishment of a regional office that will oversee anti-corruption measures in Bong, Lofa, and Nimba Counties.

As part of the initiative, LACC presented Asset Declaration Forms and Integrity Pledge Forms to Bong County Superintendent Loleyah Hawa Norris. These forms will be distributed further to public officials in more remote areas of the county to ensure broader participation in the asset declaration process and commitment to ethical standards.

Superintendent Norris, in her remarks, expressed gratitude for the visit and acknowledged the LACC's vital role in promoting good governance and fighting corruption. She emphasized the importance of the asset declaration exercise, noting that it helps to ensure accountability at all levels of government.

"We are grateful to the LACC for bringing these forms to Bong County, especially to areas that are far away and often left out of such initiatives," said Superintendent Norris. "This is an important step in ensuring that our officials remain accountable to the people they serve, and we are committed to spreading these forms to all corners of the county." She added. 

Mr. Hughes also reiterated the significance of decentralizing LACC's operations, which will make it easier for local officials to comply with asset declaration requirements and other anti-corruption efforts. He highlighted that the forms are not only a requirement but also a key tool in maintaining transparency and integrity within the public sector.

"The distribution of these forms to Bong County is part of our broader strategy to bring anti-corruption efforts closer to the people, adding that with the new regional office in Gbarnga, we can provide more direct support to local governments, ensuring that officials at all levels are held to the highest standards of integrity." Mr. Hughes said. 

As part of the ongoing anti-corruption campaign, the Integrity Pledge is also being emphasized to encourage public officials to commit to ethical conduct and report any instances of corruption within their departments.

The visit by LACC's delegation signals a stronger commitment to addressing corruption at the regional level, giving citizens in remote parts of Bong, Lofa, and Nimba counties more access to tools that will help strengthen governance in their communities.