–As 𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗗𝗦𝘁𝘃 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗽𝘁

IPNEWS: House Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa has issued a cautionary statement following the passage of the recast 2024 budget, stressing the need for significant reforms in the budgetary process.

In his remarks, Speaker Koffa emphasized that the Legislature has inherited a complicated and flawed budget process that requires urgent attention. “We are responsible for the people’s money,” he stated, acknowledging the historical challenges faced by the Legislature in effectively managing budgetary matters.

While expressing his support for the recast budget, Speaker Koffa called on the Committee on Ways, Means, and Finance to proactively prepare for the 2025 National Budget. He urged the committee to implement a structured approach regarding how budgets are received, transmitted, and executed, stressing that accountability from the executive branch is important.

“The violations noted in the recast budget cannot be tolerated. Off-budget spending must adhere strictly to legal guidelines, and the House cannot grant waivers for such infractions,” he asserted.

Speaker Koffa highlighted the importance of ensuring that the budget reflects accountability and transparency in financial management. He urged the Ways, Means, and Finance Committee to re-evaluate the Public Financial Management (PFM) Law, asserting that the current structure has allowed an unelected official, the finance minister, to shift funds at his discretion—an authority that must be curtailed.

“Any passage of the 2025 National Budget must involve necessary adjustments and amendments to the PFM Law,” he stated. He also reminded his colleagues that despite differences, the Legislature must not jeopardize the nation’s progress.

The Speaker’s statements come as the House seeks to enhance its oversight and ensure fiscal responsibility in the management of public funds.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives Committee on Post & Telecommunications has summoned the General Manager of DStv, Mr. Siemon Freeman following his repeated failures to appear before the committee.

In a release from the House Press Bureau, despite being cited to appear last Wednesday, Mr. Freeman failed to attend, prompting DStv management to request a rescheduling to Friday, September 20. However, once again, Mr. Freeman did not appear, with staff citing his unavailability due to busy schedule.

The committee has expressed frustration, deeming Mr. Freeman’s absence as contemptuous and an obstruction of its legislative functions. In light of this, the committee has formally summoned Mr. Freeman to appear before them on Wednesday to explain why he should not be held in contempt of the legislature.

According to Article 44 of the 1986 Constitution of Liberia, contempt of the Legislature includes actions that obstruct legislative functions or impede members in the discharge of their duties. Such actions may result in reasonable sanctions imposed by the House after due process.

The committee views Mr. Freeman’s repeated disregard for the legislature as unacceptable and calls for accountability. The committee remains committed to upholding its responsibilities and ensuring compliance from all entities operating within its jurisdiction.