By K. Ericson Sayee
MONROVIA, June 28 (LINA) –The House of Representatives has approved a bill amending Chapter 50b of the New Executive Law, Title 12 of the Liberian Code of Laws Revised establishing the Liberia Agency for Community Empowerment (LACE) aimed at fostering transparency and decentralization.
Following a public hearing by the Joint Committees on Good Governance and Judiciary, the legislation was endorsed by members of the House of Representatives after the committees reported that stakeholders and LACE’s officials participated in the process and proffered their opinions on the proposed amendments by Liberian President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr.
The committees noted that the amendments sought to supplement LACE’s institutional proactivity, enhance transparency and accountability, and coordinate the institution’s operations with the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
One of the major changes introduced by the Bill is the creation of a third Deputy Executive Director Position to oversee Programs and Operations, which is expected to enhance supervision of field activities, strengthen collaboration with donors, and improve the execution of community development initiatives nationwide.
It also aimed at restructuring LACE’s Board of Directors by expanding its membership to include a legal expert, representatives from civil society and non-governmental organizations, as well as development partners, with the aim of promoting stronger governance and broader stakeholder participation.
In addition, the legislation establishes a Board Incentives Policy to attract and retain competent professionals capable of providing strategic guidance and effective oversight, enhancing financial accountability. The amendment centralizes the management and reporting of funds derived from State-Owned Enterprises, Corporate Social Responsibility contributions, and concession agreements.
It also streamlines the Finance Director position to reflect contemporary public financial management practices.
The Bill, according to the lawmakers, further institutionalize District Development Funds through mandatory annual budget allocations, reliable financial support for local projects and decentralizing government’s development agenda.
After the passage of the Bill, the House forwarded the instrument to the Liberian Senate for concurrence – and thereafter, will be sent to the office of the President for signature. The House remains committed to supporting instruments intended to enhance proficiency, transparency, and accountability in the public’s sector.