The Office of the Ombudsman has intensified its campaign to combat corruption, enforce ethical standards, and recover misappropriated public assets across the country’s public sector.
Cllr. Finely Karngar made the statement at a press conference on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the Ministry of Information in Monrovia.
Karngar outlined a series of interventions aims at promoting transparency and accountability within government institutions.
As part of its ongoing efforts, the Ombudsman’s Office recently recovered two government-issued laptops and a table, which were turned over to the General Services Agency (GSA) for proper inventory and coding.
Cllr. Karngar noted that the recovery of these items underscores the agency’s commitment to responsible governance and public asset protection.
He also spoke of ongoing collaborations with international partners, including the European Union and the Danish Ombudsman Office, to strengthen the institution’s operational and institutional capacities.
Despite progress, Karngar acknowledged significant challenges confronting the young institution.
These include limited staffing, inadequate training, and logistical constraints.
He pointed to legal and bureaucratic delays in the judiciary as major setbacks that hinder effective case resolution, discourage investment, and weaken public trust in governance.
Currently, the Ombudsman is investigating 63 active cases involving serious ethical violations such as nepotism, workplace harassment, and conflicts of interest.
In one notable case, a government official was fined US$100 and made full restitution after being found guilty of unlawfully collecting rent while failing to perform official duties.
The individual’s cooperation and compliance with due process were publicly acknowledged.
Cllr. Karngar further disclosed ongoing investigations into the misuse of government vehicles.
Reports indicate that some state-owned vehicles are being used for personal activities, including transporting inmates to funerals, carrying charcoal, and aiding private construction work.
He assured the public that appropriate sanctions would be imposed once investigations are concluded.
To advance ethical governance, the Ombudsman’s Office is working closely with the Law Reform Commission to draft legal reforms.
These proposed laws aim to criminalize tribalism, sectionalism, and other unethical practices.
The Office is also advocating for mandatory asset declarations by public officials, with safeguards to
protect personal privacy unless corruption is suspected.
In a strong statement, Cllr. Karngar condemned the unauthorized circulation of private photos and videos involving public officials, calling for legislation to uphold individual privacy and national dignity in the absence of criminal misconduct.
He urged public institutions to not only penalize unethical conduct but also reward integrity.
Suggested incentives included issuing certificates of recognition and granting time off to exemplary employees.
Cllr. Karngar expressed appreciation to the Liberian media for its role in promoting transparency and accountability.
He called on all public officials to lead by example and uphold a culture of ethical service in the interest of national development.