The President Pro Tempore of the Liberian Senate, Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, has reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to transparency and accountability at all levels of governance. Speaking at the official launch of Liberia’s National Plan on Open Government Partnership (OGP) at Monrovia City Hall on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 Pro Tempore Karnga-Lawrence emphasized the Senate’s willingness to engage with civil society organizations, international partners, and stakeholders to ensure citizens have a voice in the governance process. “The Liberian Senate is open to governance partnership,” she stated. “We are ready to work with all stakeholders to make sure our citizens actively participate in shaping policies and holding leaders accountable.” She reiterated the Senate’s dedication to fostering transparency and citizen engagement, stressing that the OGP initiative presents an opportunity for Liberians to contribute to national development and governance. The Open Government Partnership, introduced in Liberia in 2011, is a global initiative aimed at promoting open governance and strengthening public participation in decision-making. Pro Tempore Karnga-Lawrence described the initiative as a crucial step toward enhancing accountability in government institutions. “This initiative is a key pillar of national development, aligning with President Joseph NyumaBoakai’s vision for transparency in governance,” she noted. “Citizen Participation in governance is critical, and this 5th Open Government Partnership will serve as a cornerstone for achieving that goal.” She assured that the Liberian Senate remains committed to the OGP process, emphasizing that it provides an avenue for citizens to actively engage in governance and policymaking. Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT), Jommy S. Tarkpah, who also chairs the Open Government Partnership Steering Committee, highlighted Liberia’s readiness to collaborate with all stakeholders to achieve OGP’s objectives. “We appreciate the contributions of civil society organizations the Liberia Business Registry, the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), include the Ministry of Public Works, and the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning in promoting accountability,” Tarkpah stated. G. Ralph Jimmeh Jr., head of the OGP Secretariat, reaffirmed that all partners are committed to ensuring that contracts and agreements under the initiative remain open for public scrutiny. “The Judiciary has also expressed its willingness to support the OGP, ensuring that all governance processes remain transparent,” Jimmeh said. Minister of Information, Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, described the launch as a significant milestone in Liberia’s national development agenda. “This initiative fosters openness in governance and citizen participation,” he remarked. “Today marks a turning point and I commend my fellow ministers for their commitment to the Open Government Partnership.” He further extended appreciation to Liberia’s Chief Justice for her dedication to the process, reinforcing the government’s pledge to uphold transparency and accountability. Representing OGP Global, TarikNesh-Nesh commended the Liberian government for its unwavering commitment to accountability and transparency. “The government must remain committed to an open partnership with all stakeholders to ensure accountability in all sectors,” Nesh-Nesh emphasized. “Civil society, international partners and citizens must be actively involved in the governance process.” He reiterated that the OGP serves as a promise to international partners, stakeholders, civil society organizations, and all Liberians, guaranteeing the government’s dedication to transparency and accountability. With the launch of its 5th Open Government Partnership, Liberia takes another step forward in promoting good governance, ensuring that citizens play an integral role in shaping the country’s future.