Monrovia – Acarous Gray, a member of the National Executive Committee of the opposition Congress of Democratic Change (CDC), has sharply criticized President Joseph Nyuma Boakai for failing to address alleged violations of the budget law and the Code of Conduct by certain officials in his administration, whom he referred to as “sacred cows.”
By: Obediah Johnson, [email protected]
In a statement posted to his official Facebook page on October 10, Gray linked the recent resignation of Commerce and Industry Minister Amin Modad to these violations, claiming the President has ignored the issue.
Modad resigned on October 9 amid controversy over a luxurious vehicle purchase that reportedly exceeded the US$45,000 limit set by the 2024 National Budget Law.
Sources indicate that Modad felt disrespected after President Boakai refused to meet with him upon his return from the United Nations General Assembly.
In his resignation letter, Modad expressed concern for his integrity and the administration’s reputation, stating, “I have provided all documentation that demonstrates there was no malfeasance, but this continues to be a distraction from the real national issues.”
Mr. Gray contends that Modad’s acceptance of the vehicle was illegal, violating Section 8(n) of the budget law, which restricts vehicle procurement for most government officials.
He urged President Boakai to uphold the law, emphasizing the President’s constitutional duty to enforce it.
Additionally, Gray criticized the President for not enforcing the National Code of Conduct, which mandates that appointed officials declare their assets within 30 days of taking office.
He called for immediate suspension of those who have failed to comply, arguing that Boakai’s inaction undermines his oath to protect the Constitution.
“Mr. President, you have failed to execute the law by not suspending officials who have blatantly violated the assets declaration timeline,” Gray stated, describing the situation as indicative of a broader “integrity crisis” within the administration.
Former Representative Gray asserted that all officials who violate the law, including Modad, should be treated equally, emphasizing that the President’s failure to act reflects a disregard for his constitutional authority and responsibility.
“Let the law be the law, not to protect sacred cows,” he urged.