February 20, 2024
The newly appointed boss of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, declared his assets at the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) on Monday before assuming his position, stating that the Code of Conduct was designed to guide public officials’ behavior and not to prevent them from accumulating wealth.
Dr. Yarkpawolo made this statement as he assumed the role of Acting Executive Director of the EPA, taking over from Prof. Wilson Tarpeh, who served as Executive Director for the past two years.
In a press release, the Acting Director of the EPA emphasized that fulfilling the mandate of the Code of Conduct is an honorable obligation for every public official. He reiterated that the Code was developed to regulate the behavior of public officials, including the declaration of assets every three years and upon leaving office.
“The law does not prohibit public officials from acquiring wealth. Its purpose is to ensure that the wealth acquired by public officials is commensurate with their lawful earnings,” he explained.
Dr. Yarkpawolo, who was the running mate to Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe, commended President Nuyma Boakai for appointing him as Acting Executive Director of the EPA, emphasizing the agency’s potential to foster sustainable development in Liberia and globally.
He emphasized his commitment to transparency by declaring his assets before assuming office, following the example set by President Boakai.
“I have just declared my assets in compliance with the Code of Conduct. I am making my assets available to the public through the media,” he stated.
Dr. Yarkpawolo reiterated President Boakai’s directive for a departure from business as usual, emphasizing the government’s role in serving the people rather than allowing corruption to flourish.
Regarding his assets, Dr. Yarkpawolo disclosed that he owns five houses in Liberia and one in America, along with other properties valued at $636,600.00 USD. His annual income, totaling $157,187.00 from various sources including salaries and rental services, was also revealed. His total liabilities, mainly in mortgage, amount to $349,355.00 USD. His net worth, calculated by deducting liabilities from assets according to the LACC, is $287,245.00 USD.
