MONROVIA: The U.S. Embassy in Liberia through USAID says it has reached out to independent, internationally recognized firms with specialization in forensic investigations to conduct a scoping mission that could ascertain the basic facts of the alleged missing currency matter and determine to what extent a broader mission would be needed.
A statement issued in Monrovia Wednesday says it is the assessment of the U.S. Embassy in Liberia that such a report would be the most credible and effective means to quickly determine the scale of the problem, and would be an appropriate means for the United States to support the Liberian government’s and citizens’ desire to understand the allegations and facts.
If a broader and longer investigation were found to be needed after the scoping mission has concluded, the Liberian government could discuss next steps with international partners, the statement says.
The Embassy notes that ensure the effectiveness and integrity of the process, the U.S. and Liberian governments have agreed that the independent forensic investigators will conduct their work with full access to information needed and without the imposition of additional actors from the government, civil society, or international partners.
In addition, the embassy mentioned it has agreed that the completed report will be made public, so that there is full transparency and understanding of the outcomes.
The Embassy is urging all Liberians to remain patient as the Liberian government, assisted by the United States and other international partners, considers appropriate and expeditious means to help resolve current concerns and questions about Liberia’s currency.
Recently the Special presidential investigative committee probing the alleged missing billion Liberian dollars described as erroneous information that it does not welcome the inclusion of international institutions to the investigation team.
According to a release issued by the team states that while the committee welcomes the inclusion of international institutions, it boasted of having the capacity, integrity and tenacity to conduct and conclude the current investigation.
It also clarified that it has not found any of its members with conflict of interest as it is being speculated in the public.
The investigative team said should any situation surrounding conflict of interest on the part of any of its members ensue, it will not hesitate to have said member recused from the investigative process.
