Minister Myers Warns Against ‘Undermining County Councils’ -Says Legal Conflict Could Reverse Decentralization Gains

MONROVIA : Deputy Minister of Finance for Fiscal Affairs, Anthony G. Myers, has expressed concerns over what he sees as recent moves to undermine the legitimacy and function of County Councils, warning that such actions are not only counterproductive to decentralization efforts but also risk creating constitutional and legal conflicts.

Speaking in defense of the County Councils at the start of a two-day Fiscal Decentralization and Budget Disaggregation Training for County Finance Officers, Accountants and Comptrollers from the various Ministries, Agencies & Commissions (MACs) on Wednesday in Gbarnga, Bong County, Minister Myers emphasized that their operations are grounded in national laws and regulations.

He particularly spoke of governing Public Financial Management (PFM) and public procurement—frameworks that fall under the oversight of the Legislature.

He warned that attempts to dismantle or circumvent these structures could reverse the progress made in promoting local governance and fiscal accountability.

“With these provisions that are consistent with national laws and under legislative oversight, the recent drive to undo the County Councils is counterproductive,” said Minister Myers. “It threatens the gains in decentralization and carries the seeds of conflicting legal authorities.”

He further noted that the implementation of the PFM Law and procurement regulations—designed to ensure transparency and efficiency in the use of public funds—are already subject to legislative review.

There have been growing trends amongst lawmakers seeking direct involvement in financial management and procurement decisions that could pose serious accountability risks.

“What happens if audit reports uncover improprieties and recommendations are forwarded to the Public Accounts Committees?” he questioned. “Will those same lawmakers, who might have participated in the implementation, and will they be in the position to provide impartial oversight?”

Minister Myers underscored the constitutional principle of separation of powers, warning that legislators actively engaging in project implementation or financial administration risk overstepping their lawmaking and oversight mandates.

“The resources managed by County Administrations and Councils are appropriated by the Legislature. When legislators involve themselves in executing these funds, they are assuming executive responsibilities,” he stated.

The Deputy Minister made it clear that his remarks should not be interpreted as challenging the authority of the Legislature to demand accountability.

He asserted that legislative powers—such as citation, interpellation, inquiries, and requests for information—remain intact and even strengthened when lawmakers maintain an appropriate distance from day-to-day management.

“Their authority to demand transparency and query the quality of service delivery is undiminished,” he affirmed. “In fact, it is enhanced when they remain detached—but not disinterested—in the oversight of development and financial decisions made by local authorities.”

Minister Myers’ remarks came at a time when national discourse around decentralization and local governance is gaining momentum.

His position appear to reinforce the importance of clearly defined roles and responsibilities between the branches of government to avoid overlap, maintain accountability, and sustain the progress made in empowering local governance structures.

Also at the event, the Chairman of the Governance Commission, Prof. Alaric Tokpa urged participants at a decentralization training to defend and effectively exercise the authority granted to them under the Local Government Act, stressing that the process of decentralization of power is moving in a positive direction.

Prof. Tokpa commended the leadership of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and other top officials, and emphasized the importance of financial management and accountability in achieving development goals, stating that “once the system is put into place, the path to development in Liberia will become irreversible.”

Speaking on behalf of the UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Ali Mamadou Dia, UNDP’s Team Lead for Inclusive Governance, Mr. Stanley Kamara, lauded the fiscal decentralization training initiative and emphasized its potential to drive meaningful change in local governance.

He encouraged participants to seize the opportunity as a critical step in both their personal growth and professional development, aimed at rebuilding trust in public institutions and improving service delivery.

“This training is not just a routine exercise,” Mr. Kamara stated. “It’s a platform to empower you with the tools needed to manage fiscal transfers efficiently, align local initiatives with national goals, and foster transparency that builds public confidence. The journey to sustainable development and inclusive governance begins with your actions.”

He further emphasized the importance of collaboration with professional institutions such as the Liberia Institute of Certified Public Accountants (LICPA), highlighting the need for sustained capacity-building in public financial management.

Dr. Romeo Garteh, Director of Fiscal Decentralization at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) also addressed the participants, providing an overview of the objectives of training.

He encouraged county officials to see the program as a cornerstone for meaningful public service, urging them to embrace their roles and serve as champions of decentralization within their communities.

“This training lays the groundwork for effective local governance,” Dr. Garteh said. “Your leadership is essential in driving accountable and transparent development across the counties.”

The training is supported by key development partners including Sweden, Ireland, the UN Peacebuilding Fund, and UNDP.

It represents a key milestone in Liberia’s ongoing decentralization strategy—aimed at empowering local governments to take charge of their development agenda through sound financial governance and citizen engagement.