Monrovia – Gbapolu County Senator, Amara Konneh, recently provided a comprehensive review of his achievements since taking office as senator. As we mark the 90th day of his tenure, Senator Konneh highlights the progress made in the last month. Here is a summary of his accomplishments:
- Budget Analysis: Senator Konneh and his team received President Boakai’s National Budget proposals and thoroughly analyzed them with the support of financial management professionals and experts. They identified variances in revenue numbers and discovered scope for more efficiency in expenditure reallocations. The senator believes that executing 80 percent of their recommendations will contribute to inclusive economic growth.
- War and Economic Crimes Resolution: Senator Konneh signed the War and Economic Crimes Resolution, demonstrating his commitment to justice, accountability, and reconciliation in Liberia. This resolution aims to bring long-overdue justice to victims of serious abuses committed during Liberia’s civil wars.
- Presidential Transition Act: The senator introduced the Presidential Transition Act of 2024, a critical legislation aimed at ensuring a smooth and transparent transition of power in Liberia. The act is currently under review by the Judiciary Committee and will be sent to the House for concurrence.
- Disaster Relief: Senator Konneh pre-financed the Gbarpolu Legislative Caucus’ response to the recent storms that caused significant damage to homes in Weasua Town, Gbarma District, Gbarpolu County. This provided much-needed relief to the affected households. The senator’s office has also been actively investigating protests at the Bio-Chico mining concession and the Emirates Hospital, showing their dedication to addressing issues affecting local communities.
- Western Region Legislative Caucus: Senator Konneh played a key role in forming the Western Region Legislative Caucus, which will focus on addressing regional issues and promoting development in Western Liberia. The senator was selected as the secretary of the Caucus, highlighting his ability to organize and facilitate development conversations. The Secretariat is finalizing a draft Western Region Three-Year Development Plan, which, if approved and implemented well, could bring about a new approach to development in Liberia.
- Engaging Development Partners: Senator Konneh successfully engaged with development partners to secure funding for the integrity institutions and the Senate Public Accounts Committee, demonstrating his commitment to strengthening Liberia’s good governance and accountability mechanisms.
- Financial Transparency: Senator Konneh submitted the findings of a GAC audit on the Consolidated Account to the Senate Plenary. The audit highlighted potential violations of the Constitution, PFM Law, and CBL Act by MFDP and CBL when they contracted an $83 million loan. The senator also made recommendations to hold a public hearing by the PAC, showcasing his commitment to financial transparency and accountability. A debate on this matter is expected in the Senate.
- Budget Execution Tracking: The Senate PAC, represented by Senator Konneh, sent requests to MFDP and LRA to disclose all GOL operations and revenue accounts and their balances before the budget passage. This request aims to assist in budget execution tracking and further demonstrates the PAC’s commitment to financial transparency.
- Loan Agreement Reports: Together with Senator Dopoh of Rivergee County, Senator Konneh requested performance reports on all loan agreements ratified by the 54th Legislature from the MFDP. This request aims to provide the Senate with a better understanding of the impacts of these loans on citizens and the economy. The reports are currently being reviewed by the Ways and Means Committee.
- Advocacy Letters: Senator Konneh wrote two letters to the Pro Temp and Plenary. The first letter called for an immediate investigation into sand mining in Liberian waters by Chinese and Liberian partners, which is causing environmental degradation; etc.
These achievements reflect Senator Amara Konneh’s commitment to serving the people of Gbapolu County and his dedication to improving the overall well-being of the community
