Assets Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce Seeks Autonomous Status

The Chairman of the Assets Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce (AREPT), Cllr. Edwin Kla Martin, has called for the legislation of the Taskforce to grant it autonomous status, stressing that the fight against corruption in Liberia must be a sustained and continuous process rather than a temporary initiative. Speaking recently, Cllr. Martin explained that granting the Taskforce autonomous status would significantly expand its mandate and operational capacity, allowing it to pursue investigations and recoveries without the constraints of limited timelines. “The fight against corruption is not a one-year activity. It requires addressing complex situations that take time, resources, and sustained commitment,” he emphasized. “When the Taskforce completes an investigation, there is often limited time to execute its mandate. However, with the status of an independent agency, we can operate fully and without such restrictions.” Cllr. Martin urged members of the Legislature to act swiftly on the recommendation to elevate the Taskforce’s status, noting that such a move would strengthen Liberia’s efforts to combat corruption, graft, and the misuse of public resources. In a related development, the Taskforce has officially launched its website, a move it says represents a major step in ensuring transparency, accessibility, and public engagement in its operations. The launch event, held in Paynesville, brought together government officials, civil society representatives, and members of the media. Highlighting the benefits of the new digital platform, Cllr. Martin said the website will make it easier for Liberians at home and abroad to report suspected corruption cases within minutes. “This tool enhances our ability to receive credible information from anywhere in the world, and it strengthens our responsiveness in taking action,” he noted. Delivering the keynote address at the event, Acting Assistant Minister for Information Services at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT), Mr. Lawrence Fahnbulleh, commended the Taskforce for its innovation and commitment. He said the public is eager for credible, timely, and accessible information on the retrieval of stolen assets and wealth, and the website will help bridge that gap. “Within MICAT’s mandate, we remain ready to assist government entities in developing tailored messages and multimedia content to raise public awareness and enhance transparency,” Mr. Fahnbulleh assured. The Assets Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce was established to investigate and recover misappropriated public resources, promote accountability, and strengthen the culture of integrity in Liberia’s governance system. With the call for autonomy and the launch of its new website, AREPT says it is taking another decisive step toward strengthening Liberia’s anti-corruption architecture and empowering citizens to actively participate in safeguarding the nation’s assets.