
The Leadership of the 55th Legislature has appointed Mr. Othello S. Tarbah, a seasoned Economist and accomplished Public Financial Management Professional, as the new Director of the Legislative Budget Office (LBO). Mr. Tarbahβs appointment reflects the Legislatureβs firm confidence in his expertise, dedicated public service, and his longstanding commitment to strengthening financial oversight and accountability within the governance system. Prior to his appointment, he served as Deputy Director for Expenditure at the LBO, where he earned high commendation for his professionalism and analytical competence.
In a joint communication, Speaker Hon. Richard Nagbe Koon and President Pro Tempore Hon. Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence expressed high expectations for Director Tarbahβs leadership, stating that the Legislature looks forward to innovative contributions that advance the mission and strategic goals of the LBO. As Director, Mr. Tarbah will lead efforts to improve the Legislatureβs capacity in budget scrutiny, fiscal analysis, and public financial management reform. He is expected to enhance institutional collaboration, strengthen accountability mechanisms, and support lawmakers with evidence-based analysis in the execution of their constitutional responsibilities.
Speaking at the turnover ceremony, Director Tarbah reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, strategic analysis, and civic accountability in delivering technical support to the Legislature. βMy induction as Director is a continuation of service β guided by the principles of integrity, institutional discipline, and excellence,β he remarked. He further pledged to strengthen budget transparency, build capacity within the LBO, and deepen partnerships across government and civil society to enhance the Officeβs effectiveness. Director Tarbah brings over 20 years of experience in public financial management, economic policy, and budget reform including extensive professional exposure across Africa, Europe, and the United States.
He has participated in numerous high-level international trainings and seminars, earning credentials from globally recognized institutions such as Duke University, WAIFEM, the World Bank Institute, and the Kenya School of Government. He holds an MBA in Business Management and a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics both from the University of Liberia. Established by an Act of the Legislature in 2011, the Legislative Budget Office functions as an autonomous institution providing non-partisan, evidence-based fiscal analysis and policy advice to aid legislative decision-making and strengthen oversight of national resources. The Leadership of the 55th Legislature expressed full confidence that Director Tarbahβs experience and vision will enhance the operational efficiency of the LBO and contribute significantly to improved governance and fiscal accountability in Liberia.