Officials from Liberia’s MFDP and CBL were questioned by the Senate regarding budgetary gaps in the health sector. The hearing was prompted by a warning to County Health Officers about potential forfeiture of funds if not utilized by March 31. CBL’s Governor denied the ability to reverse funds, while Deputy MFDP Minister provided vague responses, leading to significant senator dissatisfaction.
On March 20, 2025, officials from the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) and the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) were questioned by the Senate Joint Committee regarding funding gaps in the health sector. The inquiry stemmed from a memo warning County Health Officers that they might lose their budgetary allocations if they did not utilize those funds before March 31.
The Senate hearing involved representatives from the CBL, MFDP, Ministry of Health, and more, focusing on the delays in disbursing funds to hospitals. CBL Executive Governor Henry F. Saamoi clarified that the bank does not have the authority to reverse funds allocated to institutions, stating that once accounts are funded, the money remains accessible.
Deputy MFDP Minister for Budget Madam Tenneh G. Brunson provided ambiguous responses about a memo sent to County Health Officers, failing to confirm or deny its content. She noted that according to Public Financial Management Law, health officers have a three-month window post-year-end to spend their budget; otherwise, any unspent funds would be returned to the government. This statement, however, created further confusion and dissatisfaction among senators.
Senators expressed their displeasure with the MFDP’s handling of the situation, highlighting their concerns over the ministry’s failure to make full payments for the 2024 budget. They criticized the Deputy Minister’s unclear responses, emphasizing that her long tenure should have equipped her to provide more specific references to the PFM Law.
The recent Senate hearing on health sector funding in Liberia revealed significant concerns regarding the lack of disbursement from the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning and the Central Bank. Officials faced scrutiny over ambiguities in financial management policies, raising questions about the allocation and usage of health sector funds. The senators’ dissatisfaction highlights the urgent need for clearer communication and accountability in the financial processes governing the health sector.
Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com
