It is reported in today’s Irish Times (20th June, sub required) that the Auditor General of Liberia has strongly attacked its president for the non accountability of millions of dollars. A number of comparisons can be made with this scandal and the situation in Ireland.
Liberia is one of the most corrupt countries in the world but with help from the international community it is making a serious attempt to fight the disease. Here in Ireland, we have yet to even admit that we are seriously infected.
The matter was taboo during the election because it was judged too risky to attack Bertie Ahern on his personal finances. Neither can we expect much action from the new arrivals in government. Green Party TD Ciaran Cuffe has already made his party’s position crystal clear;
“The Green Party is not the moral guardian of Fianna Fail or anybody else.”
Liberia’s Auditor General is paid by the international community, obviously to ensure an independent and objective voice in the fight against corruption.
Ireland is badly in need of such an arrangement. An investigation into the non accountability of millions, secretly paid to independent TDs to buy their political support, would be a priority.
The situation in Ireland is not the same. In Liberia, the AG went beyond his scope and went to the press with info that was his to correct and improve.
The president, Mrs. Sirleaf is not being investigated nor has she stolen any funds.
Stanf