
10/07/2025
New Legislative Act Aims to Empower Local Development in Liberia
Introduce by Representative Banks
In a significant move towards enhancing local governance and development, Grand Bassa County Electriol District #2 Representative J. Clarence T. Banks has introduced a groundbreaking legislation titled "An Act to Create a Budgetary Line for the 73 Districts Within the Annual National Budget for Development." This act was submitted during the plenary session of the House of Representatives and seeks to allocate specific funds to each district, enabling greater autonomy in project approval and implementation.
According to Representative Banks the proposed act aligns with Articles 29 and 7 of the 1986 Constitution of Liberia, which empower the government to legislate in favor of citizen welfare and ensure equitable participation in the management of the nation’s resources. By establishing a dedicated budget line for local development, the act aims to promote the general welfare of the Liberian people and support economic growth across the country’s 73 districts.
He said Direct Disbursement for Development Projects: Once passed, the act mandates that the annual fiscal budget for each district will be included in the national budget, ensuring regular funding for local initiatives.
The Grand Bassa Lawmaker said Decentralized Decision-Making: Each district will have the authority to decide on and approve developmental projects, with direct involvement from their elected representatives throughout the decision-making process.
Quarterly Fund Release: The act stipulates that budgetary allocations will be released quarterly, promoting timely implementation of development programs.
Regulated Bidding Process: All developmental projects will require a competitive bidding process. Bidders must demonstrate the availability of necessary construction equipment, which will be inspected to ensure compliance before entering the bidding phase.
Immediate Effect: The act is set to take effect immediately upon its passage and publication, reflecting a swift commitment to local empowerment.
This legislative proposal has garnered support amongst lawmakers, who view it as a vital step towards decentralizing governance and ensuring that development initiatives directly reflect the needs and interests of local populations. With hopes anchored in the principles of social justice and economic development, this act could transform how resources and projects are managed across Liberia’s diverse districts.
Representative J. Clarence T. Banks, alongside fellow lawmakers, anticipates that this initiative will foster a sense of ownership among citizens and enhance transparency in the use of public funds. The act is not only a legislative milestone but also a beacon of hope for communities seeking to advance their economic prospects through targeted development efforts.
As the discussion continues, stakeholders from various sectors are encouraged to engage with this initiative, paving the way for a more inclusive and participatory governance framework in Liberia.