Rep. Yogboh Wants Key Sections of National Code of Conduct Amended

MONROVIA, LIBERIA: A new push to strengthen accountability in public service has emerged on Capitol Hill as Montserrado County District #12 Representative Jerry K. Yogboh formally submitted a bill seeking to amend Sections 5.1 and 5.2 of Liberia’s National Code of Conduct.

The proposal, currently before the House of Representatives of Liberia, aims to amend the clause 'Desires to Canvass or Contest’ under Sections 5.1 and 5.2 to mandatory resignation for government officials seeking elected public office.

The proposal titled “An Act to Amend Sections 5.1 and 5.2" of the National Code of Conduct, was submitted on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, by the lawmaker.

According to him, the clause has created uncertainty in interpretation, resulting in inconsistent enforcement of the law on public officials participation in active politics.

He stated that the bill if enacted 

would clarify said provisions in the Code of Conduct and regulate political participation by public officials by mandatory resignation.

“The current wording of Sections 5.1 and 5.2, particularly the phrase ‘desires to canvass or contest,’ has created ambiguity in interpretation and enforcement,” Yogboh stated in his communication. “This has led to inconsistent application of the law governing political participation by public officials".

“This amendment is intended to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and the separation of public duty from political ambition,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Representative Jerry K. Yogboh urged the House leadership to take prompt action on the matter, noting the broader implications for governance and electoral integrity.

“In view of the importance of this matter to good governance and democratic accountability, I respectfully request that this communication and the accompanying bill be forwarded to the appropriate committee for review and further legislative action,” the lawmaker further stated.