Former US President Donald Trump has fired at least 12 internal government watchdogs, US media reports have indicated. The firings have ignited a storm of controversy surrounding transparency and accountability in the federal government since most of those axed were appointed during Trump’s first term. It has set off an even bigger storm about the independence of oversight bodies.
The officials dismissed were in charge of supervising several government agencies and ensuring proper conduct within federal institutions. Critics say the firings are part of a larger effort to weaken oversight and protect his administration from scrutiny, especially during an era of heightened political tension. Many of the watchdogs had been key figures in investigating government actions and policies.
The timing of the firings is also questionable because they occur in the middle of the ongoing investigations about the actions of Trump’s administration and his policies. The former president has not given a detailed explanation for the dismissals, and supporters argue that it is within his right to appoint officials who align with his vision and priorities.
The controversy that surrounds these dismissals brings into the fore all the long-held fears about the integrity of federal oversight and the conflict of interest possibilities. As public debate continues to rage over implications, experts reiterate the importance of independent oversight bodies to ensure democracy and hold people accountable at every level of government.
