Liberia group slams Boakai-Koung over poverty, pay gaps
STAND demands probe into president's son amid claims of US$14,000 salaries for some officials.
The Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND) has accused the Boakai-Koung administration of failing ordinary Liberians and allowing wide salary disparities within government. STAND stated that the government’s billion-dollar budget has not translated into meaningful relief for citizens struggling with poverty, poor public services, and economic hardship. The group also questioned why senior Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) officials reportedly receive substantial salaries and allowances while some lower-paid public workers face salary reductions.
STAND Chairman Mulbah K. Morlu Jr. said the government’s approach to public spending and accountability reflects a growing gap between senior officials' privileges and ordinary citizens' difficulties. The group cited reported monthly salaries of US$14,000 and US$15,000 in housing allowances for some senior CBL officials, contrasting this with a Governance Commission employee facing a pay cut from US$1,281.91 to US$900. STAND called on government bodies to explain the disparities and subject public-sector compensation to an independent review.
Beyond economic concerns, STAND reiterated its call for an independent investigation into drug trafficking allegations involving Joseph Boakai Jr., arguing that political and family connections should not influence legal application. The group demanded that any unlawful or improperly authorized decisions be corrected and responsible parties held accountable.
Why it mattersLiberians are struggling with poverty and inadequate public services while senior officials allegedly receive high salaries and allowances.