BONG COUNTY — The Secretary General of the Local Workers’ Union at China Union Mining Company in Fuamah District, Kamara Kpehe, has commended Bong County District Seven Representative Foday Fahnbulleh for what he described as decisive and unwavering advocacy that has resulted in significant improvements in the welfare and working conditions of more than 500 employees at the company’s mining operations in Bong County.

By Selma Lomax, selma.lomax@frontpageafricaonline.com 

In a statement issued on behalf of the Workers’ Leadership Committee, Kpehe said Representative Fahnbulleh’s continuous engagement with the company’s management, government institutions and labor stakeholders has restored confidence among workers, many of whom had become frustrated over poor working conditions, delayed salaries and inadequate safety measures at the mining concession.

According to Kpehe, the lawmaker’s intervention has helped place workers’ concerns at the center of discussions between management and government authorities, leading to tangible reforms that are already improving employees’ daily lives.

“We are deeply grateful to Representative Fahnbulleh for refusing to ignore the cries of ordinary workers. At a time when many employees felt abandoned, he chose to stand with us, engage the relevant authorities and demand that management begin addressing issues that directly affect our safety, dignity and livelihood. His intervention has demonstrated what true leadership and effective representation should look like,” Kpehe said.

Kpehe noted that one of the most visible achievements of the Representative’s advocacy has been the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for workers, something employees had repeatedly requested because of the hazardous nature of mining operations.

“Mining is one of the most dangerous occupations, and workers cannot safely perform their duties without adequate protective equipment. Through Representative Fahnbulleh’s persistent advocacy, management has started providing the necessary PPE, significantly improving workplace safety and reducing the risks our members face every day while carrying out their responsibilities,” he stated.

The union leader further explained that the Representative also played a critical role in confronting what workers described as persistent bad labor practices at the company.

According to him, employees had complained about excessive working hours, unfair treatment and disrespectful conduct by some foreign supervisors, concerns that were consistently raised by Representative Fahnbulleh during his engagements with management and labor authorities.

“For a long time, workers endured difficult conditions, including long hours and treatment that undermined their dignity. Representative Fahnbulleh listened to our concerns without prejudice and consistently demanded that management uphold acceptable labor standards. His voice gave workers renewed confidence that their rights deserved protection under the laws of Liberia,” Kpehe emphasized.

Kpehe also praised the lawmaker’s intervention regarding salary delays that affected employees during the months of June and July this year. He disclosed that the Representative worked closely with the Ministry of Labor and company officials to ensure workers received their salaries in a timely manner, easing financial hardship for hundreds of families dependent on the mining operation.

“We sincerely appreciate his efforts in engaging both management and the Ministry of Labor to resolve the issue of delayed salaries. Many families rely entirely on these wages for food, education and healthcare. His timely intervention helped ensure that workers received the compensation they had honestly earned through their labor,” he added.

Beyond wages and labor rights, Kpehe said Representative Fahnbulleh has consistently advocated for improved occupational safety, workers’ training, sanitation and social security measures aimed at creating a healthier and more productive work environment.

According to him, the Representative encouraged management to strengthen workplace safety awareness, improve access to clean drinking water and address other welfare concerns affecting employees across the concession.

“Our appreciation goes beyond one issue because Representative Fahnbulleh has remained engaged on several fronts. He has advocated for workers’ training, improved sanitation, access to safe drinking water and stronger social security protections. These are not just benefits; they are essential investments in the health, safety and future of every employee working at China Union,” Kpehe declared.

The Secretary General said the workers now believe they have a genuine voice within government because of the Representative’s continued accessibility and willingness to defend their interests whenever challenges arise.

He pledged that the Workers’ Leadership Committee would continue collaborating with the company’s management to maintain industrial peace while supporting initiatives that increase productivity and strengthen the company’s operations.

Kpehe offered prayers for Representative Fahnbulleh, describing him as a leader whose commitment to ordinary citizens has inspired confidence among workers throughout the concession.

“We pray that God continues to bless Representative Foday E. K. Fahnbulleh with wisdom, strength and good health as he continues serving the people of Bong County. His commitment to defending workers’ rights has earned our respect, and we remain committed to working together in the interest of peace, productivity and sustainable development at China Union Mining Company.

Monrovia – Mansa Resources, the company seeking to assume control of Liberia’s multi-million-dollar Dugbe Gold Project, has come under scrutiny after the Ministry of Labour rejected its applications for work permits for three expatriate employees, citing serious violations of the country’s employment procedures.

Jaheim T. Tumu

The ministry ruled that the company failed to comply with Liberia’s labour regulations and ordered it to advertise the positions locally before seeking approval to employ foreign nationals.

The development comes as the company’s request for a Change of Control relating to the Dugbe Gold Project remains pending before the Government of Liberia, raising fresh questions about whether the company is complying with Liberia’s labour laws and the employment obligations contained in the project’s Mineral Development Agreement (MDA).

Official correspondence obtained from the Ministry of Labour by this newspaper shows that on June 18, 2026, Hummingbird Resources (Liberia) Inc., through Country Manager Roosevelt Forh, formally requested work permits for Jesse Jody Suat, a Papua New Guinean, for the position of Chief Surveyor; Warren George Baldwin, an Australian, for the position of Maintenance Superintendent; and Jason Joubert, a South African, for the position of Commercial Manager.

 The application was addressed to Labour Minister Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah Sr. pursuant to Liberia’s Aliens and Nationality Law. In the application, the company requested permission for the three expatriates to be employed by Hummingbird Resources Liberia Inc., stating that copies of their passports, resident permits and supporting documents had been attached.

Ministry Rejects Applications

Just over one month later, on July 21, 2026, the Ministry of Labour formally rejected the applications.

In a letter signed by Acting Minister Othello P. Mansuo, the Ministry informed Country Manager Roosevelt Forh that the request had been denied.

“We regret to inform you that your application has been denied,” the Ministry wrote.

The Ministry explained that the applications were denied because the positions had not been advertised, while also citing Standing Order No. 2, Regulation No. 19 and the need for additional documentation.

The Ministry specifically directed the company to first give qualified Liberians an opportunity to compete for the positions.

“For the purpose of encouraging competition among job seekers, you are hereby requested to advertise the aforementioned position(s) in at least two local daily newspapers for a period of 30 days,” the letter states.

The Ministry further reminded the company that expatriates cannot legally work without valid work permits.

“Your management is reminded that all expatriates under your employment must carry valid work permits, as penalties will be applied to violators in accordance with the Decent Work Act of 2015.”

Handwritten notations appearing on the company’s application also instruct the company to “Kindly advertise the above positions,” while official Ministry stamps across the documents read “ALIEN WORK PERMIT DENIED.”

The Ministry’s decision comes as Mansa Resources seeks government approval for a Change of Control involving the Dugbe Gold Project following its acquisition of Pasofino Gold.

The rejection has prompted questions about whether the company has completed all required regulatory steps before recruiting expatriate personnel.

Sources familiar with the matter allege that additional foreign personnel have been recruited or are being brought into Liberia for the project. This newspaper has not independently verified those claims, and Mansa Resources had not responded to requests for comment by publication time.

The Dugbe Mineral Development Agreement contains detailed provisions governing employment practices.

Section 11.1(a) states: “Employment practices of the Company shall conform to applicable labor practices Law and other applicable Law.”

The agreement further provides: “The Company shall employ and give preference to the employment of qualified citizens of Liberia for financial, accounting, technical, administrative, supervisory, managerial and executive positions and other skilled positions as and when they become available.”

The agreement also establishes clear Liberianization targets. It provides that Liberians should occupy at least 30 percent of all management positions, including 30 percent of the company’s ten most senior positions, within six years of the grant of the mining license. Within ten years, Liberians should hold at least 70 percent of all management positions, including 70 percent of the company’s ten most senior positions.

The MDA further requires the company, within sixty days of the effective date, to submit a list of its ten most senior management positions and the individuals occupying those positions and to update that list annually.

These provisions are intended to ensure that Liberians receive priority in employment while allowing expatriates to fill positions only in accordance with Liberian law and the terms of the concession agreement.

Labour experts say the rejection of work permit applications does not necessarily prevent a company from later employing expatriates. Rather, it requires the employer to first satisfy statutory requirements by demonstrating that qualified Liberians were given a genuine opportunity to compete for the positions.

Failure to comply with those procedures may delay approval of work permits and could expose employers to sanctions if expatriates are employed without authorization. The Ministry’s letter specifically warns that penalties may be imposed under the Decent Work Act of 2015.

The timing of the Ministry’s decision is likely to attract attention because it comes while the Government of Liberia is still considering the proposed Change of Control involving the Dugbe Gold Project.

Regulatory compliance, including adherence to labour laws and obligations contained in the Mineral Development Agreement, is generally regarded as an important aspect of government oversight of mining concessions. Whether the rejected work permit applications will have any bearing on the government’s consideration of the pending Change of Control remains unclear.

Officials at the Ministry of Mines and Energy have not publicly commented on the matter.

As of publication, Mansa Resources and Hummingbird Resources (Liberia) Inc. had not publicly responded to the Ministry’s decision.

This newspaper has sought the company’s response on whether any expatriates have commenced work before obtaining valid work permits, what steps have been taken to advertise the affected positions locally, whether additional expatriate work permit applications have been submitted, and how the company intends to comply with the employment provisions of the Mineral Development Agreement.

The story will be updated if responses are received.

GANTA, Nimba County — The Ministry of Labor and its partners on Wednesday opened a three‑day regional training in Ganta City, Nimba County aimed at strengthening service delivery and expanding capacity building beyond the ministry’s central office.

By Franklin Doloquee

Assistant Minister for Planning and Manpower Development Emmanuel K. Barnes said the workshop is part of the ministry’s Performance Monitoring and Capacity Strengthening (PMCS) initiative, which sets clear targets for improved public service and prioritizes staff development.

“Even where work is routine, staff must be kept up to date with changes and realities that affect our work,” Assistant Minister Barnes said at the opening session.

The training brings together labor commissioners, inspectors, and other staff from the four counties to ensure regional personnel receive the same professional development opportunities previously offered to central office employees.

It can be recalled that last year, the ministry organized two major trainings. This year’s regional workshop includes an in‑depth review of Liberia’s labor laws led by experienced ministry veterans, intended to help newer staff move from a partial to a comprehensive understanding of legal and regulatory frameworks.

Assistant Minister Barnes also introduced the Public Sector Investment Project (PSIP), explaining that several current ministry positions are financed through the project and that participants will learn about the PSIP’s objectives and implications for county operations.

Participants have been urged to take the training seriously.

Officials said certificates have been printed for all attendees but will be awarded only on the basis of performance in evaluations at the end of the three‑day program.

Deputy Minister for Manpower, Planning and Human Resources Development, Steven S. Kolubah, thanked participants and organizers at the opening session, and praised the ministry’s leadership for supporting youth‑focused initiatives.

He acknowledged Counselor Cooper W. Kruah Sr., the minister who is attending an international conference in the United States, for encouraging proposals from young ministry members and for empowering junior staff to take on responsibilities.

“This training is an eye‑opener for new staff,” Deputy Minister Kolubah stated.

He urged participants to treat the sessions as preparation for future roles, noting that strong performance during and after the program will build a lasting professional reputation.

He thanked the planning and human resources teams for pushing the initiative forward and promised continued support during the training’s duration in Nimba and during a planned rollout to Liberia’s southeast region.

Acting Minister and Deputy Minister for Administration, P. Othello P. Mansuo Jr., announced a major resource boost tied to the Public Sector Reform Project (PSRP).

He said the ministry has procured vehicles, computers and other equipment to improve county‑level labor administration and revenue mobilization.

‘‘To date, the ministry has deployed three vehicles for county teams and distributed 19 laptops and 19 printers one set for each participating rural county commission along with stationery and cleaning supplies to strengthen daily operations.’’

“We know there are many constraints in the field,” Acting Minister Mansuo intimated, stressing ‘‘with motorcycles, vehicles, printers and laptops, we expect county offices to submit timely periodic reports to regional headquarters. We deploy you, but we are not forgetting you.”

He added that additional vehicles are budgeted and will be phased in over coming years to help commissioners and field teams carry out their duties more efficiently.

Trainers and facilitators at the workshop combined ministry veterans with external experts to exchange ideas and build practical skills needed to implement Liberia’s labor framework.

He emphasized the ministry’s commitment to decentralized capacity building and improved regional service delivery.

The training is expected to conclude on the final day with written and practical evaluations; certificates will be awarded to participants who meet the required performance standards.

The ministry also urged the media and local stakeholders to help ensure that the training’s outcomes are translated into stronger labor services nationwide.

MONROVIA –The Manager of the James Spriggs Payne Airport, Abner Yonly, has declined to further comment on allegations regarding the settlement of outstanding COVID-19 salary arrears owed to employees by the previous administration.

By Emmanuel Weedee-Conway

About 20 current and former employees of the James Spriggs Payne Airport claim that the Government of Liberia (GoL) has failed to settle salary arrears owed to them during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

According to the employees, the outstanding payments, ranging from three to four months’ salaries, remain unpaid despite assurances from both the previous and current administrations.

The aggrieved workers are now calling for swift government intervention to resolve the matter, warning that continued delays could compel them to take unspecified actions.

In an exclusive interview over the weekend, the affected employees, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of losing their jobs, said that despite promises by the current administration to settle the outstanding obligations, more than three months have passed without any action from management.

According to the employees, the original arrears amounted to six to seven months’ salaries.

However, part of the debt was paid during the early days of the current administration, leaving an outstanding balance of three to four months.

They said repeated appeals were made to former airport manager Emmanuel Tarplah, but no further action was taken before he left office.

The employees, comprising both men and women, explained that the unpaid salaries date back to the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic, when many workers were instructed to remain at home or work remotely as part of measures to contain the spread of the virus.

“This is very frustrating. We worked for our money, and yet we cannot receive it,” one female employee lamented.

“We have tried to be patient and respectful, but it seems no one is listening to us,” a female employee added.

Another former employee, who now works at a different government institution, said they have learned that funding for the arrears was included in the 2026 National Budget under the Liberia Airport Authority (LAA), but management has provided no update on the matter.

“We understand that US$116,789 has been allocated under ‘Other Compensations,’ and we believe this is intended to cover our payment. That is why we are appealing to the government, particularly the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, to settle this obligation,” the source said.

The workers further expressed disappointment that despite several meetings and assurances from the previous management, the issue remains unresolved.

When contacted some months back on the matter, former airport manager Emmanuel Tarplah acknowledged the outstanding obligation, stating that it was documented in his official handover notes.

“Government is a continuity. When leaving office, you provide a turnover note, and this obligation was clearly stated. It is now the responsibility of the current management and the government to ensure payment,” Mr. Tarplah said.

When contacted for comment, Abner Yonly, the current Manager of the James Spriggs Payne Airport, declined to elaborate on the allegations.

“No answer to that. What I can say is, go and ask the people. Go to the accountants and ask them. That’s all I can say. You can’t tell me how to do my work or force me to talk,” Mr. Yonly added briefly.

MONROVIA – The Government of Liberia(GoL), through the National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce of Liberia, has signed a US$35,000 grant agreement with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to strengthen ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking in the country.

Speaking during the signing ceremony held at the Ministry of Labour on Wednesday, June 10, the Chairman of the National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce and Minister of Labour, Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah  Sr., reaffirmed the Government of Liberia’s commitment to combating human trafficking, describing the crime as a serious violation of human dignity and fundamental human rights.

Minister Kruah emphasized that the government remains resolute in discouraging trafficking through prevention, protection and the prosecution of perpetrators.

He noted that while authorities and partners continue to intensify efforts to eradicate the crime, traffickers are constantly developing new methods to carry out their illegal activities.

The Labour Minister stressed the need for additional training of labour inspectors with specialized expertise in trafficking in persons.

According to him, deploying trained inspectors at border entry points and within vulnerable communities will significantly enhance efforts to detect and prevent trafficking cases.

On behalf of the GoL,  Minister Kruah expressed profound appreciation to ECOWAS for its continued support and partnership in the fight against human trafficking.

He acknowledged ECOWAS as a trusted ally whose contributions have strengthened Liberia’s response mechanisms.

He highlighted the successful utilization of the first ECOWAS grant of US$35,000, which helped address the urgent needs of 61 trafficking victims.

However, he noted that the growing number of trafficking cases currently before courts across the country underscores the need for increased support from ECOWAS and other development partners.

Minister Kruah also called on the Government of Liberia to allocate additional resources to the National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce to ensure the effective implementation of programs aimed at eliminating trafficking in the country.

Earlier, the ECOWAS Officer-in-Charge in Liberia, Dr. Nathaniel B. Walker, described human trafficking as one of the most serious threats to human dignity, human security, and sustainable development in the region. He noted that the crime disproportionately affects women, children and other vulnerable populations while undermining social cohesion and institutional development.

Dr. Walker stated that ECOWAS recognizes that addressing human trafficking requires strong national institutions, effective coordination mechanisms, public awareness campaigns, victim protection services, and preventive measures.

He explained that it is within this context that ECOWAS continues to support the Ministry of Labour as part of the regional body’s collective commitment to preventing trafficking, protecting victims, prosecuting perpetrators and strengthening partnerships among stakeholders.

“For ECOWAS, this grant represents more than a financial contribution; it symbolizes our continued solidarity with the Government and people of Liberia in advancing the ECOWAS Regional Action Plan on Trafficking in Persons and promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration across the sub-region,” Dr. Walker stated.

He commended the Ministry of Labour, members of the National Anti-Human Trafficking Taskforce and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for their dedication and leadership. He expressed confidence that the grant will strengthen coordination among stakeholders and enhance support services for victims of trafficking.

This marks the second time ECOWAS has provided a US$35,000 grant to support Liberia’s anti-human trafficking efforts.

The first grant, awarded in 2025 and implemented through the International Organization for Migration (IOM), successfully supported 61 trafficking victims, including 57 females and four males. Beneficiaries received a range of protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration services tailored to their specific needs.

The second intervention aims to provide comprehensive assistance to approximately 45 victims of trafficking, including seven girls, seven boys, 20 women and 11 men.

The support will address both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term reintegration requirements.

The project will be implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Monrovia – Kebbeh Harris Dolo and Massa Senesie are two female employees of ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) serving as Wheel Loader Operators in the company’s mining operations.

In roles traditionally dominated by men, both women operate heavy equipment used to load materials onto trains and carry out clearing activities when required, demonstrating professionalism, skill, and determination in Liberia’s growing mining sector.

Kebbeh joined AML as a full employee on November 4, 2025, after working with several subcontractor companies in similar roles. For many years, she aspired to work directly for ArcelorMittal Liberia, viewing the company as a place where skilled Liberians could build long-term careers and access professional development opportunities.

With this dream now realized, Kebbeh expresses profound gratitude to AML for providing her with the opportunity to work in a field she is deeply passionate about.

“I find joy in working with ArcelorMittal. Since joining the company, there has been great joy in my life. On the job, AML shows genuine care for its workers and provides hands-on training. Although I had some prior exposure to heavy equipment from my previous roles, joining AML gave me comprehensive training that truly prepared me to handle the equipment I now operate,” Kebbeh said.

She added that she feels fulfilled working with AML and hopes to remain with the company until retirement. While having secure employment at ArcelorMittal Liberia is important to her, Kebbeh is especially passionate about operating heavy equipment such as the wheel loader. She believes passion motivates individuals to give their best in any role.

This passion, she says, drives her to strictly observe all rules and policies that guide her professional conduct and ensure job security. Kebbeh further noted that she feels safe at work because AML prioritizes employee safety—a culture she believes encourages workers to perform their duties with care and caution to prevent harm.

Encouraging other women to pursue similar career paths, Kebbeh emphasized that acquiring skills in heavy equipment operation significantly reduces the risk of unemployment. According to her, skilled operators will always be in demand as mining operations, infrastructure development, and road construction activities continue to expand across Liberia.

She also challenged public perceptions that employment at AML depends on personal connections.

“That is not true. When you know the job and can prove your skills, you can be accepted. I joined ArcelorMittal without knowing anyone in the system. I simply demonstrated my competence in the role that was advertised, and I was selected,” she explained.

Massa Senesie, for her part, is a multi-skilled operator with training and hands-on experience operating both the Articulated Dump Truck (ADT) and the wheel loader. She joined AML in June 2025 and describes her employment as the fulfillment of a long-standing prayer after years of working with subcontractor companies.

“I am very proud to be part of ArcelorMittal. When you work with AML, they train you thoroughly, building your knowledge in both the practical and theoretical aspects of your job,” Massa noted.

Like Kebbeh, Massa believes that skills—not personal connections—make a worker competent and valuable in the workplace. She therefore encourages her peers to take advantage of every training opportunity that enhances their ability to operate heavy-duty equipment. She also urges women to prioritize training in high-demand job areas to increase their employment opportunities and financial independence.

ArcelorMittal Liberia continues to invest heavily in the training and development of Liberians through structured technical training programs, on-the-job mentorship, and skills transfer initiatives designed to build a competent national workforce for the mining industry.

Through the ArcelorMittal Liberia Training Academy and workplace-based operational training, the company has created opportunities for hundreds of young Liberians to acquire internationally competitive technical and vocational skills.

AML has also continued to strengthen gender sensitive hiring and workplace inclusion by creating opportunities for more women to participate in technical and operational roles once considered nontraditional for women. The increasing number of female equipment operators, technicians, electricians, mechanics, and artisans within the company reflects ongoing efforts to promote gender diversity and empower women economically through sustainable employment and professional development.

Varlee Kamara, Supervisor for Kebbeh and Massa, expressed great satisfaction in having the two women on his team. He described them as dedicated professionals whose ethical conduct has made a positive impact in the Training and Loading Section of the mining operation.

“Kebbeh is known for her strong sense of responsibility and consistency. She approaches every task with focus and care, ensuring that all work is carried out safely and efficiently,” Varlee stated.

“Massa, on the other hand, brings a calm and steady presence to the team. She works with patience and precision, paying close attention to detail to ensure smooth operations,” he added.

Their stories continue to inspire many young women across Liberia to confidently pursue technical careers in the mining industry, proving that competence, discipline, and determination can open doors to opportunities previously considered out of reach for women.

Monrovia — The Minister of Labour, Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah Sr., has formally requested the Management of the Firestone Plantation Company to place an immediate hold on the proposed redundancy of Winston Ford, Co-Chair of the Firestone Agricultural Workers Union (FAWUL).

In a communication addressed to the company, the Minister indicated that the Ministry’s recommendation is based on findings from ongoing investigations and observations, which suggest that proceeding with Mr. Ford’s redundancy at this time could trigger industrial unrest within the plantation.

The Minister disclosed that approximately six weeks ago, the Legal Counsel of Firestone informed the Ministry of Management’s intention to declare six employees redundant, including Mr. Ford.

The matter was subsequently forwarded to the Director of Workers’ Compensation for review and technical advice.

While the communication was under review, the Ministry received concerns from over 46 Workplace Representatives, who not only rejected the proposed redundancy but also submitted a petition urging Mr. Ford to contest the Union’s chairmanship. A copy of the petition, duly signed by the representatives, was presented to the Ministry. These Workplace Representatives serve as elected voices of workers across various departments and sections of the plantation.

In light of these developments, the Ministry initiated a comprehensive investigation into the matter.

Minister Kruah emphasized that the sequence of events—Mr. Ford being petitioned to contest the chairmanship and subsequently listed for redundancy—raises serious concerns, warranting caution and due diligence.

Accordingly, the Ministry has requested Management to suspend any action on the redundancy pending further review.

The Minister concluded by noting that while certain actions may be legally permissible, they must also be exercised with prudence and sensitivity to maintain peace and stability within the workplace.

Meanwhile, in a formal request submitted to the Ministry, the Workplace Representatives called for a full probe into the redundancy process.

They referenced Article 29, Section (J) of the existing Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which stipulates that in cases of redundancy, a Workplace Representative within a given department or section shall be the last to be affected.

The representatives further maintained that  Winston Ford is not only a Workplace Representative across three departments but also the duly elected Co-Chairman representing the entire workforce under FAWUL.

Monrovia – A high-level delegation from the International Labour Organization (ILO) Regional Office for English-Speaking West Africa is in Liberia to re-engage with members of the Tripartite Council on the implementation of key labour programs and projects that were previously stalled due to internal divisions within the Liberia Labour Congress (LLC).

The delegation welcomed the recent reconciliation among parties within the LLC, noting that the renewed unity creates a conducive environment for the ILO to collaborate effectively with all constituents of the tripartite structure government, employers and workers.

 The delegation emphasized the importance of social dialogue as a critical tool for advancing inclusive and sustainable labour initiatives in Liberia.

Speaking during the engagement, the Head of Delegation, Madam Innolata Aninyangarar, commended Labour Minister Cooper W. Kruah Sr. for his timely intervention in resolving the dispute within the LLC.

She noted that the mission aims to introduce a new ILO-supported project in Liberia and to strengthen engagement with key social partners, including workers’ organizations, employers, government representatives and development partners.

Madam Aninyangarar further disclosed that the ILO is committed to supporting Liberia in developing a roadmap for the implementation of the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP), which is already operational in countries such as Ghana, Nigeria and Sierra Leone.

 She attributed the delay in Liberia’s rollout to the earlier leadership crisis within the LLC.

The DWCP is a four- to six-year strategic framework focused on three priority areas: strengthening social dialogue, improving employment outcomes, and developing a comprehensive national employment policy.

Additionally, the ILO’s new project support to Liberia will prioritize technical and vocational education and training (TVET), employment promotion, social dialogue, and the inclusion of persons with disabilities.

In response, Labour Minister Kruah welcomed the ILO delegation and highlighted the proactive role played by the Ministry of Labour in facilitating reconciliation among the aggrieved parties of the LLC.

 He assured the delegation of Liberia’s readiness to fully participate in international labour engagements.

The Minister further reaffirmed the preparedness of Liberia’s Tripartite Delegation—comprising representatives from the LLC, the Liberia Chamber of Commerce (LCC) and the Government of Liberia (GoL) through the Ministry of Labour—to attend the upcoming International Labour Conference in Geneva next month.

Minister Kruah underscored the importance of safeguarding workers’ rights across both public and private sectors.

He noted that while the Decent Work Act guarantees private sector workers the right to unionize, public sector employees are guided by the Civil Service Standing Orders, which also provide for the formation of associations and ensure key protections.

The Labour Minister concluded by emphasizing that harmonizing Liberia’s labour laws including the Decent Work Act and the Civil Service Standing Orders are achievable.

However, he stressed that such an effort would require strong intergovernmental collaboration, comprehensive research, and expert technical support to develop a coherent framework capable of guiding effective policy decisions.

Monrovia – Labour Minister Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah has met with a delegation of the Liberia Agricultural Companies Association (LACA), reassuring the group of government’s commitment to speedily resolve their grievances.

Minister Kruah Chairs the Presidential Task Force set up recently by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to amicably resolve several complaints raised by the Liberia Agricultural Companies Association (LACA), which the group claims are hindering their operations.

A Labour Ministry press release issued on Wednesday, April 29 following a closed door meeting by the Liberia Labour Minister and a delegation from LACA, quotes him as informing the organization that within the next couple of days his committee will present a fully compiled list of recommendations in response to their grievances to the President.

He said their meeting was intended to build confidence and forge closer cooperation aimed at advancing the organization’s agenda in improving the agricultural sector of the country.

The Labour boss added that over twenty key government ministries and State Own Enterprises comprising the Special Presidential Task Force are critically reviewing the LACA complaints and advance relevant solutions to resolve them.

“We take the grievances of the agro-sector very seriously and are carrying out the mandate of President Boakai in resolving them,” the Labour Minister emphasized.

Meanwhile, the National Minimum Wage Board also chaired by the Labour Minister has held a strategic retreat aimed at advancing additional strategies in realigning the current Minimum Wage of Liberian workers.

Minister Kruah welcoming members of the Board, called on them to soberly work in reviewing the status of the current Minimum Wage, compared to the living standard of the population and basic wages of neighboring West African countries and recommend appreciative recommendations for improvements to reflect present day economic standard of the population.

The Board Head of Secretariat and Director, Jerome Kollie, joined by other Board members and Staff, including Professor Geegbae A. Geegbae, Madam Theresa Vedkinda,  

Madam Blessing Suah, among others, attended the day-long retreat whose outcome is expected to be presented to the Minister shortly.

The retreat is part of ongoing activities by The National Minimum Wage Board to review the overall economic conditions of the private sector workers.

Since the ascendancy of the current Rescue Mission Government, which is keen on improving the living standard of the Liberian people, through job creation and sustainable economic growth, the Minimum Wage Board has been carrying out its statutory mandate, which includes review and realignment of the economic growth of Liberian workers.

Monrovia — The Vanguard Student Unification Party (SUP) of the University of Liberia has issued a scathing rebuke of the Boakai-Koung Administration, accusing the ruling Unity Party (UP) of weaponizing the plight of a brutalized student activist to distract from its failure to address mass unemployment and poverty.

By Francis G. Boayue, francisg.boayue@frontpageafricaonline.com

In a fiery weekend statement, the nation’s oldest student political movement reaffirmed its commitment to the planned April 14 “March for Jobs and Justice,” while simultaneously announcing the expulsion of a high-ranking member and launching a blistering attack on the Minister of Youth and Sports.

At the heart of the current row is the case of Christopher Walter Sisulu Sivili, a student activist whose brutalization in 2022 became a rallying cry for the then-opposition Unity Party.

SUP now alleges that the UP, having secured state power partly by leveraging Sisulu’s ordeal, has completely abandoned him.

“The Unity Party does not care about Sisulu,” the party stated, labelling the government’s current rhetoric as “hypocritical propaganda.”

SUP argued that despite presiding over all three branches of government for nearly three years, the administration has failed to provide justice or economic compensation for the young activist.

“They used him in 2022 and dumped him after taking power. Today, because we are exposing their leadership inability, they want to find shade under Sisulu,” the Vanguard party charged, vowing to dismantle what they termed a “cheap charade.”

The party clarified that the upcoming April 14 protest is a constitutional response to “interminable contradictions” within Liberian society, specifically citing the gap between the rising number of graduates and the lack of economic capacity to absorb them.

SUP also announced that it has officially welcomed endorsements for the march from various groups, including the CDC-COP, the District #17 Student Union, and the “Weah Out Campaign.” Defending its decision to align with diverse political forces, SUP stated it would “do business with absolutely anyone” who suffers under the current administration’s economic policies.

The statement took a particularly sharp turn toward Youth and Sports Minister Cornelia Kruah.

SUP accused the Minister of using taxpayer-funded “county tours” to destabilize youth and student organizations, including the Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY) and the Liberia National Students’ Union (LINSU).

The party alleged that Minister Kruah is actively attempting to sabotage the April 14 rally by funding “party deviants” to cause internal friction.

“Cornelia must be reminded that SUP has defeated individuals far bigger than her,” the statement warned, threatening to end her ministerial career if she continued to interfere in the party’s internal affairs.

Citing the need for “iron-fisted discipline” ahead of the national mobilization, SUP issued a stern warning to its militants and veterans against publicly challenging party positions.

The party emphasized the principle of Democratic Centralism, noting that once a decision is made through party structures, it is binding on all members.

To reinforce this, the 34th Politburo and Central Committee announced the immediate expulsion of Central Committee member Mohammed Gaytaweh.

The party accused Gaytaweh of acts contrary to its constitution and traditions, instructing the public to cease all dealings with him on behalf of the institution.

As the April 14 anniversary of the 1979 Rice Riots approaches, the atmosphere in Monrovia remains tense. SUP concluded by calling on its “ideological disciples” to remain resolute, describing the party as a “living historical monument of blood, sweat, and tears” that will not be silenced.