Liberia: Senate Staffers Block Pro Tempore’s Passage Over Unpaid Wages

Capitol Hill, Monrovia – On Tuesday, a group of Senate staffers at the Capitol Building staged a protest, blocking Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence’s motorcade from entering the Capitol Building. The staffers set up roadblocks to express their frustration over unpaid wages and unfulfilled promises.

According to the staffers’ leader, they were assured extra pay for their work during the special legislative session. However, while they watched lawmakers receive substantial salaries and benefits, their own compensation remained unaddressed, leaving them no choice but to demonstrate in order to draw the lawmakers’ attention.

In response, Senator Karnga-Lawrence addressed the protesters, expressing disappointment over their actions. She clarified that there had been no promise of additional pay for the special session and urged the staffers to remain calm, assuring them that the Senate leadership would meet to discuss and respond to their concerns.

This protest is the latest in a series of demonstrations by Capitol Building staffers, who have long called for better pay and benefits.

The Senate’s staffers’ protest comes as lawmakers have reportedly began receiving their US$45,000 each for vehicle.

At the House, some members of the House have already announced how they will use their money. Writing on his Facebook page, Rep. Prince Toles (District #8, Montserrado County.)

 “We will use $45k to purchase two vehicles totaling $20k for my official use and office operations, complete our district office on the Capitol Bypass, and allocate the remaining funds for tuition payments, fund our one district festival starting in November 2024, and fund other necessary projects.”