President of Liberia Joseph Boakai Announces Salary Cut Under Public Review

Declared a 40% cut in his annual pay, Liberian President Joseph Boakai’s compensation dropped from $13,400 to $8,000 yearly. This action responds to public criticism of government pay and general unhappiness about Liberia’s escalating cost of living.

The office of President Boakai said he hopes this choice will establish a standard for “responsible governance” and demonstrate “solidarity” with Liberian people. This measure is in line with that of his predecessor, George Weah, who likewise cut his pay by 25%.

Views on the pay cut have been conflicting. While some applaud the action, others wonder about its importance given the president still gets perks including daily allowances and medical care.

Anderson D. Miamen of Liberia’s Centre of Transparency and Accountability described the pay cut as “welcoming.” He wants the public to know where the deductions go and how they will be applied to favorably affect people’s life.

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Prominent advocate of government openness W. Lawrence Yealue II called the choice “commendable” and underlined that top leadership should come first. Furthermore, he expects the next budget to reflect the advantages of President Boakai.

Furthermore promised by President Boakai is the empowerment of Liberia’s Civil Service Agency to guarantee equitable pay for public personnel. Following demonstrations by legislators who came at parliament in tricycles, sometimes known as keh-keh, a common form of transportation for many Liberians, this vow reflects complaints by legislators who had not gotten their official cars.

President Boakai has concentrated on combating corruption and financial mismanagement since assuming office in January following run-off election victory over Mr. Weah. Declared his assets, he has instructed an audit of the presidential office with results still waiting. He also has reinforced the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission and the General Auditing Commission.