Emmanuel Sensee, Diaspora Alert contributing editor- [email protected] +231886005333
Aggrieved employees of the National Council of Chiefs and Elders of Liberia have issued an appeal to President Joseph Boakai, urging him to intervene in their ongoing salary dispute. The employees have not received their salaries for over a year, which they believe is a result of alleged political support to the Coalition for Democratic Change during the 2023 elections. According to Chief Matthew Smith, the Council’s Financial Comptroller, some individuals close to the President have claimed that Council workers did not support the Unity Party during the 2023 Presidential and Legislative Elections, leading to their removal from the government payroll.
Chief Smith emphasized the Council’s traditional role as mediators and peacekeepers, noting that members are required to remain politically neutral. “Our role is to remain neutral and help keep peace in the country,” he stated. “It is unfair to punish us for alleged political affiliations.” The employees have called on President Boakai to investigate the claims and ensure fair treatment for those affected. Chief Smith questioned the logic of expecting Council members to participate in national events, such as the 178th Independence Day celebrations, while facing hardship and exclusion. The Council is seeking swift intervention from the President to address the issue and restore the dignity of its employees.
