MONROVIA, LIBERIA- Amidst the upcoming budget debate at the Legislature, Lofa County Senator wants Legislature prioritize civil servants’ salary increment in the 2023 National Budget.
Senator Joseph Jallah is the newest Lawmaker at the Legislature following his election in the Lofa County Senatorial by-election in July 2022.
The Liberian Government has over 43,000 civil servants on its payroll.
Senator Jallah said:” The increment of civil servant salary will enable them cater to the needs and wellbeing of their families.”
Speaking to Legislative reporters Thursday, January 19, 2023, on Capitol Hill, the Lofa County Senator added that the move will promote efficiency and productivity at work places across the Country.
‘We met with Paramount and Clan chiefs during the break, and they complained about their current salary. We need to do something to bring relief to them,’ he said.
He proposed that the salary of paramount and clan chiefs should be augmented to fifty-thousand Liberian Dollars, to enable them maintain their respect and dignity in their respective areas.
Senator Joseph noted that this will empower employees of government to pay school fees and afford medical bills for their dependents.
The Lofa County Senator has vowed to push for hundred United States Dollars to be added to the current salary of civil servants in Liberia.
‘I am on the budget committee, so, I am going to lobby with my colleagues to ensure that it is made possible in the 2023 budget.’
‘Let me let you know that I am a former teacher. I worked at the University of Liberia as teacher assistant. So, I am putting myself in their shoes. I know what they are going through – I think this advocacy will help our people,’ he asserted.
The 2023 Draft National Budget is before the Legislature for appropriation and apportioning for subsequent passage into law.
During the opening of the 6th and final session of the Legislature Monday, January 16, 2023, Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor urged the Senate to immediately begin work on the 2023 Draft National Budget.
She maintained that the process will enable government fast-track its development programs.
Senate Pro-tempt Albert Chie also assured the public of the Senate’s commitment to working on the budget in a soonest possible time.
With these calls, Senator Jallah believes Legislative actions on the budget should prioritize civil servants salary increment.
He noted that the move will make a greater impact on the lives of government employees in the category of civil servants.
By: Sampson David
