Liberian President Joseph Boakai has announced a voluntary 40% reduction in his salary, underscoring his commitment to fiscal integrity and national financial security.
This decision comes at a critical time when the nation is grappling with economic challenges and public servants are facing delays in receiving their benefits. The announcement, made in a statement shared on the Liberian government website, reflects President Boakai’s commitment to strengthening government accountability and setting a precedent for responsible governance. “The Liberian leader said the move is aimed at setting a precedent for responsible governance and nation-building,” the statement read.
The decision to cut his salary by 40% is particularly significant given the recent protests by lawmakers who arrived at the parliament in tricycles, known locally as ‘Keke’, to express their discontent over the non-payment of funds for their official vehicles by the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning.
President Boakai’s move echoes that of his predecessor, George Weah, who took a 25% cut in his salary during his tenure. However, some have questioned whether the sacrifice is truly significant, given that the president also receives benefits such as a daily allowance and medical cover. Despite these concerns, many have praised President Boakai’s decision as a step in the right direction. Anderson D. Miamen, from the non-profit organization the Centre of Transparency and Accountability in Liberia, described the move as “welcoming” and expressed hope that the public will see where the deducted funds will be allocated to positively impact the lives of the people.
W Lawrence Yealue II, whose organisation also campaigns for government transparency, described the president’s decision as “very commendable” and stated that “leadership has to be provided from the top.” He also expressed hope that President Boakai’s benefits would be reviewed in the budget for the next financial year.
In addition to reducing his salary, President Boakai has pledged to “empower” Liberia’s Civil Service Agency (CSA) to ensure that public servants “receive fair compensation for their contributions to the country.” This move is seen as a crucial step towards creating a more efficient, transparent, and accountable civil service.
The president’s commitment to fiscal integrity and transparency extends beyond his salary reduction. Since taking office in January, he has declared his assets, ordered an audit of the presidential office, and beefed up the General Auditing Commission and the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission.
As Liberia continues to grapple with the rising cost of living, with around one in five people living on less than $2 (£1.70) a day, President Boakai’s decision to lead by example and reduce his salary sends a strong message about his priorities and vision for the nation’s future.