Liberia’s President Joseph Boakai has taken a significant step towards demonstrating fiscal responsibility and solidarity with his citizens by announcing a 40% reduction in his salary. This decision, aimed at addressing economic challenges and promoting transparency in governance, sees his annual salary decrease from $13,400 to $8,000.
The move comes amidst public discontent over the rising cost of living, with a substantial portion of Liberians struggling to make ends meet on less than $2 per day. President Boakai’s salary cut follows a similar initiative by his predecessor, George Weah, who implemented a 25% reduction during his term.
While many citizens have praised Boakai’s decision, some remain skeptical, pointing out that significant benefits such as daily allowances and comprehensive medical insurance still accrue to the president. However, Boakai has also pledged to empower Liberia’s Civil Service Agency to ensure fair compensation across the public sector.
Recent tensions over delayed benefits for lawmakers, who protested by arriving at parliament in tuk-tuks, have underscored broader concerns about governance and fiscal accountability in Liberia. Since assuming office earlier this year after defeating Weah in a runoff election, President Boakai has prioritized tackling corruption and improving financial management. Initiatives include declaring his assets, ordering an audit of the presidential office, and strengthening oversight bodies like the General Auditing Commission and Liberia’s Anti-Corruption Commission.
Boakai’s efforts signal a commitment to reform and transparency in Liberia’s governance, aimed at addressing socio-economic challenges and restoring public trust in leadership.
