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By Contributor
Gardnersville, Monrovia — The National Union of Hospitality, Aviation, Communication and Energy Workers (NUHACE) celebrated its seventh anniversary on Monday, October 6, 2025, with a passionate appeal for justice, equality, and the protection of workers’ rights. Addressing scores of union members, activists, and journalists gathered at the organization’s headquarters on Barnersville Road, NUHACE President Comrade Baryou W. Wallace delivered a searing critique of Liberia’s labour system and those charged with upholding to rules
Reflecting on the union’s journey, Wallace described NUHACE’s seven-year struggle as both challenging and transformative. “This road has not been easy,” he admitted. “We have stood firm in defending the dignity and rights of workers across this country, but the obstacles remain immense.”
He recounted the daily challenges faced by Liberian workers—ranging from the denial of union rights to the abuse of collective bargaining agreements—despite guarantees provided under both national and international labour laws. Wallace accused certain Ministry of Labour officials of sabotaging union activities and colluding with employers to suppress worker organization efforts.
“The right of workers to freely join unions of their choice is being deliberately undermined,” Wallace charged, citing Assistant Minister Rufus Saylee and Director Dominic Wreh as examples of officials allegedly engaged in anti-union practices. According to him, of six union petitions submitted to the Ministry, only one was processed while the others were intentionally ignored. “Unionization is not a favor—it’s a fundamental right,” he stressed.
Wallace pointed to the dismissals of employees at West Africa Fisheries and Barbar Motors Corporation as evidence of systematic retaliation against workers who advocate for unionization. He reminded the government of its commitment under the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Convention 87, which guarantees freedom of association and the right to organize.
The NUHACE leader also decried what he termed the Ministry’s negligence in addressing widespread violations of collective bargaining agreements (CBAs). “When employers violate CBAs and the Ministry fails to act, it forces workers to resort to strikes,” Wallace said. “These strikes, though legal, often result in violence, intimidation, and wrongful dismissals.” He referenced the case of over sixty employees dismissed at National Beverages/Trust Services Company after their local union protested management’s failure to honor their agreement.
Though he acknowledged a recent ruling by Deputy Labour Minister for Manpower Planning, Hon. Steven Kolubah, in favor of the dismissed workers, Wallace criticized the Ministry for taking four months to act. “A decision meant to protect workers should never take that long,” he asserted, adding that other entities like RLJ Kendeja Resort and Villas and Sethi Ferro Fabrik continue to disregard their agreements with impunity.
Turning to the government’s decision to raise the cost of alien work permits from $1,000 to $3,000, Wallace expressed cautious support. While agreeing that promoting Liberian employment is necessary, he argued that the move appeared more focused on generating revenue than addressing job scarcity. “Increasing fees is not the same as creating jobs,” he emphasized. “What Liberia needs is enforcement of existing laws, not exploitation of struggling businesses and workers.”
Wallace further accused some Ministry officials of prioritizing personal enrichment over public duty, suggesting that political connections have shielded corrupt individuals from accountability. He appealed directly to Labour Minister Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah to intervene and restore integrity to the Ministry. “We call on Minister Kruah to act decisively,” he said. “If nothing changes, we will take these matters to the President and the National Legislature.”
Beyond policy grievances, Wallace’s remarks struck an emotional chord with attendees, many of whom nodded in agreement as he spoke about the hardships faced by ordinary workers. “For too long, workers have been treated as expendable,” he lamented. “Yet it is through their sweat and effort that this nation stands.”
As the speech drew to a close, Wallace invoked the spirit of solidarity that has sustained NUHACE since its founding. “We are stronger together,” he said passionately. “Let us continue to fight for a Liberia where labour is respected and workers are valued. Solidarity forever—for the union makes us strong.”
The crowd erupted in applause as Wallace stepped down, his words leaving a lasting impression that the struggle for decent work in Liberia is far from over—but so too is the determination of those who carry the fight forward.
