By Monrovia, Liberia- After a day of impassioned protests, aggrieved staffers of the House of Representatives have opted to halt their roadblock demonstration, citing a productive dialogue with House Speaker Bhofol Chambers. V. Lamenee Gray Sr, the head of the protesting group, revealed that they agreed to temporarily end the protest based on assurances from Speaker Chambers that their outstanding benefits would be disbursed before January 15, 2024.
However, Gray warned that if the promises made by Speaker Chambers are not fulfilled within the stipulated timeframe, they will initiate what he described as the “biggest protest.” The demonstrators, seeking resolution to their grievances, remain vigilant and ready to resume their actions if necessary.
Speaker Dr. Bhofal Chambers acknowledged the challenges surrounding the payment of benefits and affirmed collaboration with the finance ministry and Representative Johnson Gwaikolo to settle the staffers before the conclusion of the 54th legislature. He emphasized that the delays are affecting both legislative staff and lawmakers.
Normal activities at the House of Representatives came to a standstill on Tuesday, January 9, 2023, as staffers demanded their extra legislative sitting benefits. The aggrieved legislative personnel, outlining their grievances before Speaker Bhofal Chambers, blocked the main pathway leading to the House of Representatives. They lamented that, during President Weah’s six-year administration, they received special sitting fees only once.
By: Alphanso G Kalama
