By By: Alphanso G. Kalama
Email: alphansokalama@gmail.com
Monrovia – The Liberia National Bar Association (LNBA) is urging an urgent resolution to the protracted salary dispute between the University of Liberia (UL) and its Part-Time Professors at the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law. This unresolved issue, which has lingered for three years, could jeopardize the upcoming graduation ceremony scheduled for Friday, September 20.
The professors, who are LNBA members, have warned of their intention to withhold cooperation unless their overdue salaries are paid by Thursday, September 19. In a Monday address to legal professionals and prospective jurors, LNBA’s National Secretary General, Cllr. Bornor M. Varmah, expressed deep concern over the situation, calling it a major embarrassment for the legal field and urging swift action from the UL administration.
“How can we allow legal professionals to be treated this way?” Cllr. Varmah questioned, emphasizing the need for the UL Board of Trustees to intervene promptly. He warned that failure to resolve the issue could undermine the graduation ceremony and affect students who have already paid their fees.
While the exact amount owed remains undisclosed, sources indicate it is around US$20,000. The situation came to light when Dean Cllr. Jallah Barbu revealed that Part-Time Professors have decided not to submit any reports necessary for the graduation unless their salaries are paid. Despite ongoing discussions with the administration, no resolution has been reached, leaving the graduation in a precarious position.
