Capitol Hill, Monrovia – The House of Representatives’ Committee on Claims and Petition has convened a formal hearing with families of victims of the tragic M/V NIKO IVANKAR boat incident, renewing attention to compensation pledges made nearly four years ago.
The grieving families appeared before the committee to make a passionate appeal for the Government of Liberia to honor its promise of financial compensation. The M/V NIKO IVANKAR tragedy, which occurred in 2021, claimed multiple lives and left surviving families devastated ~ both emotionally and financially.
During the session, the families cited a Senate report dated October 27, 2021, which recommended that each victim’s family be compensated with US$20,000. They expressed frustration that, despite repeated assurances, the payments have not been fulfilled, compounding their hardship in the years since the incident.
“This tragedy not only took our loved ones but also left a permanent void in our lives,” said one of the family representatives. “We have waited patiently for justice and support from the government. It is time that the promises made to us are kept.”
In response, the Committee instructed the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to write formally to the Minister of Finance and Development Planning, urging that the compensation be included in the 2026 National Budget, currently under preparation by the Executive Branch.
Committee Chairman Hon. Prince Toles extended condolences on behalf of the House and reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to ensuring that the victims’ families receive the support they deserve.
“The House remains committed to the welfare of all citizens, especially those who have suffered from national tragedies,” Hon. Toles stated. “We will continue to engage the relevant institutions to ensure that justice and relief are delivered.”
The hearing marks a renewed legislative effort to resolve the longstanding issue and signals the potential for long-awaited closure for the affected families.
