Monrovia, Liberia – Tension gripped the grounds of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning on Monday as dozens of angry former forest logging workers staged a protest, demanding the immediate payment of long-overdue salaries and benefits.
The demonstrators, operating under the banner of the National Timber, Wood, Construction and Allied Workers Union (NTWCAWU), claim that 23,452 workers are owed a total of US$7,122,112 arrears they say have remained unpaid for more than ten years.
Chanting, “We want our money, no more story,” protesters accused Finance Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan of deliberately withholding funds they believe are rightfully theirs.
“We are tired of the lies. The President told him to give us our money,” one protester alleged, reflecting the frustration among the group.
Some demonstrators used harsh language in their criticism of the minister, expressing deep anger over what they described as years of broken promises and economic hardship.
The protesters have vowed to remain in front of the Ministry building even if it means sleeping there until their demands are met.
Despite their criticism of the Finance Minister, the group expressed appreciation to President Joseph Boakai, stating that they believe the President has shown willingness to address their plight.
Monday’s protest adds to growing public pressure on the government to resolve longstanding financial obligations to former workers across various sectors.
As of press time, the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning had not issued an official response to the allegations.
The situation remains tense as demonstrators insist they will not back down until the full amount owed is paid.
