The Ministry of Labor has showcased a move to protect Liberian jobs.
In line with this, the Ministry of Labor has denied work permits for eight Ghanaians recently hired by ArcelorMittal Liberia.
This decision comes after Arcelor Mittal submitted a formal request to the ministry on October 22, 2024, seeking authorization for the eight foreign nationals to work as “Mobi-Crane Operators” within its operations in Liberia.
In the document, addressed to Minister Cllr. Cooper Kruah, ArcelorMittal Liberia, requested approval for the Ghanaians to acquire work permits, listing the individuals by name, nationality, passport number, and position title.
The Individuals brought in to work as Mobi-Crane Operators were listed in a formal request submitted by the company on October 22, 2024.
The Ghanaians listed for the Mobi-Crane Operator roles are Nasiru Sulemana, Bismark Kofi Nketiah, Mohammed Aminu Hussein, Kofi Acquah, Joseph Kweku Baidoo, John Kweku Eshun, Edwin Tetley Agbotah, and Albert Annobil.
The Ministry of Labor, however, issued a bold stamp reading “ALIEN WORK PERMIT DENIED” on the application, a clear indication of the ministry’s stance on prioritizing jobs for Liberians.
Minister Kruah cited Liberia’s labor laws, emphasizing that foreign nationals should only be granted work permits when no qualified Liberian is available.
ArcelorMittal’s failure to demonstrate that the positions were publicly advertised as required by Law further reinforced the ministry’s decision.
The Labor Ministry’s response has garnered public support, primarily as Liberians have long expressed concerns about job opportunities for foreigners when qualified locals are available.
The ministry’s move requires ArcelorMittal Liberia to announce the vacancies publicly, allowing Liberians to apply for the crane operator positions.
By denying these work permits, the ministry aims to reduce unemployment and prevent companies from bypassing local talent in favour of foreign labour.
Liberians have praised the decision and urged the Ministry of Labor to continue enforcing labour policies that safeguard local employment opportunities.
The incident highlights the government’s commitment to prioritizing the local workforce and ensuring that foreign workers are only employed when necessary.
