The Liberia National Casket Union (LINCU) has expressed concern over what it describes as growing anti-competitive practices within the country’s funeral services sector, warning that some funeral homes are allegedly attempting to limit the freedom of bereaved families to purchase caskets from independent dealers.
In a statement released over the weekend, LINCU called for solidarity among its members and urged the public to remain alert amid reports that certain funeral homes are discouraging families from sourcing caskets outside their facilities.
The union specifically referenced St. Moses Funeral Home, alleging that its management circulated notices to other funeral homes advising or pressuring families to buy caskets solely from funeral parlors.
LINCU described the alleged action as coercive and contrary to Liberia’s open market principles, stressing that grieving families should not be deprived of their right to choose service providers.
“Liberia operates under a free market system, and no institution or individual has the legal authority to dictate where families must purchase funeral items,” the union stated.
The union further condemned what it termed intimidation of vulnerable families during moments of grief, particularly any requirement that families sign commitments obligating them to purchase caskets from specific providers. According to LINCU, such practices exploit emotional distress and undermine consumer rights.
“A quotation does not constitute an obligation,” the statement emphasized. “Families are free to accept, reject, negotiate, or explore other options. Funeral homes may only charge for services they actually provide, such as embalming.”
LINCU reaffirmed the role of independent casket makers and shop owners, describing their work as vital to providing dignified and affordable funeral services. The union assured its members that they would continue to operate professionally and ethically, regardless of any alleged pressure from larger funeral establishments.
In response, Mr. Moses H. Ahossouhe, manager of St. Moses Funeral Home and President of the Funeral Homes Association of Liberia, rejected claims that his institution forces families to purchase caskets exclusively from its premises.
“I am not compelling any family to buy a casket from St. Moses Funeral Home,” Ahossouhe said, explaining that families are merely advised on quality and acceptable standards. “We provide options, and it is up to the family to decide.”
He denied issuing any directive aimed at restricting consumer choice, maintaining that his priority is ensuring dignity and quality in funeral arrangements.
Despite the clarification, LINCU insisted that the alleged notice circulated among funeral homes effectively discourages families from patronizing independent casket dealers. The union has called on relevant regulatory authorities to closely monitor the situation.
LINCU also appealed directly to the public, including foreign residents in Liberia, to resist any form of pressure.
“Do not allow any business to intimidate or force you into giving up your freedom of choice,” the union urged. “You have both the legal and moral right to choose any casket provider based on price, quality, and humane treatment.”
The controversy has once again drawn attention to broader issues of competition, consumer protection, and ethical conduct within Liberia’s funeral services industry.
