By Archie Boan
The 55th House of Representatives has approved 14 new legislative seats, a move that is drawing strong criticism as Liberians face growing economic hardship.
The expansion comes at a time when key international partners are pulling back support. Several major USAID programs have closed, cutting off assistance that once supported schools, clinics, agriculture, and community development.
Sweden has also shut down its embassy in Monrovia and is phasing out direct aid, ending decades of support to governance and social-development programs.
These changes are hitting Liberia at a difficult moment. Poverty remains high, with more than half of the population living below the poverty line. Many communities lack stable jobs, and a large portion of the workforce survives on informal or unstable income. Rising food prices and shortages of basic services have added to the pressure on families nationwide.
Against this backdrop, the creation of 14 new seats which means more salaries, benefits, and operational costs has raised questions about government priorities.
Critics say national resources should be directed toward easing hardship, not expanding political structures.
Supporters argue the new seats are based on the 2022 Census and will improve representation, but public concern remains high.
Many Liberians now fear that at a time when aid is shrinking and poverty is rising, the legislature is becoming more of a “chopping spot” rather than a solution to the country’s growing challenges.
