Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah has appealed to lawmakers boycotting legislative proceedings over delayed benefits to return to work, assuring them that efforts are underway to secure payment.
In a message addressed to his colleagues, Fallah acknowledged that the lawmakers’ concerns over their outstanding benefits were “fair and justified,” while urging them not to allow the dispute to derail their constitutional responsibilities.
He said Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon’s leadership was engaging relevant government institutions to facilitate payment, adding that the signals received so far were positive.
However, Fallah warned that the lawmakers’ continued absence from the chambers was delaying national progress and undermining the mandate entrusted to them by the Liberian people.
“As we have entered the third quarter of our third session, I humbly plead with all colleagues to return to work,” he stated.
The Deputy Speaker emphasized that lawmakers must balance their demands for legitimate benefits with their responsibilities to legislate, conduct oversight, and represent their constituents.
He maintained that although the lawmakers have a right to demand what is owed them, their absence from legislative proceedings sends the wrong message to citizens who elected them to serve.
“We must remember that our collective strength lies not only in demanding what is rightfully ours but also in demonstrating leadership, patience, and unity in times of challenge,” Fallah said.
His appeal comes amid mounting tensions over lawmakers’ outstanding benefits, which have contributed to disruptions in legislative activities.
While expressing confidence that the matter would be resolved soon, Fallah did not provide a specific payment date.
He concluded by urging his colleagues to rise above their frustrations and resume legislative duties, stressing that the country’s work cannot wait for the resolution of the benefits dispute.
