Thur Siekai, CEO of the Siakeh Foundation and a prominent resident of Margibi County, has publicly criticized a recent proposal by lawmakers to purchase vehicles valued at US$15,000 each for their Chiefs of Office Staff. The plan, spearheaded by Montserrado County District #8 Representative Prince Toles, has sparked public backlash amid Liberia’s ongoing economic challenges.
On Tuesday, four members of the House of Representatives reportedly advanced the proposal to allocate funding for new vehicles for all 73 Chiefs of Office Staff across the legislature. The total cost of the plan is expected to surpass one million U.S. dollars, raising concerns over priorities in national spending.
In a strongly worded public statement, Thur Siekai expressed appreciation for the lawmakers’ service but questioned the wisdom and timing of the expenditure.
“While the intent may be good, as it seeks to empower staffers to perform better oversight and representation, it is also important to look at the bigger picture,” Siekai wrote.
He pointed to the deteriorating state of basic public services in the country, including the struggling healthcare system, unpaid volunteer teachers and nurses, and poor wages for civil servants, as areas more deserving of such financial commitment.
“In a time like this, it would be wise and patriotic to channel those same resources into addressing these urgent national needs rather than purchasing luxury vehicles,” Siekai said.
He went further to challenge lawmakers to lead by example if the plan proceeds, suggesting that they donate their existing government vehicles to their Chiefs of Office Staff upon receipt of newer ones ~ a move he said would demonstrate “genuine sacrifice and solidarity” with the Liberian people.
Siekai’s message outlined basic expectations from the public, including better healthcare, education, transportation, and improved livelihoods ~ emphasizing that Liberians are not demanding luxury, but simply a chance at a dignified life.
“Leadership is not about personal comfort ~ it’s about service, sacrifice, and legacy,” he stressed.
As public scrutiny mounts, it remains to be seen whether the House of Representatives will reconsider or revise the proposal in light of the criticism. Meanwhile, civic leaders like Siekai continue to urge lawmakers to place national interest above personal or administrative convenience.
