MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Minister of Youth and Sports Cole Bangalu has sparked criticism following his controversial assertion that the government’s role is not to create jobs. In his remarks, Bangalu insisted that it is not the government’s responsibility to generate employment, stating, “Anyone who says otherwise does not understand the government’s mandate.” He, however, highlighted the government’s duty to establish an environment conducive to job creation.
The minister’s comments have drawn sharp criticism from advocate Vickjune Headliner Wutoh, who took to social media to challenge his stance. Wutoh linked Bangalu’s perspective to the recent decision to double the sector clearance fee for youth-led organizations from $50 to $100. She expressed her disappointment in the minister’s refusal to address her concerns regarding the financial burden imposed on young people striving to make a difference through entrepreneurship and civil society work.
According to Wutoh, the increase contradicts President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s vision for youth empowerment under the ARREST Agenda. She argued that as a presidential appointee, Minister Bangalu is expected to align his actions with the administration’s goals for Liberia’s youth. Instead, she accused him of erecting barriers that hinder progress for youth-led organizations, many of which already face significant challenges due to high unemployment rates.
“I officially wrote to him, requesting in good faith that the fee remains at $50. However, his response was dismissive, citing that the increment originated from the Department of Youth Development. Does this department wield authority over the entire ministry’s decisions?” Wutoh questioned. She further criticized the lack of transparency and accountability regarding the benefits of the sector clearance fee, emphasizing the pressing need for the ministry to support rather than stifle youth initiatives.
Drawing a stark comparison, Wutoh highlighted that acquiring a Liberian passport costs $40, yet the government expects youth organizations to pay $100 for sector clearance. “It is insensitive and inconsiderate, especially given young people’s economic struggles,” she added.
Wutoh’s critique extended to Bangalu’s prioritization of policies, questioning why he focused on financial barriers instead of addressing more pressing issues affecting Liberia’s youth. “The government may not create jobs, as the minister claims, but that doesn’t mean it should hinder the efforts of young people working to create opportunities for themselves,” she concluded.
Meanwhile, the backlash against Bangalu’s comments and policy decisions continues to draw criticism, as noted by Abel G. Kollie. In a post on his social media page, Kollie highlighted the growing conversations surrounding the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ role in tackling the challenges faced by Liberia’s youth. He emphasized that many demand immediate reforms and a shift toward policies that genuinely empower the younger generation, underscoring the urgency of the issue.
