The Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND), a prominent civil society organization, has strongly criticized the Legislature’s decision to allocate US$1.8 million from the national budget to repair the Capitol Building’s joint chambers, damaged in a recent fire.
STAND decried the move as hypocritical, pointing out the Government’s neglect of fire victims across Liberia, who are often left without aid following disasters. The group also highlighted the chronic underfunding of the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), which remains ill-equipped to prevent and respond to such incidents.
In a statement released in Monrovia, STAND Chairman Mulbah Morlu condemned the Legislature for prioritizing repairs to its infrastructure while ignoring the glaring needs of fire victims and public safety.
“This glaring disregard for public fire safety is utterly reprehensible,” the statement read. “While lawmakers are quick to repair their own infrastructure, they have consistently ignored the needs of fire victims and failed to equip the fire service to protect the public,” Morlu noted that despite the pressing need for fire safety measures, the 2024 national budget fails to allocate funds for purchasing fire trucks for the LNFS. STAND acknowledged recent international efforts to assist the LNFS, including support from the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, but criticized the Liberian Government for its lack of meaningful action.
As an alternative to burdening taxpayers, STAND proposed that the 103 members of the Legislature, comprising senators and representatives, voluntarily reduce their salaries to fund the Capitol repairs.
“The Legislature must lead by example. A collective salary reduction to fund the Capitol Building’s repairs would help with the financial needs and send a powerful message of solidarity with the people they serve,” STAND declared.
The group emphasized that taxpayers should not shoulder the cost of repairs, particularly during the holiday season when many families are struggling financially.
STAND also called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the Capitol Building fire before repair work began. They stressed the need for accountability and transparency in addressing the issue, warning against imposing additional financial burdens on citizens already facing economic hardships.
“This insensitivity exposes the legislature’s inefficiency and failure to empathize with the plight of the people,” the organization stated.
In its statement, STAND urged the Government to prioritize Liberia’s most pressing challenges, such as economic development, healthcare, and education, instead of self-serving projects.
“For nearly 180 years, the people of Liberia have made immense sacrifices for their country with little in return. It’s time for the Government to act in the interest of its citizens and prioritize their needs,” the group declared.
