Are Economic Gains Reaching Ordinary Liberians? Freeman Asks

Movement for Progressive Change Political Leader Simeon Freeman has questioned the government’s handling of the economy, arguing that rising living costs and stagnant public sector salaries are putting pressure on Liberian workers.

Freeman said the government needs to do more to improve the economic conditions of citizens, particularly civil servants whose earnings, he argued, have not kept pace with the rising prices of basic commodities.

Speaking in a recent interview, Freeman criticized the Boakai administration’s approach to public spending, salary policy and job creation, saying economic management should focus on improving people’s living conditions.

He argued that rising prices for fuel and imported goods, combined with additional costs associated with bringing goods into the country, are placing further pressure on households and businesses.

Liberia’s dependence on imported commodities makes the cost of transportation, shipping and other import-related charges important factors in the prices consumers pay.

Freeman said government workers should receive greater attention as the cost of living increases, arguing that improved domestic revenue should also prompt a review of public sector salaries.

He maintained that salary harmonization should promote fairness across government institutions without preventing adjustments that reflect workers’ qualifications, responsibilities and changing economic conditions.

“If government increases pay just by 5%, it translates to millions of dollars,” Freeman said, arguing that salary adjustments should be considered alongside the government’s revenue performance and overall spending commitments.

Freeman also questioned the expansion of the public sector, claiming that the creation of additional government institutions and the recruitment of more personnel have increased the government’s wage bill.

He argued that expanding government payrolls does not necessarily translate into productive job creation, stressing the need for policies that encourage private investment and sustainable employment.

“Government itself by itself don't create money. Government creates expense. Government collects taxation,” Freeman said.

The MPC political leader called for greater attention to local businesses and productive sectors that can create employment and provide people with opportunities to earn a living outside government.

He also questioned the feasibility of the administration’s proposed plan to train 10,000 people in information and communications technology, arguing that the country needs sufficient training facilities, qualified instructors and appropriate infrastructure to achieve such a target within a short period.

Freeman’s comments come amid continuing public concern over the cost of living, employment opportunities and the purchasing power of workers.

However, his claims about government spending, salary levels and the effects of revenue growth require examination against official budget documents, payroll figures and economic data to determine how public resources are being allocated and whether salary adjustments are financially feasible.