Ex-President Sirleaf Criticizes Condition of Public Structures

MONROVIA, LIBERIA: Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf sounded a strong caveat, urging the government to prioritize urgent renovation of state institutions in and around Monrovia.

The former Liberian Leader said some public institutions are losing their dignity due to their current deteriorating state.

She named the Executive Mansion, the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, the Central Bank of Liberia, and the Centennial Pavilion among others that required renovation.

Madam Sirleaf stated that many public institutions seem neglected, and their outlook does not reflect the functionaries of government.

She said the situation embarrasses the country when hosting visitors and international partners.

Speaking during a special visit to the House of Representatives on Thursday, March 5, the former President emphasized the need for swift action to address deteriorating structures, warning that failure to do so could project a negative image of Liberia globally.

“These are national symbols and important institutions of governance,” Sirleaf said. “When our partners and visitors see the conditions of these buildings, they often raise concerns and wonder why such important facilities are allowed to deteriorate.”

She added, "This situation has raised serious concerns among our partners and visitors who write and speak about the poor condition of these places. It is something that should concern all of us as a nation," Sirleaf emphasized.

Meanwhile, speaking to labor issues, former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf called for strict enforcement of Liberia’s Liberianization policy.

The policy prioritizes Liberian citizens for employment in the concession industry. She believes that citizens are struggling to secure reserved jobs despite this policy.

According to her, non-Liberians are increasingly taking control of strategic areas along Liberia’s beaches and waterways where valuable resources are extracted, a development she finds troubling.

“In some places, non-citizens are occupying key sites along our beaches and waterways and extracting valuable resources,” she said. “No country would allow such activities to continue unchecked, especially when they pose serious environmental risks", she asserted.

In another passionate appeal, Sirleaf urged lawmakers to foster greater gender sensitivity within the Liberian Legislature, emphasizing that women should have a stronger voice in national decision-making.

“We must do more to ensure that women’s voices are heard in our governance structures,” she stated. “The current number of women in the Legislature is not enough to fully represent the interests of women across Liberia.”

The ex-Liberian Head of State pointed out that with only nine female representatives and two female senators, the existing representation is insufficient to reflect the voices and aspirations of Liberian women both nationally and internationally.