Monrovia, Liberia: Amid growing concerns over rising commodity prices and economic hardship, Senator Crayton O. Duncan of Sinoe County has formally requested the Plenary of the Liberian Senate to subpoena Minister of Commerce, Industry Magdalene Shelley-Dagoseh, and Commerce Inspector General to explain the causes of inflation.
In his communication addressed to President Pro Tempore of the Liberian Senate Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence dated February 24, 2025, Senator Duncan, who serves as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ways, Means, Finance & Budget, expressed concern that the Ministry of Commerce appears to be failing in its role to regulate prices and stabilize the economy.
“The Ministry of Commerce & Industry, being responsible for the growth and development of Liberia's economy and international trade, seems to be reneging on its role of price control,” he said.
“As a result, the lack of measures to curb the rising prices of commodities, coupled with the devaluation of the Liberian currency, is pushing citizens into economic hardship,” Senator Duncan alarmed.
Senator Duncan argued that if the Liberian Senate is to consider legislation that could help stabilize the economy, lawmakers must first understand the factors driving inflation and what steps, if any, the Ministry has taken to mitigate the situation.
“I am requesting Plenary to invite the Minister of Commerce and Industry and the Commerce Inspector General to appear before this Honorable Body to explain the cause of the current persistent rise in prices and to outline the plans put in place to solve this national problem,” Senator Duncan stated in his communication.
The Senator referenced Minister Shelley-Dagoseh’s commitment to economic transformation upon assuming office, noting that she had vowed to meet consumer expectations and improve market stability.
However, he suggested that the worsening economic conditions indicate a failure to fulfill those promises.
Liberians have increasingly voiced frustration over skyrocketing prices of basic goods, with many struggling to afford daily necessities.
The call for legislative intervention signals growing pressure on the government to take decisive action in tackling inflation.
The Senate’s response to Senator Duncan’s request remains pending, but if granted, the hearing could provide crucial insight into the Commerce Ministry’s strategy or lack thereof in addressing Liberia’s economic challenges.
Edited: E. Geedahgar Garsuah, Sr.
