African president takes action as cost of living reaches an all time high, details emerge

• Liberian President Joseph Boakai has taken a decision that reflects the demand and plight of his people
• Amid his country's economic hardship, he voluntarily slashed his salary by 40 percent to cut government spending and ensure fiscal integrity and national financial security
• The Liberian government confirmed the development via a terse statement shared on its website

Legit.ng journalist Esther Odili has over two years of experience covering political parties and movements

While Nigeria battles with economic hardship informed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's government policies, Liberia's President Joseph Boakai has announced that he will slash his salary by 40% in an effort to lead by example.

Liberian President has disclosed plans to slash his salary by 40%. Photo credit: @ashakals1
Source: Twitter

In a gesture of solidarity amid economic challenges

Liberian government confirmed the development via a statement shared on its website on Saturday, July 6, and noted that Boakai hoped to set a precedent for "responsible governance" and demonstrate "solidarity" with Liberians.

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As reported by AfricanNews, this move comes in response to growing public scrutiny of government salaries and widespread discontent over the rising cost of living in Liberia.

BusinessDay reported that the development follows some lawmakers arriving at the parliament in tricycles in protest against the non-payment of funds for their vehicles by the ministry of finance and development planning.

As reported by BBC, government salaries have been heavily criticised recently as Liberians complain about the rising cost of living. Around one in five people live on less than $2 (£1.70) a day in the West African state.

But President Boakai revealed in February that his annual salary was $13,400 and the cut will bring it down to $8,000.

“According to the President, the announcement reflects his determination to lead by example in strengthening government accountability and demonstrating solidarity with the people of the nation.“The Liberian leader said the move is aimed at setting a precedent for responsible governance and nation-building,” the statement said.

Boakai's move follows a similar action taken by his predecessor, George Weah, who cut his own pay by 25%.

Economic hardship: Obasanjo lists Tinubu’s 2 wrong policies

In another report, former President Olusegun Obasanjo described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies on fuel subsidy removal and exchange rates as necessary but “wrongly implemented.”

Legit.ng reported that Obasanjo’s position comes as Tinubu’s government rolls out activities marking his first anniversary.

Source: Legit.ng