MONROVIA — Simeon Freeman, political leader of the Movement for Progressive Change (MPC), has called on the Liberian legislature to focus on the pressing needs of the citizens rather than engaging in activities he deems non-essential.
Mr. Freeman urged the leadership of the legislature, particularly the House of Representatives, to prioritize “bread and butter” issues and other critical national emergencies that positively impact the lives of the Liberian people. He criticized the legislature for what he perceives as a lack of focus on essential matters, such as summoning government officials for what he views as non-essential reasons.
Freeman’s comments were in response to the House of Representatives’ decision to summon the authorities of the Ministries of Defense and Justice, the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), the National Security Advisor, and the Commander of the AFL at Roberts International Airport (RIA). This summons, scheduled for Thursday, July 18, 2024, was to address the deployment of armed AFL officers at the airport during the arrival of former President George Manneh Weah over the weekend.
The House’s decision on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, followed a communication from Montserrado County’s District #9 Representative, Frank Saah Foko, who raised concerns about the heavy deployment of armed AFL personnel among peaceful citizens who had gathered to welcome former President Weah at the RIA.
Speaking in Monrovia on Wednesday, Freeman highlighted several critical national issues that he believes should be the legislature’s focus. He emphasized the need to address the day-to-day livelihood of the people, rather than what he considers irrelevant matters.
“What’s the essence of the House not addressing issues affecting the people but focusing on issues not essential to them? There’s no need to be inviting the Army Chief of Staff for the army being outside. Let’s focus on the real issues,” Freeman said.
He further elaborated on the urgent issues, stating, “The bread and butter issues should concern our legislature. The price of rice has increased, education remains in disarray, university students and ordinary Liberians are complaining about the rising cost of living.”
Freeman also pointed out the dire state of the country’s infrastructure and job market. “The road network is horrible, jobs are basically non-existent. No new jobs have been created under this government. People are unemployed. These are the real issues, and they should focus on them,” he urged.
Freeman described the House’s decision to invite the Army Chief as disappointing and misguided. He suggested that the legislature should instead revisit the 2024 National Budget, particularly the budget for the Judiciary and the approximately US$63 million the government owes financial institutions, which could lead to a deficit.
“Let the legislature use the time to re-examine the budget. There is US$16 million allocated for repayment to financial institutions that the government owes. I understand the total amount owed was US$63 million, but the government has only paid US$26 million. They need to invite the Minister of Finance to explain why these institutions are not being paid and address why education is a challenge in the country,” Freeman pointed out.
Meanwhile, Freeman also urged Liberians not to support the Unity Party (UP) or the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) in future elections, claiming these parties have not brought value to the presidency. He recommended the MPC as a viable alternative for proper leadership.
“We at the MPC have the leadership skills and ability to transform Liberia and tackle the bread and butter issues hampering the country’s progress,” Freeman said.
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