By: James Lahai
Montserrado County Senator, Saah Joseph, has called on the Liberian Senate to refrain from cutting lawmakers’ salaries and instead focus on reducing what he described as excessive benefits associated with legislative service.
Senator Joseph’s remarks come amid growing public debate over a proposed bill seeking to reduce the compensation of members of the 55th Legislature.
TThe bill, which has generated mixed reactions, was reportedly introduced by Montserrado County Senator Abraham Dillion and Bong County Senator Prince Kermu Moye, and calls for a downward adjustment of legislative salaries as a cost-saving measure.
Speaking recently, Senator Joseph argued that lawmakers’ current salaries should not be tampered with, noting that senators reportedly earn approximately US$5,000 monthly.
He maintained that salary reductions alone would not meaningfully address concerns surrounding government spending or public accountability.
According to him, genuine reform should prioritize limiting benefits and allowances, which he believes place a heavier burden on the national budget than salaries themselves.
Senator Joseph emphasized that reviewing benefits such as travel, fuel, and other legislative entitlements would demonstrate a stronger commitment to fiscal responsibility, while avoiding undue financial strain on lawmakers.
