ICYMI: Liberian president slashes salary by 40% ‘to strengthen accountability’

President Joseph Boakai of Liberia has cut his salary by 40 percent as part of his efforts to lead by example.

Announcing the development in a statement issued by the presidency on Saturday, Boakai said the move fulfils his commitment to fiscal integrity and national financial security.

Boakai also said the decision reflects his determination to strengthen government accountability and demonstrate solidarity with Liberians.

The president added that he intended to set a precedent for responsible governance and nation-building.

Boakai pledged to empower the civil service agency (CSA) to ensure that public servants’ salaries are in line with the economic state of the nation and that workers receive fair compensation for their contributions to the country.

Boakai, who served as vice-president between 2006 and 2018 and was previously the minister of agriculture, won the presidency last year on a pledge to “rescue” Liberia from some issues, particularly corruption and a lack of basic services.

So far, the president has focused on fiscal responsibility and transparency while rebuilding public trust in the government.

Boakai’s announcement also comes amid his trip to Nigeria for the 63rd ordinary session of the authority of heads of state and government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Kenyan President William Ruto last week took similar measures to cut government spending after a finance bill meant to raise taxes triggered violent protests across the country.