The Civil Society Network of Liberia (CSNL) strongly commends the Government of Liberia for taking the bold step in increasing Alien Work Permit fees from US$1,000.00 to US$3,000.00 through the Ministry of Labor. In a release dated September 8, the CSNL stated that the increment in the Alien Work Permit fee is a patriotic and strategic policy decision that has the potential to boost employment opportunities for Liberian Citizens.
As a watchdog of Liberian Society, the Civil Society Network of Liberia views this public policy decision by the Government of Liberia, through the Minister of Labor, Cllr Cooper Kruah, as one in the interest of Liberian Citizens, and strongly promotes a labor market that gives incentives or encourages companies and business investments to hire Liberians in the midst of acute unemployment rate in Liberia.
The increment in Alien Work Permit Fee, according to the release, is a well-thought-out and well-considered action that encourages job opportunities for capable, qualified and competent Liberians, which is one of the core pillars of the government of Liberia’s ARREST Agenda. This also clearly indicates that Minister Kruah is a caring and listening public official dedicated to serving the interests of the Liberian State.
Furthermore, the Civil Society Network of Liberia strongly condemns assertions emanating from the Publisher of the Hot Pepper Newspaper, Mr. Philbert Browne, that the increment in Alien Work Permit Fee is intended to serve the personal interests of Minister Cllr. Cooper Kruah.
“Mr. Browne’s insinuation against this laudable public policy measure is not only false and misleading, but an unjustifiable and pointless assertion intended to undermine the mammoth gains the minister is making at the ministry. This is also a gross misinterpretation of the intent of this commendable policy by the Government of Liberia, glaringly aimed at tarnishing the reputable character and positive work performance of Labor Minister, Hon. Cllr. Cooper Kruah,” the civil society group said.
CSNL reiterates its support for the Government of Liberia’s patriotic policy, geared towards ensuring Liberians have access to finance through employment opportunities. “Hence, we call on Mr. Philbert Browne and his likes to desist from fabricating and manufacturing information against the character of hardworking officials of government, like Minister Cllr. Cooper Kruah,” the release stated.
