Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Leymah Gbowee, has sharply criticized reports of a proposed bill to increase the number of lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
Madam Gbowee argued that the country’s limited resources should instead be directed to improve essential public services rather than assigning some to non-functional personnel.
She meanwhile, questioned the rationale behind expanding the legislature at a time when many Liberians continue to face economic hardship, and limited access to quality education, healthcare and infrastructure.
In the remarks that have sparked widespread public discussions, Madam Gbowee suggested that increasing the number of elected officials would do little to address the pressing development challenges. Madam Gbowee: “Schools are in urgent need of science laboratories, teaching materials and better learning environments to improve educational outcomes for students. With this, some people are there looking for free money area for the political followers.”
She also pointed to the healthcare system, saying: “Hospitals require more beds, medical equipment, medicines and trained personnel to effectively serve citizens, but lawmakers are thinking otherwise.” Madam Gbowee further attention the government to prioritize the construction and rehabilitation of roads that would improve transportation, boost economic activity and connect rural communities. She questioned whether creating additional legislative districts should be considered a national priority when many families are struggling to meet their daily needs. She expressed concern that an expanded legislature could place an even greater financial burden on taxpayers, particularly as the country continues to grapple with economic constraints. In a strongly worded statement, Madam Gbowee disagreed with “misplaced national priorities.” She added: “Liberians deserve greater investment in services that directly improve their lives rather than increasing the number of seats at the legislature.”
She also criticized the “excessive political rivalry within the legislature, suggesting that increasing the number of lawmakers could lead to more political confrontation rather than better governance.
“Just so we can have more people fighting, huffing and cussing for an honorable title,” Madam Gbowee remarked as she questioned the proposal to increase the number of seats and budget allotment.
She then prayed for divine intervention, saying: “God, please help us,” as she reflected on the challenges.
Madam Gbowee also disagreed that expanding legislative representation should not take precedence over sending every Liberian child to achieve quality education.