The National Chairman of the All-Retired Citizens Association of Liberia, Reverend Kafa Teah, has expressed deep frustration over a “long-standing neglect, and mistreatment of retirees” by both past and current governments.
At a press conference held in his office in Monrovia, Rev. Teah spoke of the lack of care and support for senior citizens, who have served the nation, but now struggle to live with dignity.
“Despite the sacrifices we’ve made for this country, we have not received the decent living we deserve from those we once considered our national leader.”
He cited the example of poor and irregular salary payments, which, he noted, are especially difficult to endure given Liberia’s ongoing economic challenges.
As the newly inducted President, Rev. Teah called on all retirees all over the country to unite and support the mission of the Association.
He urged them to collectively advocate for the rights and benefits that are due to them.
“We are calling on all retirees to join the struggle to right the wrongs and ensure that we receive our just benefits from the government without any precondition.”
He added: “We stand prepared to fight for our rights for equal opportunity for all retired persons.”
Rev. Teah highlighted the importance of fairness, equality, and peace in addressing the issues faced by retirees.
“If we are to treat each other fairly under the doctrine of equal rights, we must act now.”
He also made a passionate appeal to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, calling for attention to Chapter 82.2 of the law, which established the National Pension Fund, the Employment Injury Fund, and the Welfare Fund under NASSCORP benefits which, he said, retirees have yet to receive.
Rev. Teah called on the Civil Service Agency (CSA), the ministries of Labor, Finance, the National Legislature, and NASSCORP to recognize the urgent need to address the plight of senior citizens and to ensure they receive their rightful entitlements.
“We respectfully request a face-to-face meeting with His Excellency President Joseph N. Boakai to discuss a way forward in resolving these longstanding issues,” he stated.
“We are saying no longer will we accept poor attention by our government, and therefore calling on the Pres. Boakai to see the needs that full retirement benefits for all retirees received without any precondition for so long our national government neglected us a Senior Citizens of Liberia we therefore promise never to allow our hope and aspirations to be let in the village of loneliness.”
He said report they are receiving from our memberships at the 73 Electoral Districts of Liberia, they are finding it difficult not impossible to receive their just entitlement as retirement benefits NASSCORP need to address the public on this matter.
“Members of the press let it be known to the public we are not Politicians and must not be treated as political animals. We are Peaceful Retired Citizens, and therefore requesting our government to inform NASSCRP to do the needful in our quest to live a decent life.”