Monrovia—Health workers in Liberia have once again issued a stern warning to the government, threatening a nationwide protest if their salaries and benefits are not addressed promptly. The President of the National Physician Assistants Association of Liberia, Theophilus Faryah, has called for immediate action, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by health workers across the country.
Faryah criticized the government for its failure to increase salaries despite an increment in the health budget. “The increase in the health budget has had no tangible impact on the salaries of health workers,” Faryah said in a recent statement. “We have repeatedly advocated for fair compensation under both past and present administrations, but our pleas have consistently fallen on deaf ears.”
Faryah emphasized that health workers are left with no choice but to consider a nationwide protest to draw the government’s attention to the critical challenges they face. “We are being forced to take drastic measures to ensure that our voices are heard,” he stated. “If the issue of salaries is not speedily addressed, we will be compelled to take unspecified action that could bring the government into compliance.”
The warning from health workers comes amid growing frustration over the government’s handling of their compensation and benefits. Many health workers have expressed their dissatisfaction, citing the lack of progress despite numerous promises and budget increases.
Mary Johnson, a nurse at a public hospital in Monrovia, echoed Faryah’s sentiments, stating, “We are on the front lines every day, risking our lives to provide care for our fellow citizens. It is disheartening to see that our efforts are not being recognized or fairly compensated.”
Dr. Samuel Doe, a physician in Nimba County, also voiced his concerns, adding, “The current state of our healthcare system is unsustainable. We are experiencing burnout and financial strain. It is time for the government to prioritize the well-being of its healthcare workers.”
The potential protest has garnered support from various health worker associations and unions across the country. The Liberia Nurses Association, the Midwives Association of Liberia, and other professional bodies have all expressed solidarity with the National Physician Assistants Association’s demands.
In response to the mounting pressure, the Ministry of Health has acknowledged the grievances of health workers and pledged to address their concerns. “We are aware of the challenges faced by our healthcare workers and are committed to finding a resolution,” said a spokesperson. “We are in discussions with the Ministry of Finance to ensure that the necessary funds are allocated to improve salaries and benefits.”
Despite these assurances, health workers remain skeptical, insisting on concrete action rather than promises. “We have heard these assurances before, but we need to see real change,” said Theophilus Faryah. “Our patience is running out, and we will not hesitate to take action if our demands are not met.”
The looming threat of a nationwide protest underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for the government to take immediate and decisive steps to address the grievances of health workers.
