The National Chairman of the All-Retired Citizens Association of Liberia, Rev. Kafa Teah, has expressed deep frustration over what he described as long-standing neglect and mistreatment of retirees by both past and current Liberian governments.
Speaking over the weekend at the induction ceremony of the Retired Citizens Association of Liberia held in Monrovia, Rev. Teah lamented 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 leaders,” Rev. Teah said.
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 across 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 of Liberia without any precondition.”
He emphasized 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 declared.
He also made a passionate appeal to President Joseph N. 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 Ministry of Labor, the Ministry of Financial Planning and Development, 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.
The newly inducted officials of the Association include Rev. Kafa B. Teah as President, Mrs. Florence Donken as Vice Chairperson, Jor B. Sere as Director for Gender Affairs, and James B. Gant as Secretary General, among others.
