MONROVIA – In a crucial move to protect workers’ rights, Liberia’s Labor Minister Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah Sr. has initiated an immediate investigation into allegations of poor labor practices at the ongoing overhead bridge construction project by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) in Monrovia. This decision follows numerous complaints from workers regarding unsafe conditions and alleged mistreatment by supervisors.
Accompanied by a delegation from the Ministry of Labor, Minister Kruah visited the construction site early Monday morning to gather firsthand accounts from workers. The inspection revealed alarming irregularities, such as the lack of essential safety equipment, including protective boots and gear critical for ensuring employee safety on site.
During the visit, several workers voiced their concerns directly to the minister. They reported a disturbing lack of transparency in their pay structure, emphasizing that they do not receive pay slips and are instead compensated in cash, often without clarity regarding their earnings. Additionally, workers highlighted an alarming practice of working overtime without remuneration, raising significant red flags about compliance with labor laws.
“We don’t receive pay slips. We are paid hand to hand without knowing how much we actually earn. We work overtime without pay,” a group of workers told Minister Kruah, clearly expressing their frustrations.
In response to these serious allegations, Minister Kruah issued an immediate directive to CRBC management, mandating the company to provide necessary safety equipment without delay, compensate employees for any unpaid overtime, and begin issuing detailed pay slips for every salary payment. This action signifies the government’s commitment to enforcing labor rights and ensuring fair working conditions for all workers in Liberia.
Acknowledging CRBC’s role in contributing to Liberia’s national development, Minister Kruah emphasized that compliance with the Decent Work Act is paramount. “When you have issues, call us — we will come. When workers have issues, they should also call us. We are here to maintain peace and protect everyone’s rights,” he stated during his visit.
The Ministry of Labor’s investigation is currently ongoing, as officials continue to gather information and assess the working conditions at the CRBC site. This incident sheds light on the importance of safeguarding labor rights in Liberia, particularly in the context of significant foreign investment and infrastructure development. As news of the minister’s intervention spreads, workers hope for a swift resolution to their grievances and a commitment to better labor practices in the future.
The Ministry of Labor remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the rights and safety of workers across the nation.
