Critics Call for Drastic Budget Reforms Amid Economic Crisis
Monrovia, Liberia – Elon Musk’s decision to withdraw $17 million in aid to Liberia has sparked debate, but some activists argue that the country can easily replace the lost funding by eliminating excessive government expenditures. Martin K. N. Kollie, a vocal economist and political activist, says Liberia is already wasting far more than the canceled aid, with over $44 million going into questionable budget allocations that benefit a select few.
Where Is the Money Going?
Despite widespread poverty and an unemployment rate exceeding 90%, Liberia’s national budget continues to allocate millions of dollars to non-essential expenses. A breakdown of government spending shows excessive funds directed toward entertainment, food services, fuel for lawmakers’ cars, and even scratch cards.
Here’s a look at some of the spending:
• Meetings for Public Account Committee – $738,312
• Entertainment – $1,084,702
• Food and Catering Services – $3,364,799
• Fuel for Lawmakers’ Cars – $4,624,724
• Fuel for Generators – $4,316,765
• Workshops – $2,644,269
• Special Operations Services – $9,084,897
• Intelligence Services – $9,679,136
In total, Kollie’s analysis reveals that $44,069,566 is being funneled into what he calls “wasteful spending” while ordinary Liberians continue to struggle.
Call for Reforms
Kollie and other activists are urging President Joseph Boakai to take immediate action to cut government excesses. One key recommendation is capping the salaries and benefits of lawmakers, ministers, and heads of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) at $5,000 per month.
“The American taxpayers do not owe us anything,” Kollie declared. “We have enough money to cater for ourselves. Greed and graft on an industrial scale are our real enemies.”
Liberia’s Longstanding Dependence on Aid
For decades, Liberia has relied on foreign aid to fill budgetary gaps, despite abundant natural resources. Critics argue that excessive government spending and corruption are the real obstacles to financial independence.
“Elon Musk cancels $17M. So what?” Kollie emphasized. “The suffering in Liberia is artificial. It is man-made.”
As economic hardship worsens, calls for financial accountability are growing louder. The question remains: Will Liberia’s leaders take action, or will wasteful spending continue while ordinary citizens struggle?
