IPNEWS: Representative Sumo Kollie Mulbah has sharply criticized statements made by Deputy Minister of Labor Cornelia Wonkerleh Kruah, who recently claimed during a radio appearance that the Legislature is responsible for the Ministry of Labor’s approach to work permit regulation and enforcement.
Rep. Mulbah described her comments as “a concerning misinterpretation of governance” and accused the Deputy Minister of misrepresenting concerns raised by Montserrado County Senator Abraham Darius Dillon regarding the increasing number of foreign workers taking up jobs in Liberia.
He said the Ministry’s attempt to shift blame to the Legislature “oversimplifies a complex national issue, turns it into a blame game, and injects personal emotions into a matter requiring transparency and institutional accountability.”
Revenue Targets Cannot Justify Lax Enforcement
Rep. Mulbah rejected the Deputy Minister’s suggestion that the Legislature’s revenue targets for the Ministry of Labor justify its current work permit procedures.
“A revenue target is not a license to weaken protections for Liberian workers,” he stressed. “Revenue forecasts do not empower any government ministry to lower standards for foreign labor entry, issue permits without due diligence, or compromise enforcement of the Decent Work Act.”
He emphasized that the Ministry’s primary obligation is to protect Liberian workers a responsibility grounded in law and patriotism, and not negotiable based on financial expectations.
Separation of Powers: Enforcement Is Not the Legislature’s Role
Rep. Mulbah reminded the public that the Legislature does not administer permits.
“The Legislature does not verify employers, approve foreign workers, or enforce labor standards. That is the exclusive role of the Executive Branch,” he noted.
According to him, blaming the Legislature for enforcement failures reveals a misunderstanding of constitutional responsibilities.
Public Service Is Not a Family Shield
The lawmaker also criticized the Deputy Minister for framing public scrutiny of the Labor Ministry as an attack on her father, the Minister of Labor, Cllr. Cooper Kruah.
“Public service is not a family business,” Rep. Mulbah said. “Accountability comes with authority. No official is above questioning, and criticism must never be personalized.”
He argued that Liberia cannot build strong institutions if every public concern is dismissed as emotional or disrespectful.
Foreign Workers: A Real National Concern
Rep. Mulbah echoed citizen complaints that an increasing number of foreigners are performing roles Liberians are qualified to fill.
“These concerns are legitimate and widespread,” he said. “Market women, graduates, technicians, and unemployed youth are all asking: Why are work permits being granted so easily?”
He asserted that Senator Dillon merely articulated what many Liberians witness daily, and such concerns must not be brushed aside.
Law Enforcement Comes Before Revenue
The Montserrado County District #3 lawmaker insisted that even without revenue projections, the Ministry is legally obligated to:
• Protect Liberian jobs
• Rigorously vet foreign labor applications
• Conduct due diligence before issuing work permits
• Deny permits for roles Liberians can perform
“The Decent Work Act exists to serve Liberians not to meet revenue quotas,” he said.
Accountability Over Deflection
Rep. Mulbah urged the Ministry of Labor to stop shifting blame and instead demonstrate responsible leadership.
“Liberia requires commitment, not excuses. The workforce demands protection, not profit-driven policies,” he concluded. “No revenue objective should ever come before the rights of Liberians to work in their own country.”
He called for stronger oversight, consistent enforcement of labor laws, and closer collaboration between the Legislature and Executive to safeguard the nation’s job market.
“The principle remains unshaken: Liberians must be prioritized in Liberia’s job market. Full stop.” By: Andrew B Weah
0770637216/0886429103
andrewbweah@gmail.com
