By: Melvin Flomo
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Capitol Hill, Monrovia — Grand Cape Mount County Senator Dabah M. Varpilah has called for stronger regulation and enforcement of employment provisions within Liberia’s concession sector, citing ongoing concerns over the marginalization of Liberian workers in favor of foreign labor.
Speaking during a feedback session with Civil Service Agency (CSA) Director Josiah Joekai at the Liberian Senate, Senator Varpilah praised the Pro Tempore for seeking technical input to assess employment trends in concessions. She emphasized that such assessments are critical to empowering legislative committees with the data needed to recommend effective policy actions.
The senator pointed to alarming patterns, particularly in the mining industry, where she said foreign companies often violate labor agreements by hiring expatriates over qualified Liberians.
“We’re aware of the agreements in place,” Senator Varpilah noted, “but the reality is different on the ground—many foreigners are working in the mines without accountability, undermining the employment rights of Liberians.”
She referenced the inter-ministerial council set up by President Joseph Boakai in March 2024 following a wave of protests against employment discrimination in concessions. However, Varpilah warned that without rigorous enforcement, such mechanisms risk becoming symbolic.
“Concession agreements must be more than documents, we must ensure they translate into real opportunities for our people,” she stressed, urging the CSA and her fellow lawmakers to adopt a hands-on approach in monitoring compliance.
Her remarks come as the Senate intensifies scrutiny of the country’s natural resource sectors amid growing demands for inclusive growth and fair labor practices.
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