At a heartfelt induction ceremony for the All Retired Citizens Association of Liberia over the weekend, Rev. Kafa Teah, the newly appointed National Chairman, voiced his deep dissatisfaction regarding the systemic neglect and mistreatment of retirees by both past and present governments.
Rev. Teah, speaking to a room filled with senior citizens, highlighted the struggle of many retirees who, after dedicating their lives to serving the country, now face undue hardships in their twilight years.
“No regard for our sacrifices” was a recurring theme in his address as he pointed out the lack of support and basic dignity these elderly citizens deserve.
Despite their contributions to national development, Rev. Teah emphasized that many retirees are battling with inconsistent salary payments, which weigh heavily amid Liberia’s ongoing economic struggles.
“We have not received the decent living we deserve from those we once considered our national leaders,” he lamented, calling for collective action from all retirees in advocating for their rights and benefits.
He urged senior citizens nationwide to unite in demanding justice and to fight against the neglect that has characterized their treatment.
“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 asserted, underscoring the need for fairness and equality in their treatment.
Rev. Teah also made a passionate appeal to President Joseph N. Boakai, urging immediate attention to critical provisions of Chapter 82.2 of the law that established the National Pension Fund, alongside other funds meant to support retirees—benefits that, he argued, remain largely unfulfilled.
He requested meeting with President Boakai to address the myriad of issues affecting senior citizens and to explore pathways towards securing their rightful entitlements.
The induction ceremony also saw the appointment of key officials in the Association, including Mrs. Florence Donkenb as Vice Chairperson and Jor B. Sere as Director for Gender Affairs. As the new leadership takes the reins, the focus remains steadfast on advocating for the neglected voices of Liberia’s senior citizens.
