Liberian Returnees Seek President Boakai’s Intervention Over Resettlement Benefits
By: Sylvester Choloplay
Monrovia: On August 8, 2024, a group of Liberian returnees from Ghana assembled near President Joseph Boakai’s residence in the Rehab community, seeking his intervention over financial promises from the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC).
The returnees, who arrived in Liberia approximately four months ago with the assistance of the LRRRC said they are facing significant challenges, including the lack of shelter, lack of promised financial aid and inadequate support for their reintegration by LRRRC.
Upon their arrival in Liberia, the LRRRC had pledged $300 per household head to assist with the returnees’ resettlement.
However, some returnees have claimed that the promise remains unfulfilled.
The returnees had been warmly welcomed at the CARI Center in Bong County and later transited to Johnsonville, where they were assured of support and assistance.
Their return was filled with promises of help and reintegration assistance, creating high expectations for a smooth transition.
About 50 of the returnees, including families with children, traveled long distances on foot to the President’s residence in Rehab on Thursday, August 8, 2024 with placards.
They carried placards with messages such as “We need our money” and “Are we not Liberians, LRRRC?” to express their frustration and urgent need for the promised financial aid.
However, President Boakai’s Director of Cabinet met with the returnees and assured them that their concerns would be investigated and addressed.
The response indicates the President’s commitment to looking into their grievances and ensuring that the support promised is delivered.
Meanwhile, LRRRC Executive Director Patrick Worzie in a telephone call to our reporter said about approximately 85% of returnees have already received their promised support.
He said about 300 out of the 1,579 returnees left to be given their packages including financial aid.
He confirmed that the LRRRC is actively working with the Ministry of Finance to resolve the cases of those who have not yet received their aid.
Mr. Worzie also expressed disappointment over reports of vandalism of LRRRC property including vehicles and other materials by some returnees.
He urged them to exercise restraint and assured them that efforts are ongoing to address the outstanding issues.
