Monrovia-December 3, 2025: A heated session at the Liberian Senate was abruptly paused Tuesday after lawmakers clashed over a proposal to slash their own salaries.
The bill, introduced by Senator Abraham Darius Dillon, would reduce monthly pay from eight thousand to five thousand dollars. Tension widened at the Capitol Tuesday as senators engaged in sharp exchanges over a controversial bill calling for a 37.5-percent salary cut for all 103 members of the national legislature.
The uproar began when Senator Prince Moye, Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways, Means, Finance and Budget, delivered a briefing on the status of the proposed legislation. His update immediately triggered strong reactions across the chamber.
Montserrado County Senator Abraham Darius Dillon, the sponsor of the bill, argues the measure could save the government up to four million dollars annually. He insists the reduction is necessary to demonstrate fiscal discipline and restore public trust.
But not all lawmakers agree. Senators Joseph Jallah, Semion Taylor, Zoe Emmanuel Pennue, and others pushed back, questioning whether the cuts would affect legislative independence or undermine the work of the Senate. The disagreement grew so intense that the session was temporarily halted.
Debate on the bill is expected to officially begin next week, and further heated discussions are anticipated as senators weigh financial responsibility against their own welfare. Observers say the outcome could significantly shape public perceptions of government accountability.
