Over Unauthorized Labor Group Engaged in Labor Matters
Labor Minister Cooper Kruah has threatened a legal lawsuit against any unauthorized group engaged in labor matters, issuing a stern caveat to a group identifying itself as "Labor Clinic," and cautioning its members to immediately desist from interfering in official labor matters reserved exclusively for the Ministry of Labor.
Speaking to reporters over the weekend in Monrovia, Minister Kruah emphasized that the handling of labor disputes, grievances, and related cases falls solely within the Ministry's statutory mandate.
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"This is a clear violation of the law. The Ministry is prepared to take legal action against any individual or group found to be operating outside its authority. Labor matters are not for unauthorized bodies. Anyone found undermining the Ministry's mandate will be dealt with accordingly," Cllr. Kruah warned.
He stressed that no private group, organization, or institution has the legal authority to adjudicate or intervene in such matters.
According to the Minister, representatives of the group recently visited his office, claiming their intention was to assist the Ministry by identifying labor-related issues in concession areas and channeling them to the appropriate authorities.
However, Kruah disclosed that the group later contradicted this position during a local radio interview, where it allegedly claimed to be directly hearing and addressing labor cases.
The Minister's warning comes amid growing concerns over the emergence of informal groups attempting to intervene in labor disputes, particularly in concession zones where tensions between workers and employers often arise. He reiterated that while the Ministry welcomes cooperation from stakeholders, such collaboration must be properly coordinated and must not overstep legal boundaries.
Meanwhile, Minister Kruah announced the deployment of several labor inspectors across the country to strengthen compliance and enforcement. The inspection team, headed by Inspector General John Kangbah, has been tasked with reviewing work permits, assessing working conditions, and ensuring adherence to labor laws.
He clarified that labor inspectors are not authorized to arrest investors or demand payments for work permits. Instead, they are expected to collaborate with relevant institutions, including the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) and the Liberia Immigration Service, to ensure the proper implementation of labor regulations.
"Our inspectors are there to monitor and report, not to intimidate or extort," Kruah said. "We are committed to maintaining a fair and transparent labor system that protects both workers and investors."
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Minister Kruah further expressed confidence that under the leadership of President Joseph Boakai, the Ministry of Labor will intensify efforts to create job opportunities for Liberians and ensure that employment practices across the country are equitable and lawful.
He concluded by reiterating his call for all individuals and organizations to respect the legal framework governing labor administration, noting that safeguarding the integrity of the system is critical to national development and industrial harmony.
