By Alfred Kollie email alfredkolliejr92@gmail.com
The President of the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC), Bishop Kortu K. Brown is challenging the CDC “Pro-poor” government of President George Manneh Weah to stop attacking the opposition for criticizing its performance.
Dr. Brown said instead of being defensive, the government should take immediate, concrete and sustainable actions in addressing the current high exchange rate, massive inflation and economic hardship in the country.
Since the inception of President Weah government over five months ago, the cost of living has risen and the economic situation has gone from bad to worse, the the value of the Liberian dollar reaching an all-time low.
For the first time, the exchange rate between the US dollar and the Liberian dollar has climbed above 155LD to one USD triggering a hike in the prices of food and other basic commodities on the Liberian market.
This has recently sparked public criticism of the government from some quarters, something that has generated sharp reactions by CDC government official including President Weah, who described critics as enemies of the state.
But Dr. Kortu Brown told President Weah that he should institute appropriate measures to address the current economic crisis, in order to improve the living standard of all Liberians.
The Bishop Dr. Brown also wants government explains in full detail of the current challenges as it relates to the high exchange rate, increase in basic commodities and the issue of transportation in the country.
The LCC President named economic viability, sound education system, adequate health care, effective electricity and pipe bond water as key areas that must be quickly addressed by the pro poor regime.
He noted that it is high time the government gives its citizens realistic reasons for the hardship and takes positive actions in resolving them and properly secure the better Liberia he (Pres. Weah) promised.
Bishop Dr. Brown cautioned the Government against continuously attacking oppositions every step along the way and place more emphases on crafting policies that would work in the best interest of the poor people.