– Dismissed EPS Officers Petition US Embassy for Unpaid Benefits
Monrovia, Liberia – Several dismissed officers of the Executive Protection Service (EPS) have petitioned the United States Embassy near Monrovia, demanding the prompt payment of their outstanding benefits. The officers, who claim to have served the nation diligently, expressed their grievances over what they describe as an illegal dismissal without just cause and the subsequent non-payment of their dues.
The former EPS officers, led by spokesperson Jeffery Weah, gathered peacefully at the U.S. Embassy, stressing their dire situation and the urgent need for intervention. “We have the right to work as citizens of this country, and our families have the right to survive,” Jeffery Weahstated passionately. “Our dismissal is illegal, and we will not give up our fight for justice.”
The group detailed their efforts over the past months, highlighting their appeals to various national and international bodies, including the European Union, the Liberian judiciary, and the Ministry of Justice. Despite these efforts, they lamented the lack of response from the Liberian government.
On August 19, 2024, the dismissed officers met withstakeholders, seeking their assistance in resolving the matter. They also approached the Senate Committee on Defense, Security, Intelligence, and Veterans Affairs and the Senate Committee on Labor, emphasizing the urgency of their situation.
Senator Cyrus Momo, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defense, assured the officers that the matter was being addressed. “We expect this issue to be resolved promptly,” Momo stated, referencing a communication sent to the executive branch requesting the payment of the officers’ benefits.
Despite these assurances, the officers continue to face financial hardship as the festive season approaches. “We are in serious distress,” Weah emphasized. “We have families to care for, and the government’s inaction is pushing us to the brink.”
The officers underscored their commitment to the rule of law and maintaining peace and security in Liberia while also holding the government accountable for its responsibilities. “We believe the government has to ensure peace and security by acting as a role model,” Weahnoted. “We expect the government to act as soon as possible.”
When asked about their next steps if the government fails to respond, Weah remained non-committal but hinted at unspecified actions. “We will not announce our next steps, but the world is watching,” he declared.
As the officers continue their peaceful protest, the hope remains that the intervention of the U.S. Embassy and other international bodies will bring a swift resolution to their plight. “We believe the U.S. Ambassador will help us bring this matter to rest,” Broke concluded.
