By Moses J. Dawoe/Southeast Correspondent
Senator Albert T. Chie has publicly acknowledged widespread labor malpractices by Golden Veroleum Liberia (GVL), following a wave of grievances raised by residents and workers in Grand Kru County.
Speaking at a town hall meeting in Garraway Down Beach on April 15, 2025, as part of his post-election appreciation tour, the former Pro-Tempore of the Liberian Senate lamented what he described as “poor labor practices” by GVL.
He said citizens have been left with little choice but to endure the conditions due to the scarcity of employment opportunities in the county.
“Many of our people are suffering under poor working conditions, but they must accept them because there are no alternative jobs,” Senator Chie said, citing complaints he received from residents throughout his tour.
He stressed that lawmakers representing Grand Kru will intensify efforts to hold the company accountable and push for improved labor standards assuring, “We will not relent in making sure GVL operates in a fair and responsible manner.”
Among the key issues raised was GVL’s alleged implementation of substandard infrastructure projects. The senator pointed out that despite repeated warnings, the company continues to construct wooden plank bridges instead of durable concrete structures; an approach he said contradicts their stated commitment to the county’s development.
GVL is expected to appear before the Grand Kru Legislative Caucus and county citizens residing in Monrovia next month. The meeting aims to confront the company about prevailing conditions in its operational communities.
Senator Chie also revealed plans to engage GVL on launching an outgrower scheme for local farmers—an initiative that would empower residents through self-employment and is expected to receive backing from the Government of Liberia.
Beyond his critique of the company, Senator Chie expressed dismay over the apparent neglect of several legislative projects initiated during his tenure.
He disclosed that more than six completed facilities—including an administrative building, a youth center, and multiple town halls—are not being utilized by the communities for which they were intended.
The Grand Kru lawmaker emphasized a renewed focus on youth empowerment, capacity building, and improved healthcare services, pledging a more proactive legislative agenda to address the county’s most pressing needs.
