MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), in collaboration with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and the National Association of Telecom Users of Liberia (NATELCO), has announced the return of promotional offers that provide additional data on popular mobile bundles. This decision, confirmed in a press release issued late Sunday evening, December 15, 2024, aims to provide temporary relief to Liberians grappling with high data costs.
Acting LTA Chairman Abdullah L. Kamara stated that the restoration of promotions is a step toward keeping data services affordable while the LTA and its partners work on more permanent measures. Kamara assured the public that these promotions would remain in effect until a lasting solution is implemented. “We urge the public to be patient as we work together to ensure long-term affordability for everyone in Liberia,” Kamara said.
This announcement comes in the midst of a growing public backlash against the LTA and mobile operators Lonestar Cell MTN and Orange Liberia. The telecom companies recently raised data prices while simultaneously reducing services, sparking outrage among Liberians. Both companies have blamed the LTA for the hikes, although the regulatory body has denied any responsibility, further fueling the public’s frustration.
Social media platforms, particularly Facebook, have become a hotbed of protests and complaints. Critics have expressed anger over the price increases, accusing the LTA of disregarding the economic hardships faced by the majority of Liberians, including the high unemployment rate of 96.5%, as reported by the Ministry of Labor.
Martin Kollie, an outspoken anti-corruption advocate, took to social media to condemn the LTA leadership. “There’s a difference between insensitivity and evil. EVIL is when LTA commissioners, including Patrick Honnah, take home about US$11K in salaries and benefits every month but cut down on the data that millions of poor people depend on to survive,” Kollie wrote. His post sharply criticized the commissioners’ compensation packages, calling for immediate reform.
Presidential Press Secretary Kolu V. Fofana attempted to quell the growing anger, urging citizens to remain patient as the government works to resolve the issue. “Data is indeed life. The relevant authorities are currently working to ensure the issue is resolved soon. Be patient small. #yourgovtlistens,” she posted on Facebook. However, her assurances have done little to calm the rising tensions.
Representative Taa Wongbe joined the growing chorus of dissent, issuing a stern warning to the LTA: “Young people are ready! If the LTA doesn’t reverse its decision, we will make our voices heard in every corner of Liberia. Affordable internet is non-negotiable. #BringBackOurData.”
Adding to the demand for transparency, Cllr. Moriah Yeakula-Korkpor formally invoked the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act of 2010 to request financial records from the LTA. In a letter addressed to LTA Chairman Abdullai Kamara, she called for access to the agency’s 2024 budget, expenditure report, and a detailed breakdown of salaries and benefits paid to commissioners. Yeakula-Korkpor emphasized that this effort is part of a broader push to ensure accountability and transparency in the use of public funds.
Meanwhile, a group of predominantly female protesters recently gathered outside the LTA headquarters, carrying placards to voice their dissatisfaction over the data reduction policy. Some of the signs read: “#BringBackOurData!” “LTA, We Are Suffering!” and “Remove Your Charges on Our Data.” Another placard declared: “LTA Has Failed Us! The Young People Are Devastated by These New Surcharges!” One protester’s sign summed up the frustration: “The New Surcharges Are Killing Us! #BringBackOurData.”
