MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Civil Society Organization, Universal Health Coverage Campaigners, calls on the Liberian Senate to conduct a thorough and critical review of the Public Health Law currently under consideration. The law, which has been pending in the Senate for an extended period, was initially submitted to the Legislature during the administration of former President George Weah.
According to a press release issued on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, signed by Gayflor S. T. Torborzayor, Chairman, is urging the Senate to closely examine the law as passed by the lower house before agreeing to its passage. This law is of utmost importance for the advancement and strengthening of Liberia’s health sector, and it is essential that all aspects of the law are carefully reviewed to ensure its success.
One key consideration is the law’s implications for the roles and responsibilities of various agencies within the health sector. The law must foster collaboration and coordination between these agencies to ensure its effective implementation. This includes acknowledging the roles of other stakeholders in the sector to avoid conflicts or overlaps that could undermine the law’s objectives.
Several professionals and entities within the health sector have voiced concerns regarding the law. During a public hearing held at the Senate, stakeholders expressed dissatisfaction with certain provisions, citing that the law grants excessive powers to the Minister of Health—powers that may infringe upon the statutory functions of heads of other institutions within the sector. Some provisions, they argue, could usurp the functions of other entities established by law, which could disrupt the smooth operation and governance of the sector.
Given these concerns, the Universal Health Coverage Campaigners calls for a comprehensive review and necessary amendments to the law before its final passage. The health of Liberia’s population is at stake, and it is critical that the law is structured in a way that balances the interests of all stakeholders and protects the integrity of the health sector.
We urge the managers of the country’s health sector to put the collective interest of the population above personal interests in shaping this important legislation. The Universal Health Coverage Campaigners further calls on the Liberian Senate to consider the feedback provided by experts and entities during the public hearing before making a final decision on the law.
We believe that with a careful and inclusive review, this law can be an important tool in advancing Liberia’s public health and ensuring equitable health services for all Liberians.
