MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Obediah Kamon, who identifies himself as a supporter of the ruling Unity Party, took a bold step on Saturday, February 22, 2025, by lying under a government official’s vehicle along the Robertfield Highway. During a live-streamed video on social media, Kamon called out to Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs, Cornelia Kruah Togba, demanding a higher-paying job within the government.
In the live broadcast, Kamon directly appealed to Madam Kruah, stating, “Cornelia Kruah Togba, I need a job.” He expressed his frustration with his current position at the Liberian Senate, where he works in the Human Resource Department. According to Kamon, he earns approximately 150 United States Dollars and 12,000 Liberian Dollars monthly, an amount he described as insufficient to meet his needs despite his loyalty to the current administration.
Kamon claimed that he previously met with President Joseph Boakai, who directed him to consult with Madam Kruah regarding a better position. However, he said his attempts to secure a new appointment have been unsuccessful, prompting his dramatic protest. “I am not asking to become a minister, but I deserve a better-paying job in one of these government agencies,” he said.
Following the incident, Madam Kruah responded through a Facebook post, where she pushed back against Kamon’s claims. She clarified that Kamon is not without a job but is seeking a presidential appointment. Kruah further alleged that Kamon had harassed her on multiple occasions, including during the President’s annual message reception, accusing her of refusing to forward his name for consideration.
“Public officials are often expected to tolerate all kinds of behavior, but I will not allow myself to be blackmailed or intimidated into endorsing his request for an appointment,” Madam Kruah stated. She emphasized that while Kamon has a source of income, his demands focus on securing a higher-ranking position within the administration.
The protest has sparked conversations on social media, with several figures weighing in on the matter. Activist Martin Kollie, a vocal critic of the government, also commented on the protest. In a social media post, he highlighted the broader issue of unemployment and economic hardship in Liberia. “The young man’s protest reflects the struggles faced by thousands of jobless Liberians. President Boakai must pay attention. Our people are suffering while a significant portion of the national budget is spent on high salaries,” Kollie remarked.
Meanwhile, Kamon’s actions have intensified public discourse on the fairness of government appointments and the challenges ordinary citizens face in accessing well-paying jobs. While he remains adamant about securing a better position, Madam Kruah has made it clear that she will not succumb to public pressure to facilitate his appointment.
