MONROVIA – The Civil Service Agency welcomed its new Director General, Josiah Joekai, as he officially took office. In a candid assessment of the agency’s financial standing, Joekai disclosed the state of affairs left behind by the former director general.
Joekai revealed: “On this day, March 12, 2024, the bank balance of the CSA USD Account is a mere $191.00, with the LRD Account holding $10,200.00. As of February 2024, the CSA employed a total of 322 individuals, with over 200 based at the central office alone, resulting in a total wage bill of US$ 227,416.62,” revealed Joekai.
He added, “I have inherited an overstuffed payroll, currently supporting 67,746 employees across 103 spending entities, leading to an alarming average monthly wage bill of US$23,543,874.64.”
Amongst the reforms outlined by the new Director General was the implementation of a bi-weekly payment system for all civil servants. This system will ensure that employees such as teachers, police officers, and nurses, who earn a net monthly salary of US$300.00 or its Liberian Dollar equivalent, will receive US$150.00 every two weeks on the 15th and 30th of each month.
Joekai’s commitment to financial transparency and efficiency within the CSA has been met with optimism and anticipation. His plans for reform and restructuring aim to streamline operations, reduce waste, and ultimately lead the agency towards a more sustainable and responsible future. As civil servants eagerly await the changes to come, Joekai’s leadership is poised to bring about significant transformation within the Civil Service Agency.