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ADNews-Monrovia, Liberia: The Liberia Petroleum Retailers Union (LIPRU) has expressed deep disappointment and frustration with the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) and the Liberia Petroleum Regulatory Authority (LPRA), accusing them of neglecting their duties and failing to provide adequate support to the petroleum retail industry.
By Emmanuel Garsuah
Speaking at a press conference in Paynesville City, LIPRU President, Mr. Prince Tamba Nyumah, lamented that the regulators’ lack of engagement with the union, saying, “We’re like orphans in this industry. Nobody cares about our welfare, nobody listens to our concerns.”
The LIPRU represents petroleum retailers across Liberia, who are struggling to stay afloat amidst rising operational costs and unscrupulous practices by some suppliers.
According to Mr. Nyumah, the regulators, responsible for overseeing the industry, have been absent in addressing these challenges.
“They’re quick to impose fines and penalties, but when we need their help, they’re nowhere to be found,” Mr. Nyumah said.
“We need support, not suffocation. We need policies that protect our businesses, not just the interests of a select few, ” he added.
The LIPRU has been vocal about the need for the government to regulate the sector, citing the soaring costs of living and doing business in Liberia. However, the union feels its pleas have fallen on deaf ears.
“We’re not asking for handouts, we’re asking for a level playing field,” said Ms. Comfort K. Doe, a petroleum retailer in Paynesville.
“The regulators should ensure that suppliers provide us with quality fuel at fair prices. But instead, they’re turning a blind eye,” she intoned.
The Liberia Petroleum Retailers Union’s outburst highlights the frustrations of many businesses in Liberia, struggling to survive amidst bureaucratic neglect and lack of support.
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