Workers Demand Removal Of DG
Several aggrieved workers of the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA) have come forward, labeling the Director General of the Institution, Madam Emma Matieh Glassco as unfit to lead the entity, citing allegations of rudeness, arrogance, corruption, and incompetence.
Gathering at the NaFAA’s national headquarters on Bushrod Island, workers brandished placards inscribed with grave accusations against Glassco, highlighting issues of bad labor practices, inhumane treatment, illegal dismissals, and deduction of allowances without providing promised benefits.
Chairing the group, Patrick T. Wisseh, detailed these concerns in communications to legislative committees overseeing agriculture and fisheries, accusing Glassco of neglecting workers’ rights, refusing salary increments for six years, and failing to provide essential amenities such as transportation.
Furthermore, Wisseh alleged institutional corruption under Glassco’s leadership, pointing to unaccounted proceeds from Senegalese shrimp vessels’ operations and discrepancies in versions of the fisheries act submitted to different administrations.
In a plea to the 55th Legislature, the group called for reinstatement of dismissed staff, regularization of long-serving contractors, and an independent investigation into the allegations.
“We give corrupt Emma Glassco until next Monday to address our demands. Failure to do so will result in a blockade of NaFAA premises,” warned Wisseh.
Responding to the allegations, Glassco dismissed them as politically motivated and insignificant, challenging the accusers to substantiate their claims.
Regarding the threatened blockade, Glassco expressed readiness to face any such action.
The workers’ outcry raises serious concerns about governance and accountability within NaFAA, prompting calls for swift legislative intervention and impartial investigations to address the allegations and restore confidence in the institution.
The allegations against Glassco underscore broader issues of governance and transparency within Liberia’s fisheries sector, necessitating urgent action from relevant authorities to uphold standards and safeguard workers’ rights.
As stakeholders await further developments, the fate of NaFAA hangs in the balance, with the credibility of its leadership and the integrity of Liberia’s fisheries management at stake.
By: Blamo N. Toe/Contributing Writer
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