Liberia’s president slashes his salary by 40pc amid rising cost of living

Liberia's President Joseph Boakai has announced that he will slash his salary by 40 per cent with an aim to set a precedent for ‘responsible governance’ and demonstrate ‘solidarity’ with the citizens of the country amid rising cost of living.

Due to the cut, Joseph Boakai’s salary will come down to $8,000 from existing $13,400.

BBC said Liberia’s government salaries have come under intense scrutiny recently as the citizens of the country complain about the rising cost of living.

“Around one in five people live on less than $2 (£1.70) a day in the West African state,” the BBC report said.

Mr Boakai's move echoes that of his predecessor, George Weah, who took a 25 per cent cut in his salary.

Some in the West African nation have hailed Mr Boakai's decision, but others wonder whether it is truly a sacrifice given that he also receives benefits like a daily allowance and medical cover.

The presidential office's budget is almost $3m this year.