Liberia’s president, Joseph Boakai, announced that he will reduce his salary by 40%.
His office said he hopes to set a precedent for “responsible governance” and demonstrate “solidarity” with Liberians.
Government salaries have come under intense scrutiny recently as Liberians 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.
Boakai revealed in February that his annual salary was $13,400. The cut will bring it down to $8,000.
Mr Boakai’s measure reflects that of his predecessor, George Weahwho took a 25% pay cut.
Some people in the West African country welcomed Boakai’s decision, but others wonder whether it is really a sacrifice, given that he also receives benefits such as a daily allowance and medical coverage.
The presidential office budget is nearly $3 million this year.
Anderson D Miamen of the non-profit Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia said the president’s pay cut is “welcome”.
“We just hope the public sees clearly where the deductions will go and how they will be used to positively impact people’s lives,” he told the BBC.
W Lawrence Yealue II, whose organization also campaigns for government transparency, described the president’s decision as “very commendable” and said “leadership has to be provided from the top”.
He added that he expects Mr Boakai’s benefits to be reviewed in the budget for the next financial year.
In addition to reducing his salary, Boakai pledged to “empower” the Liberia Civil Service Agency to ensure that public servants “receive fair compensation for their contributions to the country.”
Last week, a group of legislators complained that they had not received their official cars, necessary to carry out their duties.
As a form of protest, they attended parliament in tuk-tuks, known locally as keh keh, a common form of transport for ordinary Liberians.
Boakai took office in January after defeating Weah in the second round of elections.
He promised to fight corruption and financial mismanagement.
In addition to declaring his assets since taking office, Mr. Boakai ordered an audit of the presidential office. The results have not yet been released.
Mr. Boakai also strengthened the General Audit Commission and the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission.
Weah’s government was plagued by allegations of corruption and overspending, which triggered mass protests as the cost of living rose for ordinary people.
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