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Liberia: 'Restraining Order' - Court Halts Karloken-Harper Road Contract - (allAfrica)
You can't fool all of the people all of the time!
No Validation of Corruption, Impunity and Nepotism in The Midterm Election: Do Not Vote for the Sirleaf Hegemony
Our Duty is to Stand up Firm in the Face of Police's Nimely Shooting spree: Not Whistle by the Graveyard of Terrorism at Our Own Peril
The Senate Imagined
Liberia: Boosting Food Security in the Midst of Ebola
Memo to the Liberia National Police: You Guys are Monsters, At Best, Period
The Claim Of Marginalization Of The Mah Or The Dan People Of Nimba: A Product Of Self-Centered, Divisive Political Game Planners, Doomed For Failure
Michel du Cille died at 58 While Covering the Ebola Outbreak in Liberia - Washington Post
The Right to Access to Justice
Lesson for EJS: "Town Trap Not For Rat Alone"
Africa is not Ebola
A Legal Brief filed by Lawyers for the Plaintiffs for the Postponement of the 2014 Senatorial Elections in Liberia
President Sirleaf Issues Executive Order No. 65: Is The President Using Ebola As A Front To Rig The Senatorial Election For Her Son?
Another Where Are They Now?
As to the Supreme Court's Stay Order: Is Robert Sirleaf an Exception?
A Rejoinder to George Fahnbulleh's letter to FPA
Elections Alone Are Not Democracy: Why Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's Presidency Is Only Dressed Up As A Democracy
Macroeconomic Implications Of Ebola: Peripheral View On Liberia
"Unconstitutional & Wicked", Liberian Political Parties Predict "Chaos": A Commentary
In support of George Fahnbulleh: Questioning George Werner's Nomination
A Fundamental Problem Facing Liberia: The President's Quest for Mismatched Manpower
Leaders with Slave Mentalities: The Strange Case of Liberia
Midterm Election 2014: Inception Of Liberia's Decisive Moment
America Works For Firestone; Is President Sirleaf Too?
The Suffering Is Unbearable And Its Perpetuation Unconscionable: What do we do about it?
Everybody Blames Us, But Themselves!
Monrovia, Liberia - President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has made additional appointments in government especially affecting the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs and Local Government structures. According to an Executive Mansion release, these appointments are subject to confirmation by the Honorable Liberian Senate, where applicable. They include:
Ebola Response in Liberia Is Hampered by Infighting - New York Times
The Bleeding Liberia Celebrates 149th Independence (Re-run)
LIBERIA: Rebranding Our Nation's Image from Ebola
October 2014, Mid-Term, Senatorial Elections For "Constitutional Crisis": A Response
Nothing Lasts Forever!
A doctor's mistaken Ebola test: 'We were celebrating. . . . Then everything fell apart' - Washington Post
President Sirleaf Makes New Appointments In Government
Ebola Doctor's Condition 'Extremely Critical' in Nebraska - Bloomberg
Beating Ebola Hinged on Sipping a Gallon of Liquid a Day - Bloomberg
America declares Barack Obama worst president
Chinese team arrives in Liberia to staff Ebola clinic - (Reuters)
Koijee Arrest and Detention Is Political Machination Concocted by Robert Sirleaf and His Mother President Sirleaf
Late Ebola Patient's Fiancee Gets Nothing in Hospital Settlement - abc New
A Salary Reform Strategy Meeting Depicting 'The Last Supper'
Fire 30,000 Of 50,0000 Employees: Good For Profit, Not Liberia
Jefferson Koijee's Detention without Trial is illegal, Release Him
The Devil Made Me Do It!
Cavalla Rubber Corporation and Maryland Oil Palm Plantation Dedicates Youth Center and Rehabilitate Harper to Pleebo Highway
Cavalla Rubber Corporation And Maryland Oil Palm Plantation Join The Campaign To Help Safe Maryland County From Ebola Epidemic
President Obama Requests For Emergency Appropriations Request For Ebola For Fiscal Year 2015
What's On My Mind: African Dictators and the People
Sierra Leone Slams Canada for Shutting its Borders to West Africans - Reuters
Blaise Compaoré is gone…
Ebola-carrying bats may be heroes as well as villains - Reuters
One Small Step for Zambia, One Giant Leap for Africa
A Tradition of Protests and Re-education of the Oppressed
World Bank's Loan Policy Impedes Progress On Ebola Crisis
Ebola appears to be slowing in Liberia: WHO - Reuters
Too soon to celebrate Liberia's unexplained Ebola decline - The Seattle Times
The Sinking Liberia's Divine Leadership
Connecticut father sues after Ebola fears keep daughter from school - Reuters
The humble wife and her mean and greedy husband
The Irrational Fear of Ebola: Good Samaritans Under Indictment
Uphold The Sanctity And Supremacy Of The Liberian Constitution
Under Pressure, Cuomo Says Ebola Quarantines Can Be Spent at Home - New York Times
Here's Who's Paying To Fight Ebola — Other Than Mark Zuckerberg - Finance (Yahoo)
Duncan, poor and uninsured, did not get all the help his family members wanted, and they now question why his care was different in some ways than that of Americans infected with the deadly virus who survived. Of the nine people who have been treated for Ebola in the U.S., only Duncan has died.
Thomas Eric Duncan and the Big Picture
Man Recovers From Ebola in Germany After Routine Intensive Care - Yahoo News
The Slow International Response To Ebola In West Africa
Paul Farmer's Diary: Ebola
Ebola tests pending for health care worker in New Jersey - Orlando Sentinel
There's No Ebola Here - Africasacountry.com
Student Unification Party (SUP) Celebrates 44th Anniversary
New York doctor tests positive for Ebola: NY Times
How Did Ebola Get to West Africa?
Barnabas Davis Arrested With 633 Packs Of 'Ebola'-branded Heroin - Huffington Post
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: The Welfare Queen Comes Begging Again
National Elections Commission Final List Of Candidates
Ebola: Liberia deaths 'far higher than reported' as officials downplay epidemic - TheGuardian
Many Liberian Doctors—Including President's Son—Are Staying Away - The Wall Street Journal
President Sirleaf's Letter To The World
Ebola Front-Line Doctors at Breaking Point - Bloomberg
US blamed for being behind Ebola crisis - Press TV (Iran)
Liberia: Between Ebola And The Tyranny Of Western Stooge Sirleaf - News Rescue
U.S. Military's Ebola Response Making Progress in Liberia
Ebola, the African Union and bioeconomic warfare: Health Questions and the Challenges for Africa
Proposal For The Establishment Of A National Christian Council Of Liberia (NCCL)
How Liberia's Government Is Using Ebola to Crack Down on the Media - Mother Jones
I'm a Hazmat-Trained Hospital Worker: Here's What No One Is Telling You About Ebola - Huffingtonpost
EBOLA NIGHTMARE: "The Entire City Is Covered With Bodies" - New York Times
Legislative Independence And Governance In Liberia
Trampling the Constitution
Second Ebola case in US as UN warns disease 'winning race' - (AFP)
Liberian Foreign Minister Blunders Again
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Has Become The CEO For The Industry Of Corruption In Liberia
CRC & MOPP Donate Consignment Of Ebola Medical Materials To Maryland County Health Team
Statistical Report On Ebola From The Ministry of Health of Liberia
U.S. military faces new kind of threat with Ebola - (Reuters)
Texas health worker becomes first person to contract Ebola in U.S. - (Reuters)
Special Senatorial Election Must Be Held Within A Realistic Timeframe
U.S. troops take on invisible enemy in Liberia Ebola mission - (Reuters)
A Rejoinder To Theodore Hodge's "What's On My Mind: When Diplomats Forget Diplomacy"
Open Letter to President Sirleaf
In Violation of the Constitution, Sirleaf Sent Ebola Measures to the Law Makers After 2 Months
Open Letter To Honorable Amara Konneh
October 14 Senatorial Elections Suspended
Deputy Who Delivered Ebola Quarantine Order in Hospital ER - ABCNews
Ebola Panic Inches Closer to Hollywood: Possible Patient Rushed to LA Hospital - TheWrap
U.S. Ebola Engagement In Liberia: The Delicate Position of the Good Samaritan
Ebola patient Thomas Eric Duncan dies at Dallas hospital- Yahoo News
Cuba's Advance-Medical Team Arrives, Hailed As 'Medical Diplomats'
Family: Ebola patient's condition disturbing - AP
What's On My Mind: Bankruptcy and Trusteeship
Is There No Balm in Gilead?
Redemption Hospital: A 'Slaughter House?'
Liberia Justice Minister Christiana Tah Resigns - AllAfrica
Cynicism dies hard in Ebola-hit Liberian slum - AFP
An Argument For An Indefinite Postponement Of The Mid-Term Senatorial Election
Officials: Second person being monitored for Ebola - USA Today
Mr. Hodge Is Right About The Unfortunate Statement Uttered By Minister Ngafuan
What's On My Mind: When Diplomats Forget Diplomacy
As Ebola Confirmed in U.S., CDC Vows: 'We're stopping it in its Tracks' - Washington Post
CDC Confirms First Case Of Ebola In The United States - FOX NEWS
What's On My Mind: The Barbarian Principle
The man who discovered Ebola on why this epidemic spiraled out of control - Vox
Big Business: False Charges Against Advocates; Praises For Dishonesty
Burying Ebola Victims in Liberia - abc Good Morning Ameria
Ivory Coast To Open Its Borders With Ebola Countries
Liberia: Bloodbath, Stagnation and Sovereignty: The case contra and pro trusteeship: An urgent SOS
Ebola: A Unique Opportunity To Rebuild And Strengthen Health Systems In Africa
Bai Gbala Responds to Mr. Theodore Hodge, Part #2
CDC: Ebola could infect 1.4 million in Liberia and Sierra Leone by end of January - The Washington Post
Ebola Worst-Case Scenario Has More Than 500,000 Cases - Bloomberg.com
Testimony to the US House Committee on Foreign Affairs
The Dual Citizenship Debate Revisited
First Shipment of the Ramped Up U.S. Military Response to Ebola Arrives in Liberia
President Sirleaf Gives Update on the Ebola Crisis
Liberia: War Crimes Arrest Major Step for Justice- Human Rights Watch
Why Liberians Thought Ebola Was a Government Scam to Attract Western Aid - The Nation
Why Us, Liberia: Why Do We Bear The Greatest Burden Of The Ebola Scourge?
Ebola outbreak highlights Liberia's crisis of development policy - African Arguments.org
Police Director to Investigate Vice President?
Remarks by the President Obama on the Ebola Outbreak
Recklessly Scaring Liberians Into Mistrusting Health Workers
FACT SHEET: U.S. Response to the Ebola Epidemic in West Africa
Bai Gbala Responds to Mr. Theodore Hodge
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: Confused, Incompetent or Indifferent?
US Sending 3,000 Troops to Liberia in Expanded Ebola Effort - VOA
Liberia: Police Chief Denies Vice President Being Investigated - VOA & allAfrica
Sirleaf Begs Obama for Direct Money: Ebola, Corruption And Bad Governance In Liberia Might Lead To Another "Civil Unrest"
Wimpy President Sirleaf Fires The Moisquitoes, But Not The Elephantine Officials
Global Witness Frowns On The Sales Of Four Additional Oil Blocks By NOCAL
Liberian President Sirleaf Appeals to Obama for U.S. Help to Beat Ebola - Reuters
Cuba to send 165 health workers to fight Ebola in Africa - Reuters
Is God Really Angry with Liberia?
The U.S. Government Now Says Its Ebola Hospital Will Also Serve Liberians - BuzzFeed
Dunn And Morlu's Suggestions Form A Solid Organizational Base To Fight The Miscreant Ebola
Is a Mayor Elected or Appointed?
The Tipoteh Factor: Restating the Case
Ebola A Threat To International Peace And Security
Liberia's Tragic Ebola Circus: The Virus That shamed Our Government And Ruined Our National Image
Liberians should not stand for another three years of corruption and misrule
Ebola is not a National Fight: It is Money and Bucket Donation Politics
The Right to Criticize Without Proposing an Alternative Plan for Government
Ebola situation in Liberia: non-conventional interventions needed - WHO
Liberia: Rethinking the Healthcare Delivery System
EBOLA: No Health, No Sustainable Development and Progress in Liberia
"Count me out, Interim Government Idea Ridiculous" – Dr. Sawyer: A Rejoinder
U.S. Military Intervention In West Africa To Help Curb Ebola - NBCNews
Vaccine gives monkeys Ebola immunity - BBC
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Unconsciously Supported Charles Taylor
Sierra Leone to Impose 3-Day Ebola Quarantine - New York Times
Facts Matter In A Discourse
A Community Outfit Receives $10,000 From The Ebola Task Force
The Liberian Progressives: Prisoners of the Superpowers' Cold War
A Rejoinder to Mr. Dempster Yallah's Editorial Letter
Liberia Receives Additional Experimental Ebola Drugs
Ebola Could Reach the U.S. By the End of This Month - Yahoo News
Sirleaf's Economic Policy: "Chicken Comes Home To Roost."
Corruption 'impoverishes and kills millions' - BBC
Letter To The Editor
All Hail Rob 'The Omnipotent Envoy' Sirleaf, Liberia's New 'Foreign Minister'
Dr. Amos Claudius Sawyer: The Backstabber
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf: On the Hot Seat
Liberia Lifts Ebola-Related Quarantine - VOA
The Tipoteh Factor: Is Dr. Tipoteh Relevant or Not?
Ebola-hit Liberia bans sailors from disembarking - AFP
President Sirleaf: Fumbling and Bumbling at the Wheel of State
Crisis of Political Leadership: Liberians are Unsure What to do with Madam President
What Hodge Failed to Mention about Tipoteh's Activities in Liberia
As Ebola Grips Liberia's Capital, a Quarantine Sows Social Chaos - New York Times
Ebola outbreak: West Africa travel bans to be lifted - BBC
You Could Put Lipstick on a Pig, but...
Killer Virus, Killer Policy Measures: Liberians Beleaguered
Ebola caseload could exceed 20,000 in course of emergency, UN response roadmap shows - UN News
Nubo makes a point to President Sirleaf
$20 million Ebola Budget: A Front to Perpetuate Corruption in Liberia?
By George H. Nubo
In the past, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf disparaged former Liberian leaders because, in her view, they were corrupt. She is said to have participated in almost every coup since the overthrow of the Tolbert regime. She was one of the major sponsors of the senseless war waged by Charles Taylor. But despite all her involvements in the name of combating corruption...
Minister Expresses Concern Over Exaggerated Reactions Against Ebola Affected Countries
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan says while it is understandable that countries not affected by the Ebola outbreak may take measures to protect their citizens...
It's Time to Eliminate Our Slums: Let's Start with West Point!
By Kandakai Sherman
The pictures of West Point making the rounds on the internet as a result of the Government of Liberia's quarantine actions are not a work of fiction. Many of the homes, constructed of corrugated zinc sheets are crammed in close proximity to each other, as if there is no available plot of land left on earth. To even begin thinking of modern sanitation amenities for most of the residents of the community is to indulge in fantasy. The beach is nearby.
|Ellen and Sawyer
The Great Liberian Drama: The Leading Lady and her Supporting Cast
By Theodore Hodge
The country Liberia has been engulfed in one crisis or another for the better part of four decades now. We have been on a precarious journey as a people. Lately, we have been under the impression that a light at the end of the tunnel was appearing in the distance. Optimists have told us that the light signified salvation, or deliverance; perhaps freedom is a better word to apply in secular semantics. We have been told that things were turning for the better and a brighter day was on the horizon.
Liberia has been hit hardest, recording 1,082 cases and 624 deaths - Yahoo News
The damage has been far greater in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia, each dealing with hundreds of cases. Liberia has been hit hardest, recording 1,082 cases and 624 deaths.
What Happened To The Performance Contracts Signed By Sirleaf's Ministers?
By Staff Writer
"Even though the Constitution calls for a professional, non-partisan civil service apparatus, ours has been a tradition of politicizing the civil service. An efficient, well-functioning civil service requires a cadre of competent technocrats insulated from political interference to carry out the day-to-day functions of government irrespective...
Ebola virus disease update: Over 100 Ebola Deaths In Liberia From Aug 17 - 18
Between 17 and 18 August 2014, a total of 221 new cases of Ebola virus disease (laboratory-confirmed, probable, and suspect cases) as well as 106 deaths were reported from Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.
Why an Ebola epidemic is spinning out of control - CNN
The Ebola epidemic now raging across three countries in West Africa is three-fold larger than any other outbreak ever recorded for this terrible disease; the only one to have occurred in urban areas and to cross national borders
Contribution To The Ongoing Ebola Conversation
By Kandakai Sherman
This commentary is my contribution to the ongoing conversation on how best to move our country forward, as it is obvious from our 167 years of existence that our level of development – whether in infrastructure, civil rights, or human resource capacity- does not commensurate with our age. There's an abundance of historical literature already out there on our checkered nationhood: missteps, wrong choices or lack thereof,
The High Transfer Service Cost To Africa
By Nicholas Botwe
Latest World Bank figures show that remittances from foreign workers are expected to be $436bn this year, more than three times what poor countries receive in overseas aid. World Bank figures indicate that between 2007 and 2012 remittances to Africa grew by 34.5% and reached a total amount of $60.4bn in 2012.
Police, residents clash in Liberian slum under Ebola quarantine - Washington Post
Violent clashes between authorities and residents of an Ebola-stricken neighborhood erupted in the Liberian city of Monrovia on Wednesday as the death toll from the disease continued to climb.
Monrovia, Liberia: Curfew Imposed And The Waterside Shooting
Staff Writer
On Tuesday, August 19, 2014, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf imposed a 9 pm to 6 am curfew in Liberia. All video clubs are to close at 6 pm, while entertainment centers are ordered closed. Many residents of Monrovia did not hear about the new measures until this morning.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Liberia: Things Fall Apart
We have the late great writer and literary artist Chinua Achebe to thank for the title "Things Fall Apart". It was the apt title of his seminal work that put African literature on the global map. Today, we are bold to use this title in this crucial editorial. The old man will cry sad tears for us in his grave as we evoke our pains. In Liberia today, things have fallen apart and continue to do so with amazing rapidity.
Ebola virus disease update - (West Africa)
Between 14 and 16 August 2014, a total of 113 new cases of Ebola virus disease (laboratory-confirmed, probable, and suspect cases) as well as 84 deaths were reported from Guinea, Liberia*, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone.
Liberia: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's Potemkin Village
By Theodore Hodge
The masks are coming off. The Liberian people are finally getting to realize that this was only a freak party of massive costume wearers. Our people have a saying: "A lie will hide itself in the dark until daylight catches up with it." It is daylight now and the lie is exposed. Our president has told many public stories and made many promises to our people. It is, therefore, not necessary to lie on her by fabricating stories about her. The best case against her is to use her words and her record. Examine the words carefully...
"Let Me Sleep On It": The Response of Unity Party Gov't Regarding Ebola
By Siahyonkron Nyanseor
"Let me sleep on it" was the Unity Party (UP) government's response to the Ebola virus in Liberia. Well, the leadership of UP and the Liberian people – both at home and abroad have been sleeping on it for far too long. We have been making too many excuses for the "Old Ma" for which she has gotten away with similar practices she accused all of her predecessors – Tolbert, Doe and Taylor of violating.
Ebola Outbreak-related Immigration Relief Measures to Nationals of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone Currently in the United States
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is closely monitoring the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. USCIS offers relief measures to nationals of those three countries who are currently in the United States. Immigration relief measures that may be available if requested include:
The Cure For Ebola Is Accountability - Foreign Policy
Africa's Ebola outbreak isn't just a health care problem. It's also about a crisis of governance.
Oceanic Blockade Imposed By Ivory Coast Has Been Lifted
According to a press release issued by the Authorities of the Port of Abidjan, the so-called economic blockade against Ebola countries, including Liberia, has been lifted. The oceanic blockade recently erected by Ivory Coast against Ebola countries of West Africa has been lifted by the Ivorian authorities in the following press release sent to all shipping lines, brokers and shipping insurance companies:.
President Obama's Calls to President Sirleaf of Liberia and President Koroma of Sierra Leone
President Obama spoke by phone today with President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and separately with President Ernest Bai Koroma regarding the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. In his conversations with both leaders, the President underscored the commitment of the United States to work with Liberia, Sierra Leone...
The State Of Emergency: Where Are The Measures?
By George H. Nubo
What is absent in the proclamation of the state of emergency are the MEASURES: actions that would propel us to defeat the Ebola menace. It is unfortunate that since President Sirleaf proclaimed the state of emergency, she has not come up with any action plan, apart from amassing members of the Armed Forces of Liberia at checkpoints to stop people from the affected areas from entering Monrovia.
Ebola State of Emergency: An Embodiment of Colossal failure of Leadership
By Patrick Nimely-Sie Tuon
It is no secret that Liberia is a country emerging from the ravages of war. A war that was dominated by deliberate actions of those who presided and prosecuted it. Such as deliberate killings of innocent and unarmed people. Deliberate raping of thousands of women and children, deliberate destruction the country's infrastructures, especially the deliberate destruction of the various institutions that would have provided life for the resurgent of activities that the country need immediately to move forward: institutions like health and education. In other words,
Amid Ebola Menace,
Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation Disconnects 5,000 Customers
By Staff The Perspective Writer
On July 28, 2014, The New Republic reported that according to the Managing Director of the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation, "… there are 11, 000 customers but out of the total number [sic] only 6, 000 are duly registered and have paid for their sewer service charge while the rest continue to engage into illegal activities. Mr. Allen added that the institution is making frantic effort to stabilize the operation of water and sewer services and they are going to focus on the customers' data base."
Ebola Pioneer Backs Experimental Drug Tests - VOA
The Belgian researcher who co-discovered the Ebola virus in 1976 says "it is now or never" when it comes to testing experimental drugs that could help humans fight Ebola. Guido van der Groen says conditions in West Africa are more conducive for large-scale tests today compared to when he first began studying the virus.
Ron Paul On Ebola: 'Governments Deceive Us'
Former Congressman and presidential candidate Ron Paul (R-Texas) thinks the threat of the Ebola virus very well may be a government plan to "deceive" the public. "I do know that governments deceive us and sometimes they hype things. I don't think we are going to see in the next year a horrendous breakout of Ebola in this country,"
In Liberia village, shunned Ebola victims left to die - AFP
BALLAJAH (Liberia) (AFP) - The only sounds in the abandoned Liberian village were the cries of a little girl, shut up with her mother's body inside the family home, starving and thirsty as she waited for death.
|Ellen's Book
The Elephant That Gave Birth to a Mouse: The Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Legacy
By Theodore Hodge
Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has been called many nicknames to signify her greatness. Her favorite nickname is the Iron Lady. She loves to be praised and she is not modest when it comes to praising herself. She titled her memoir "This Child Will Be Great" and published it soon after she became President of Liberia. She appeared on radio and television talk shows around the world as talk show hosts called her "Africa's first female president" and she glowed in the spotlight as her praises were sung. She is at ease with the world's wealthiest and most powerful people.
African Politicians Continuously Belittle African Scientists And Doctors: Even In The Midst Of Africa- Originated Medical Crises
By Lawrence A. Zumo, MD
African politicians never fail in making their own scientists and doctors look so small and so bad to the outside world. Nigeria, a country of 175 million, (Africa's most populous nation and 7th in the world, and half the population of the United States, with a huge reserve of natural, human and intellectual capital), should not be asking the US for monoclonal antibodies as experimental therapeutics against Ebola. I strongly believe this.
The Bad Hygienic Behavior Of Some Liberians
By Rev. Fr. John Edgar Freeman
I just want to draw our attention to a few bad sanitary behavior some of us Liberians have. Most of our people have the behavior of urinating anywhere - in the streets, open places, at the eaves of our houses or someone's house, just anywhere. Not only that, but some people take pleasure to even defecate anywhere as well or put it in plastic bag and throw it in the neighborhood.
The House of Clowns: P. Y. Johnson, E. Snowe and Cletus Wotorson
The Cletus Wotorson
Fiasco (Tabata)
By Theodore Hodge
Front Page Africa, in an article titled "Liberia: Ebola Extortion? Senator Says Authorities Inflated Outbreak", quoted Grand Kru Senator Cletus Wotorson saying: "What kind of EBOLA? That thing you did to get donor funding your say EBOLA in Liberia?" This comment was purportedly made while another senator was speaking on the senate floor addressing an issue related to the crises.
Liberia has but One Problem
By Quiwonkpa Zuo
The concoction of failure and incivility that is Liberia continues to fester because we consciously deny the root cause of our problems! Anybody with a mouth could list a litany of reasons as to why we have been under developed for some two centuries. In those reasons they will include every ill of the third world – in fact they will justify these ills as commonplace, without stopping to consider that in Liberia only one single problem exists. This problem, if honestly addressed, could literately be the genesis to attainment of true independence.
Funeral Service for Ebola Victims
Why the White Americans Got the 'Secret' Ebola Serum - (The Daily Beast)
If nationality and race did influence the organization's decision to seek an untested serum for Brantly and Writebol, it was likely only because any Western organization that administers an untested serum to the African population runs the risk of being accused of using blacks as guinea pigs in the way of the long-ago Tuskegee syphilis tests and the 1996 meningitis tests in Nigeria. That was not a worry with the two white Americans.
President Sirleaf
President Sirleaf of Liberia Declares "State of Emergency" to Fight Ebola
The heath care system in the county is now under immense strain and the Ebola epidemic is having a chilling effect on the overall health care delivery. Out of fear of being infected with the disease, health care practitioners are afraid to accept new patients, especially in community clinics all across the country.
Mobilizing US$4 millionTo Identify With The Ebola Fight
An Open Letter To President Sirleaf From Ruel Francis Dempster
In consonance with your call for all Liberians to join hands in addressing this national emergency -the EBOLA epidemic, I have the honor to proffer a suggestion; which in my humble estimation, will provide additional resources, and demonstrate to our people and our international partners that we are overwhelmingly committed to fighting, containing and yea eradicating this plague from our country.
EBOLA: President Sirleaf, Liberia's 'Guide,' Leads Nation Into Chaos
By Seltue Karweaye
The Ebola virus outbreak has refocused attention on Liberia, a country that has lurched from one crisis to another since independence in 1847. Many Liberians are openly angry at the government of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who has ruled unchallenged for most of the post conflict recovery. The Ebola epidemic in Liberia is without no doubt the result of widespread social and environmental degradation brought about by the demagogues in government, which are clinging to the old order of corruption, nepotism, incompetency, etc.
World Bank Group
Commits US$5 Billion to Boost Electricity Generation in Six African
The World Bank Group today committed $5 billion in new technical and financial support for energy projects in six African countries-- Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Nigeria, and Tanzania—which have partnered with President Obama's Power Africa initiative.
Is "Ebola politicized" or is Ebola Politics?
By Bai M. Gbala, Sr.
A leader or president of a nation is a political animal in whom the hopes, beliefs, dreams and fears of the people are placed, and as such, he/she is an individual who, so to speak, personifies the Liberian, national personality that may be likened to the "African Personality" of the late Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
Ebola death toll reaches 932; 1,700 cases
A Nigerian nurse who treated a man with Ebola is now dead and five others are sick with one of the world's most virulent diseases, authorities said Wednesday as the death toll rose to at least 932 people in four West African countries.
Abdoulaye Dukule & President Sirleaf
The Perspective Reserves the Right to Praise or Criticize
A recent editorial published by theperspective.org irked Dr. Abdoulaye Dukule to the extent that he publicly dissociated himself from the editorial. We are of the opinion that Dr. Dukule should have exercised some caution and displayed some civility. That was not to be. He was irate and uncivil and refused to discuss the matter in-house before going public with his response. This editorial is in response to his resignation, which the publication accepts heartily.
A Hint to the African Delegates at the USA-African Summit
By Wollor E. Topor, Ph.D.
President Obama is meeting over 50 heads of state from Africa, the first of its kind by a sitting president on the American soil. USA team comprising of government officials, corporate executives, and civil society is to interact with African leaders ...
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
The Ebola Plague: Does The Liberian Government Deserve Any Sympathy?
The outbreak of Ebola in Liberia is not a surprise to the Sirleaf Government. Prior to the first case in Foya, Lofa County, the Liberian Government knew that the deadly plague had surfaced in Guinea near the Liberian border and was killing people in that country. Though they heard and saw on TV how dangerous this disease was, the government did nothing.
Reducing the Fear Factor should be key to the Awareness of the Deadly Ebola Virus in Liberia
By Edwin Woryonwon Harris, Jr
In Liberia, the vast majority have been in denial until mid -July 2014,when the Liberian Government woke up to the reality that in deed this disease is deadly as the direct result of the deaths of Patrick Sawyer and Dr. Samuel Brisbane...
Peter Piot, The Virus Detective Who Discovered Ebola In 1976 - BBC
Nearly 40 years ago, a young Belgian scientist travelled to a remote part of the Congolese rainforest - his task was to help find out why so many people were dying from an unknown and terrifying disease.
A Melancholy of the Dead to President SIRLEAF on July 26
We are still waiting to hear from you oh. Your time is running up and our wounds still hurt. We have all lost our bodies but our souls and spirits are hanging around carrying the little parts of us they can hold. We are still Liberians oh. Why no one is talking about us?
ULAA Eminent Persons Hail "State of Emergency"
We welcome the decision of the United Party (UP) government of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf in declaring a "State of Emergency" by closing our boarders, placing trained personnel at Roberts' International Airport (RIA) and the Freeport of Monrovia, the 24-hour shutdown of the Finance Ministry
In Such A Time As This, Liberia Needs Revisiting The "Disneyland of Highly Infected Apes"
By Wollor E. Topor, Ph.D.
There are fascinating stories in medical research. Researching to find cures for deadly diseases like Ebola, HIV/AIDS, Marburg virus and hepatitis are remarkable and efforts, in these directions are not at all bad in and of themselves. It is good to remember this fact! Some of many health programs sponsored by the developed world are loving and sincere in their effort to serve mankind.
After 129 Deaths, President Sirleaf Takes Long Overdue Steps in the Fight against Ebola
Today, in continuation of our efforts to combat the deadly Ebola virus, I am pleased to launch the National Action Plan presented by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in partnership with the World Health Organization. Given the multi-dimensional efforts, including local, regional and international which we must bring to this fight against this scourge, the National Action Plan as presented is by no means exhaustive.
John S. Morlu
Ebola Is Beyond Politics And Tribal Taboos: All Liberians Must Work Together
By: John S. Morlu II
Liberia is a health crisis. The President of Liberia is right to have declared the fight against this deadly disease as a national emergency. More than 120 of our fellow Liberians have died because of the decease, another 100 plus are suffering from the disease and there is still yet an unknown number that could be affected.
Amputees Visit To United States Postponed; Join Ebola Awareness Efforts
The Liberia Amputees Football Federation and the United States Amputees Football Federation have jointly postponed the August 9, 2014 international friendly football match in Maryland, United States of America.
George Klay Kieh
"Toward Breaking The Cycle Of Missed Opportunities In Liberia's History"
Liberia's 167th Independence Day Oration
Delivered by George Klay Kieh, Jr. in (Atlanta, Georgia)
My dear fellow Liberians and distinguished ladies and gentlemen, we assemble here tonight in our new community center to celebrate 167 years of our country's independence, amid the current deplorable conditions of the majority of our fellow Liberians at home. For them, the celebration of our country's independence is more of a struggle for survival than an occasion for happiness. In short, the lives of the overwhelming majority of our fellow Liberians at home hang in a precarious balance, as they live on the margins of our society.
Rev. Dr. William Harris
"Why Is Ebola In Liberia?"
A Pastoral Letter to the Nation By Rev. Dr. William B. G. K. Harris
This year, July 26, 2014 is the one hundred and sixty-seventh independence anniversary of the Republic of Liberia which was declared in 1847 that is celebrated annually. Since the country's declaration of independence and to the present, the nation has faced many challenges. These challenges include the deadly 1980 military coup which turned into a senseless civil war. Instead of things becoming better, there is now mass poverty; the lack of major infrastructures such as quality public educational institutions
Sirleaf Receives Honorary Degree
At Tubman University from Dr. Russell
Transformation of our Minds, Attitudes and Behaviors
Liberia's 167th Independence Day Oration
By Elizabeth Davis-Russell, EdD, PhD
As Liberia rebuilds itself after several years of civil war, it is faced with many competing priorities. Infrastructure development, roads and bridges that were torn apart need to be rebuilt. Education needs attention, as does providing healthcare. The list goes on. However, little or no attention is paid to the transformation of minds, attitudes and behaviors.
Senatorial Candidates for the 2014 Mid-Term Election In Liberia
The National Elections Commission has issued a list of candidates qualified for the ensuing 2014 Mid-Term Election in Liberia. Click the link above to browse the list of candidates
Beyond the curtain of pomp and pageantry in Liberia
By Teah R. Jardia, MPA
The maxim, if you were not at the rehearsal, watch the play has become increasingly true in the political kaleidoscope of Liberia. President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and the legislatures are in Susu; you eat I eat gimmick to bankrupt the country and she is a reminder and a true symbol of the past oligarchy; a tempestuously suppressive era of divide and rule.
President Obama And Liberian President Sirleaf
President Obama Sends Notice on Liberia to Congress
To deal with the unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States constituted by the actions and policies of former Liberian President Charles Taylor and other persons, in particular their unlawful depletion of Liberian resources and their removal from Liberia and secreting of Liberian funds and property, which have undermined Liberia's transition to democracy and the orderly development of its political, administrative, and economic institutions and resources...
Ellen G. Cooper
Taking Charge of Our Health through Preventive Healthcare
By Ellen G. Cooper
While busying ourselves to celebrate Liberia's independence this year on July 26 at home and abroad, I thought that a good way to truly celebrate another milestone would be to take charge of our health by taking advantage of preventive health care services. Too often, many of us who are privileged to live in societies that afford us health benefits neglect to take advantage of preventive health and seek health care only when we have symptoms that are unbearable or a condition that worsens with time.
Harper City, Maryland County, Liberia
Harper - A city of Sunshine and Happiness
By Groba Leo Williams
Harper City, the capital city of Liberia's Southeastern most county, is situated on Cape Palmas. It is a coastal town situated between the grand Atlantic Ocean and the Hoffman River. It has a population of approximately 20,000 persons.
Many Disasters Can Be Avoided If …
By Elder Siahyonkron Nyanseor
The world we live in is full of many surprises and misfortunes; some are temporary, while others are avoidable; but most of them I believe are caused by man's disobedience to God. It is regarding this, I am sharing my recent encounters with you.
Reason, Public Policy And Violence: The Case Of Tokadeh, Nimba County
By Bai M. Gbala, Sr.
During the past week or so, the Liberian media - print and electronic - reported, entertained and shocked the Liberian people with chilling events of violence in the iron ore mining town of Tokadeh, including the towns of Zolowee and Yekepa, in the northeastern Province of Nimba County.
Listen to Ellen Corkrum's Latest recordings
What has happened to the US $4.4 million reportedly given to the Liberian Government to resurface the runway of Roberts International Airport? Why did Air France leave Liberia? Why is Delta leaving? What are the reasons for which USAID Suspended the Kpatawee mini hydro project in Bong County?
President Obama And Liberian President Sirleaf
President Obama Puts Human Rights Abusers on Notice
By Jay Wehtee Wion
U.S. President Barack Obama has put ALL on NOTICE that it is not going to be business as usual for those who sponsor war, commit war crimes, crimes against humanity, human rights abuses and economic crimes. And in his own words, President Obama said: "From Nuremberg to Yugoslavia to LIBERIA , the United States has seen that the end of impunity and the promotion of justice are not just moral imperatives; they are stabilizing forces in international affairs.
Chairman Jerome Korkoya
About Allegations of Fraud, Official Misconduct and Liberia's Bumpy Road to Elections 2017
By John H. T. Stewart Jr.
In October this year, Liberians will be going to the polls to elect senators in what will be special elections because they will be held to replace only senators whose tenure would be expiring this year. According to political observers, these elections will to a large extent prove to be a dress rehearsal for Legislative and Presidential elections in 2017. Earlier in April, the National Elections Commission (NEC), kicked off the process commencing with the updating of the voters registry (put at an official cost of US$1,909,876.50).
An Artist View of Matilda Newport in Action
Expunging Our National Symbols of Falsehoods: A Rejoinder to James Thomas-Queh's "Preserve Our Historical National Symbols,..."
By Siahyonkron Nyanseor & J. Kpanneh Doe
This rejoinder is a response to James Thomas-Queh's article: "Preserve Our Historical National Symbols, But Cleanse Our Minds into a Positive Future" that was published in the July 2, 2014 edition of theperspective.org. While we find the discussion of our national symbols very important, on second thought, we considered it a distraction from the burning issues that confronts our country today...
Liberia May Be Heading For Its Worst Crisis Ever
By Charles B. Russell
I may be wrong and stand to be corrected, but I have never heard of a country in Africa or any other continent where a group of indigenous lawmakers will come out to organize a political party with the desire to field an indigenous presidential candidate in an election. Only in Liberia can anything happen!
Dr. Rudolph McClain
of NOCAL
NOCAL's $38 M: In GOL'S Coffer Or President Sirleaf's Coffer?
By J. Yanqui Zaza
On June 30, 2014, during a press conference, according to FrontPage Africa, Dr. Rudolph McClain, chief executive of the Liberian National Oil Company (NOCAL), took on critics of his boss, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as well as NOCAL. He said that NOCAL is performing a super job, apparently, trying to counter critics such as Mr. Christopher Neyor, who has accused President Sirleaf and NOCAL of siphoning money from NOCAL to President Sirleaf's coffer.
Sirleaf Receives Honorary Degree At Tubman University from Dr. Russell
Tubman University's President, Dr. Davis-Russell , To Serve As Orator For Liberia's 167th Independence Day Program
Dr. Davis-Russell was born in Harper, Maryland County Liberia, to Former Supreme Court Associate Justice O. Natty B. Davis and Diana Dueh. Imbued with the ambition to prepare herself in order to render better service to her country, she began her education at AME Day School in Harper and then transferred to Cape Palmas High School where she completed the eighth grade. She attended Suehn Academy from where she graduated from high school. She continued her studies at London Tutorial College, London, England, where she completed her O Levels.
Liberian Team
Liberia for 10th World Amputee Cup
By Omari Jackson
Emotions that gripped thousands at the just ended FIFA Brazil World Cup were felt by the world. In Brazil, 200 million people wept as their pride was hurt after the humiliating 7-1 drubbing in the semi-finals by eventual winners, Germany, whose nationals are still celebrating their win against Argentina.
The Cancelation Of This Year's July 26 Celebration Destined For Sinoe And Grand Kru Must Be Condemned
By P. Nimely-Sie Tuon
It has never happen before in Liberia for a national event approved to be held in one part of the country for the venue to be changed. Not because of a natural disaster, or a threat of a nuclear bomb. However, it happened.
Theodore T. Hodge
The Liberian Dual Citizenship Debate: Another Viewpoint
By Theodore T. Hodge
Public intellectuals who take upon themselves the opportunity to educate and inform their audiences about public issues have a responsibility to be objective. They hold a responsibility to present opposing sides of the issue and allow the readers or listeners to decide the merits of the case depending on the evidence for or against the issue. It should be undisputed that the public deserves to know the truth, the entire truth, and should be allowed to determine the outcome of the issue under public debate.
|President Goodluck Jonathan
Liberia Receives $500,000 From Goodluck To Fight Ebola
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria H.E. Goodluck Jonathan has announced his country's donation of Five Hundred Thousand ((500,000.00) United States Dollars to the Government of Liberia to aid with the fight against the deadly Ebola Virus. President Jonathan made the donation on Thursday, July 10, 2014 at the ongoing 45th Ordinary Session of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government taking place in the Ghanaian capital, Accra.
Deadliest ever outbreak of Ebola virus: What you need to know - CNN
It began with a just a handful of cases in Guinea in March. But it spread quickly to two other countries and is now the deadliest outbreak of Ebola virus on record.
Beyond The Arcelor Mittal Violence: Behind-The-Scene, Future Lessons To Pick
By Nat Bayjay
Some called it the Nimba 'scare', others termed it Nimba disturbance; for some, it was the 'Yekepa Raid', among others. But what is clear is that last week's violent incidence in Nimba is a national wakeup call that must be checked on from all fronts; behind-the-scene happenings, hidden but eventual causes, and mechanisms that would prevent future occurrences on not just ArcelorMittal but also all current and future investments, whether foreign or locally-owned.
Wollor E. Topor, PhD
The Slow Success Story of Liberia Transformation From War To Development
By Wollor E. Topor, PhD
The origin of Liberia's diverse problems is well established: a unique history of immigrant settlers or freed slaves who "snatched" the indigenous people's land and declared independence from an American NGO, Christianizing the "natives" to become civilized. The elites benefited by plundering the nation's resources with a weak infrastructure economic system that is based principally on swidden farming with a subsequent low productivity, lack of rule of law and transparency.
What is wrong with Liberians?
By Bai M. Gbala, Sr.
The Subject of Chapter 2 of the book (Liberia: A Century of Survival, 1847-1947) by Raymond Leslie Buell was or is "What is wrong with Liberia?" The book was published on the 100th birth anniversary of the founding and declaration of political independence of the Liberian State in the year of 1947. This was a rhetorical question, the answer to which was the subject of Mr. Buell's analysis contained the book (Buell, 1947). Liberia was found in 1822 and declared a sovereign, independent nation-state, styled and known as the Republic of Liberia
The Review of Our National Symbols: Another Good for Nothing Exercise or Not?
Siahyonkron Nyanseor
The review of Liberia's National Symbols is nothing new. For example on July 22, 1974, the Liberian National Legislature enacted an Act authorizing the late President William Richard Tolbert, Jr. to set up a commission to address the issue of Liberia's National Symbols.
"Foreigner In Charge, Crazy Question"; Dual Citizens?: A Commentary
By: Bai M. Gbala, Sr.
The New Democrat newspaper (New Democrat, June 27, 2014) reports that "despite Liberia being independent since . . . 1847, the country is still controlled by individuals who pay allegiance to the USA". They are dual citizens - Liberians who are naturalized citizens of foreign countries but claim Liberian citizenships...
Lessons in Persuasive Communication: Liberian Political Discourse
By: Theodore T. Hodge
William Shakespeare's play, "Julius Caesar", has remained a masterpiece in the annals of English literature; indeed a masterpiece in world literature. Julius Caesar, the Roman dictator was slain by conspirators. The charge, an attempt to turn republican Rome into a monarchy under Caesar's rule… The conspirators defended their action by claiming that they did it for the love of country; in other words, it was their patriotic duty to protect the greater good of the country by eliminating him. Brutus, on behalf of the conspirators delivers a rational speech and gets the crowd on their side.
Does Aresting the Ring Leaders
Restore Calm in
Yekepa as the Liberian Government Claims?
The Liberia National Police (LNP) has restored calm to the mining city of Yekepa, Nimba County and the concession area of Arcelor Mittal, after individuals identifying themselves as the Tokadeh Progressive Youths for Peace and Development led a rampage on the mining site and surrounding areas.
Hon. Bai Gbala, Sr.
"DROWNING IN SUBSERVIENCE Legislature struggles under Imperial Executive"
Speaker & Pro-Temp Lament: A Reaction
By: Bai M. Gbala, Sr.
According to the Analyst Liberia newspaper (Analyst Liberia, June 30, 2014), "The Constitution of Liberia, since the birth of (this nation and) government in 1847, is pillared on three-hinged legs – Legislature, Executive and Judiciary – professedly bequeathed with equal, coordinate powers in the governance of the state. Though much of the people's power is theoretically, technically placed in the hands of the Legislature whose elected members directly represent every facet of the nation, the President, head of the Executive Branch, has stolen the entire show".
Preserve Our Historical National Symbols, But Cleanse Our Minds Into A Positive Future
By: James Thomas-Queh
At the current Symposium: "Reviewing Liberia's National Symbols to Renew National Identity"- Justice Gladys Kiawion Johnson spoke on the topic: "A Critical Review of Liberia's National Symbols" (www.theperspective.org/2014/061820140.php). In that presentation, she made many assertions to which I have opposing views, especially if our intend is to appease and reconcile ourselves.
Charles Taylor
Redeeming Liberia For Liberians
By Kenneth Y. Best
December 24, 1989 Charles Taylor and his National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL) crossed the Ivorian border, entered Buutuo, Nimba County and fired the first shots of their invasion. This immediately ignited the calamitous civil war that would topple and kill the Liberian dictator Samuel Doe and most of his closest associates. And because Taylor was himself equally or perhaps even more greedy, corrupt, and unpatriotic...
Voice of the Voiceless
By Wollor E. Topor, PhD.
Oh brave Liberian Media . Take advantage of press freedom. No need to fear and never hesitate
Amb. Sulunteh
Ambassador Sulunteh Lauded
Liberian Athletes, Asked For More To Be Done
By Duannah Siryon
The Liberian ambassador accredited to the United States of America, Jeremiah Sulunteh said, it's about time that the government of Liberia begin to address and provide vigorous investment in sports. Speaking recently at the 1st Liberian Athletes Reunion award banquet held on June 14, in Philadelphia, USA, ambassador Sulunteh noted that, not much has been done about the insurance and continuous wellbeing of athletes who bear the national color.
"The Quest for Quality Education"
Commencement Address Delivered at Tubman University By President Sirleaf
Tubman University is serving as a regional magnet, offering degrees in a host of disciplines so that students can be assured of getting the best education Liberia has to offer. Young people are gravitating towards Harper because they know that they will obtain the quality education that is fundamental for their own success, and for Liberia's economic, social and political transformation...
Tribute to a True Christian and a Liberian Patriot: Rev. Dr. Blamo Benedict Nyentue Seekie
By Siahyonkron Nyanseor
On February 26, 2012, I paid tribute to my Blojlu Geesayfahnnonkon Tarty Teh, my Protégé (a name we called each other), and a close friend and brother to Patriot Rev. Dr. Blamo Benedict Nyentue Seekie, to whom I refer as "The Silent Warrior". Now, two years after the home going of Blojlu Teh, Blamo, the co-publisher and Assistant Editor of the famous thought provoking and stimulating Blojlu Journal is called to glory on Wednesday, May 28, 2014, at his home in Dacula, Georgia, USA, following a protracted illness
Ritualistic Killings in Maryland Again: Two Bodies Found With Parts Missing In Maryland - (LINA )
By John Bropleh, LINA Maryland County Correspondent
HARPER, June 23 (LINA) -The mutilated body of a 26-year-old man identified as Prince Reeves, a resident in Nimkombo Community in Harper, Maryland County, has been found on the shores of the Hoffman River. Reeves, who went missing on Friday, June 20, was found Sunday morning with a broken neck, bust head and body mutilated with fresh blood dripping from it. This brings to two the number of bodies found in Harper in less than a week.
Saving the African Child
By: Lekpele Nyamalon
When thousands of black school children took to the streets in Soweto, South Africa in 1976, to protest the quality of education they were receiving, and demanding that they be taught in their own language, they were sending a message. Although hundreds of those kids were shot down, and several wounded by security forces, their message was simple- equality.
Justice Gladys Kiawion Johnson
A Critical Review of Liberia's National Symbols
Remarks by Justice Gladys K. Johnson
The history of our country began with contradictions of purpose, direction, aims and objectives, and identity, and has continued in that vein for the past 167 years, including the decade that followed the coup d'etat of 1980 and the recent 14 years of anarchy that nearly ended our existence as a sovereign state. It is therefore a welcome decision to have these inconsistences or contradictions removed through this transformational process.
Liberia, Ghana Sign Mutually Rewarding Agreement
Liberia's Foreign Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan and Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hanna Serwaa Tetteh, signed on behalf of their respective countries as the latter ends a two-day official visit to Liberia.
State Entrepreneurship: Increases Revenue & Minimizes Downsizing, Monopolizing, Etc
By J. Yanqui Zaza
Every country, including the United States of America has tried and continues to try to reduce income inequality. It was primarily about reducing income inequality that nationalities fought civil wars in Italy, France, Russia, China or evil individuals such as Hitler, Osama Bin Laden, etc. emerged as overnight liberators. Besides violent methods, nationalities also recommend literature, host seminars, and write books/articles in order to fine-tune the economic system
The agony of a plutocrat
The Mysterious and Spectacular Harvard Kennedy School MC/MPA Degree: Unmasking a Tyrant and a Plutocrat
By Sarr Abdulai Vandi
Obtaining an MC/MPA from the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, has become a coveted enterprise in the Ellen Johnson-SIRLEAF administration. The Mysterious and Spectacular Harvard Kennedy School MC/MPA degree in the Edward Sagendorph MASON Program has become a passport to spectacular and lucrative executive portfolios and presidential cabinet preferment in the administration of President Ellen Johnson-SIRLEAF.
Open Letter To President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
By Christopher Zeohn Neyor
I have been reliably informed of your venomous statement on more than one occasion that you will destroy me so that your son Robert A. Sirleaf can have an easy path to the Senate seat for Montserrado County and eventually to the Presidency of Liberia in the 2017 election to succeed you. Your threat to destroy me comes at a time when there are media reports of your son, Robert frantically trying to buy off all the Montserrado County's senatorial candidates and promising cash
The Man Called D. Twe
By Siahyonkron Nyanseor
Among all of the stories Sergeant Moore told us, the two that had lasting impact on me were the stories about Welleh Didwho Twe (1879-1961) and Plenyono Gbe Wolo (1883-1940), the son of the Paramount Chief Gbe.
Changing the Conversation Diabolically
By Sarr Abdulai Vandi
The underling was instructed to change the conversation diabolically, in an arrogant and capricious manner. Jerolinmek PIAH's silly cut and paste narrative is diversion, diversion, and diversion. There is danger in half education and mis-education. It clouds your comprehension and distorts your communications and information skills. Harnessing proxies, propagating hate and fear, preying on ignorance, manufacturing rumors and myths, and demonizing opponents and dissidents as traitors to the Ellen JOHNSON-SIRLEAF political tribe and administration are the tactics of the crafty despot with her back against the wall.
ELWA Junction Taking Modern Shift
By Solomon Watkins
Following protracted period of war fought in Liberia coupled with the benefits of a ten year of fragile peace, it seems that development is becoming the major priority of the Ellen led regain.One of the places that recently attracted public attention is the ELWA Junction which is taking modern shift. ELWA Junction is located in Paynesville outside Monrovia, Liberia's main political capitol city. ELWA is a major intersection that connects Monrovia to the Paynesville City and the only international air port in Margibi County-Roberts International Air Port.
Hon. Garmai Sianee Tokpah
National President, FLAA
The State of Affairs At The Federation Of Lofa County Associations In The Americas
Annual Report Made By President Garmai Sianee Tokpah
At the time, my administration reported that despite the many challenges we faced when we initially assumed the helm of this office, we were hopeful that our efforts would put us on the right trajectory to ensure progress. It was our sincere belief then that the state of our Federation was resilient and still offered prospects for accelerated development. Ladies and gentlemen, after another year into our administration, it is with heavy heart and disappointment to inform you today that the state of our Federation remains precarious at best. Undoubtedly, this year's Convention theme:
Once Liberia's #1 Goalkeeper, What Happened to William Nah?
By Benedict Nyankun Wisseh
As if we are programmed, when conversations about football take place, our focus is placed on players who score goals for our teams. In this case, we celebrate forwards and midfielders whose responsibility it is to score goals and ignore defenders and goalkeepers except for their mistakes that lead to the defeats of our teams.
Liberians are Tired of Excuses From President Sirleaf
The Liberia Institute for Public Integrity (LIPI) takes note of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf's recent statement on the state of the Liberian economy. The President has interestingly admitted that constraints on the economy have caused Liberians to fall behind! In defining the causes of the tragic state of the Liberian economy, she provided explanations that do not explain anything, but rather dribble into superficialities and misrepresentation of material facts.
Nationwide Address Delivered by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf on the State of the Liberian Economy
Our continued post-conflict recovery process is of such that we must continue do everything at the same time. We have likened this challenge to driving a bus while at the same time repairing its many deficient and dysfunctional parts. As we know, for past years, our bus has been parked, some of the parts have gotten rusty, some are unusable, and many of our people were left stranded and abandoned on the sides of the road. From opportunity to morality, our children, and in many respects ourselves, have fallen too far behind.
Finance Minister Amara Konneh
No 'Budget Shortfall'
in Liberia: It is Fraud, Waste and Abuse
By: John S. Morlu, II and Isaac V. Tukpah, Jr.
We have received numerous calls and emails asking us about our opinion on the budget shortfall and the projected 2014-2015 budget. We don't want to get into the nitty gritty or the hard numbers in this article but we addressed broader points for Liberians and our international partners to consider as the Liberian Legislature debates the proposed national budget. Liberians should focus on these big issues.
Deborah Malac
GOOD LUCK LIBERIA: 34 Years of a long and Painful Transition to Democracy (April 14, 1979-April 12, 2014)
By: James Thomas-Queh
In pursuance of the recent Peace and National Reconciliation initiative launched by Peace Ambassador George Opong Weah on May 19, 2014, the United States Ambassador to Liberia, Madam Deborah Malac, has also unveiled a War Memorial dedicated to the people of Liberia at the former Greystone, where the US Embassy compound is situated.
The $73 Million District Development Plan, A Good Idea But…
By: John S. Morlu, II and Isaac V. Tukpah, Jr.
The proposed $73 million district development appropriation is constitutional. It also sends a signal that after mismanaging $2.7 billion in public monies, the Legislature wants to decentralize the budget to have an impact on ordinary Liberians. In the West, such funding has been viewed as "pork barrel spending" (legislation for local development geared to ingratiate legislators with their constituents) or in a good way as earmarks.
Fabrar Makes Unprecedented Rice Purchase, Motivates Farmers
Press Release Issued By USAID (Liberia)
Fabrar Liberia spends $22,000 USD to buy over 1200 bags of paddy rice from Lofa farmers, the largest local rice purchase in recent history. Lofa County - For some farmers in Lofa county, the local market is as far as their rice will go. For others, their rice may go the extra distance and make it across the border into Guinea. For the majority, however, the annual rice harvest does not leave the farm. The farmers' family, neighbors and farm hands consume all of it.
Chairman Charles Gyude Bryant
A Tribute To Charles Gyude
Bryant, Chairman Of The NTGL: A Family Man, Peacemaker And Unifier
By Igolima T. D. Amachree
In 2004, Gyude was determined to remove the fear that was still hanging in the country and to bring hope to the people and encourage them to travel freely in the country. To this end he led his cabinet on a nation-wide tour when it was almost impossible to travel due to fear and bad road conditions. The purpose of that trip was to remove fear, bring hope to the people, and encourage them to travel freely. Amidst the challenges of vehicles getting stuck in the mud and falling trees across the roads, that mission was accomplished. He not only said but he acted to dispel fear and the sense of insecurity; and hope and security were restored.
Senator�Geraldine Doe Sheriff
Quits CDC
You will agree with me, no doubt, that the purpose for which we founded this once noble party has lost. Our goal was to form an institution with the sole purpose to emancipate our people, the downtrodden included, from the dungeon of poverty to the celestial heights of a decent life through participatory democracy.
Thomas Jucontee Woewiyu
"You Will Remain in
Federal Custody until Your Trial" Judge Tells Woewiyu
By P. Nimely-Sie Tuon
Thomas Woewiyu, Former Minister of Defense of Liberia's most notorious rebel faction, National Patriotic Front of Liberia, or NPFL, appeared before a 3-federal judge panel with one judge leading the charge. Mr. Woewiyu was brought into the court while in the middle of another trial in an olive green jump- suit... Despite being restrained by handcuffs, Woewiyu made a grand entrance by bowing down to his family members and lawyer.
President Sirleaf Left for U.S. and the State of Qatar Yesterday
According to an Executive Mansion release, President Sirleaf departed the country late Wednesday, May 14, for the United States, to participate in the Opening Plenary of a two-day Forum, IDEASpHERE,celebrating the launch of the Campaign for the Harvard Kennedy School. The Liberian President is a distinguished alumna of the School's Edward S. Mason Fellows Program.
Thomas Jucontee Woewiyu Arrested for
Perjury, Fraud and Failure to Disclose his Involvement in the Senseless
Liberian Civil War
Liberian politician Thomas Jucontee Woewiyu is arrested. According to a press release published on the FBI website, "An indictment was unsealed yesterday charging Jucontee Thomas Woewiyu, a/k/a "Jucontee Thomas Smith," 68, of Collingdale, Pennsylvania, with lying on his application for U.S. citizenship by not disclosing his alleged affiliation with a violent political group in Liberia
Finance Minister Amara Konneh
Amara Konneh must put up or shut up!
By John H. T. Stewart, Jr.
Very recently, Finance Ministry officials were involved in what from the outside would have appeared as a war of words between the Minister of Finance and two members of the House of Representatives who had openly called for the resignation of Finance Minister, Amara Konneh for repeated budgetary shortfalls resulting from poor financial forecasting.
A Eulogy to Musue Haddad,
the Writer
On December 17, 2013, a virtual memorial teleconference was held for Musue Haddad, the Liberian photojournalist and writer for The Perspective who died in late 2013. The teleconference was attended by 300 people across the globe. Among the speakers at the memorial teleconference was Mr. Ray Martin Toe, the Liberian linguist and associate editor of the Sea Breeze literary magazine for contemporary Liberian writings. Mr. Toe made the following remarks:
Executive Mansion Responds
to: "Reckless and Controversial Public Servant Salary Regime
Legalizes Bribery
and Normalizes Corruption in Liberia"
By Jerolinmek Matthew Piah
A growing feature of Liberia's deepening democracy, for which this administration is proud, is the effusive freedom with which Liberians are expressing themselves. At home and abroad, bordering on truths, half-truths, and sometimes, outright falsehoods, Liberians are speaking out without fear or restraints. Of course, Liberians have always been opinionated
#BringBackOurGirls: Eminent Figures Urge Global Effort To Help Free Kidnapped Nigerian Schoolgirls
Desmond Tutu, Bill and Melinda Gates, Aliko Dangote, Rupert Murdoch, Mo Ibrahim, Ted Turner and Francois-Henri Pinault among global business, civil society and religious leaders calling for urgent action and resources to #BringBackOurGirls
Congress for Democratic Change NEC must stop political gallivanting
By Charles B Russell
The National Executive Committee of the Congress for Democratic Change letter sent to presidential hopeful, Benani Urey suggests that the CDC popularity amongst the younger generation is eroding at a fast speed and can no longer bragged as a strong opposition political party in the Republic of Liberia.
President Ellen Johnson SIRLEAF:
The Liberian Nightmare
Reckless and Controversial
Public Servant Salary Régime
Legalizes Bribery and Normalizes Corruption in Liberia
By Sarr Abdulai Vandi
There is a huge compensation of salary to imported indigene Liberians in the Ellen Johnson-SIRLEAF administration. Paying a monthly salary in excess of US$5K, US$10K, US$15K, US$20K, US$25K and US$30K per month to a public servant in any category is in insane and a reckless pattern of governance that makes public service a path to personal wealth, which is totally out of step with democracies around the world.
Syrian War, Saudi Arabia's Struggle for Global Influence, and
Control of Africa (Elombah.com)
The Saudis' plan for Liberia is to first ensure that a candidate of Muslim faith and background contest and win the Liberian presidency. To do this, the Saudis brought the Kuwaitis onboard to influence Liberian president Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf in identifying and supporting such candidate. The bottom-line is to make Liberia an indirect Muslim nation through the application of aspects of the Shari a law when at such time a Muslim becomes president. The Liberian president who briefly became a devout Muslim by marriage and direct family ties seems to be in agreement, but skeptical of a drawback
Oil Company: Spent US $138m In 2012/13; No Report In 2013/14
By J. Yanqui Zaza
Liberia's annual budgetary document, like any other budget, should fulfill at least the civil obligation in providing transparent, verifiable information to the public. This practice, used partly to gain public confidence, has been around for centuries. In fact it was the desire for transparency and accountability that gave birth to the idea of capitalism in 1602, according to Jacob Soll, a professor of history and accounting at the University of Southern California.
S. Tiawan Gongloe
The Impact of Predicate
offenses and its Antecedents: Corruption, Money laundering, terrorist
financing, bribery and illicit Drug Trafficking...
By Tiawan S. Gongloe
Money laundering is the process of taking the proceeds of criminal activity and making them appear clean and legal. Those notoriously known for money laundering in the world are drug traffickers. They generate so much money from this criminal enterprise and their intention is to put the proceeds of their criminal conduct in the financial system in the same manner as people engaged in legal business activities. It is easy to do this in countries that do not have limitations on how much money a person is allowed to carry on his person through a border or to deposit at one time in a bank.
If April 14 and April 12 Had Not Happened
By Dougbeh Chris Nyan, M.D.
The April 14, 1979 Rights and Rice Demonstration and the April 12, 1980 military seizure of political power in Liberia are two events that altered the course of Liberian political history. It dethroned the socio-politico-economic domination of one group over the rest of the country. April 14 and April 12 ushered in a change that generations of oppressed people in Liberia collectively and individually fought for almost a century. Change eventually came, but was characterized by extreme greed and opportunism by some political elements.
The Liberian Media, 25 Years Back: A Comparative Analysis
A presentation by Tiawan S. Gongloe
Let me first congratulate, Attorney Wilson Tarpeh, founder and the management and staff of this time-tested media entity for keeping it alive for 25 years. To survive as a private media entity in Liberia for even one year takes a lot of will-power. This achievement may not have been possible without the efforts of Kloh Hinneh, the first Managing Editor of the Newspaper and Sam Van Kesselly, its Editor-in-chief. May we rise in moment of silence to the memory of the Late Kloh Hinneh who died during the war due to the lack of proper medical care.
Chairman BGyude Bryant (L) is dead
Chairman Charles Gyude Bryant, Former Transitional Chairman Of Liberia Is Dead
The Government of the Republic of Liberia announces with profound regrets the sudden death in his 65th year, of His Excellency Charles Gyude Bryant, former Chairman of the Liberia National Transitional Government (LNTG).This sad and mournful event occurred at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital at about 5 pm, on Wednesday, April 16, 2014 after a period illness.
Nobel Prize Winners:
President Sirleaf & Madam Gbowee
Taxes: Have Liberia Nobel Prize Winners Paid Taxes US$1 Million Received?
By: John S. Morlu, II
"But in terms of owning something, zero! People say that the family got all this money. Money where? The only thing I have is my bank account, and the biggest amount in my bank account is that Nobel Prize money," Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Interview with LBS, Executive Mansion Website, Monday, July 1, 2013.
ULAA Puts All of Its Eggs in One Basket
By Siahyonkron Nyanseor
Prof Alaric Tokpa challenged those of us in the Diaspora to return to the days when our contributions made valuable impact on Liberia. He pointed out that Diaspora Liberians have masterminded both positive and negative changes in our country, including multi-party democracy and the devastating civil war. The somewhat violent struggle for democracy and the 14-year internecine war were the direct results of the intractable political, social and economic conditions...
Francisco Ferreira
World Bank Wants Poor Countries to Monitor Flawed Contracts
By J. Yanqui Zaza
The recent story that the World Bank believes that monitoring and, or enforcing concessionary agreements would yield higher benefits for poor countries, but continuing to write sweetheart deals for multinational corporations is another interesting news about concessionary contracts. Before contract agreement became controversial, the first bizarre news was about President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's unilateral decision to cancel, what Liberians call the Russian oil contract.
The Resilient Council of Elders Solicits Funds For The Defendant In The LAC Murder Trial
A Comunication Issued By The Resilient Council of Elders of Grand Bassa County
This letter solicits financial support to defray the cost of the transportation, feeding, related cost and especially the legal cost of defending the good name and lives of subsistence farmers and a public school principal indicted for murder, from all persons of good will. All these persons are accused of pulling the trigger of a single barrel gun that killed a Belgium national who at the time was Manager of the Liberian Agricultural Company (LAC).
A Rejoinder to Jerry Wehtee Wion's Article on the US $200 Million Lobby Saga
By: Ruel Francis Dempster
Liberia's House of Representatives has commenced probing allegations that the Liberian Government under the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Administration spent over US$200 Million on lobbying. President Sirleaf has denied the allegations and reported to the Legislature that her government has spent an average of approximately US$52,601 annually over a period of seven years, totaling approximately US$ 368,609, and used a single lobbying firm (KRL International).
USA Grand Gedeans, Other Liberians Petition Samual K. Doe, Jr.
By Jerry Wehtee Wion
United States Of America witnessed a political baptism and rebirth at a downtown Philadelphia hotel Saturday as the son of former President Samuel K. Doe wants to test the turbulent political waters of Liberia . And so they showed up in their hundreds for a fundraising gala and opened their wallets, purses and bank accounts and were chanting: "we want Doe, we want Doe; run Sammy run, run Sammy run."
President Sirleaf (R) and Governor Jones
Liberia's Excess Cash Reserves Of $262 M: Cash Cow For Governor J. Mill Jones And President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
By: J. Yanqui Zaza
The Central Bank of Liberia has had two controversial issues since the 1999 law repealing the Act of the National Bank, and the Act creating the Central Bank of Liberia. The first revelation was about the excessive Board of Director fees, for example, $56,000 paid to Cllr Sie-A-Nyene Yuoh in 2002. The second is the current debate about the disbursement of loans to small-sized businesses, allegedly disbursed by the Chief Executive Governor, Dr. J. Mill Jones to prepare himself for the 2017 presidential election.
Liberia - How To Avert An Almost Inevitable Implosion
By Isaac Vah Tukpah, Jr.
From whence do we commence? Too many people are giving up. Too many people are at their wit's end..� It is that bad!!! When some of the most "your let's leave the people thing" persons I know are calling me to say WE HAVE TO DO SOMETHING, I know it's time for well-meaning Liberians collectively engage in positive actions to avert an almost inevitable implosion. Just HOW do we begin these series of onerous and unpalatable tasks?� I think I should first add some perspective so that we understand some of the emotions and undercurrent behind this article. I was in the company of two friends couple of nights ago.
Annie G. Cooper
High Blood Pressure, A "Silent Killer" Of Young Liberians
By Annie G. Cooper
In recent times, we have heard of many stories and have had experiences of our young men and women in their 30's, 40's and 50 dying suddenly. Many families narrate stories such as: "My uncle was not even sick; he was laughing and joking with us yesterday and today he's dead! Something behind it! "Or, "My good, good son is paralyzed on one side, he can't talk, they put something in his chair, oooh my people!" "The doctor says I have heart problem, and I don't know where that came from."
LIPI Calls for the Unconditional Release of Journalist Henry Coasta
The Liberia Institute for Public Integrity (LIPI) expresses deep concern with the rapid decline and steady erosion of the rule of law and free speech - including freedom of the press in Liberia. More importantly, LIPI is gravely appalled about the subservient "loyalty and willingness" of the Liberian judiciary _to knowingly or unknowingly implement- the - deeds of the Executive Branch which contravenes the laws of Liberia in silencing, harassing and intimidating journalists and civil society actors - who are watch dogs of society.
Beyond Oil Exploration Could Liberia Infuse Coastal Zone Management (CZM) Policy For Inclusive Growth?
By Wollor E. Topor, PhD
Can much needed decent jobs really be created under the current economic situation in Liberia? The present policy challenge facing President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf's government is how to accelerate inclusive growth; the types that creates more and better jobs and reduce poverty. Both formal and informal work, wage workers and self-employment. In the 60s Liberia attempted the commodity approach to development, which was focused on the extractive exploration of finite resources mainly iron ore; at the end, Liberia was described as "Growth without Development," or plundered state's natural resources to create double-digit growth rate
Amb. Dew Mason
What's Going On In Our Country......?
By Ambassador (Prof) Dew Tuan-Wleh Mayson
In recent times, so many things have been happening in our Liberia that give cause for worry and concern to all patriots. First there are the many scandals regarding corruption at every level of Government leading Transparency International to label our country as "one of the most corrupt in the world". The continued lack of jobs, adequate food, housing, education, health, transport and security--all the basic elements necessary for a half-decent standard of living--have meant that the mass of our people have been permanently banished to that awful state of poverty and backwardness.
History is Being Repeated in Liberia: Fomba Following the Footsteps of Chuckie Taylor
By Siahyonkron Nyanseor
The illegal arrest and incarceration of Henry Costa, a popular talk show host of Hott 107.9 FM Radio, on insubstantial charges is a classic example of history being repeated in Liberia by another son of a president. Fomba Sirleaf, the son of President Sirleaf is following in the footsteps of Chuckie Taylor, the son of former President Charles Taylor who was convicted of leading a campaign of torture against people opposed to his father's rule...
The Role Of The Church In Fighting Hunger And Poverty
A Key Note Address By
Bishop Dr Chibuzo Raphael Opoko, TFG, JP, DOB
The role of the church in fighting hunger and poverty is the fight against the severe deprivation of basic human needs and the passionate effort to eradicate the weakness or pain occasioned by a prolonged lack of food by ensuring the provision of food and the empowerment of people with sustainable livelihood ventures.
Liberians Must Be Empowered: Mills Jones Is Right, The Legislature Is Wrong
By Ambassador (Prof) Dew Tuan-Wleh Mayson
Once again, only the patriotic responsibility to respond to our Legislature's latest primitive, discriminatory, and anti-democratic act has made me feel obliged to break the omerta--vow of silence--which I have adopted following the acrimonious elections in our country in October 2011.In a piece of legislation railroaded through the legislative process with uncommon speed and in neglect of the usual procedures, the Legislature has targeted for "cruel and unusual" sanction the Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia, Dr. Mills Jones, a man of unquestionable integrity, great intelligence and experience, and singular devotion to duty.
Liberian Government Must Take Action for "Growth with Development"
By: Dr. Togba-Nah Tipoteh
On February 3rd, Dr. Togba-Nah Tipoteh, founding leader of the Movement for Justice in Africa (MOJA) and Presidential Candidate in Liberia's 2011 Elections, delivered his annual 'State of the People' message to Liberians at an event organized by the Fiamah Future Intellectual Discourse Center. Delivered a week after President Sirleaf's 2014 Annual Message to the nation, Dr. Tipoteh's speech clearly outlined the serious economic problems (particularly the deepening mass poverty)...
Preesident Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Liberian Lawmakers Demand Answers on Foreign Lobbying Fees (VOA)
James Butty
Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has denied allegations that her government spent more than $200 million in lobbying fees to foreign firms in the United States.
LIBERIA: Is This Ellen's WATERGATE? (Updated 3/16/2014)
A Harvard Economist's Fuzzy Math not adding up in PR Money Debate against US Govt. Tallies
By Jerry Wehtee Wion
Could this be her ELLENGATE, Liberian President Ellen Johnson's equivalent of Richard Nixon's Watergate? The debate is over the crunching of the numbers, numbers as in correctly or incorrectly adding up the dollars Liberia is accused of unlawfully spending by key agencies of the United States government on powerful DC law firms as paid lobbyists. So get out your calculators out and do the math: Ellen, a Harvard "economist" versus the administration of US President Barack Obama, another Harvard graduate.
GOOD LUCK LIBERIA: 35 Years of a Long and Painful Transition to Democracy (April 14, 1979 - April 12, 2014)
By: James Thomas-Queh
After the bloody rice riot of April 14, 1979, President Tolbert missed an opportunity to engage genuine democratic and liberal reforms that he had so courageously announced almost 10 years earlier. The military coup of April 12, 1980, disrupted the trend, and Sergeant Samuel Kanyan Doe ignored the necessity to reconcile Liberians by imposing himself as a military-turned-civilian president in 1986. Then from Dec. 24, 1989, Charles Taylor took our country on the highest human destructive spree in its history – more than 250, 000 innocent victims in a senseless civil war.
A Personal Viewpoint on "The Land of My Father's Birth: A Memoir of the Liberian Civil War"
By: Theodore Hodge
I have been called upon this afternoon to give a literary perspective on Nvasekie Konneh's book, "The Land of My Father's Birth: A Memoir of the Liberian Civil War." I will like to stress an important distinction here for our discussion. It is my understanding that in the case of a work of fiction, a literary perspective encompasses delving into such technical matters as mode of narration, plot development, character development, general style, etc.
A Comparative Law Perspective on How to Defeat Liberia's "Major Public Enemy"
By: Atty Wonderr Koryenen Freeman
The United States Government (USG) Human Rights (HR) Report (2013) recently summed up a grim indictment of Liberia's fight against corruption. According to the USG HR Report (2013), the Liberian Anti Corruption Commission (LACC), the Liberian Government lead agency in the war on graft, during the year (2013), "received 25 cases, investigated 23 cases, and recommended four for prosecution, resulting in no convictions".
Chief Justice Francis Korkpor Will Uphold Press Freedom?
By Jerry Wehtee Wion
Liberia is a funny place: to hear the Chief Justice say he will uphold press freedom in Liberia. Who is he kidding? Where was he when Rodney Sieh was railroaded and dragged to jail over a kangaroo trial that led to the jailing of Sieh first and then the closing down of his FPA newspaper later which was supposed to be the other way around: close business first and then if the damages sought by Chris Toe were not paid, then sell the assets of the business, and then the talk of jailing the officers of the business.
Why Liberia Should Stop Celebrating William Tubman's Birthday
By Benedict Nyankun Wisseh
Last year, the birthday of the late president, William Tubman, was celebrated as a national holiday. This year, 2014, I suppose that as November approaches, the government of Liberia, in collaboration with the family of Tubman, will begin making plans to celebrate his birthday. I suppose because Tubman's birthday was celebrated as a national holiday during the 27-year life of his presidency and 42 years after his death. On this date, then and now, every meaningful activity of life in the country is sequestered to celebrate Tubman
Human Rights Practices in Liberia in 2013
The following report from the U.S State Department chronicles declining human rights practices in Liberia in 2013. The report is a must read for all Liberians and friends of Liberia. Promanent among the abuses are "those tied to a lack of justice: judicial inefficiency and corruption; lengthy pretrial detention; denial of due process; and harsh prison conditions. Violence against women and children, including rape and domestic violence, and child labor were also serious problems...police abuse, harassment, and intimidation of detainees and others; arbitrary arrest and detention; official corruption; human trafficking; racial and ethnic discrimination;...
Angelique Weeks' Confirmation: Not Only A Disappointment But A Travesty
By Alston C. Armah
To say that the confirmation of Madam Angelique Weeks as LTA chairman is a disappointment would be an understatement. It is a travesty and a sheer lack of fortitude and leadership at the Liberian Senate. Chinua Achebe, an African writer of sainted memory, wrote in 1983 that "the problem of Africa is the lack of leadership." No assertion could be more truthful than this. I have often paraphrased the author to say that the problem of Liberia is poor leadership or the lack thereof.
Legislative Restriction On CBL Officials VS. Claims Of 'Equal Protection' And 'Due Process' Violations
By J. Aloysius Toe
Recently, the Liberian Legislature amended the Act creating the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL). The Amendment limits and restricts, within a specified time-frame, all present and future governors and deputy governors of the CBL from contesting for elected offices as long as they remain officials of the CBL. Furthermore, the Amendment provides that they shall not be qualified to contest any elected office until three years, consecutively, after the end of their tenure at the CBL, or after their resignation therefrom.
Rejoinder to Musa Bility's Rants
By: Harry A. Greaves, Jr.
I learned something new about the circumstances surrounding our recent fuel debacle. It was Aminata, not Srimex (my apologies to Musa Bility) that was given the exclusive right by LPRC management to bring in 6,500 tons of diesel (equivalent to 2 million gallons, about 2 weeks' consumption). All other importers were forbidden to bring in any product until Aminata's had landed. Problem is that Aminata's cargo was supposed to have come in on January 10th. It is February 16th and no sign of that cargo.
Rethinking, Rebranding, And Rebuilding Nimba County
By: Emmanuel Dolo
I am grateful to you the leaders of FENYSO for inviting me to be one of your guest speakers on this your first post-war retreat. That delegates came from all over the county to attend this event is heart-warming. Platform guests, leaders of FENYSO, and all: thank you. I would like to speak to you this afternoon on the theme: Rethinking, Rebranding, and Rebuilding Nimba County.
The CBL Act Amendment: The First Major Anti-Political Corruption Act in Liberia
By John S. Morlu, II
In May 2011, the Germany Federal Minister of Economic Cooperation and Development, Dirk Niebel, on a visit to Liberia, cried out loud about the high level of "political corruption" in Liberia, mainly the abuse of public office to advance personal political and financial agendas, against the interest of the state. The amendment of the CBL Act of 1999, regardless of what motives we attach to it, is the first attempt to rein political corruption in Liberia. All those who claimed to be anti-corruption and anti-abuse of public office should support the Legislature on this issue.
Foreign Min. Ngafuan Urges National Interest Above Personal Interest
By Horatio Bobby Willie
Foreign Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan has urged young students and his fellow compatriots to never put personal interest above national interest. Addressing hundreds of students as the keynote speaker at Tubman University's first Career Day Fair Friday, February 21, 2014 in Harper, Maryland County, the Foreign Minister noted that it is not wrong for any Liberian to have an individual dream or ambition or objective, but stressed that it is important for Liberians not to lose sight of the fact that they all live in a country called Liberia
Solving the Unemployment Issue of Liberia
By Wollor E. Topor, PhD.
It is disheartening that in spite of the attraction of '16 billion United States dollars foreign investment' by the Liberian government during the last eight years, millions of Liberians are still unemployed and/or underemployed. Economists termed it as "jobless growth." This phenomenon debunks the myth that "the nation is stronger, safer, secure and steadier than it had been in many years" as stated in the President's 9th Annual Message to the Third Session of the 53rd National Legislature on January 27, 2014.
Redeem Mighty Barrolle or Lose a Prime Unification Heritage: The ways out!
By Musa Dukuly (PhD)
The loss of another vital social heritage is hunting Liberia's renowned football club, Mighty Barrolle. The Club is gradually transitioning from 'Mighty' to 'Indolent' Barrolle, and the situation remains agonizing for most of those who adore the team as their domestic happiness and ways of having fun.
Bassa Citizens are not the Personal Property of Charles Brumskine
A Press Release Issued By Grand Bassa County Association in the Americas, Inc.
Charles Walker Brumskine was born into one of Grand Bassa County's pseudo elite families that had always felt entitled to everything BASSA. In a classic old order Liberian political control, this handful of families ran county affairs from the 1830s until the military takeover of 1980. Since the birth of this new Republic, the old order or remnants of the old guards continue to assert themselves in new ways by aligning with self-appointed traditional leaders in the county.
United Bassa Organizations in the Americas (UNIBOA) Reacts to the Press Release Issued by Grand Bassa Citizens Association in the Americas
A Press Release Issued UNIBOA
The press release issued by Mr. Gayman does not in any way or any stretch of imagination represent the view or sentiment of the Bassa People in the Diaspora. As the leading, largest and umbrella organization of all the Bassa people in the United States, in the strongest terms disassociate itself from the potentially divisive press release by Mr. Gayman.
Fueling The Bassa Political Tension Is Needless: The Case Of The American Based Bassa Association's One-Sided Rant
By: Nat Bayjay
Grand Bassa County is once again in the news. This time, it is not about the county's recent impressive twin National County Meet glories which the people of that unique county are still celebrating.
Can Charles Brumskine Address "Gross Income Inequality?"
By: J. Yanqui Zaza
Former Presidential candidate, Counselor Charles Brumskine and his Liberty Party have accused President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and her Unity Party for failing to address "Gross Income Inequality," according to an article carried by FrontPage Africa, a Liberian Web Site. So, can a new leader such as one of Liberia's best lawyers, Charles Brumskine, who embraces the same economic system that the current President has instituted, find the trick and spur prosperity within this war-weary country?
Grand Bassa Citizens Association in the Americas Lambasts Brumskine
A Press Release issued by Grand Bassa Citizens Association in the Americas
Grand Bassa County Association in the Americas, has come in defense of the President Pro Tempore of the Liberian Senate, Honorable Gbehzohngar Findley, describing the opposition Liberty Party Political Leader, Cllr. Charles Walker Brumskine as a failed politician whose life style does not impact the livelihood of the people of Grand Bassa. The Association stressed that Cllr. Brumskine is one man who has not done anything meaningful to impact the lives of Bassa citizens.
National AIDS Commission Takes HIV Coordinating Structure to Southeastern Liberia
Economic activities remarkably expanded in Liberia, averaging 7-8 percent growth rate over the last 5 years, but inherent supply-side risks are eroding the gains. Existing economic indicators of spiraling inflation, depreciating exchange rate and diverse fiscal constraints are imminent economic challenges requiring wide range of policy debates and discussions to elicit pragmatic solutions. Sustaining the growth calls for pragmatic policy actions from all strategic fronts to help mitigate 'economic waste' and redirect resources to productive sectors.
Government Of Liberia Robbed My Family
By Gibson W. Jerue
In the last three days, I have endeavored to provide to the public very valuable pieces of information about how the Finance Minister of Liberia, Amara Konneh, thinks about the rest of us. We have discussed his draconian Administrative Regulation that seeks to punish, or rather that has been punishing, the rest of us since the coming into force on December 8, 2013 of the punitive tax measure. I have provided the document to that. I would leave that to the public to make their judgment.
Blyden Forum to Dissect $73m District Impact Fund
The Press Union of Liberia will on Wednesday, February 5, 2014 resume its intellectual platform, the Edward Wilmot Blyden Forum with a cross sectional discussion on the $73m District Impact Fund, being proposed by House Speaker Alex Tyler.
Liberia's staggering macro-economic woes: tackle supply-side constraints
By Musa Dukuly (PhD)
Economic activities remarkably expanded in Liberia, averaging 7-8 percent growth rate over the last 5 years, but inherent supply-side risks are eroding the gains. Existing economic indicators of spiraling inflation, depreciating exchange rate and diverse fiscal constraints are imminent economic challenges requiring wide range of policy debates and discussions to elicit pragmatic solutions. Sustaining the growth calls for pragmatic policy actions from all strategic fronts to help mitigate 'economic waste' and redirect resources to productive sectors
Why Does Peace Continue To Elude Liberia?
By Lawrence A. Zumo, MD
Personally, I think there are several issues and missteps at play here. We, however, must have the courage to look at history, at our inner selves on this cartwheel of sociology and history to crystallize out a few things, bite the bullet for posterity sake, seek forgiveness where we erred and rise up to be the representatives/ambassadors of the Lord or Religious Deity that we should have been in the first place, all of us one by one and then I think peace will begin to flow. We must do the heavy lifting ourselves instead of lifting the wrong stones out of the way or just throwing water at the real stones in the way...
The Liberian Constitution: An Outcome of Improper Behavior!
By: Tibelrosa Summoh Tarponweh
The making of a truly self-governing constitution often impels several critical questions. What should be the minimum mechanisms and guiding principles for the making of a constitution? Who selects the staff and leadership of a Constitutional Review Commission? And what are the assurances that those in power will uphold and respect the results of the process?
Economic Nationalism And Liberia – A Reply To Sam Jackson
By: Emmanuel Dolo
This article is a contribution to debates triggered by Mr. Sam Jackson's conversation on the Henry Costa Show regarding Economic Nationalism. Mr. Jackson essentially argued that multinationals in Liberia should be nationalized and this would address growing inequality and spur economic growth. This is not a full assessment of the successes, failures, dangers, and downfalls of Economic Nationalism. But what one cannot deny is that in its current phase of development, post-war Liberia is not ready to embrace Economic Nationalism.
It's Time for Nimba County to Win
By Joe Bartuah
As the great people of Nimba County anxiously await a crucial opportunity, as sanctioned by article 46 of the Liberian Constitution, to robustly exercise their democratic rights through the ballot box on the second Tuesday in October this year, I'm convinced that this time around, Nimba County will definitely win, because there are more principled, farsighted voters in Nimba who actually want the county to succeed and ensure sustainable development. I hear Nimbaians saying, "You can fool some of the people all the time, but you can't fool all of the people all the time."
National County Meet: The perfect opportunity for football recidivism
By: Urias Goll
Football is incontrovertibly the biggest unifier in our country and, to a larger extent, plays a bigger role uniting global citizens. No wonder FIFA has demonstrated that the only universal language we all speak is football. My grand father told me that during the 60s & 70s, this game was so popular that it became a national predilection where the entire citizenry would pulse for moment glue to their radio in firm anticipation for the team of their likings to triumph at the sound of the final whistle
By: Annie G. Cooper, MSN, FNP- BC
On December 1, 2013 people in Liberia and around the world celebrated World AIDS Day, a day set aside to raise public awareness on HIV/AIDS. As the day was celebrated,
I could not help but think about the many lives lost in Liberia in recent times from preventable and or treatable diseases such as typhoid fever, hepatitis , tuberculosis (TB) etc. This brings me to wonder if lives are lost from these Preventable and treatable ailments, what will happen if HIV becomes wide spread in our country.
The Banker Magazine Award: A Source of Motivation; Not an Evidence of Vindication
By: Alfred J. Johnson
Let us first begin with a genuine recognition of Minister Amara Konneh's achievement as the "African Finance Minister of the Year". It is no doubt that a wealth of thought went into this decision given the apparent credibility of The Banker Magazine. In addition, we are compelled to agree with a colleague that solely blaming the dismal state of the financial sector and our economy as a whole on the Hon. Minister, (one reason why some people feel he is not deserving of the award) is not only unfair and, frankly, ignorant, but exponentially disingenuous. Clearly, the Minister shares in the blame, but so are the Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia, Dr. Mill Jones, the National Legislature and other government agencies.
EJS is Right for Neglecting Liberia's Poor
By: James W. Harris
If the results of the last two elections in Liberia meant anything then Liberians certainly have nothing to be complaining about today. In the two elections held in 2005 and 2011 respectively, Liberians voted overwhelmingly for Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. As far as they were concerned, she was the best person to lead their war-ravaged nation, never mind the fact that she too had contributed to the carnage that raged there for almost two decades.
Rejecting Artificial Ethnic Divide to Safe our Democracy
By: Emmanuel Dolo
ETHNIC IDENTITY-BAITING has several characteristics. First, the perpetrators politicize ethnic difference. Second, they manipulate ethnic difference to cause unreasonable fear. Third, they use the mistrust as a basis to purge their perceived rivals from positions of power. Fourth, having eliminated their "rivals" from power, they then use the opportunity to plunder national wealth for personal gains.
John S. Morlu
Debunking Finance Minister Konneh-Corruption Not A Victimless Crime
By: John S. Morlu, II
"They hate me," Minister Konneh is crying out. But I wondered what Former Ministers of Finance Augustine K. Ngafuan and Dr. Antoinette M. Sayeh will say when they had a more forceful Auditor General who was constantly on their backs each year during the debate of the budget, beginning with two months of media packed budget debate at the Unity Conference Center in June 2007. The Minister has also indicted his colleagues arguing that they are wasteful, greedy, selfish and do not like transparency. Further, the Minister says his colleagues are angry because he is spending money on programs that benefit Liberians
At The Ministry Of Education, A Case Of Monkey Works And Bamboo Draws
By Benedict Nyankun Wisseh
When the Liberian civil war concluded, it was cleared that it has left the infrastructure of the country in tatters. Everything that constituted the infrastructure of Liberia as a country was destroyed. Buildings that housed schools were damaged, leaving the educational system unable to provide needed quality educational services to students. Throughout the country, this was known to ordinary Liberians and education officials. But, under Charles Taylor as president, no efforts were made to arrest and ameliorate the poor educational standard in Liberian public schools. Therefore, when Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf became president, it was no surprise when she announced that reforming the structural deteriorations that compromised the quality of education in Liberian schools would be a top priority.
South Africa and world mourn Mandela - (BBC)
South Africans and world leaders pay tribute to Nelson Mandela, who led the transition from white minority rule and has died aged 95.
Sirleaf Administration Has Failed To Police Itself, LIPI Asks Legislature for An Independent Prosecutor
A Press Release from The Liberia Institute of Public Integrity (LIPI)
The Liberia Institute of Public Integrity (LIPI) has followed governance issues in Liberia. Bad governance, mainly uncontrolled corruption and impunity, has been the fundamental problem that faces Liberia for 166 years, and which has retarded progress in Liberia and undermined the collective well being of Liberians. In her inaugural speech on January 16, 2006, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf assured Liberians and international partners of her unrelenting commitment to fight corruption, when she declared corruption as the "major public enemy", and promised to ensure zero tolerance for corruption.
LIBERIAN CORRUPTION: Typology and Definition
A Socio-criminological Analysis
By: James Thomas-Queh
In the first part of this paper already published in these same columns , we tried to establish how the errors of bad governance have encouraged the spread of corruption, incompetence and inefficiency. It is from this perspective that I have also been able to draw up the typology of corruption under our current democratic government.
For Credibility And Transparency, The Legislature Must Be Modernized!
By: Musue Haddad
Participants at a one-day Policy Dialogue in Monrovia called for the immediate re-engagement of the modernization of the Liberian Legislature, if that august body is to function efficiently, and be seen as credible and transparent. The modernization of the Liberian Legislature was initiated a few years ago, but came to a halt a few years later because of several reasons. The Donor partners are willing to re-engage in the modernization process.
Redskins: More Than a Name
By Raynard Jackson
I was once told that the only bad thing about being a good sport is that you have to lose to prove it. So it is with democracy; you have to have the freedom to disagree to prove that it works. This brings me to the issue of the Washington Redskins. They are one of the oldest teams in the National Football League (NFL). Lately, they have come under unrelenting pressure from certain quarters to change their storied name from the Redskins. Some are suggesting that the name is offensive to Native American.
Aggrieved and Concerned Employees of GAC (ACE) Remember November 6, 2012
By Sylvester K. Pewee & Emmanuel T. Azango
Today, November 6, 2013 makes it exactly one since the unqualified, incompetence, inefficient former Auditor General who was earlier denied by the Liberian Senate for fraudulent academic credential dismissed over forty employees from the General Auditing Commission (GAC) on the basis of budgetary constraints. The former AG who said he had come with clean hands to safe guard the country's treasury from people who had misapplied them rather became the rank leader of financial misappropriation.
Illicit Financial Flows from Africa: A Wake up call for Major Stakeholders
By: C.Gyude Bedell
In 2012, African Ministers of Finance and Development Planning endorsed the establishment of the High Level Panel on Illicit Financial Flows from Africa. Chaired by Thabo Mbeki with the aim of conducting wide range of consultation among major stakeholders, the panel is expected to design practical recommendations in order to mitigate the alarming rate of illicit flows.
Governor Mills Jones Destroying Liberian Economy: IMF Raises Concern on Depleting Reserve
The Five Factors Causing High Inflation in Liberia
By: John S. Morlu, II
The current Minister of Finance of Liberia said he has a solution to the budget busting inflation problem facing Liberia. After the Minister of Finance's press conference on the rising inflation, on 18 September 2013, the New Republic reported that "(the Minister) used the occasion to disclose that in subsequent time the ministry will encourage tax payers to pay more of their taxes in LD, which according to him will be publish with detail later." First, Section 6 of Revenue Code 2000 (amended 2009) states that "tax may be assessed either in Liberian dollars or US dollars and may be paid in Liberian dollars or US dollars." Is the Minister saying Liberians are demanding more U.S. dollars just to pay taxes, when they law clearly says they can pay in Liberian dollars?
We Speak Through The Constitution
By D. Garkpe Gedepoh
I pity those narrow-minded beneficiaries of President Sirleaf's corrupt administration and those blind loyalists who lack the knowledge to understand the simple words that are written in the Liberian constitution, but instead rain accusations and ambiguously misinterpret patriotism as "irresponsible". They say they won't support the resignation of the president even though she has failed to properly govern the Liberian people and grossly violated the constitution, the supreme law of the land.
The Need For Class Action Against The Government Of Liberia, Companies & The World Bank,
By CLLR. Frederick A. B. Jayweh
The confession of Robert A. Sirleaf as to the role played by The World Bank in writing the Concessionary Oil Agreement (Block 13) in Liberia is quite interesting. The revelation and public confession of Robert A. Sirleaf appears to bring to light and to public attention the roles that multi-National Concessions have played and are playing to promote and protect their business and primary interests in poor nations, while assisting corrupt leaders in Africa including Liberia to drill the hole of poverty, disease, ...
World Bank Made $3.00 Billion Dollars In Profits In 3 Years, While African Countries (Its Clients) Got Poorer
By J. Yanqui Zaza
Harsh conditions in many African countries, many of which have been chronicled in news media and public reports, are not different from the narratives of the 10/16/2013 NY Times article called "Poverty And Stigma Give An Edge To Disease." In this article, as well as in previous ones, the writer narrated the issues of corruption, incompetence and limited resources as the root causes of Africa's plagues, including high infant mortality rate, poor education, etc. Also, the writers have and continue to discuss the generous efforts made by individuals, groups and, or international organizations such as the World Bank, but, nonetheless, conditions continue to deteriorate year after year.
We Speak Through The Constitution…
By D. Garkpe Gedepoh
The Liberian constitution speaks loud and clear in the real cause of the people. And this loud voice must not be taken lightly when it speaks in unison; least we find ourselves suspending the entire organic law of our country. You see: We cannot afford to down play the constitution continuously and think its ok, because this is what led to chaos and tensions in Liberia 's not too distant past.
The African Union summit on the International Criminal Court: in whose interest?
By Wonderr K. Freeman
On 13 October 2013, leaders of African states meet in Addis Ababa to consider a possible withdrawal from the Rome Statute creating the International Criminal Court (ICC). African leaders do not find favour with the ICC's pursuit of Kenya's "big men"- President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy President William Ruto. The AU draws links between the indictment of Kenyatta and Ruto with that of President (Omar al-Bashir) and Laurent Gbagbo of Ivory Coast. Having drawn such links, the AU concluded that the ICC is a western plot to finish-off African leaders. What is striking of the AU's ICC analysis is the complete lack of consideration for the victims, 99.9% of whom are Africans
Decision Regarding First Day Of School In Liberia
By Sonkarley Tiatun Beaie
The decision regarding the "First Day of School" is crucial, and practically has numerous implications on a society. Generally, "it is the first day when a school opens after the summer vacation, but varies in different areas around the world because of the differences in weather, climate, season, and culture"
Mo Ibrahim prize for African leaders: No winner ... again (CNN)
For a second consecutive year, no leader has been deemed worthy of the $5 million Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership.The foundation's prize committee announced Monday that it had decided not to award the prize -- the fourth time there has been no winner in its seven-year history
Preesident Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Liberian Officials Accused of Resisting Anti-Corruption Probe
By James Butty (VOA)
Liberia's Anti-Corruption Commission has accused government officials of refusing to cooperate with efforts to verify their assets. In a report released over the weekend, the commission accused 22 senior government officials, including Defense Minister Brownie Samukai and Police Director Chris Massaquoi of "deliberately" refusing to cooperate with its assets verification team.
President Sirleaf/World Bank: Can Big Business Reduce Unemployment And Make Big Profits?
By J. Yanqui Zaza
Unemployment, the second man-made cancer to corruption, has many ways of showing its ugly effects. For example, in Zorzor, Lofa County, Liberia, it did not only prevent breadwinners from putting food on the table, but it also forces recipients of Western Union controlled number and government checks holders to travel far away to get cash, according to participants at a Committee Meeting. At that Zorzor District Meeting held in Liberia in January, 2013, during my visit, participants stated that a branch of Ecobank, one of the established banks in Lofa County, has closed its doors, due largely to the unemployed residents' inability to purchase goods and services
Liberty Party Is A 'Regime Collaborator', Wrong On Resignation Issue
Written by: John S. Morlu II
September 2013, we have heard some great sermons at Church. We have read Paul's letters asking for us to pray for our leaders, politicians, kings, presidents etc even when we know they are running the government in ways we disapprove and in ways that undermine our collective well being. I have prayed for the Liberian President for good health, compassion and good judgment in running Liberia.
When Politics Threatens Concessions Vis-à-vis An Economic Hub: The Bassa-EPO Scenario
By: Nat Bayjay
Grand Bassa County, home to the country's second largest seaport, is an enviable county with investment opportunities and prospects that paraded the likes of LAMCO, LAC, Palm Bay now Equatorial Palm Oil or EPO), Flour Mill, TIMCO and other timber companies, among others.
Who are the Real Extortionists and Hustlers?
By Kolec Jessey
President Sirleaf anger directed at the press and critics who have accused her government for corruption, nepotism and muzzling of the press through the kangaroo court system is misdirected and thoughtless. Her anger clearly demonstrate a President that is out of touch and live in a bubble surrounded by her network of cronies and family members in her government.
Open Letter To The Honorable House Of Representatives Of The Republic Of Liberia: Impeach The President…
By D. Garkpe Gedepoh
It deeply saddens me to note that after many years of a brutal civil war; a war that divided our country; that uprooted our family trees, and took away hundreds of thousands of innocent lives; where looters plundered and desecrated the entire country; a war that finally put us 100 years backward; we the citizens of this republic, are once again witnessing the same vices that ignited the civil war perpetrated by those who advocated and financed the bloody genocide and desecration of our country.
For efficiency, Legislature Must Have Committee Staff
By: Musue Haddad
It is known around the world that, if it were not for Committees, the Legislature would probably be in session for an entire year. Without functional Committees, it would take that long for the entire Senate and the entire House of Representatives to scrutinize and take public testimony on every bill.
Presidential Committee to "Further Investigate" MOJ Findings on Dismissals: Pearine David Parkison?
By John S. Morlu, II,
I reported yesterday, providing sufficient, appropriate and material evidence that former dismissed Director General of GSA, Pearine Davis-Parkison has been nominated as Ambassador at Large. In response, the President has set up a Special Presidential Committee to "further investigate" the findings of the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) on Dismissed Officials. Interestingly, officials of Justice and Information ministries have said the GAC reports need further investigation
The Reappointment Of Dismissed GSA Director Pearine Davis-Parkinson Exposed President Sirleaf
By John Morlu II
Rodney Sieh has been in prison since August 21, 2013. We are approaching his one-month "anniversary" for being sentenced to spend 5,000 years in prison, all because FrontPageAfrica exposed the corrupt practices of former Agriculture Minister, Dr. J. Chris Toe. Dr. Toe only defense has been that he has not been indicted and prosecuted for corruption by the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's administration, an administration that gives him the opportunity to loot the state coffers.
The Lies and Snake Oil Excuse To Not prosecute Corrupt Officials
By Kolec Jessey, CPA
We live in a time in Liberia where government officials think they can spew lies and expect to get away with it. They cast the Liberian people as being so stupid to easily buy into their campaigns of misinformation and outright lies. We need to treat their lies with the contempt it deserves. I know by now you know what I am talking about.
John Morlu Rebukes: Chris Toe, Deputy Minister Of Information, Justice Minister, and Solicitor General
By John Morlu II
President Sirleaf said, "To tell you the truth, it frustrates me. This is one thing (corruption) that is holding us back right now in terms of the progress of this government," AFP, 'Liberian president says corruption holding country back,' May 27, 2009. Instead of being frustrated, just take action by firing and prosecuting. Don't allow people like Chris Toe to walk away free and then go on to sue on the grounds that he has not been prosecuted by the President for corruption, when it is clear as light of day he is "walking guilty." This is my own only advice to President Sirleaf.
In Defense of the Public Interest: LIPI To Take Corrupt Liberian officials to Civil Court in USA and Liberia
The Liberia Institute of Public Integrity (LIPI) has initiated discussion with a team of lawyers in the United States, and in Liberia to commence series of civil legal actions against certain persons of the Liberian government who have been accused and implicated in corruption practices in Liberia. Far too long, Liberians and international partners have tried and insisted that the current Government of Liberia institute legal actions against officials and private individuals who have defrauded the taxpayers of Liberia.
Lack of Zoning Hampers Redevelopment and Public Safety
By Wynfred Russell
A few months ago, I stopped at a newly opened, ultra-modern western-style grocery store near the ELWA junction in Paynesville. Upon entering the bard-wired, fenced supermarket, one thing became painfully conspicuous, like most major facilities (private and public) in Liberia, a severe shortage of adequate parking slots for customers.
LIPI Condemns the Arrest and Subsequent Incarceration of Rodney Sieh
A Statement Issued by The Liberian Institute for Public Integrity
The Liberian Institute for Public Integrity (LIPI), condemns in the strongest terms, the arrest and subsequent incarceration of the Publisher and Founder of Frontpage Africa Newspaper and Online Magazine, Mr. Rodney Sieh by the government of Liberia using its functionaries.
Rodney Sieh Must Be Set Free & the Front Page Africa Newspaper Office Re-opened
A Position Statement by The ULAA Council of Eminent Persons (UCEP)
On behalf of the officers and members of the ULAA Council of Eminent Persons (UCEP), Inc., an organization comprising of former ULAA National Presidents and Chairmen of the National Board of Directors, call on President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and the Unity Party (UP) Government to immediately release journalist & managing editor of FrontPageAfrica, Mr. Rodney Sieh.
Robert L. Kilby – President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's Failed Project to Weaken the Fight against Corruption in Liberia
By: Learsi Aynebil Alis, Philadelphia, USA
It was May 2012, I had just returned to Liberia for vacation following 19 months of being away in the United States of America (USA) when the news of Robert Kilby re-nomination as Auditor General of the Republic of Liberia stormed the premises of the GAC. I was in discussion with some longstanding friends in the front of the Old Executive Mansion building which currently houses the GAC when the subject came up.
Liberia Failed Progressives…
By D. Garkpe Gedepoh
In the late 1970s, I was intrigued as a teenager to see a little man who was barely 5 feet tall walking on Broad Street in Central Monrovia with a mat under his arm. From a glance I thought he was a Muslim who was going to the mosque to pray, because was he wearing a plain Vai shirt, long trousers, and a pair of sandals. But I immediately shifted my thoughts when someone spoke to him and said, "Good afternoon Mr. Porte". Then I realized that it was Albert Porte the writer who was also viewed as a radical..
Poetic Tribute to Charles "Gangster" Taylor
By Nvasekie N. Konneh
Time does fly as they say. It's unbelievable that it's been 10 years since the former Liberian Dictator, Kleptocrat, Murderer in Chief, Rebel Kingpin Charles "Gangster" Taylor disgracefully abdicated his throne under the combined pressure from the international community, the rebel forces of LURD and MODEL. As Liberia celebrates a decade of peace in August 2013
Is The Sirleaf Government "Consolidating Peace and Reconciliation for the Transformation" of Liberia?
A Speech Delivered By Clr. Varney Sherman
Today, after nearly ten years since the last gun was fired, we celebrate Independence Day with the theme "Consolidating Peace and Reconciliation for Transformation". But my fellow Liberians, peace and reconciliation in Liberia can never be fully achieved if we ignore what caused our civil war and if we don't resolve to remove those causes and change ourselves and our country around for the better. Does the mere absence of war in our country constitute peace?
Morlu Turned down Weah and CDC Graduation and Party Conference Invitations
By Lee H. Williams
The former Auditor General John S. Morlu has turned down invitations from the political leader of Congress of Democratic Change (CDC) Standard Bearer George Weah to attend Weah MBA graduation ceremony scheduled July 27, 2013 in Florida and the CDC leadership conference slated August 1 through 4 in Philadelphia. CDC partisans, sympathizers, well-wishes and those at the helm of party leadership who have been optimistic in recent time for a potential Morlu- Weah or Weah-Morlu 2017 Dream Ticket were taken aback that Morlu was not in attendance for the graduation. There Dream Ticket hopefulness appears to be further gloomy when he turned down the next invitation, this time the Party international conference.
Open Letter To President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf…
The recent state of affairs in our country seems very troubling and despicably disheartening. We have seen the return of social injustices and corruption in government, as well as your lieutenants embezzling state coffers with impunity while thousands of Liberians languish in abject poverty. It is apparent that you have no desire to curb down on these unhealthy vices that has the propensity to recreate a chaotic atmosphere in our already fragile country.
BURIED SECRETS: How an Israeli billionaire wrested control of one of Africa's biggest prizes? (New Yorker)
By Patrick Radden Keefe (New Yorker Magazine)
This article published by the New Yorker is a MUST READ article for all Liberians. Though it is about Guinea, Liberian leaders are making the same mistakes. Yesterday, it was Block 13 as well as several other agreements, and today we are again talking about giving away the Wologizi mountain for peanuts. The article is a warning on the wall for the Liberian leaderships. The company in Guinea using F.T.I., which is based in Palm Beach, to polish its image, while the Liberia Government is reportedly using Jefferson Waterman International (the same company used by the Charles Taylor regime) to paint its image good. "A hint to the wise is quite sufficient."
Liberian Newspaper Slapped with $1.5m Libel Ruling
By James Butty (VOA)
Liberia's Supreme Court has ruled that a $1.5 million verdict against the FrontPage Africa newspaper should be enforced. A lower court ruling in 2010 found the paper guilty of libelling former Agriculture Minister J. Christopher Toe. It said then that FrontPage Africa did not provide evidence to support its claims that Toe diverted millions of dollars intended to fight an army worm infestation in Bong and Lofa Counties. Toe later resigned without stating why.
Obama: 'Honor' Trayvon Martin by Preventing Future Tragedies
Saying "we are a nation of laws, and a jury has spoken," President Barack Obama on Sunday urged Americans to stay calm in the wake of George Zimmerman's acquittal in the Trayvon Martin case and "honor" the slain teen's memory by preventing similar tragedies in the future.
Liberians Underwhelmed By Anti-Graft Promises (Deutsche Welle)
By Julius Kanuba, Nadina Schwarzbeck
The battle against graft is at the top of Liberia's agenda, says President Johnson Sirleaf. But every second Liberian believes corruption has got worse over the past two years. When Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf came to power in 2006, she promised she would crack down hard on corruption. Seven years later, her fight against graft has left many disappointed.
The WTO Farce and the IFM Conspiracy
By J. Yanqui Zaza
Thanks to Fasukoi for the interesting comment made by him about the relationship between local facilitators (elected officials) and the real criminal enterprise (big business/IMF). The statement as to why IMF would loan millions of dollars to President Sirleaf who has not accounted for billions of dollars donated to Liberia could be viewed as protecting an interest. I surmise the statement is based on his experience that any regular bank or lending institution would review the past activity of a loan applicant to determine the applicant's eligibility. However, the IMF is not a regular bank. It has other interest such as creating an economic and political environment for big business to make huge profit.
The Next Liberia President: Foreign Imposed Or Reflection Of The People's Vote?
By P. Nimely-Sie Tuon
There is an intense debate ongoing outside the Liberian Community or political circles but within the international community that is focusing on who will be Liberia's next president, we are told. This debate is being driven by concerns among the Sirleaf government so-called foreign partners and friends, dubbed with various titles, such as investors, UN experts, NGOs, just to name a few.
Fifty Nine PSIP Stalled In 2012/2013 Nat'l Budget
Preliminary statistics updated on the web-based monitoring portal hosted by the Liberia Media Center (LMC) says about fifty nine (59) Public Sector Investment Projects (PSIP) listed in the 2012/2013 national budget have stalled out of a total of two hundred and one (201) listed for implementation by sixty four (64) ministries and agencies of government.
On trip, Obama brings out the African in the American - (Reuters)
Midway through a three-country trip to Africa and shortly after an emotional tour of his hero Nelson Mandela's Robben Island prison cell, Barack Obama was greeted by another revered African leader, Desmond Tutu, with the words: "Welcome home." America's first black president - 'the son of a black man from Kenya and a white woman from Kansas', as Obama describes himself - had returned to Africa for his first extended trip as the world's most powerful leader.
Obama to announce new power initiative for Africa
CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) - President Barack Obama on Sunday will announce a new initiative to double access to electric power in sub-Saharan Africa, part of his effort to build on the legacy of equality and opportunity forged by his personal hero, Nelson Mandela.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Endorses Criminality
The Worst Democratically Elected Liberian President, Ever!
By Ramses K Nah
When John Morlu stated that the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's administration is three times more corrupt than the previous goverment, he was ridiculed and that was seen as the rift in not renewing his tenure as Auditor General. Nevertheless, we have seen incompetence, corruption, deliberate deception by government officials of personal assets declared, impunity and blatant embezzlement rampant in this administration. How can most government officials account for supporting their families in the United States, while maintaining a lavish lifestyle in Liberian?
Africa's Riches: The New Scramble and Core Causes for Conflict
By: Josephus Moses Gray
Moving from a trivial status to the most dynamic role in international relations has placed the African continent which was once considered as inferior to other continents especially to Europe, North and South America on the world stage. Africa existing role in the context of global politics and international relations is becoming lively and of interest to the world. In the framework of a contemporary international politics, Africa is in motion, moving away from the periphery of the international system to a dynamic one, prompting calls for the continent to occupy a seat on the Security Council with an equal veto, but the question is which of the three?. Nigeria, South Africa and Morocco are all vying and not ready to allow either one of the three to represents Africa if the occasion arises. The continent in recent time has been repositioning in the international system as far as international relations and politics are concerned.
The People of Lofa MUST benefit substantially from any exploration and mining of Wologizi
A Press Release Issued By The FEDERATION OF LOFA ASSOCIATIONS IN THE AMERICAS, FLAA
The officers and members of the Federation of Lofa Associations in the Americas, FLAA have learned through various sources and the press that the government of Liberia (GOL) is considering negotiating with Jindal, a giant Indian company for the exploration and mining of Wologizi Mountain in Lofa County. Some sources maintain with certainty that negotiations are already ongoing. While we cannot verify all sources, we nonetheless have reasons to be concerned by these revelations
The National Lorma Association in the Americas Warns President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
An Open Letter To Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President Of The Republic Of Liberia
The National Lorma Association in the Americas, NLAA, has learned, with dismay that the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf led government is in the process of negotiating with an Indian company for the mining of Wologizi Mountain in Lofa County. In this light, the NLAA joins concerned citizens of Lofa in particular and of Liberia in general in appealing strongly to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, her son and our Uncle, Vice President Boakai not to turn Wologisi mountain to an Indian company or indeed any company without the full involvement of the people of Lofa County.
The countdown to the prestigious internationally acclaimed Africa Gospel Music Awards (AGMA's) 4th annual event is at hand with just four days left for the voting period to close. Liberians are being urged to vote 'Mama Liberia' by voting Gospel icon Ambassador Kanvee Gaines-Adams who has been nominated for two international esteemed awards: 'Artiste of The Year For West Africa' and 'Female Artist of The Year For Africa'.
Fifty Five Million United States Dollars for Vehicles in Sirleaf's Government: Is this Money Well Spent?
Policy Paper (PP-002) Issued By LIPI
Liberia is a country of unprecendented contradictions. On the one hand, the country is endowed with abundant natural resources, with the current administration claiming to have attracted over $19 billion dollars in foreign investments . Approved Budgeted revenue, excluding donors' funding, stand at around $672 million for fiscal year 2012-2013. Yet Forbes magazine relegates Liberia as the 3rd worst place to live on Earth, and the 2nd poorest country in the world. Liberia is amongst the bottom 5th of the Human Development Index. The logic that explains this tragic paradox is simple. Liberian leaders are known for wasting and lavishing the country's wealth on their personal luxuries and extravagance, rather than the neccessities that address poverty and strengthen the human development needs of all Liberians.
Good Bye Bishop
A Tribute to Late Arc-bishop Emeritius Michael Kpakala Francis, a Great Preacher, Teacher, Humanitarian and Advocate of Social Justic
Good by Bishop, you did well on earth. Now that God has called you from labor to rest, I say good bye or as the Mano people say, ko lapee aye or ko to aye, meaning we shall meet in the morning or tomorrow. It is not how long a man or woman lives, but how well he or she lives. You lived very well. For example, your work in promoting education in rural Liberia, particularly in Nimba County, my county, was a great contribution to meeting the manpower needs of Liberia. The high school started by you, the St. Mary's High School produced men and women who have made their marks in Liberia and abroad, including but not limited to, His Honor Francis Saye Korkpor, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Liberia; the Late George Bolo, the first Director-General of the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation; Dr. Saye Parwon, a well-known medical doctor who has served the Liberian Government in a number of medical positions...
Homage to my Supervisors: Lessons to Address Liberia's Workforce Productivity Woes
By Emmanuel Dolo
As a young college graduate in the 1980s, I was employed at the Roberts International Airport, where I trained to become an Air Traffic Controller. I took a position as an Aeronautical Information Officer, basically doing flight planning. My supervisor at the time was Mr. Henry Valhum. He was exceptionally knowledgeable of his field and a strong disciplinarian. His immediate boss was the Director of the Air Traffic Control Department, Mr. Edward Wreh. Combined, these two men built a work culture in the department characterized by strong work ethic, stringent dress code, timely attendance, a willingness to learn, eagerness to be coached and an enthusiasm to acquire good communication skills.
Protecting the tenets of democracy through constructive Advocacy
By Tiawan S. Gongloe
I want to make some general comments about advocacy for change. Those who advocate for change must themselves be the change that they want for the rest of their community, society or nation. Mahatma Ghana advised all change advocates in the world in the following words, "Be the Change You want the world to be" This statement is profound. The only way for a change advocate to be trusted is for him to live the change that he wants for others. This life of trust and respect is only possible if a change advocate is prepared to make difficult choices and to be consistent in the choices that he makes under every situation. A change advocate should be prepared to go through pains.
Preesident Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
Liberia systematically breaking its own laws in oil, mineral, forest and land deals worth billions of dollars, new audit reveals
Global Witness welcomes a new audit recommending that the Liberian government take immediate action to address systematic gaps in compliance with laws on how its natural resources are allocated. The report, commissioned by LEITI, Liberia's groundbreaking transparency initiative, revealed that laws had been broken in virtually every natural resource deal since 2009.
Exclusive: Resource deals audit overshadows Liberia anti-graft push - DAKAR (Reuters) - Almost all the $8 billion worth of resource contracts signed by Liberia since 2009 have violated its laws, according to a draft audit report commissioned by the government, casting doubt on anti-graft and good governance efforts under President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Sirleaf, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, has said the billions of dollars in foreign investment she has drawn since becoming Africa's first freely-elected female president in 2006 should help ordinary Liberians to climb out of poverty. In a continent often blighted by corruption and mismanagement, the Liberian government has promised greater openness in its dealings with foreign investors. The country's transparency watchdog LEITI - which is co-chaired by the Finance Ministry - itself commissioned the audit of deals involving oil, mining, agriculture and forestry in the West African country.
Source Of Liberia's Revenue: Consumers Tax And, Or More Debt
J. Yanqui Zaza
If Liberia is to maintain the fragile peace and spur economic prosperity then the government cannot continue to rely on consumption tax and, or more debt. However, the announcements from a Liberian lawmaker, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's economic adviser and the chart below indicate that Liberia might be in trouble.
Africa's logging permit crisis puts EU at risk of laundering illegal timber imports
Global Witness
The new report, Logging in the shadows, identifies a largely hidden pattern of abuse across Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ghana and Liberia, in which permits designed to promote small businesses and meet local needs are being allocated in their hundreds to industrial logging companies. These "shadow permits" open the door to highly lucrative, large-scale logging operations which bypass oversight by the authorities.
Liberia's GDP Paradox: Looking Beyond the "Fastest Growing Economy" Public Relations
Charles Taylor's Economy Recorded the Highest Growth
The Liberia Institute of Public Integrity (LIPI) welcomes statements by the World Bank (WB) Chief Economist for Africa, Shanta Davaranja, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) head of the visiting team to Liberia, Mrs. Catherine McAuliffe, that Liberia's economy is amongst the fastest growing economies (at 7% or higher) in the world , and that Liberia's economic growth is on an upward trajectory and economic prospects over the medium term remain favorable respectively." These disclosures, though not new to Liberia, are heartening and commendable, for they indicate Liberia's potential for growth,
The Normal Liberian Excuse
In response to the U S state department's Human Rights reports on Liberia in which the Johnson-Sirleaf government was indicted for the lack of transparency and impunity on the part of corruption officials, the attorney general of Liberia said " I have not seen the report". Is this new? No, this is what they always say in addition to "considering we are post conflict, we are doing well".
The Block 13 Agreement
There has been a spate of accusations concerning the Block 13 Agreement, with some members of the House accusing the Executive Branch of Government of some impropriety. But when the Agreement reached the Legislature recently, the lawmakers hastily ratified the agreement. They invited some expert witnesses, but their recommendations have been, perhaps, relegated to the recycle bin. Many observers opine that the lawmakers may have received some kickbacks to hurriedly ratify the agreement. Here is a copy of the agreement.
Stopping One Protest Builds Momentum For A Larger Mass Protest
By: P. Nimley-Sie Tuon
The recent "suspension" of the proposed April 12 demonstration may appears as a relief to the Sirleaf government, or according to a Liberian newspaper headline, describing the suspension as "the storm has passed over Liberia." If this was a real attempt to hold a demonstration, its suspension means nothing, but rather a preparation for a much larger demonstration that will be unstoppable: one that will be inclusive and very hard for the government divide or infiltrate...
Our Imperative For Coexistence: Countering Looming Distrust And Tensions
By: Emmanuel Dolo
Liberia is a deeply divided society: politically, socially, economically, religiously, and even culturally. We have yet not learned the necessary and essential craft of taking optimal advantage of its diversity. Discrimination and inequality are serious and pervasive problems when large segments of the population still live in abject poverty. Common courtesies are quite scarce in daily life.
The New Petroleum Law of Liberia
Here is a copy of the New Petroleum Law of Liberia.
Testimony Before the House of Representatives of the Republic Of Liberia
By Tiawan S. Gongloe
On Wednesday March 20, 2013, I received a letter from the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives inviting me, by directive of the chairperson of the Joint Committee on Lands, Mines and Energy, Public Utility, Investment and Concessions, Judiciary, Contracts and Monopolies and State Enterprises, Public Autonomous Commissions and Agencies to a public hearing on the Restated and Amended Production Sharing Contract between the Republic of Liberia and Exxon Mobil Exploration and Production affecting Block-13 of the Oil and Gas Sector of the Republic of Liberia.
Liberia's Middle Income Momentum: Ten Economic Commandments
By Dr. Musa Dukuly
Amidst diverse structural constraints, middle income is now the renewed focus of third world countries. This economic phenomenon is characterized by country whose ratio of GDP to its population falls within the income threshold of at least 1026 USD annually (World Bank, 2012). Such a threshold is only meaningful depending on the pervasive impacts of income distribution amongst the poor.
Staggering from inflation and mounting deficits in Liberia: Non-parametric Analysis
By: Musa Dukuly (PhD) and C. Gyude Bedell (MBA)
Liberia's economic policy and statements revealed so many contrasts in relation to 2012 forecast. The economic indicators show that Liberia's economy experienced a challenging 2012, evident by double digit food inflation of 10.4%, declined in reserve money by 8.1%, worsening term of trade and increasing domestic debt to GDP of more than 50%.
Ambassador Karpeh
Credit Transmission Mechanism of Liberia's Central Bank: Is it Pro-poor? (Theoretical Discussion)
By: Musa Dukuly (PhD)
Micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Liberia have huge potential of reversing the negative consequences of conflict and spurring the Agenda for Transformation. Incorporating MSEs into credit program is a prudent approach for sustainable development to boost the Agenda for Transformation. Last year, 93.6 million Liberian dollars (about 1.4 million USD) was advanced as credit by the monetary authority to over 100 Liberian businesses (CBL, 2012).
Taweh J. Veikai
We the Victims: Why Liberians Must Demand a War Crimes Tribunal For the Prosecution of Crimes Against Humanity
By: Charles Kwalonue Sunwabe, Jr., Esq.
With the recent conviction of former Liberian President Charles Taylor by the UN-backed Special Court for Sierra Leone (SCSL), attention is again focused on the need to establish a war crimes court for the victims of Liberia's greed-driven civil war. This noble quest for justice is being resisted by some biased Liberian politicians - notably, Bong County's senior senator and former Liberian first lady, Honorable Jowell Howard Taylor. Senator Prince Johnson, a notorious warlord who stands accused of committing some of the worst atrocities against Liberian humanity is also one of the leading voices of opposition to the call for justice in Liberia.
Liberian Ambassador In France Brutalizes Housekeeper, Breaks Victim's Teeth; Liberian Community Complains to President Sirleaf
The leadership of Liberian Association in France is appealing to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to take drastic action against the Liberian Ambassador to France, Mr. D McKinley Thomas for brutalizing and breaking the teeth of his house-keeper, Mr. Joseph Richards.
Weah's Appointment as Peace Ambassador Signals the Ongoing Manipulation of Liberia's Reconciliation
By: P.Nimely-Sie Tuon
The recent appointment of George Weah, the political leader of Congress For Democratic Change, Liberia's main opposition party, is part of a manipulative and distractive trend designed by the Sirleaf government to prevent it from implementing the final report of the Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The Weah's appointment is also a life-line or a new lease for life for the continuation of Madam Sirleaf's clinch to power without providing the leadership necessary to genuinely reconcile the Liberian people as was outlined in the TRC report.