Source: BBC
The former head of Nelson Mandela Children's Fund, Jeremy Ractliffe, has said he did receive uncut diamonds from the model Naomi Campbell.
He issued a statement after her testimony at the war crimes trial of ex-Liberian leader Charles Taylor.
It is alleged she received the gems from Mr Taylor in 1997, which could link him to illegal "blood diamonds".
Mr Ractliffe said he was happy to testify in The Hague and had now handed the stones over to the authorities.
"Three small uncut diamonds were given to me by Naomi Campbell on the Blue Train on 26 September 1997," he said in a statement sent to the BBC.
South Africa's special Hawks police unit has since confirmed to the BBC that they received the stones from Mr Ractliffe on Thursday, who first made contact with them on Tuesday.
It said the diamonds were now being tested to find out their origin.
Protecting reputations
At the trial, Ms Campbell said she was given some "dirty-looking stones" after a 1997 charity dinner hosted by South Africa's former President Nelson Mandela where Mr Taylor was also a guest.
She said two unidentified men appeared at her room and gave her the stones.
She told the court she did not have proof they came from Mr Taylor and had given them to Mr Ractliffe because she wanted the stones to go to charity.
"Naomi suggested they could be of some benefit to the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund (NMCF) - but I told her I would not involve the NMCF in anything that could possibly be illegal," Mr Ractliffe said.
The fund has repeatedly denied receiving any diamonds from Ms Campbell.
Mr Ractliffe, who is still a trustee of the fund, said he took the diamonds as he thought it might be illegal for her to take them out of the country.
"In the end I decided I should just keep them," he said.
"A factor that influenced me not to report the matter to anyone was to protect the reputation of the NMCF, Mr Mandela himself and Naomi Campbell, none of whom were benefiting in any way."
Ms Campbell said at the trial in The Hague on Thursday that she spoke to Mr Ractliffe on the telephone in 2009, and he said he still had the stones.
Our reporter says it is possible that Mr Ractliffe and even Ms Campbell may have committed offences under South African law.
'Serious investigation'
The legal code stipulates that any person without a permit who finds a rough diamond must forthwith hand it in at a police station.
Hawks' spokesman Musa Zondi told the BBC the gemstones had already been sent off for "verification and authentication".
If they proved to be "blood diamonds" a "serious investigation" would be set in motion and "everyone who was involved with the diamonds" would be questioned, he said.
Allegations that the uncut gemstones were given to Ms Campbell emerged in a statement by US actress Mia Farrow, who also attended the 1997 dinner.
Ms Farrow and Ms Campbell's former agent Carole White are due to appear before the Special Court for Sierra Leone at The Hague on Monday.
Mr Taylor is accused of using illegally mined diamonds to secure weapons for Sierra Leone's RUF rebels during the 1991-2001 civil war - a charge he denies.
Prosecutors say that from his seat of power in Liberia, Mr Taylor also trained and commanded the rebels.
The rebels were notoriously brutal, frequently hacking off the hands and legs of civilians.
Friday, August 6, 2010
More Worries For Taylor’s Associates: Obama Extends Assets Freeze
Nat Nyuan Bayjay
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia -
A recent presidential declaration from United States President Barack Obama calling for the extension of former President Charles Taylor’s associates’ assets freeze for another year adds to the already worrisome international restrictions being faced by certain public officials that served under the regime of the former Liberian leader.
In a July 19, 2010 letter being published in the US Federal Register and transmitted to the US Congress titled ‘Continuation Of The National Emergency With Respect To The Former Liberian Regime Of Charles Taylor’, President Obama said his action was in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) to continue the property blocking of the former President’s associates for another year.
Obama said: “I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13348.”
Former US President George W. Bush, Jr, on July 22, 2004, by Executive Order 13348, declared a National Emergency and ordered related measures, including the blocking of the property of certain persons connected to former President Taylor which is said to be in pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701-1706).
Accordingly, former President Bush took the action six years ago as a mean of dealing with what he referred to as the unusual and extraordinary threat to the US’ foreign policy constituted by the actions and policies of the former Liberian leaders and other persons.
The National Emergency stated at the time that the action in particular was intended to what was termed as Taylor and his officials’ 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.
Taylor & Others’ Actions ‘Undermine Liberia’s Transformation & Recovery’
The measures against the former Liberian officials, some who still find themselves in the current government, was expected to expire on July 24 but the new man in charge of the world’s most powerful nation thinks the measures should be kept in force because the actions and policies of Taylor and his associates left a legacy of destruction that continues to undermine the post-war country’s recovery process.
Obama: “The actions and policies of Charles Taylor and others have left a legacy of destruction that continues to undermine Liberia's transformation and recovery.”
In his letter, coming from his Press Secretary, Obama said: “Because the actions and policies of these persons continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States, the National Emergency declared on July 22, 2004, and the measures adopted on that date to deal with that emergency, must continue in effect beyond July 22, 2010. Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13348.”
Bush’s action came a month after the UN the Security Council Committee on June 14 2004, established pursuant to resolution 1521 (2003) concerning Liberia approved a list of individuals and entities subject to the measures contained in paragraph 1 of Security Council resolution 1532 for the assets freeze catergory.
Paragraph 1 of Security Council resolution 1532, adopted on 12 March 2004, reads as follows: 1. Decides that, to prevent former Liberian President Charles Taylor, his immediate family members, in particular Jewell Howard Taylor and Charles Taylor, Jr., senior officials of the former Taylor regime, or other close allies or associates as designated by the Committee established by paragraph 21 of resolution 1521 (2003) (hereinafter, “the Committee”) from using misappropriated funds and property to interfere in the restoration of peace and stability in Liberia and the sub-region, all States in which there are, at the date of adoption of this resolution or at any time thereafter, funds, other financial assets and economic resources owned or controlled directly or indirectly by Charles Taylor, Jewell Howard Taylor, and Charles Taylor, Jr. and/or those other individuals designated by the Committee, including funds, other financial assets and economic resources held by entities owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by any of them or by any persons acting on their behalf or at their direction, as designated by the Committee, shall freeze without delay all such funds, other financial assets and economic resources, and shall ensure that neither these nor any other funds, other financial assets or economic resources are made available, by their nationals or by any persons within their territory, directly or indirectly, to or for the benefit of such persons;”
Obama’s extension further worsens the woes of Taylor’s associates who have been struggling with no success to have their names removed from a United Nations imposed travel ban.
The travel bans, imposed over five years ago, have been strangulating several associates, key among who are his wife, Bong County Jewel Howard Taylor, and Montserrado County Edwin Snowe, Jr.
Despite the lifting of an arms embargo imposed since 1999 on the post-war country during the regime of Taylor by the UN’s Security Council in the latter part of last year, the travel ban was however extended by another year.
While the UN Council stated it was lifting the embargo based on what it said was due to the country’s sustained progress made by the Government since January 2006 that was being “beneficial to all Liberians with the support of the international community”, it stated that it extended the travel ban by 12 months on the concerned persons it describes as being treat to the country’s peace process.
The latest move by Obama would cause more harm to affected individuals who have political ambition.
For instance, Senator Taylor from whom strong speculations continue to emerge that she wants to seek the vice presidential slot for one of the opposition newly formed coalition, has been vigorously campaigning to have her name removed that late saw an organized group of women in June presenting a three-page petition to the government calling for the lifting of the UN travel ban imposed on female associates of former president Charles Taylor.
In times past, several Liberians and groups have launched several campaigns and sometimes protest to have both the travel ban and assets freeze removed.
In February of 2008, several Liberians and groups launched fresh appeal to the then US President Bush to assist in lifting the travel ban and assets freeze during his visit to Liberia.
Those affected by the extension include Cyril Allen, former Chairman of Taylor’s National Patriotic Party (NPP), Randolph Cooper, former Managing Director of Robertsfield International Airport (RIA), Adolphus Dolo, Senator of Nimba County, George Dweh, former suspended Speaker of the National Transitional Legislative Assembly (NTLA) and Jewel Howard-Taylor, former first lady of Liberia now Senior Senator of Bong County, Charles Bright, Former Minister of Finance, Moussa Cisse, Former Chief of Presidential Protocol, Jenkins Dunbar, Former Minister of Lands, Mines, and Energy, and George Martin, Ambassador of Liberia to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Others include Myrtle Gibson, former senator and Advisor to the former Liberian President, Reginald B. Goodridge Former Minister for Culture, Information and Tourism, Gus Kouwenhoven, owner of Hotel Africa and President of the controversial Oriental Timber Company (OTC), among others.
The UN Security Committee stated that it would continue to update the list on a regular basis.
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia -
A recent presidential declaration from United States President Barack Obama calling for the extension of former President Charles Taylor’s associates’ assets freeze for another year adds to the already worrisome international restrictions being faced by certain public officials that served under the regime of the former Liberian leader.
In a July 19, 2010 letter being published in the US Federal Register and transmitted to the US Congress titled ‘Continuation Of The National Emergency With Respect To The Former Liberian Regime Of Charles Taylor’, President Obama said his action was in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)) to continue the property blocking of the former President’s associates for another year.
Obama said: “I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13348.”
Former US President George W. Bush, Jr, on July 22, 2004, by Executive Order 13348, declared a National Emergency and ordered related measures, including the blocking of the property of certain persons connected to former President Taylor which is said to be in pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701-1706).
Accordingly, former President Bush took the action six years ago as a mean of dealing with what he referred to as the unusual and extraordinary threat to the US’ foreign policy constituted by the actions and policies of the former Liberian leaders and other persons.
The National Emergency stated at the time that the action in particular was intended to what was termed as Taylor and his officials’ 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.
Taylor & Others’ Actions ‘Undermine Liberia’s Transformation & Recovery’
The measures against the former Liberian officials, some who still find themselves in the current government, was expected to expire on July 24 but the new man in charge of the world’s most powerful nation thinks the measures should be kept in force because the actions and policies of Taylor and his associates left a legacy of destruction that continues to undermine the post-war country’s recovery process.
Obama: “The actions and policies of Charles Taylor and others have left a legacy of destruction that continues to undermine Liberia's transformation and recovery.”
In his letter, coming from his Press Secretary, Obama said: “Because the actions and policies of these persons continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the foreign policy of the United States, the National Emergency declared on July 22, 2004, and the measures adopted on that date to deal with that emergency, must continue in effect beyond July 22, 2010. Therefore, in accordance with section 202(d) of the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1622(d)), I am continuing for 1 year the national emergency declared in Executive Order 13348.”
Bush’s action came a month after the UN the Security Council Committee on June 14 2004, established pursuant to resolution 1521 (2003) concerning Liberia approved a list of individuals and entities subject to the measures contained in paragraph 1 of Security Council resolution 1532 for the assets freeze catergory.
Paragraph 1 of Security Council resolution 1532, adopted on 12 March 2004, reads as follows: 1. Decides that, to prevent former Liberian President Charles Taylor, his immediate family members, in particular Jewell Howard Taylor and Charles Taylor, Jr., senior officials of the former Taylor regime, or other close allies or associates as designated by the Committee established by paragraph 21 of resolution 1521 (2003) (hereinafter, “the Committee”) from using misappropriated funds and property to interfere in the restoration of peace and stability in Liberia and the sub-region, all States in which there are, at the date of adoption of this resolution or at any time thereafter, funds, other financial assets and economic resources owned or controlled directly or indirectly by Charles Taylor, Jewell Howard Taylor, and Charles Taylor, Jr. and/or those other individuals designated by the Committee, including funds, other financial assets and economic resources held by entities owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by any of them or by any persons acting on their behalf or at their direction, as designated by the Committee, shall freeze without delay all such funds, other financial assets and economic resources, and shall ensure that neither these nor any other funds, other financial assets or economic resources are made available, by their nationals or by any persons within their territory, directly or indirectly, to or for the benefit of such persons;”
Obama’s extension further worsens the woes of Taylor’s associates who have been struggling with no success to have their names removed from a United Nations imposed travel ban.
The travel bans, imposed over five years ago, have been strangulating several associates, key among who are his wife, Bong County Jewel Howard Taylor, and Montserrado County Edwin Snowe, Jr.
Despite the lifting of an arms embargo imposed since 1999 on the post-war country during the regime of Taylor by the UN’s Security Council in the latter part of last year, the travel ban was however extended by another year.
While the UN Council stated it was lifting the embargo based on what it said was due to the country’s sustained progress made by the Government since January 2006 that was being “beneficial to all Liberians with the support of the international community”, it stated that it extended the travel ban by 12 months on the concerned persons it describes as being treat to the country’s peace process.
The latest move by Obama would cause more harm to affected individuals who have political ambition.
For instance, Senator Taylor from whom strong speculations continue to emerge that she wants to seek the vice presidential slot for one of the opposition newly formed coalition, has been vigorously campaigning to have her name removed that late saw an organized group of women in June presenting a three-page petition to the government calling for the lifting of the UN travel ban imposed on female associates of former president Charles Taylor.
In times past, several Liberians and groups have launched several campaigns and sometimes protest to have both the travel ban and assets freeze removed.
In February of 2008, several Liberians and groups launched fresh appeal to the then US President Bush to assist in lifting the travel ban and assets freeze during his visit to Liberia.
Those affected by the extension include Cyril Allen, former Chairman of Taylor’s National Patriotic Party (NPP), Randolph Cooper, former Managing Director of Robertsfield International Airport (RIA), Adolphus Dolo, Senator of Nimba County, George Dweh, former suspended Speaker of the National Transitional Legislative Assembly (NTLA) and Jewel Howard-Taylor, former first lady of Liberia now Senior Senator of Bong County, Charles Bright, Former Minister of Finance, Moussa Cisse, Former Chief of Presidential Protocol, Jenkins Dunbar, Former Minister of Lands, Mines, and Energy, and George Martin, Ambassador of Liberia to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Others include Myrtle Gibson, former senator and Advisor to the former Liberian President, Reginald B. Goodridge Former Minister for Culture, Information and Tourism, Gus Kouwenhoven, owner of Hotel Africa and President of the controversial Oriental Timber Company (OTC), among others.
The UN Security Committee stated that it would continue to update the list on a regular basis.
Bomi Superintendent replaced, Sam Brown takes over
Written by Matthias Daffah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has made additional appointments in government, subject, where applicable to confirmation by the Senate.
Those appointed are Sam Brown, Superintendent, Bomi County replacing Mohamed Massaley and Emmanuel Kerkula, Development Superintendent, Gbarpolu County.
The Bomi Caucus had earlier jailed outgoing Superintendent Mohamed Massaley over misplaced priority of the county development projects.
Outgoing Superintendent Massaley was also embroiled in the purchase of a controversial yellow machine which never worked up to his removal.
The Executive Mansion did not however state the exact reason for which Mr. Massaley was relieved of his post.
Also appointed are Rebecca Boakai, Acting City Mayor, Tubmanburg and Richard Fillajuah, Commissioner, Kongba District, Gbarpolu County.
President Sirleaf has also reconstituted the Board of Directors of the National Transit Authority in anticipation of the arrival of new buses from India within a month.
Josephine Francis has been appointed Chairman of the Board of the NTA while Alexander Suah and Karmo Ville were appointed members.
The Executive Mansion says they would be joined by the Statutory Members of the Board which include the Ministers of Finance and Transport.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has made additional appointments in government, subject, where applicable to confirmation by the Senate.
Those appointed are Sam Brown, Superintendent, Bomi County replacing Mohamed Massaley and Emmanuel Kerkula, Development Superintendent, Gbarpolu County.
The Bomi Caucus had earlier jailed outgoing Superintendent Mohamed Massaley over misplaced priority of the county development projects.
Outgoing Superintendent Massaley was also embroiled in the purchase of a controversial yellow machine which never worked up to his removal.
The Executive Mansion did not however state the exact reason for which Mr. Massaley was relieved of his post.
Also appointed are Rebecca Boakai, Acting City Mayor, Tubmanburg and Richard Fillajuah, Commissioner, Kongba District, Gbarpolu County.
President Sirleaf has also reconstituted the Board of Directors of the National Transit Authority in anticipation of the arrival of new buses from India within a month.
Josephine Francis has been appointed Chairman of the Board of the NTA while Alexander Suah and Karmo Ville were appointed members.
The Executive Mansion says they would be joined by the Statutory Members of the Board which include the Ministers of Finance and Transport.
Firestone worker kidnapped in broad daylight
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Margibi Legislative Caucus Chairman has reported the kidnapping of a worker of the Firestone Rubber Plantation in the County.
The Chairman of the Caucus told a news conference Thursday the Firestone worker identified as James Flomo was abducted by suspected illicit rubber tappers.
Representative Saar Gbollie said the kidnapping occured Wednesday between Kpanyan town and Division 44 in Margibi.
He said the whereabouts of the abducted tapper remains unknown with a state of insecurity in the area where the abduction took place in broad daylight.
Representative Gbollie said security forces were investigating the incident.
According to him, the security forces have discovered some clothing belonging to James Flomo and that a vigorous search was ongoing.
Representative Gbollie warned such terroristic act will not be tolerated and called on those involved to stop or will be made to stop.
The Margibi Legislative Caucus Chairman called on citizens of the County to cooperate with the security forces by exposing illicit tappers and their cohorts.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Margibi Legislative Caucus Chairman has reported the kidnapping of a worker of the Firestone Rubber Plantation in the County.
The Chairman of the Caucus told a news conference Thursday the Firestone worker identified as James Flomo was abducted by suspected illicit rubber tappers.
Representative Saar Gbollie said the kidnapping occured Wednesday between Kpanyan town and Division 44 in Margibi.
He said the whereabouts of the abducted tapper remains unknown with a state of insecurity in the area where the abduction took place in broad daylight.
Representative Gbollie said security forces were investigating the incident.
According to him, the security forces have discovered some clothing belonging to James Flomo and that a vigorous search was ongoing.
Representative Gbollie warned such terroristic act will not be tolerated and called on those involved to stop or will be made to stop.
The Margibi Legislative Caucus Chairman called on citizens of the County to cooperate with the security forces by exposing illicit tappers and their cohorts.
NEC to use joint resolution for 2011 elections
Written by Hilary Vasco Wiagbe
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The National Elections Commission says it would conduct the 2011 general and presidential elections in line with the joint resolution passed by the legislature.
President Johnson-Sirleaf signed who the document into law said it may not be the best but could serve as a guide for the sustenance of Liberia’s democracy.
The Commission’s Chairman, James Fromayan said NEC will have no other option but to conduct the elections once the bill is printed into hand bill.
According to Chairman Fromayan, it is not the responsibility of the commission to question the constitutionality or unconstitutionality of the bill.
Mr. Fromayan believes it is the role of political parties and other relevant institutions to question the legality or illegality of the bill and not NEC.
The National Elections Commission’s Boss however said the commission will release an official position statement on the issue shortly.
Mr. Fromayan spoke Thursday at the Special Edition of the Wilfred E. Clark Lecture Forum in Monrovia.
It was organized by the Liberia National Law Enforcement Association in collaboration with the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations of Liberia.
The forum was held under the theme: Implications for the hosting of credible elections in 2011 in the absence of Threshold as provided for in the Liberian Constitution.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The National Elections Commission says it would conduct the 2011 general and presidential elections in line with the joint resolution passed by the legislature.
President Johnson-Sirleaf signed who the document into law said it may not be the best but could serve as a guide for the sustenance of Liberia’s democracy.
The Commission’s Chairman, James Fromayan said NEC will have no other option but to conduct the elections once the bill is printed into hand bill.
According to Chairman Fromayan, it is not the responsibility of the commission to question the constitutionality or unconstitutionality of the bill.
Mr. Fromayan believes it is the role of political parties and other relevant institutions to question the legality or illegality of the bill and not NEC.
The National Elections Commission’s Boss however said the commission will release an official position statement on the issue shortly.
Mr. Fromayan spoke Thursday at the Special Edition of the Wilfred E. Clark Lecture Forum in Monrovia.
It was organized by the Liberia National Law Enforcement Association in collaboration with the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations of Liberia.
The forum was held under the theme: Implications for the hosting of credible elections in 2011 in the absence of Threshold as provided for in the Liberian Constitution.
Civil society finalizes code of conduct for 2011 elections
Written by Matthias Daffah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
About one hundred eighty Civil Society and Community-based Organizations are attending a one-day interactive forum to finalize a draft code of conduct.
The Director of Civic Education said the code of conduct will guide the groups in the delivery of civic and voter education messages for the 2011 elections.
Mr. Sam Cole told Star Radio members of the participating CSOs and CBOs will review the draft code of conduct to be adopted.
Mr. Cole said when adopted, the groups would be accountable to provisions within the code of conduct.
According to Mr. Cole, the civil society and community-based organizations will be accredited at the end of the one-day event.
Mr. Cole said the accreditation symbolizes an authority from the Commission for the groups to solicit funding from their partners in the execution of their duties.
He however warned the NEC will revoke the accreditation of organizations caught violating the code of conduct or distorting civic education messages.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
About one hundred eighty Civil Society and Community-based Organizations are attending a one-day interactive forum to finalize a draft code of conduct.
The Director of Civic Education said the code of conduct will guide the groups in the delivery of civic and voter education messages for the 2011 elections.
Mr. Sam Cole told Star Radio members of the participating CSOs and CBOs will review the draft code of conduct to be adopted.
Mr. Cole said when adopted, the groups would be accountable to provisions within the code of conduct.
According to Mr. Cole, the civil society and community-based organizations will be accredited at the end of the one-day event.
Mr. Cole said the accreditation symbolizes an authority from the Commission for the groups to solicit funding from their partners in the execution of their duties.
He however warned the NEC will revoke the accreditation of organizations caught violating the code of conduct or distorting civic education messages.
Gunmen attack Buchanan hospital
Written by Gabriel Paul
Source: Star Radio Liberia
A group of unknown men early Wednesday morning attacked the Liberia Government Hospital in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County.
Our correspondent says the robbers made away with one of the two Yamaha Motorbikes belonging to the hospital.
The county’s Health Officer Dr. Saybeh Vanyanbah said the gunmen attacked the hospital by firing in the air and scared away nurses and security guards on duty.
Dr. Vanyanbah said the robbers escaped after UNMIL and Liberia National Police Officers were alerted.
He said the situation has caused panic for health workers on night shift and called on the citizens to move against armed robbers in the county.
Meanwhile, police in Grand Bassa County have launched a massive search for the armed robbers that hit the Buchanan hospital Wednesday morning.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
A group of unknown men early Wednesday morning attacked the Liberia Government Hospital in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County.
Our correspondent says the robbers made away with one of the two Yamaha Motorbikes belonging to the hospital.
The county’s Health Officer Dr. Saybeh Vanyanbah said the gunmen attacked the hospital by firing in the air and scared away nurses and security guards on duty.
Dr. Vanyanbah said the robbers escaped after UNMIL and Liberia National Police Officers were alerted.
He said the situation has caused panic for health workers on night shift and called on the citizens to move against armed robbers in the county.
Meanwhile, police in Grand Bassa County have launched a massive search for the armed robbers that hit the Buchanan hospital Wednesday morning.
PUL condemns New Democrat’s nude publication
Written by Matthias Daffah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Press Union of Liberia has issued a statement condemning the Thursday August 5th publication of the New Democrat Newspaper.
The condemnation followed the publication of a naked picture of the British supermodel Naomi Campbell on the front page of the paper.
The Union described the publication as distasteful and a betrayal of the public’s trust.
Article Eleven of the PUL’s code of conduct states that: photographs should give an accurate picture of an event and not highlight an event out of context.
In the case of the New Democrat publication, the PUL believes Naomi Campbell’s picture was a contradiction of the story and therefore misleading.
Meanwhile, the Publisher of the New Democrat Newspaper Tom Kamara has admitted that the publication was what he calls an error of judgment.
Mr. Kamara and editors who faced the PUL’s Grievance and Ethics committee Thursday, apologized to the public and promised to do an erratum.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Press Union of Liberia has issued a statement condemning the Thursday August 5th publication of the New Democrat Newspaper.
The condemnation followed the publication of a naked picture of the British supermodel Naomi Campbell on the front page of the paper.
The Union described the publication as distasteful and a betrayal of the public’s trust.
Article Eleven of the PUL’s code of conduct states that: photographs should give an accurate picture of an event and not highlight an event out of context.
In the case of the New Democrat publication, the PUL believes Naomi Campbell’s picture was a contradiction of the story and therefore misleading.
Meanwhile, the Publisher of the New Democrat Newspaper Tom Kamara has admitted that the publication was what he calls an error of judgment.
Mr. Kamara and editors who faced the PUL’s Grievance and Ethics committee Thursday, apologized to the public and promised to do an erratum.
Senate orders New Democrat Newspaper to appear
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Senate has summoned the Publisher of the New Democrat Newspaper and his co-workers in connection with the publication of a nude picture.
The Senate took the decision Thursday after verbal complaint over the paper’s August 5th publication.
The New Democrat’s publication carried a naked photo of what appears to be British Supermodel Naomi Campbell.
The paper published the story amidst Thursday’s testimony of Madam Campbell in the ongoing war crimes trial of former President Charles Taylor in The Hague.
Senate Pro Temp Cletus Wotorson brought the publication to the attention of the Senate, describing it as unacceptable.
Pro Temp Wotorson said while he encourages free press, it sends a bad image for the Country for womanhood to be disgraced by a newspaper.
The Senate did not say when the New Democrat authorities should appear before its Information and Broadcasting Committee for questioning.
Meanwhile, the Senate has accepted a request by three civil groups summoned by the body.
The three groups which were to appear Thursday are now due to meet the Senate on August 12.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Senate has summoned the Publisher of the New Democrat Newspaper and his co-workers in connection with the publication of a nude picture.
The Senate took the decision Thursday after verbal complaint over the paper’s August 5th publication.
The New Democrat’s publication carried a naked photo of what appears to be British Supermodel Naomi Campbell.
The paper published the story amidst Thursday’s testimony of Madam Campbell in the ongoing war crimes trial of former President Charles Taylor in The Hague.
Senate Pro Temp Cletus Wotorson brought the publication to the attention of the Senate, describing it as unacceptable.
Pro Temp Wotorson said while he encourages free press, it sends a bad image for the Country for womanhood to be disgraced by a newspaper.
The Senate did not say when the New Democrat authorities should appear before its Information and Broadcasting Committee for questioning.
Meanwhile, the Senate has accepted a request by three civil groups summoned by the body.
The three groups which were to appear Thursday are now due to meet the Senate on August 12.
President Sirleaf freezes County Development Fund
Written by Robert J. Clarke, Jr.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has ordered a freeze on the accounts of the county development fund of all counties.
Information Minister Cletus Sieh told a news conference the freeze will remain enforced until deem otherwise by the President.
Minister Sieh said President Sirleaf took the decision based on a request by the General Auditing Commission.
The GAC wants the CDF accounts closed to enable it comprehensively carry out audits of all the accounts.
The Information Minister clarified, ongoing projects will still be carried out but through what he called a special procedure put in place.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has ordered a freeze on the accounts of the county development fund of all counties.
Information Minister Cletus Sieh told a news conference the freeze will remain enforced until deem otherwise by the President.
Minister Sieh said President Sirleaf took the decision based on a request by the General Auditing Commission.
The GAC wants the CDF accounts closed to enable it comprehensively carry out audits of all the accounts.
The Information Minister clarified, ongoing projects will still be carried out but through what he called a special procedure put in place.
House orders investigation into luxurious vehicles
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The House of Representatives has ordered an investigation into the purchase of highly-priced luxurious vehicles by government Ministries and agencies.
The investigation was triggered by a letter from Nimba District six and Unity Party Representative Evans Koah.
Representative Koah wrote the House drawing its attention to what he considers the misapplication of government’s scarce resources by Ministries and agencies.
In the letter, lawmaker Koah wonders whether a government official has justification to buy a vehicle costing 90 to 100 thousand US dollars for use.
He directly linked his concern to government Ministers, Managing Directors, Chairman of Commissions, Deputy and Assistant Ministers.
Representative Koah argued the purchases of these highly priced luxurious vehicles are made in the face of other vehicles that could be bought for 35 to 40 thousand US dollars.
He called for the institution of a budget law to guide against the purchase of highly-priced luxurious vehicles by government Ministries and agencies.
Lawmaker Koah said the measure would lead to the purchase of additional vehicles for staffers, reduce poverty and create additional employment.
The letter was overwhelmingly supported by members of the House with a mandate for the Finance Committee to look into the situation.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The House of Representatives has ordered an investigation into the purchase of highly-priced luxurious vehicles by government Ministries and agencies.
The investigation was triggered by a letter from Nimba District six and Unity Party Representative Evans Koah.
Representative Koah wrote the House drawing its attention to what he considers the misapplication of government’s scarce resources by Ministries and agencies.
In the letter, lawmaker Koah wonders whether a government official has justification to buy a vehicle costing 90 to 100 thousand US dollars for use.
He directly linked his concern to government Ministers, Managing Directors, Chairman of Commissions, Deputy and Assistant Ministers.
Representative Koah argued the purchases of these highly priced luxurious vehicles are made in the face of other vehicles that could be bought for 35 to 40 thousand US dollars.
He called for the institution of a budget law to guide against the purchase of highly-priced luxurious vehicles by government Ministries and agencies.
Lawmaker Koah said the measure would lead to the purchase of additional vehicles for staffers, reduce poverty and create additional employment.
The letter was overwhelmingly supported by members of the House with a mandate for the Finance Committee to look into the situation.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Campbell testimony shines light on blood diamonds and the importance of international justice
Press Release
Source: Global Witness
The role of natural resources in funding conflict will be highlighted by the testimony of supermodel Naomi Campbell at the trial of former warlord and President of Liberia Charles Taylor in the Hague tomorrow (August 5), said campaign group Global Witness. Taylor is charged with war crimes committed in Sierra Leone including murder, rape and use of child soldiers, but has yet to face justice for crimes committed in neighbouring Liberia. The event offers a valuable reminder of the importance of pursuing justice for the victims of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Campbell has been called to testify by the prosecution, having allegedly accepted a diamond as a gift from Taylor in 1997. There is no suggestion that Campbell knew the possible origin of the diamond. Global Witness was among the first to expose how the warlord Taylor used funds from the sales of illegal diamonds and timber to pay for his brutal campaign in Sierra Leone and Liberia, which saw hundreds of thousands killed and many more assaulted, raped, displaced and tortured.
“Ms Campbell's testimony reminds us of the damage that can be done by power-hungry individuals who illegally exploit their country's natural resource wealth to wage campaigns of violence and brutality against civilians. The Taylor trial is an important moment in the history of international justice, when the survivors of his regime may finally see some reparation,” said Oliver Courtney, Global Witness spokesperson.
Global Witness investigations into civil wars in Angola, Sierra Leone and Liberia first uncovered the role of diamonds in funding conflict, and the organisation was co-nominated for the 2003 Nobel Peace Prize. Its campaigning triggered a concerted international effort to address the issue, resulting in the founding of the government-led Kimberley Process (KP) rough diamond certification scheme in 2003. This international system brings together national governments, civil society and the diamond industry in an attempt to eradicate blood diamonds from the international trade.
Ms Campbell's testimony is timely because it draws fresh attention to the problems which still plague the international diamond trade, and the weaknesses they have exposed in the functioning of the Kimberley Process. Three years ago, one of the largest diamond finds in history was uncovered in eastern Zimbabwe’s Marange area. This triggered a diamond rush by destitute citizens, swiftly followed by a savage government crackdown, as Zimbabwe’s military-political elite sought to gain control of the country’s new-found diamond wealth.
Once again, diamond wealth is propping up a system of violence, abuse and illicit activity with horrendous consequences for a civilian population that should be benefitting from its country’s natural resources. Global Witness has repeatedly called for the Kimberley Process to take decisive action on the case of Zimbabwe – but so far the KP has not shown the political will necessary to address the crisis in the country’s diamond sector seriously.
“Global Witness first highlighted the scourge of blood diamonds 12 years ago, and yet the trade is still funding violence and abuse,” said Courtney. “This is a damning indictment of the promises made by KP member governments and the diamond industry to stamp out blood diamonds once and for all.”
Contacts:
The Hague: Oliver Courtney, +447815 731889 ocourtney@globalwitness.org
London: Elly Harrowell, +44 207 492 5888 +44 7703 108 401 or Annie Dunnebacke, +44 207 492 5897, +44 7912 517127 adunnebacke@globalwitness.org
Source: Global Witness
The role of natural resources in funding conflict will be highlighted by the testimony of supermodel Naomi Campbell at the trial of former warlord and President of Liberia Charles Taylor in the Hague tomorrow (August 5), said campaign group Global Witness. Taylor is charged with war crimes committed in Sierra Leone including murder, rape and use of child soldiers, but has yet to face justice for crimes committed in neighbouring Liberia. The event offers a valuable reminder of the importance of pursuing justice for the victims of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Campbell has been called to testify by the prosecution, having allegedly accepted a diamond as a gift from Taylor in 1997. There is no suggestion that Campbell knew the possible origin of the diamond. Global Witness was among the first to expose how the warlord Taylor used funds from the sales of illegal diamonds and timber to pay for his brutal campaign in Sierra Leone and Liberia, which saw hundreds of thousands killed and many more assaulted, raped, displaced and tortured.
“Ms Campbell's testimony reminds us of the damage that can be done by power-hungry individuals who illegally exploit their country's natural resource wealth to wage campaigns of violence and brutality against civilians. The Taylor trial is an important moment in the history of international justice, when the survivors of his regime may finally see some reparation,” said Oliver Courtney, Global Witness spokesperson.
Global Witness investigations into civil wars in Angola, Sierra Leone and Liberia first uncovered the role of diamonds in funding conflict, and the organisation was co-nominated for the 2003 Nobel Peace Prize. Its campaigning triggered a concerted international effort to address the issue, resulting in the founding of the government-led Kimberley Process (KP) rough diamond certification scheme in 2003. This international system brings together national governments, civil society and the diamond industry in an attempt to eradicate blood diamonds from the international trade.
Ms Campbell's testimony is timely because it draws fresh attention to the problems which still plague the international diamond trade, and the weaknesses they have exposed in the functioning of the Kimberley Process. Three years ago, one of the largest diamond finds in history was uncovered in eastern Zimbabwe’s Marange area. This triggered a diamond rush by destitute citizens, swiftly followed by a savage government crackdown, as Zimbabwe’s military-political elite sought to gain control of the country’s new-found diamond wealth.
Once again, diamond wealth is propping up a system of violence, abuse and illicit activity with horrendous consequences for a civilian population that should be benefitting from its country’s natural resources. Global Witness has repeatedly called for the Kimberley Process to take decisive action on the case of Zimbabwe – but so far the KP has not shown the political will necessary to address the crisis in the country’s diamond sector seriously.
“Global Witness first highlighted the scourge of blood diamonds 12 years ago, and yet the trade is still funding violence and abuse,” said Courtney. “This is a damning indictment of the promises made by KP member governments and the diamond industry to stamp out blood diamonds once and for all.”
Contacts:
The Hague: Oliver Courtney, +447815 731889 ocourtney@globalwitness.org
London: Elly Harrowell, +44 207 492 5888 +44 7703 108 401 or Annie Dunnebacke, +44 207 492 5897, +44 7912 517127 adunnebacke@globalwitness.org
ELECTION 2011: THE BATTLE OF GOOD VERSUS EVIL
By T. Q. Harris, Jr.
Election 2011 is more than an exercise in Democracy; rather, for the vast majority of Liberians, it is a desperate struggle for survival…an all-out Battle between the forces of good and evil! It’s a fight for the heart and soul of a nation! This is a defining moment! Therefore no true son or daughter of the soil can afford to stand idly by and watch.
So egregious were the crimes perpetrated by the warlords and their co-conspirators that the mention of their names even now strikes fear in the hearts of many Liberians. Knowing this, they continue to threaten and intimidate the larger population. This is why Liberians are eagerly looking forward to the 2011 election. It offers the best opportunity to create a Tribunal that will hold accountable persons bearing the greatest responsibility for war crimes and crimes against humanity which will lay the foundation for Rule of Law and Accountability. Moreover, through free and fair election, Liberians will have a shot at changing their fortunes peacefully and putting an end to impunity.
Most of the killings were carried out by children as young as 5 who were given drugs, guns and ammunition and turned loose on the population. Now they have become young adults but have yet to be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society. The future of this generation of Liberians has been destroyed by individuals driven by greed, selfishness and blind ambition. There is no doubt the effects of this calamity will linger for decades.
This is an example of how those who have broken the law, dehumanized the population, and wrecked the entire infrastructure are currently holding Liberia hostage: Following cessation of hostilities in 2003 the idea of a truth commission was proposed by Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and others as a critical first step toward national healing and lasting peace. Not long following her inauguration as the president, Madam Sirleaf established the Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). International resources, including veteran expertise were mobilized to assist the Commission’s work. Approximately US$10 Million (Ten Million United Stated Dollars) was invested in an elaborate undertaking to determine the best way forward. The process concluded 4 years later with a comprehensive report which contains sweeping recommendations. (TRC Final Report: https://www.trcofliberia.org/reports/final)
However, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, THE IRON LADY, has rejected the TRC report and refused to implement the recommendations. She is unwilling to discuss the atrocities but has instead used the report as a wedge to further divide the Liberian people. Why? Because the Truth Commission has recommended that Ellen Johnson Sirleaf not hold public office for a period of thirty (30) years, due to evidence related to her direct involvement in the carnage that killed and maimed more than 300,000 men, women and children, including 5 American Nuns.
But it is obvious Madam Sirleaf has no intention of acknowledging her role in the disaster, nor will she implement the TRC's recommendations without being forced to do so. Last January she launched her reelection campaign while addressing the National Legislature. “I will be a formidable candidate,” she declared. The President is even willing to provide cover for persons who have committed unspeakable atrocities if that will keep her in power. Impunity has yet again trumped accountability. This no doubt is dangerous!
The President’s behavior is a clear indication of how difficult - if not impossible – it is to restore normalcy in post-war Liberia under the leadership of persons who are connected in any way to the senseless destruction of lives and properties during the 15-year war. Faced with limited options Liberians have opted for election, believing it offers the best remedy. Should this fail to produce the desired results, the alternative is obvious.
In conclusion, reelecting Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to the Presidency would be an endorsement of the status quo and a return to business as usual. Her government has failed the Liberian people! After five years of governance, graced by massive international support and goodwill, the Sirleaf administration has yet to produce a clear national agenda. The population is mired in hopelessness and despair. Chaos and lawlessness aptly describe the current order of business, as corruption spins out of control. Oftentimes one has to wonder if anyone is in charge. The legal system currently is in total disarray. Those who planned, financed and executed the 15-year carnage have not yet been brought to justice, and there is no plan to heal the nation. U.N. travel ban and assets freeze have yet to be enforced. Furthermore, persons guilty of rape and torture continue to elude justice; their victims have no redress. The issue of land dispute presents a clear and present danger. A large percentage of the population survives exclusively on remittances from abroad. Unemployment poses a serious threat to national security. Liberians in the thousands go to bed most nights hungry. There is increasing restlessness across the nation. And the presence of U.N. Troops gives a false sense of security.
It is time for a change! It is time for a fresh new start!! Surely it’s time for visionary leadership!!!
_______________________________________________________________________________The Author: T. Q. Harris, Jr. is a member of the Free Democratic Party (of Liberia). He is expected to be a Presidential candidate in the 2011 Election. Mr. Harris in 1997 was the Vice Presidential nominee of his Party. He’s currently the Chairman of Liberian Contemp UPS. For more information: http://www.tqharrisforpresident.com/; http://www.friendsoftq.org/; liberia1@charter.net; and Phone: (562) 216-3177
Election 2011 is more than an exercise in Democracy; rather, for the vast majority of Liberians, it is a desperate struggle for survival…an all-out Battle between the forces of good and evil! It’s a fight for the heart and soul of a nation! This is a defining moment! Therefore no true son or daughter of the soil can afford to stand idly by and watch.  |
| Liberia - West Africa |
In a deadly attack on the Liberian population of 3.5 million by so-called liberators, not less than 200,000 men, women and children were massacred. Thousands more maimed and psychologically damaged. Countless numbers of women were violently raped and abused as sex slaves. And there are those who were tortured, beaten and permanently scared.
 |
| Liberia civil war - over 200,000 people were killed |
The brutal 15-year war forced more than a million people from their homes. Tens of thousands fled for their lives into refugee camps throughout West Africa and beyond. Many today are still living in horrible conditions afraid to return because the people responsible for the deaths of their loved ones are now ruling the country. And the deafening silence on the part of the international community regarding war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Liberia has given cause for concern.
So egregious were the crimes perpetrated by the warlords and their co-conspirators that the mention of their names even now strikes fear in the hearts of many Liberians. Knowing this, they continue to threaten and intimidate the larger population. This is why Liberians are eagerly looking forward to the 2011 election. It offers the best opportunity to create a Tribunal that will hold accountable persons bearing the greatest responsibility for war crimes and crimes against humanity which will lay the foundation for Rule of Law and Accountability. Moreover, through free and fair election, Liberians will have a shot at changing their fortunes peacefully and putting an end to impunity.
Most of the killings were carried out by children as young as 5 who were given drugs, guns and ammunition and turned loose on the population. Now they have become young adults but have yet to be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society. The future of this generation of Liberians has been destroyed by individuals driven by greed, selfishness and blind ambition. There is no doubt the effects of this calamity will linger for decades.
This is an example of how those who have broken the law, dehumanized the population, and wrecked the entire infrastructure are currently holding Liberia hostage: Following cessation of hostilities in 2003 the idea of a truth commission was proposed by Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and others as a critical first step toward national healing and lasting peace. Not long following her inauguration as the president, Madam Sirleaf established the Liberian Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). International resources, including veteran expertise were mobilized to assist the Commission’s work. Approximately US$10 Million (Ten Million United Stated Dollars) was invested in an elaborate undertaking to determine the best way forward. The process concluded 4 years later with a comprehensive report which contains sweeping recommendations. (TRC Final Report: https://www.trcofliberia.org/reports/final)
However, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, THE IRON LADY, has rejected the TRC report and refused to implement the recommendations. She is unwilling to discuss the atrocities but has instead used the report as a wedge to further divide the Liberian people. Why? Because the Truth Commission has recommended that Ellen Johnson Sirleaf not hold public office for a period of thirty (30) years, due to evidence related to her direct involvement in the carnage that killed and maimed more than 300,000 men, women and children, including 5 American Nuns.
But it is obvious Madam Sirleaf has no intention of acknowledging her role in the disaster, nor will she implement the TRC's recommendations without being forced to do so. Last January she launched her reelection campaign while addressing the National Legislature. “I will be a formidable candidate,” she declared. The President is even willing to provide cover for persons who have committed unspeakable atrocities if that will keep her in power. Impunity has yet again trumped accountability. This no doubt is dangerous!
The President’s behavior is a clear indication of how difficult - if not impossible – it is to restore normalcy in post-war Liberia under the leadership of persons who are connected in any way to the senseless destruction of lives and properties during the 15-year war. Faced with limited options Liberians have opted for election, believing it offers the best remedy. Should this fail to produce the desired results, the alternative is obvious.
In conclusion, reelecting Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to the Presidency would be an endorsement of the status quo and a return to business as usual. Her government has failed the Liberian people! After five years of governance, graced by massive international support and goodwill, the Sirleaf administration has yet to produce a clear national agenda. The population is mired in hopelessness and despair. Chaos and lawlessness aptly describe the current order of business, as corruption spins out of control. Oftentimes one has to wonder if anyone is in charge. The legal system currently is in total disarray. Those who planned, financed and executed the 15-year carnage have not yet been brought to justice, and there is no plan to heal the nation. U.N. travel ban and assets freeze have yet to be enforced. Furthermore, persons guilty of rape and torture continue to elude justice; their victims have no redress. The issue of land dispute presents a clear and present danger. A large percentage of the population survives exclusively on remittances from abroad. Unemployment poses a serious threat to national security. Liberians in the thousands go to bed most nights hungry. There is increasing restlessness across the nation. And the presence of U.N. Troops gives a false sense of security.
It is time for a change! It is time for a fresh new start!! Surely it’s time for visionary leadership!!!
_______________________________________________________________________________The Author: T. Q. Harris, Jr. is a member of the Free Democratic Party (of Liberia). He is expected to be a Presidential candidate in the 2011 Election. Mr. Harris in 1997 was the Vice Presidential nominee of his Party. He’s currently the Chairman of Liberian Contemp UPS. For more information: http://www.tqharrisforpresident.com/; http://www.friendsoftq.org/; liberia1@charter.net; and Phone: (562) 216-3177
Naomi Campbell Testifies in the Charles Taylor Trial, Says She Received 'Dirty-Looking Stones' From Two Men
Source: allAfrica.com
Alpha Sesay
_______________________________________________________________________________
Supermodel Naomi Campbell testified today before the Special Court for Sierra Leone judges in The Hague about allegations that she received a gift of blood diamonds from former Liberian President Charles Taylor while they were both present in South Africa in 1997.
Ms. Campbell, who appeared before the court after being subpoenaed by the judges, testified that she was in her room sleeping after attending a star-studded dinner that was hosted by Nelson Mandela when two men knocked on her door and gave her a pouch saying, "a gift for you."
"When I was sleeping, I had a knock on my door, I opened and two men gave me a pouch and said, 'a gift for you'," Ms. Campbell told the court today.
Ms. Campbell said that she did not know the men, they did not introduce themselves to her, and they did not say who they were.
"I was not sure who they were. When they gave me the pouch, I just put it next to my bed, and I went back to bed," Ms. Campbell said.
When asked why she did not ask the men who had sent them to deliver the gift, Ms. Campbell said, "I was sleeping, I had travelled for many hours, and I was exhausted."
"The next morning, I opened the pouch...I saw a few stones in there, and they were very small, dirty-looking stones," she added.
Ms. Campbell said that at breakfast, she explained the incident to her friends, Hollywood actress Mia Farrow and Ms. Campbell's former agent Carole White, both of whom are scheduled to testify about the same incident on Monday. When one of these two persons suggested that the diamonds must have been from Mr. Taylor, Ms. Campbell said she also thought the former Liberian president had sent her the gift.
"The next morning, I told Ms. Farrow and Ms. White, and they said it must be Mr. Taylor, and I said I thought that it was," Ms. Campbell testified.
Ms. Campbell said she cannot remember who between Ms. Farrow and Ms. White told her that the diamonds must have been from Mr. Taylor.
Ms. Campbell said she did not want to keep the diamonds, so she handed them over to her friend, Mr. Jeremy Ratcliffe, the former head of the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund in South Africa. When prosecutors contacted her lawyers last year about the incident that took place in South Africa in 1997, Ms. Campbell contacted Mr. Ratcliffe who informed her that she still has the diamonds in his possession.
Ms. Campbell explained that Mr. Taylor showed up at the dinner that was hosted at Mr. Mandela's house and introduced himself as president of Liberia. That was the first time she met Mr. Taylor and was the first time she heard about the country Liberia, she said.
"I never knew Mr. Taylor before, and I had never heard of Liberia before, never heard the term blood diamonds," she said.
She said she has had no contact with Mr. Taylor since then. While telling the court that she just wants the whole process done with so she can move on with her life, Ms. Campbell added that she has read about Mr. Taylor killing several hundreds of people.
"I didn't want to be here, I was made to be here," she said. "I just want to get done with this and get on with my life."
"This is someone I read on the internet that killed several hundreds of people, supposedly," she added.
Under cross-examination by Mr. Taylor's lead defense counsel, Courtenay Griffiths, Ms. Campbell told the court that Ms. Farrow and Ms. White gave the wrong accounts of the incident in statements they made to prosecutors.
Ms. Campbell said that Ms. White lied when she made a statement that she (White) was present when the men arrived with the diamonds to give to Ms. Campbell. In Ms. White's statement, she said that she was the one who opened the door for the two men and offered them bottles of coke before they offered the diamonds to Ms. Campbell in a piece of paper.
"I didn't see Carole White, I saw the two men, she might have been around the corner but I did not see her," Ms. Campbell said.
"This is a woman that has a powerful motive to lie about you," Mr. Griffiths asked Ms. Campbell.
"I trusted her, but I no longer trust her and no longer work with her," Ms. Campbell responded.
Ms. Campbell admitted that Ms. White has filed a lawsuit against her for breach of contract, a lawsuit that she said she did not want to discuss in this court.
When asked whether Ms. White was present when she handed the diamonds to Mr. Ratcliffe, Ms. Campbell said, "I don't recall that she was but she could have been, that's 13 years ago."
Mr. Griffiths also asked Ms. Campbell whether it was mere speculation that her friends made when they said that the diamonds were from Mr. Taylor.
"I just assumed that they were. I can't speak on behalf of them [Farrow and White] but when it was brought, I just believed that it was," she said.
As lead prosecutor, Ms. Brenda Hollis re-examined Ms. Campbell, the prosecutor referenced the supermodel's appearance on the Oprah Winfrey Show in United States where she said that for the safety of her family, she did not wish to be associated with Mr. Taylor's case. In an attempt to impeach the witness, Ms. Hollis pointed out that she was being dishonest with the court because she feared Mr. Taylor.
"Isn't it correct that your account today is not entirely correct because of your fear of Charles Taylor?"
Defense lawyers objected on the basis that the prosecutor was trying to impeach her own witness. The judges upheld the defense objection.
"It is incorrect to impeach your own witness," Presiding Judge Justice Julia Sebutinde told Ms. Hollis.
Naomi Campbell Exonerated on Blood Diamonds
• NEWS — Liberia: Campbell Received 'Dirty Stones', but Knew Nothing About Blood Diamonds
In an exchange that showed a disagreement between the Presiding Judge and Ms. Hollis as to what category of witness Ms. Campbell is, Ms. Hollis told the court, "For all practical purposes, this witness is not a prosecution witness."
Justice Sebutinde responded, "Ms. Campbell is not a court witness, she was subpoenaed by the court on request by prosecution."
Ms. Hollis conceded.
As Ms. Campbell concluded her testimony and walked out of the court, the court took an adjournment. Later, court resumed with the continuation of the evidence of Issa Hassan Sesay, the convicted former interim leader of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebel group, which Mr. Taylor is accused of receiving blood diamonds from.
Mr. Sesay's testimony continues on Friday.
Alpha Sesay
_______________________________________________________________________________
Supermodel Naomi Campbell testified today before the Special Court for Sierra Leone judges in The Hague about allegations that she received a gift of blood diamonds from former Liberian President Charles Taylor while they were both present in South Africa in 1997.
Ms. Campbell, who appeared before the court after being subpoenaed by the judges, testified that she was in her room sleeping after attending a star-studded dinner that was hosted by Nelson Mandela when two men knocked on her door and gave her a pouch saying, "a gift for you."
"When I was sleeping, I had a knock on my door, I opened and two men gave me a pouch and said, 'a gift for you'," Ms. Campbell told the court today.
Ms. Campbell said that she did not know the men, they did not introduce themselves to her, and they did not say who they were.
"I was not sure who they were. When they gave me the pouch, I just put it next to my bed, and I went back to bed," Ms. Campbell said.
When asked why she did not ask the men who had sent them to deliver the gift, Ms. Campbell said, "I was sleeping, I had travelled for many hours, and I was exhausted."
"The next morning, I opened the pouch...I saw a few stones in there, and they were very small, dirty-looking stones," she added.
Ms. Campbell said that at breakfast, she explained the incident to her friends, Hollywood actress Mia Farrow and Ms. Campbell's former agent Carole White, both of whom are scheduled to testify about the same incident on Monday. When one of these two persons suggested that the diamonds must have been from Mr. Taylor, Ms. Campbell said she also thought the former Liberian president had sent her the gift.
"The next morning, I told Ms. Farrow and Ms. White, and they said it must be Mr. Taylor, and I said I thought that it was," Ms. Campbell testified.
Ms. Campbell said she cannot remember who between Ms. Farrow and Ms. White told her that the diamonds must have been from Mr. Taylor.
Ms. Campbell said she did not want to keep the diamonds, so she handed them over to her friend, Mr. Jeremy Ratcliffe, the former head of the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund in South Africa. When prosecutors contacted her lawyers last year about the incident that took place in South Africa in 1997, Ms. Campbell contacted Mr. Ratcliffe who informed her that she still has the diamonds in his possession.
Ms. Campbell explained that Mr. Taylor showed up at the dinner that was hosted at Mr. Mandela's house and introduced himself as president of Liberia. That was the first time she met Mr. Taylor and was the first time she heard about the country Liberia, she said.
"I never knew Mr. Taylor before, and I had never heard of Liberia before, never heard the term blood diamonds," she said.
She said she has had no contact with Mr. Taylor since then. While telling the court that she just wants the whole process done with so she can move on with her life, Ms. Campbell added that she has read about Mr. Taylor killing several hundreds of people.
"I didn't want to be here, I was made to be here," she said. "I just want to get done with this and get on with my life."
"This is someone I read on the internet that killed several hundreds of people, supposedly," she added.
Under cross-examination by Mr. Taylor's lead defense counsel, Courtenay Griffiths, Ms. Campbell told the court that Ms. Farrow and Ms. White gave the wrong accounts of the incident in statements they made to prosecutors.
Ms. Campbell said that Ms. White lied when she made a statement that she (White) was present when the men arrived with the diamonds to give to Ms. Campbell. In Ms. White's statement, she said that she was the one who opened the door for the two men and offered them bottles of coke before they offered the diamonds to Ms. Campbell in a piece of paper.
"I didn't see Carole White, I saw the two men, she might have been around the corner but I did not see her," Ms. Campbell said.
"This is a woman that has a powerful motive to lie about you," Mr. Griffiths asked Ms. Campbell.
"I trusted her, but I no longer trust her and no longer work with her," Ms. Campbell responded.
Ms. Campbell admitted that Ms. White has filed a lawsuit against her for breach of contract, a lawsuit that she said she did not want to discuss in this court.
When asked whether Ms. White was present when she handed the diamonds to Mr. Ratcliffe, Ms. Campbell said, "I don't recall that she was but she could have been, that's 13 years ago."
Mr. Griffiths also asked Ms. Campbell whether it was mere speculation that her friends made when they said that the diamonds were from Mr. Taylor.
"I just assumed that they were. I can't speak on behalf of them [Farrow and White] but when it was brought, I just believed that it was," she said.
As lead prosecutor, Ms. Brenda Hollis re-examined Ms. Campbell, the prosecutor referenced the supermodel's appearance on the Oprah Winfrey Show in United States where she said that for the safety of her family, she did not wish to be associated with Mr. Taylor's case. In an attempt to impeach the witness, Ms. Hollis pointed out that she was being dishonest with the court because she feared Mr. Taylor.
"Isn't it correct that your account today is not entirely correct because of your fear of Charles Taylor?"
Defense lawyers objected on the basis that the prosecutor was trying to impeach her own witness. The judges upheld the defense objection.
"It is incorrect to impeach your own witness," Presiding Judge Justice Julia Sebutinde told Ms. Hollis.
Naomi Campbell Exonerated on Blood Diamonds
• NEWS — Liberia: Campbell Received 'Dirty Stones', but Knew Nothing About Blood Diamonds
In an exchange that showed a disagreement between the Presiding Judge and Ms. Hollis as to what category of witness Ms. Campbell is, Ms. Hollis told the court, "For all practical purposes, this witness is not a prosecution witness."
Justice Sebutinde responded, "Ms. Campbell is not a court witness, she was subpoenaed by the court on request by prosecution."
Ms. Hollis conceded.
As Ms. Campbell concluded her testimony and walked out of the court, the court took an adjournment. Later, court resumed with the continuation of the evidence of Issa Hassan Sesay, the convicted former interim leader of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebel group, which Mr. Taylor is accused of receiving blood diamonds from.
Mr. Sesay's testimony continues on Friday.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Liberia: Prince Johnson Party's Chair Strikes Back
The Analyst Reporter
Source: allAfrica.com
The Chairman of the proposed National Union for Democratic Progress (NUDP), has accused some members of the County's legislative Caucus of receiving US$10,000 each as bribe.
Senator Prince Y. Johnson, barely few days after coming under heavy pressure from some of his kinsmen and the general public for not attending the nation's 163rd Independence Day's Celebration held in Nimba County, the chairman of his proposed party has hit back hard on his fellow lawmakers hailing from Nimba for acts of bribery and neglect of the welfare of their people.
Accuses Lawmakers of Tempering With County Development Fund
The Chairman of the proposed National Union for Democratic Progress (NUDP), Emmanuel Lomax, making the revelation, accused eight members of the County's legislative Caucus for receiving US$10,000 each as bribe from the US$800,000 Social Development Funds allotted by Mittal Steel for the development of the County.
Mr. Emmanuel Lomax defending Senator Prince Johnson absence from the July 26 Independence Celebration held in Nimba County, alleged that the lawmakers received the amount to prevail on their constituencies for the petitioning of president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for the second term running.
Revealing the information to reporters at the party's headquarters in Old Road , Sinkor, Mr. Lomax said the information provided is one of the main reasons for Senator Johnson's absence during the July 26 festivity.
The NUDP's Chairman in his stunning revelation narrated that the purpose of the rotation of the Independence Day's celebration was basically to have government own development programs that would impact the lives of the people, and to clearly identify projects for the country in line with the national budget which was approved by the legislature. But contrary to this, he said it was very strange to hear that a huge portion of the county's Social Development Funds were used as bribes for the Independence Day program.
He added that Senator Johnson vehemently opposed the usage of the social development funds in such a clandestine and cruel manner, and said it was unfair to use the money that were already earmarked for the purpose of executing projects.
He said the funds were not meant to be used for the Independence Day celebration but for Development of the county, and added that the County Development Funds (CDF) should have squarely gone to other programs outside of the Independence Anniversary festival.
"This is why they are parading the country making noise and challenging Senator Johnson bid for the presidency and other issues. What they needed to addressed is what portion of the national cake was set aside for this celebration, nobody wants to address it because of the inducement" he narrated.
Mr. Lomax also vowed to expose the lawmakers whom he said were not in the interest of the people of Nimba, but were bent on parading and spreading lies and all sorts of negative propaganda against the senator.
"We are going to expose them to the people of Nimba County and let the people know that indeed they were not working in the interest, but rather receiving bribes to circumvent what should have been the fair share for the people" he promised.
Asked as to how he thinks the alleged bribe was acquired, Mr. Lomax responded in a rather rhetorical tone and had the following to say " We need to be mindful about writing resolutions and nurturing our fragile democracy because leaders normally have their own way of giving huge sum of moneys for people to write resolutions and this is exactly what transpired in Sanniquellie" the NUDP's Chairman claimed.
When contacted at his Capitol Hill office on the allegation, District #3 Representative Worlen Saywah Dunah, could neither confirm nor deny but had these few remarks to make "I always told those Lawmakers that we should not use the funds without any budgetary allocation because doing so in my view will not do justice to the people" he said.
Rep. Dunah however agreed that some of the money was used for the Independence celebration and the temporary electrification of the County, pointing out that Senator Johnson was not part of the plan to have the funds disbursed for those purposes.
Meanwhile, the District #3 Rep has disassociated himself from the allegation, and called on the county authority to do a complete and comprehensive audit of the county's Social Development Funds (SDF).
Source: allAfrica.com
The Chairman of the proposed National Union for Democratic Progress (NUDP), has accused some members of the County's legislative Caucus of receiving US$10,000 each as bribe.
Senator Prince Y. Johnson, barely few days after coming under heavy pressure from some of his kinsmen and the general public for not attending the nation's 163rd Independence Day's Celebration held in Nimba County, the chairman of his proposed party has hit back hard on his fellow lawmakers hailing from Nimba for acts of bribery and neglect of the welfare of their people.
Accuses Lawmakers of Tempering With County Development Fund
The Chairman of the proposed National Union for Democratic Progress (NUDP), Emmanuel Lomax, making the revelation, accused eight members of the County's legislative Caucus for receiving US$10,000 each as bribe from the US$800,000 Social Development Funds allotted by Mittal Steel for the development of the County.
Mr. Emmanuel Lomax defending Senator Prince Johnson absence from the July 26 Independence Celebration held in Nimba County, alleged that the lawmakers received the amount to prevail on their constituencies for the petitioning of president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for the second term running.
Revealing the information to reporters at the party's headquarters in Old Road , Sinkor, Mr. Lomax said the information provided is one of the main reasons for Senator Johnson's absence during the July 26 festivity.
The NUDP's Chairman in his stunning revelation narrated that the purpose of the rotation of the Independence Day's celebration was basically to have government own development programs that would impact the lives of the people, and to clearly identify projects for the country in line with the national budget which was approved by the legislature. But contrary to this, he said it was very strange to hear that a huge portion of the county's Social Development Funds were used as bribes for the Independence Day program.
He added that Senator Johnson vehemently opposed the usage of the social development funds in such a clandestine and cruel manner, and said it was unfair to use the money that were already earmarked for the purpose of executing projects.
He said the funds were not meant to be used for the Independence Day celebration but for Development of the county, and added that the County Development Funds (CDF) should have squarely gone to other programs outside of the Independence Anniversary festival.
"This is why they are parading the country making noise and challenging Senator Johnson bid for the presidency and other issues. What they needed to addressed is what portion of the national cake was set aside for this celebration, nobody wants to address it because of the inducement" he narrated.
Mr. Lomax also vowed to expose the lawmakers whom he said were not in the interest of the people of Nimba, but were bent on parading and spreading lies and all sorts of negative propaganda against the senator.
"We are going to expose them to the people of Nimba County and let the people know that indeed they were not working in the interest, but rather receiving bribes to circumvent what should have been the fair share for the people" he promised.
Asked as to how he thinks the alleged bribe was acquired, Mr. Lomax responded in a rather rhetorical tone and had the following to say " We need to be mindful about writing resolutions and nurturing our fragile democracy because leaders normally have their own way of giving huge sum of moneys for people to write resolutions and this is exactly what transpired in Sanniquellie" the NUDP's Chairman claimed.
When contacted at his Capitol Hill office on the allegation, District #3 Representative Worlen Saywah Dunah, could neither confirm nor deny but had these few remarks to make "I always told those Lawmakers that we should not use the funds without any budgetary allocation because doing so in my view will not do justice to the people" he said.
Rep. Dunah however agreed that some of the money was used for the Independence celebration and the temporary electrification of the County, pointing out that Senator Johnson was not part of the plan to have the funds disbursed for those purposes.
Meanwhile, the District #3 Rep has disassociated himself from the allegation, and called on the county authority to do a complete and comprehensive audit of the county's Social Development Funds (SDF).
Liberia: Nothing is for Nothing - Influence and China's Rising Quick-Impact Infrastructure
New Democrat (Monrovia)
Source: allAfrica.com
EDITORIAL
China's ambassador here, Zhou Yuxiao, in begging another multi-million dollar project- the construction of the country's Health Ministry--has made it clear that his country has no vested interest in Liberia.
From Cold War perspectives, when China and other powers sought ideological partners across Africa and Asia, that could be true. But his declaration is an understatement. China has embarked upon expanding its influence, cultural and economic, and there is nothing wrong with that on today's global political landscape, indicating that there is nothing for nothing.
China's relations with tiny Liberia have taken some dramatic and fascinating turns. In the 1980s when the military climbed to power, Beijing was sent packing in preference for Taiwan, China's considered colony that has competed with it on the African continent for influence. The sphere of this influence was divided in two parts. One sphere was composed of African leaders who saw cash as the requirement for diplomatic ties. The other side consisted of largely non-corrupt, nationalistic, visionary leaders who saw the global political reality, which is that China is world power, a member of the UN Security Council that cannot be ignored for a bundle of dollars.
President Sirleaf at an event marking investment by Buchanan Renewable.
On the Liberian political stage, the choice was clear as dictated by the outlook and character of its leaders. Both Gen. Samuel K. Doe, and the man who ensured his bloody fall, Mr. Charles Taylor, preferred Taiwan for clear reason--personal cash pumped in their pockets. As the current trial of Mr. Taylor has revealed, the Taiwanese government stuffed in US1m for his electoral bid and much more. Mr. Doe and his entourage received similar personal benefits. There were no doubts as to who was the good guy.
Taiwan's Africa policy, therefore, was tied to bribing corrupt and self-serving African leaders to choose between them and the non-bribing People's Republic of China. For such people, the choice was easy. It was Taiwan, with bribe money.
But Beijing and Africa have come a long way, dating from the traumatic years of liberation struggles when China, the Soviet Union and the west competed for influence and allies. Then, what dictated alliances was adherence to the controlling power's ideology. In Zimbabwe, for example, China was viewed as siding Joshua Nkomo against Robert Mugabe, seeing as a Chinese ally. In Angola, China again was viewed as an ally of the Union for the Total Liberation of Angola, Unita, with the late Dr. Jonas Savimbi, later gunned down, as the head, against the Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), now in power. Mozambique's late charismatic president Samora Machel, shot down in a light aircraft with fingers pointed at Apartheid South Africa, was considered a Maoist, meaning his political agenda and ideas were in tune with China at the time. Zambia's Dr. Kenneth Kaunda was also considered a Maoist, amongst many others.
Here in Liberia, a staunch US ally, any idea of China getting a chance, under a military regime with no clear idea where it stood on anything, was ruled out. Suspected links with China or the Soviet Union received harsh punishment. University students suspected of seeing good in China were arrested and jailed, and any one who questioned the excesses of the regime was condemned as a Communist and severely treated as such jailed if lucky.
Chinese ingenuity has won. Beijing no longer sees compliance with its political system as precondition for relationship and economic assistance. It has, wisely so, adopted non-interference in the affairs of other states as a standing policy in dealing with Africa and other region. This has led to severe criticism of its links with the government of Sudan, condemned for serious human rights violations in Darfur with the indictment of president, Omar Bashir, in The Hague. But China says what happens in Sudan is none of its business.
And here, the landscape has now immensely transformed, one on which China can teach its language at the University of Liberia, beam its radio broadcasts directly here on an FM station, all platforms for selling its culture and influence.
The astounding aspect of the changed relationship without personal cash stacked in pockets of corrupt officials is the mushrooming of infrastructure with Chinese stamp. For years, for example, the Ministry of Health structure the Chinese began stood as a home for squatters, with no one, including the government, attempting to complete it. The Chinese had to return, with US4m to do the job. It would have been inconceivable 10 or 15 years ago to imagine that this country's first modern university campus would be gift a from Communist China, or that strings of other key infrastructural development projects would be Chinese gifts. But if many officials were pooled to select between cash-giving Taiwan and the "mean" People's Republic's non-cash policy, there is no doubt the doors would flung open for Taiwan to re-enter.
Source: allAfrica.com
EDITORIAL
China's ambassador here, Zhou Yuxiao, in begging another multi-million dollar project- the construction of the country's Health Ministry--has made it clear that his country has no vested interest in Liberia.
From Cold War perspectives, when China and other powers sought ideological partners across Africa and Asia, that could be true. But his declaration is an understatement. China has embarked upon expanding its influence, cultural and economic, and there is nothing wrong with that on today's global political landscape, indicating that there is nothing for nothing.
China's relations with tiny Liberia have taken some dramatic and fascinating turns. In the 1980s when the military climbed to power, Beijing was sent packing in preference for Taiwan, China's considered colony that has competed with it on the African continent for influence. The sphere of this influence was divided in two parts. One sphere was composed of African leaders who saw cash as the requirement for diplomatic ties. The other side consisted of largely non-corrupt, nationalistic, visionary leaders who saw the global political reality, which is that China is world power, a member of the UN Security Council that cannot be ignored for a bundle of dollars.
On the Liberian political stage, the choice was clear as dictated by the outlook and character of its leaders. Both Gen. Samuel K. Doe, and the man who ensured his bloody fall, Mr. Charles Taylor, preferred Taiwan for clear reason--personal cash pumped in their pockets. As the current trial of Mr. Taylor has revealed, the Taiwanese government stuffed in US1m for his electoral bid and much more. Mr. Doe and his entourage received similar personal benefits. There were no doubts as to who was the good guy.
Taiwan's Africa policy, therefore, was tied to bribing corrupt and self-serving African leaders to choose between them and the non-bribing People's Republic of China. For such people, the choice was easy. It was Taiwan, with bribe money.
But Beijing and Africa have come a long way, dating from the traumatic years of liberation struggles when China, the Soviet Union and the west competed for influence and allies. Then, what dictated alliances was adherence to the controlling power's ideology. In Zimbabwe, for example, China was viewed as siding Joshua Nkomo against Robert Mugabe, seeing as a Chinese ally. In Angola, China again was viewed as an ally of the Union for the Total Liberation of Angola, Unita, with the late Dr. Jonas Savimbi, later gunned down, as the head, against the Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), now in power. Mozambique's late charismatic president Samora Machel, shot down in a light aircraft with fingers pointed at Apartheid South Africa, was considered a Maoist, meaning his political agenda and ideas were in tune with China at the time. Zambia's Dr. Kenneth Kaunda was also considered a Maoist, amongst many others.
Here in Liberia, a staunch US ally, any idea of China getting a chance, under a military regime with no clear idea where it stood on anything, was ruled out. Suspected links with China or the Soviet Union received harsh punishment. University students suspected of seeing good in China were arrested and jailed, and any one who questioned the excesses of the regime was condemned as a Communist and severely treated as such jailed if lucky.
Chinese ingenuity has won. Beijing no longer sees compliance with its political system as precondition for relationship and economic assistance. It has, wisely so, adopted non-interference in the affairs of other states as a standing policy in dealing with Africa and other region. This has led to severe criticism of its links with the government of Sudan, condemned for serious human rights violations in Darfur with the indictment of president, Omar Bashir, in The Hague. But China says what happens in Sudan is none of its business.
And here, the landscape has now immensely transformed, one on which China can teach its language at the University of Liberia, beam its radio broadcasts directly here on an FM station, all platforms for selling its culture and influence.
The astounding aspect of the changed relationship without personal cash stacked in pockets of corrupt officials is the mushrooming of infrastructure with Chinese stamp. For years, for example, the Ministry of Health structure the Chinese began stood as a home for squatters, with no one, including the government, attempting to complete it. The Chinese had to return, with US4m to do the job. It would have been inconceivable 10 or 15 years ago to imagine that this country's first modern university campus would be gift a from Communist China, or that strings of other key infrastructural development projects would be Chinese gifts. But if many officials were pooled to select between cash-giving Taiwan and the "mean" People's Republic's non-cash policy, there is no doubt the doors would flung open for Taiwan to re-enter.
Liberia: Tipoteh On Ellen's Back
Source: allAfrica.com
When President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf quietly but flashily assessed and dedicated several development projects in Nimba and Bong counties as a lead-up to Sanniquellie 2010, few raised eyebrows; but supporters hailed her as pragmatic and 'having the people at heart'.
Now those who raised eyebrows - one of them being Dr. Togba-Nah Tipoteh - are becoming vocal, warning of possible irregularities in the 2011 polls unless the National Elections Commission (NEC) and the Liberian people stood up against the violation of electoral guidelines and the reemergence of "old bad politics". The Analyst, reports.
Former presidential contender Dr. Togba-Nah Tipoteh has accused President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf of campaigning illegally thereby "spoiling" the 163rd Independence Day Celebrations in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, as was the case in many prior instances.
He described the President's action as "the same old bad politics" and called on the Liberian people and NEC to react appropriately to ensure that she does not extend the practice to the 2011 general and presidential elections.
The lifetime chairman of the Movement for Justice in Africa (MOJA), who is also the standard-bearer of the opposition Alliance for Peace and Democracy (APD) and presidential candidate-apparent, made the observations when addressed a press briefing, over the weekend, in the Point 4 Community on Bushrod Island.
He said instead of providing patriotic leadership to motivate the Liberian people and friends of Liberia to appreciate the message of the Independence Day Orator and the projects unveiled, President Sirleaf chose to put her political campaign for a second term, started over a year ago, above national interest.
The veteran political activist claimed that from the intercessory service to the dedicatory services in Nimba County, the President presided over choruses, charting the course for second term through 2011 presidential and General elections.
He did not say exactly how the President conducted the campaign and how it affected the quality and sanctity of the celebrations vis-à-vis arousing the patriotic spirit of the citizenry, but he was adamant that what happened in Sanniquellie was a major challenge to Liberia's new political dispensation.
According to him, President Sirleaf conducted the "illegal political campaign" in the full view of officials of NEC and Liberia's foreign friends, who he said were providing huge sums of money, including the funding of the new NEC Headquarters, to promote free, fair, and democratic elections in 2011.
Taking into consideration what happened in Sanniquellie and what had happened prior to that without NEC's reaction, Dr. Tipoteh said, he doubted that the 2011 elections would be free, fair, transparent, and democratic.
This was mainly because, according to him, the President's illegal activities were being ignored even as she used state funds to perpetrate them at the detriment of the sanctity of Liberia's electoral system.
He did not also say which law - electoral or otherwise - the President violated by declaring her candidacy just like other opposition leaders have already done, but he recalled past occasions during which he claimed she diverted national attention to personal political agendas.
He recalled that the President successfully transformed the Belleh Yallah Road Opening ceremonies into a political campaign with Unity Party partisans in their party T-shirts and lappas lining the route to receive their 'first partisan'.
Besides the Belleh Yallah incident, after which the President received a petition from the citizens of the area to run for second term, she "unconstitutionally and illegally" turned the solemn occasion of the delivery of the 2010 Annual Message to the National Legislature into a political rally when she declared her intention to run for second term, Tipoteh said.
Again during that time, he recalled, UP partisans donning party T-shirts and lappas and waving welcoming posters and portraits of the President, were on hand at the Capitol Building to hail her exploits.
What was surprising, he said, was that the outcry that preceded that political gaffe did not deter the President from consistently turning national occasions into the opportunity to push her second term agenda, neglecting to realize that she was breaching the laws.
The ADP presidential candidate-apparent then regretted that a president of Liberia, who had declared full commitment to enforce the constitution of Liberia and to abandon the all-powerful executive presidency and adopt zero tolerance for corruption, was now brazenly flouting the law without remorse - while using government resources to pursue personal agenda.
The Economics professor told the press that the President's exercises in impunity should remind Liberians of the bad politics of the past, which led Liberia to a civil war described locally and internationally as "senseless".
In the past, according to Dr. Tipoteh whose political opposition spanned the Tubman, Tolbert, Doe, and Taylor administrations, government officials seeking to improve their personal welfare lied to the president, saying that all was well and that another term for the president would make things better.
He lamented that if only the government officials had told the truth, the administrations of the day would have taken appropriate steps to prevent the civil war that followed.
Unfortunately, like before, he said, government officials today were making the same terrible mistakes of the past, telling the President that Liberia would be better off only and only if she sought second term to complete what she has started, as if the President did not base her programs and activities on plans that can be implemented in her absence.
Dr. Tipoteh, who prefers to be dubbed "The Only Man on the Ground" - for not running into exile as other politicians did during the civil war - said he chose to expose the 'ugly deals' of the President because that was the most patriotic thing to do now as the Liberian people look forward to a free, fair, and transparent democratic elections in October 2011.
When President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf quietly but flashily assessed and dedicated several development projects in Nimba and Bong counties as a lead-up to Sanniquellie 2010, few raised eyebrows; but supporters hailed her as pragmatic and 'having the people at heart'.
Now those who raised eyebrows - one of them being Dr. Togba-Nah Tipoteh - are becoming vocal, warning of possible irregularities in the 2011 polls unless the National Elections Commission (NEC) and the Liberian people stood up against the violation of electoral guidelines and the reemergence of "old bad politics". The Analyst, reports.
Former presidential contender Dr. Togba-Nah Tipoteh has accused President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf of campaigning illegally thereby "spoiling" the 163rd Independence Day Celebrations in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, as was the case in many prior instances.
He described the President's action as "the same old bad politics" and called on the Liberian people and NEC to react appropriately to ensure that she does not extend the practice to the 2011 general and presidential elections.
The lifetime chairman of the Movement for Justice in Africa (MOJA), who is also the standard-bearer of the opposition Alliance for Peace and Democracy (APD) and presidential candidate-apparent, made the observations when addressed a press briefing, over the weekend, in the Point 4 Community on Bushrod Island.
He said instead of providing patriotic leadership to motivate the Liberian people and friends of Liberia to appreciate the message of the Independence Day Orator and the projects unveiled, President Sirleaf chose to put her political campaign for a second term, started over a year ago, above national interest.
The veteran political activist claimed that from the intercessory service to the dedicatory services in Nimba County, the President presided over choruses, charting the course for second term through 2011 presidential and General elections.
He did not say exactly how the President conducted the campaign and how it affected the quality and sanctity of the celebrations vis-à-vis arousing the patriotic spirit of the citizenry, but he was adamant that what happened in Sanniquellie was a major challenge to Liberia's new political dispensation.
According to him, President Sirleaf conducted the "illegal political campaign" in the full view of officials of NEC and Liberia's foreign friends, who he said were providing huge sums of money, including the funding of the new NEC Headquarters, to promote free, fair, and democratic elections in 2011.
Taking into consideration what happened in Sanniquellie and what had happened prior to that without NEC's reaction, Dr. Tipoteh said, he doubted that the 2011 elections would be free, fair, transparent, and democratic.
This was mainly because, according to him, the President's illegal activities were being ignored even as she used state funds to perpetrate them at the detriment of the sanctity of Liberia's electoral system.
He did not also say which law - electoral or otherwise - the President violated by declaring her candidacy just like other opposition leaders have already done, but he recalled past occasions during which he claimed she diverted national attention to personal political agendas.
He recalled that the President successfully transformed the Belleh Yallah Road Opening ceremonies into a political campaign with Unity Party partisans in their party T-shirts and lappas lining the route to receive their 'first partisan'.
Besides the Belleh Yallah incident, after which the President received a petition from the citizens of the area to run for second term, she "unconstitutionally and illegally" turned the solemn occasion of the delivery of the 2010 Annual Message to the National Legislature into a political rally when she declared her intention to run for second term, Tipoteh said.
Again during that time, he recalled, UP partisans donning party T-shirts and lappas and waving welcoming posters and portraits of the President, were on hand at the Capitol Building to hail her exploits.
What was surprising, he said, was that the outcry that preceded that political gaffe did not deter the President from consistently turning national occasions into the opportunity to push her second term agenda, neglecting to realize that she was breaching the laws.
The ADP presidential candidate-apparent then regretted that a president of Liberia, who had declared full commitment to enforce the constitution of Liberia and to abandon the all-powerful executive presidency and adopt zero tolerance for corruption, was now brazenly flouting the law without remorse - while using government resources to pursue personal agenda.
The Economics professor told the press that the President's exercises in impunity should remind Liberians of the bad politics of the past, which led Liberia to a civil war described locally and internationally as "senseless".
In the past, according to Dr. Tipoteh whose political opposition spanned the Tubman, Tolbert, Doe, and Taylor administrations, government officials seeking to improve their personal welfare lied to the president, saying that all was well and that another term for the president would make things better.
He lamented that if only the government officials had told the truth, the administrations of the day would have taken appropriate steps to prevent the civil war that followed.
Unfortunately, like before, he said, government officials today were making the same terrible mistakes of the past, telling the President that Liberia would be better off only and only if she sought second term to complete what she has started, as if the President did not base her programs and activities on plans that can be implemented in her absence.
Dr. Tipoteh, who prefers to be dubbed "The Only Man on the Ground" - for not running into exile as other politicians did during the civil war - said he chose to expose the 'ugly deals' of the President because that was the most patriotic thing to do now as the Liberian people look forward to a free, fair, and transparent democratic elections in October 2011.
Supermodel Naomi Campbell to testify at war crimes trial
Source: Yahoo News
Taylor's defense team is seeking to delay Campbell's testimony, The Telegraph reported, arguing that it has not been given a summary of her evidence and thus cannot prepare a proper response. Farrow and Campbell's former agent Carole White are expected to testify about the diamond gift next week.
Taylor has been on trial at The Hague since 2008. He has pleaded not guilty to all 11 charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
 |
| Naomi Campbell |
Supermodel Naomi Campbell is expected to testify on Aug. 5 at Charles Taylor's war crimes trial in The Hague, The Associated Press reported.
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| Charles Taylor |
Campbell allegedly received a diamond from the former Liberian leader after a reception hosted by Nelson Mandela in South Africa in 1997. In a written statement to the court, actress Mia Farrow claimed Campbell told her an "unforgettable story" about being awoken during the night by "two or three men" who presented her with the large, uncut stone and said it was from Taylor.
Taylor is the first former African head of state to face an international war crimes trial. He is accused of instigating murder, rape, mutilation, sexual slavery, conscription of child soldiers and trading in "blood diamonds" during the 10-year civil war in Sierra Leone, which killed over 250,000 people. Blood diamonds, or conflict diamonds, are gems mined in a war zone and used to finance an insurgency. During his testimony, Taylor claimed that he never possessed such stones.
Special security measures have been ordered for Campbell's court appearance, AFP reported. The press is is barred from shooting pictures of her entering or leaving the courtroom, and videotaping or sketching her in or around the courtroom. While media outlets will have access to her testimony, which will be aired on a live feed, the Special Court for Sierra Leone refused to grant a gag order that was requested by Campbell's attorney. The court also ruled that Campbell's lawyer may have a limited right to intervene on whether to allow questions that could incriminate her, Reuters reported.
"Naomi has not done anything wrong. She is a witness and not on trial herself. Whilst she would rather not be involved in this case at all, she will nevertheless attend to assist the court as requested," Gideon Benaim, Campbell's lawyer, said.
Taylor's defense team is seeking to delay Campbell's testimony, The Telegraph reported, arguing that it has not been given a summary of her evidence and thus cannot prepare a proper response. Farrow and Campbell's former agent Carole White are expected to testify about the diamond gift next week.Taylor has been on trial at The Hague since 2008. He has pleaded not guilty to all 11 charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Ellen's UP Snatches River Gee By-Elections Representative Seat from Weah's CDC
By Precious Seeboe
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia - Christian Snorteh Chea of the ruling Unity Party has emerged victorious in the River Gee County district # 3 by-election run-off thereby becoming the one to replace Albert Toe whose death created a vacancy in the House of Representative.
In the Run-off election which was held on August 3, 2010, between the Unity Party candidate Snoeteh Chea and Philbert Toe of the Congress for Democratic Change, UP Chea acquired1,731 while his opponent obtained 974 of the total votes cast.
Speaking at a news conference Wednesday, National Elections Commission Chairman, James M. Fromayan, said of the total votes of 2,761, 0.8% or 56 were invalid. CDC Philbert Toe got 36.0% of the votes.
Announcing the winner of the Run-off, the NEC Chairman said: “Mr. Christian Snorteh Chea having obtained 1,731 votes which translates to 64.0%, is therefore declared the winner of the River Gee County District#3 Representative By-election”
Chea and Toe received higher votes of the four contestants during the first round of elections which was held July 20, 2010, but fell short of the mark needed to be declared as winner.
Candidates qualified to contest the by-election were: Christian Snorteh Chea of the ruling Unity Party (UP), Philbert G. Toe of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Francis Saywon an Independent candidate, and Marcus Sayle Quenneh also an Independent candidate.
Meanwhile the UP Representative is expected to be certificated this Saturday at the NEC Headquarters.
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia - Christian Snorteh Chea of the ruling Unity Party has emerged victorious in the River Gee County district # 3 by-election run-off thereby becoming the one to replace Albert Toe whose death created a vacancy in the House of Representative.
In the Run-off election which was held on August 3, 2010, between the Unity Party candidate Snoeteh Chea and Philbert Toe of the Congress for Democratic Change, UP Chea acquired1,731 while his opponent obtained 974 of the total votes cast.
Speaking at a news conference Wednesday, National Elections Commission Chairman, James M. Fromayan, said of the total votes of 2,761, 0.8% or 56 were invalid. CDC Philbert Toe got 36.0% of the votes.
Announcing the winner of the Run-off, the NEC Chairman said: “Mr. Christian Snorteh Chea having obtained 1,731 votes which translates to 64.0%, is therefore declared the winner of the River Gee County District#3 Representative By-election”
Chea and Toe received higher votes of the four contestants during the first round of elections which was held July 20, 2010, but fell short of the mark needed to be declared as winner.
Candidates qualified to contest the by-election were: Christian Snorteh Chea of the ruling Unity Party (UP), Philbert G. Toe of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Francis Saywon an Independent candidate, and Marcus Sayle Quenneh also an Independent candidate.
Meanwhile the UP Representative is expected to be certificated this Saturday at the NEC Headquarters.
WHY NOT A BOYCOTT? Liberian Lawmakers Deserve Taste of Their Own Medicine
Source: FPA EDITORIAL
EXECUTIVES OF ALL three civil society organizations can do Liberia a world of good by rejecting a demand from the full plenary of the Liberian Senate to appear before the body next Thursday to answer to what senators call concerns about remarks they made in the public recently that members of the Legislature are mentally impoverished by their decision to prepare a joint resolution for the passage of the electoral threshold bill.
RECENTLY, the three groups, the Liberia Democratic Institute (LDI), the Liberia Democracy Watch and the Center for Democratic Empowerment (CEDE) urged members of the Legislature’s action to carve a resolution to pass the controversial Threshold as “cowardice Scheme, Mischievous, ill calculated, illogical, sinister thought and an ill- informed political tactics.
GBARPOLU COUNTY lawmaker, Theodore Momo in a communication to his colleagues declared that he was constrained to register serious and outright dissatisfaction of a particular statement from the Liberia Democracy Watch, Liberia Democratic Institute, Center for Democratic Empowerment and the Institute for Democracy and Development contained in a STAR RADIO major News broadcast week before last.”
IRONICALLY, Senator Momo, in a two-page letter averred that while the Legislature cherishes and welcome the exercise of free speech as a basic and fundamental rights guaranteed in the constitution, all must be cognizant of the fact that those rights are accompanied by responsibility and in his words the dignity of individuals institutions especially the National Legislature which he said embodies the national pride and being.
SADLY, IT APPEARS that Senator Momo and his peers are misguided in the sense that they continue to hide behind their seats in the national legislatures and render one poor decision after the next to the detriment of poor and down-trodden Liberians.
SENATOR MOMO should listen to the advice of his peer, Senator Abel Massalley who responded to Momo’s letter by stating: “If you took your water in the bathroom, you undress yourself and you started the bath, and a crazy man went there and took all of your clothes and started to run out of the bathroom, will you follow that crazy man? For me I will not follow you because if you follow the man then all of you will brand as the same group of people.”
IN CONTRAST, Lofa County’s senior Senator Sumo G. Kupee also took the low road in pointing to Article 15 of the Liberian constitution, suggesting that no one has the right to insult him because he is a Senator or an employee of the people. “I am sure you will agree with me that my comments will mean that I am mentally impoverished because those people who have gone through my hands will notice that I am not, including some of the people that wrote it, or I am not speaking because I feel guilty of what they said, but I am speaking because I belong to an institution,” the lawmaker said
THE BOTTOM LINE here is that lawmakers are answerable to the people of Liberia and must never feel that they are in any way, shape or form above reproach or criticisms from those who elected them to their post.
MANY OF THOSE hiding behind “Executive Committees” and “Secret Sessions” will soon face the drumbeats when the 2011 legislative elections comes around. It will be wise for those harboring thoughts of being above reproach to begin having second thoughts about their activities and the works they have done over the past five years.
THOSE WHO HAVE failed to delivered will most likely be voted out of office and those who have worked hard to push laws on health care, education and poverty will be rewarded. Sadly, not many can stand and be counted on issues that matter most to the ordinary Liberian. The body dubbed the “Cold Water” bunch has done itself very little good and the latest attempt to summon civil society groups speaks volumes about the body Liberians put their trust in.
LET THE WORD go forth that serving Liberia and Liberians is a privilege, not a right for any lawmaker, Senator or Legislator. Voters should make that much clear when they cast their ballots in 2011. The Civil Society Groups Summoned next Thursday should begin the process by holding a meeting to decide whether or not they should appear and if possible, or better still, file a motion among themselves to reconsider whether such appearance before a body which has made itself the laughing stock of Liberia, deserves their time .
EXECUTIVES OF ALL three civil society organizations can do Liberia a world of good by rejecting a demand from the full plenary of the Liberian Senate to appear before the body next Thursday to answer to what senators call concerns about remarks they made in the public recently that members of the Legislature are mentally impoverished by their decision to prepare a joint resolution for the passage of the electoral threshold bill.
RECENTLY, the three groups, the Liberia Democratic Institute (LDI), the Liberia Democracy Watch and the Center for Democratic Empowerment (CEDE) urged members of the Legislature’s action to carve a resolution to pass the controversial Threshold as “cowardice Scheme, Mischievous, ill calculated, illogical, sinister thought and an ill- informed political tactics.
GBARPOLU COUNTY lawmaker, Theodore Momo in a communication to his colleagues declared that he was constrained to register serious and outright dissatisfaction of a particular statement from the Liberia Democracy Watch, Liberia Democratic Institute, Center for Democratic Empowerment and the Institute for Democracy and Development contained in a STAR RADIO major News broadcast week before last.”
IRONICALLY, Senator Momo, in a two-page letter averred that while the Legislature cherishes and welcome the exercise of free speech as a basic and fundamental rights guaranteed in the constitution, all must be cognizant of the fact that those rights are accompanied by responsibility and in his words the dignity of individuals institutions especially the National Legislature which he said embodies the national pride and being.
SADLY, IT APPEARS that Senator Momo and his peers are misguided in the sense that they continue to hide behind their seats in the national legislatures and render one poor decision after the next to the detriment of poor and down-trodden Liberians.
SENATOR MOMO should listen to the advice of his peer, Senator Abel Massalley who responded to Momo’s letter by stating: “If you took your water in the bathroom, you undress yourself and you started the bath, and a crazy man went there and took all of your clothes and started to run out of the bathroom, will you follow that crazy man? For me I will not follow you because if you follow the man then all of you will brand as the same group of people.”
IN CONTRAST, Lofa County’s senior Senator Sumo G. Kupee also took the low road in pointing to Article 15 of the Liberian constitution, suggesting that no one has the right to insult him because he is a Senator or an employee of the people. “I am sure you will agree with me that my comments will mean that I am mentally impoverished because those people who have gone through my hands will notice that I am not, including some of the people that wrote it, or I am not speaking because I feel guilty of what they said, but I am speaking because I belong to an institution,” the lawmaker said
THE BOTTOM LINE here is that lawmakers are answerable to the people of Liberia and must never feel that they are in any way, shape or form above reproach or criticisms from those who elected them to their post.
MANY OF THOSE hiding behind “Executive Committees” and “Secret Sessions” will soon face the drumbeats when the 2011 legislative elections comes around. It will be wise for those harboring thoughts of being above reproach to begin having second thoughts about their activities and the works they have done over the past five years.
THOSE WHO HAVE failed to delivered will most likely be voted out of office and those who have worked hard to push laws on health care, education and poverty will be rewarded. Sadly, not many can stand and be counted on issues that matter most to the ordinary Liberian. The body dubbed the “Cold Water” bunch has done itself very little good and the latest attempt to summon civil society groups speaks volumes about the body Liberians put their trust in.
LET THE WORD go forth that serving Liberia and Liberians is a privilege, not a right for any lawmaker, Senator or Legislator. Voters should make that much clear when they cast their ballots in 2011. The Civil Society Groups Summoned next Thursday should begin the process by holding a meeting to decide whether or not they should appear and if possible, or better still, file a motion among themselves to reconsider whether such appearance before a body which has made itself the laughing stock of Liberia, deserves their time .
Review Liberia’s Symbols, History, Sawyer Urges Liberians at National Vision Meeting
08/04/2010 - Sidiki Trawally
Dr. Sawyer addressing traditional chiefs and county officials in Gbarnga
GBARNGA, Bong County -
Source: FrontPage Africa
The Chairman of the Governance Commission of Liberia is calling for a review of Liberia’s national monuments and symbols including the Flag to strengthen their capacity in enhancing unity and national identity.
Addressing an assembly of traditional chiefs and county officials including superintendents at the ongoing broad-based stakeholders’ consultations on national visioning at the Gbarnga Administrative building Tuesday, Dr. Amos Sawyer suggested that Liberians should begin to take a hard look at the Liberian Seal and its motto which reads “the love of liberty brought us here.”
The GC Chairman argued that such a motto does not represent the majority of Liberians. He wants Liberians to understand they are and where they want to go as a people. “How we see ourselves is crucial to our national visioning process. We have to develop a mindset and take ownership of our national development agenda. That is the national psychology that will take us in the driver seat.”
The learned Professor also called for the re-examination of Liberia’s history to enable the citizens to begin building national unity. He advised Liberians to abandon the version of Liberian history that focus primarily on stories of conquest of settlers over natives and promote historical interpretation of Liberia as a mosaic.
The former interim President Sawyer, in his presentation insists the Liberian history is flawed. The GC Boss disclosed most of the stories history being taught in schools, etc focus mainly on wars, disputes; etc which he observes is not helping to strengthen their unity. “We must also address the Mandingo “outsider” myth of contemporary history,” he told the audience.
For example, Dr. Sawyer told the Chiefs and County officials from across the country that majority of Liberian children do not know who King Sao Bosso was. “All they hear is he was a warrior; he beheaded this person and that person. Our children don’t know, because history is not telling them the truth. What we need to know is King Sao Bosso was a Mandingo; a great leader who led a multi-community of ethnic groups in the country.”
He maintained the current national visioning for a long-term growth and development strategy for Liberia can be realized if all Liberians begin to think about genuine reconciliation among them. The GC Chairman expressively noted that one of the major socio-political goals of a new vision for Liberia is having a strong sense of patriotism.
He stressed the need for Liberians to develop a strong sense of citizenship, unity and cohesion. “We should consolidate institutions of good governance, reduce disparities and marginalization; and ensure equity through policies of “growth with development and strengthen commitment to moral, ethical and accountable governance as obligation of government, private sector and citizens,” said Dr. Sawyer.
The Chairman urged that in developing a new Liberian vision and mission, the people should transcend competing historical identities: “Americo-Liberian” or “Congo” versus “indigenous” or “native” and develop sense of common or shared identity. He also urged Liberians to change the mentality that Liberia is America’s Stepchild. “It’s not helping us.”
Also making presentation on the prospect of economic growth and development in Liberia, Deputy Planning Minister for Economic and Policy, Sebastian Muah asked the traditional chiefs to support the national visioning process. He underscored the need for a national vision and long-term plan for growth and development in Liberia.
Minister Muah emphasized that the national visioning scheme is not owned by the Unity Party led government but a national document that will profit all Liberians. “Whether President Sirleaf wins reelection or not, what we are doing today is to set the stage for future generation to be stronger.”
Minister Muah, speaking in simple Liberian English told the Chiefs that the current environment of sustained peace, visionary leadership and political stability presents a unique opportunity for Liberia to transform from a low income to a middle income status consistent with sub-Saharan African standards by 2030.
The Gbarnga meeting was part of Government’s effort to craft a long-term growth and development strategy for Liberia that will succeed the current strategy, the Lift Liberia Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS), which concludes in June 2011. The effort will transcend administrations and require the strategy be pragmatic, comprehensive and inclusive to ensure that the gains in economic, social, and political opportunities are shared by the population.
The Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs and the Governance Commission launched the process to develop a new vision for Liberia to replace the 1821 vision of “Christianizing and civilizing” Liberia.
The Chiefs were led to the meeting by Chief Zanzan Karwor, head of the national traditional chief council while Grand Bassa county Superintendent Julia Cassell headed an array of Superintendents. Both Chief Karwor and Supt. Cassell thanked the Ministry of Planning and the Governance Commission for promoting decentralization in Liberia. They assured the Government of their full participation in the national visioning process in all districts and towns across Liberia.
To be called “Liberia Rising 2030”, the idea is to solicit opinions on the concept of a new vision for Liberia and gather recommendations from stakeholders who have been challenged to take ownership of their country’s future.
The first in the series of the broad-based consultations was held Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at the Paynesville Townhall with the Civil Service Organizations and Religious community. Interest groups and professional organizations participated in the Thursday, July 29, 2010 session while the students and youth groups as well as the opposition political parties converged on Friday.
Dr. Sawyer addressing traditional chiefs and county officials in Gbarnga
GBARNGA, Bong County -
Source: FrontPage Africa
The Chairman of the Governance Commission of Liberia is calling for a review of Liberia’s national monuments and symbols including the Flag to strengthen their capacity in enhancing unity and national identity.
Addressing an assembly of traditional chiefs and county officials including superintendents at the ongoing broad-based stakeholders’ consultations on national visioning at the Gbarnga Administrative building Tuesday, Dr. Amos Sawyer suggested that Liberians should begin to take a hard look at the Liberian Seal and its motto which reads “the love of liberty brought us here.”
The GC Chairman argued that such a motto does not represent the majority of Liberians. He wants Liberians to understand they are and where they want to go as a people. “How we see ourselves is crucial to our national visioning process. We have to develop a mindset and take ownership of our national development agenda. That is the national psychology that will take us in the driver seat.”
The learned Professor also called for the re-examination of Liberia’s history to enable the citizens to begin building national unity. He advised Liberians to abandon the version of Liberian history that focus primarily on stories of conquest of settlers over natives and promote historical interpretation of Liberia as a mosaic.
The former interim President Sawyer, in his presentation insists the Liberian history is flawed. The GC Boss disclosed most of the stories history being taught in schools, etc focus mainly on wars, disputes; etc which he observes is not helping to strengthen their unity. “We must also address the Mandingo “outsider” myth of contemporary history,” he told the audience.
For example, Dr. Sawyer told the Chiefs and County officials from across the country that majority of Liberian children do not know who King Sao Bosso was. “All they hear is he was a warrior; he beheaded this person and that person. Our children don’t know, because history is not telling them the truth. What we need to know is King Sao Bosso was a Mandingo; a great leader who led a multi-community of ethnic groups in the country.”
He maintained the current national visioning for a long-term growth and development strategy for Liberia can be realized if all Liberians begin to think about genuine reconciliation among them. The GC Chairman expressively noted that one of the major socio-political goals of a new vision for Liberia is having a strong sense of patriotism.
He stressed the need for Liberians to develop a strong sense of citizenship, unity and cohesion. “We should consolidate institutions of good governance, reduce disparities and marginalization; and ensure equity through policies of “growth with development and strengthen commitment to moral, ethical and accountable governance as obligation of government, private sector and citizens,” said Dr. Sawyer.
The Chairman urged that in developing a new Liberian vision and mission, the people should transcend competing historical identities: “Americo-Liberian” or “Congo” versus “indigenous” or “native” and develop sense of common or shared identity. He also urged Liberians to change the mentality that Liberia is America’s Stepchild. “It’s not helping us.”
Also making presentation on the prospect of economic growth and development in Liberia, Deputy Planning Minister for Economic and Policy, Sebastian Muah asked the traditional chiefs to support the national visioning process. He underscored the need for a national vision and long-term plan for growth and development in Liberia.
Minister Muah emphasized that the national visioning scheme is not owned by the Unity Party led government but a national document that will profit all Liberians. “Whether President Sirleaf wins reelection or not, what we are doing today is to set the stage for future generation to be stronger.”
Minister Muah, speaking in simple Liberian English told the Chiefs that the current environment of sustained peace, visionary leadership and political stability presents a unique opportunity for Liberia to transform from a low income to a middle income status consistent with sub-Saharan African standards by 2030.
The Gbarnga meeting was part of Government’s effort to craft a long-term growth and development strategy for Liberia that will succeed the current strategy, the Lift Liberia Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS), which concludes in June 2011. The effort will transcend administrations and require the strategy be pragmatic, comprehensive and inclusive to ensure that the gains in economic, social, and political opportunities are shared by the population.
The Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs and the Governance Commission launched the process to develop a new vision for Liberia to replace the 1821 vision of “Christianizing and civilizing” Liberia.
The Chiefs were led to the meeting by Chief Zanzan Karwor, head of the national traditional chief council while Grand Bassa county Superintendent Julia Cassell headed an array of Superintendents. Both Chief Karwor and Supt. Cassell thanked the Ministry of Planning and the Governance Commission for promoting decentralization in Liberia. They assured the Government of their full participation in the national visioning process in all districts and towns across Liberia.
To be called “Liberia Rising 2030”, the idea is to solicit opinions on the concept of a new vision for Liberia and gather recommendations from stakeholders who have been challenged to take ownership of their country’s future.
The first in the series of the broad-based consultations was held Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at the Paynesville Townhall with the Civil Service Organizations and Religious community. Interest groups and professional organizations participated in the Thursday, July 29, 2010 session while the students and youth groups as well as the opposition political parties converged on Friday.
LEAD Liberia - AN OPEN LETTER TO THE LIBERIAN SENATE
KEEPING THE LIBERIA BUREAU OF MARITIME AFFAIRS HONEST
DEAR Senators
LEAD Liberia admonishes the Liberian Senate to put loyalty to the country above loyalty to government persons, party and/or the Bureau of Maritime Affairs thereby voting against the Maritime Authority Act that was passed by the House of Representatives because it is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia). With prudent research and deliberations on these countries (Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone, etc.) listed in the Bureau of Maritime Affairs argument for an Authority status in Liberia, LEAD Liberia concludes that the Maritime Autonomy Act is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) for the following reasons shown below.
We admonish the House of Representatives and the Senate to research a bill thereby getting public opinions, especially when the bill is based on comparison with other Countries—instead of just saying “Yes” and/or “No “without considering the impact on our future and the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia)—they should be engaging and educating the Liberian people on proposals that affect their future and the national interest of the country thereby empowering the people through citizens’ participation in government. DO THE RIGHT THING!
The Propose Liberia Maritime Autonomy Act vs. Other Countries Maritime Authority Act
Liberia Maritime Authority Act vs. (Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone etc. Acts)
1. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking To Be Autonomy Authority.
2. The Countries Above Maritime Authorities Are Not Autonomy.
3. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking Tenures of Seven Years.
4. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have Tenures of Three to Four Years at the “pleasure of the President Of their Respective Countries”.
5. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs wants all commissioners to be immune from prosecution in the discharge of their respective duties in a country where corruption, waste and fraud are the directors and governors of the day. No One Is Above The Law.
6. The Countries above Maritime Authorities Directors and/or members are not immune from prosecution in the discharge of their respective duties.
7. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking to be its own tax collector. (This is the official duty of the Ministry of Finance)
8. The Countries above Maritime Authorities are tax exempt but not tax collectors
9. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking to have the authority to borrow on behalf of the state for the affairs of the Bureau (This is the official duty of the state—not an agency, ministry, department, commission, bureau, etc.)
10. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have the authority to borrow on behalf of the state for the affairs of the Authority with the consent of the Minister of Finance.
11. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs wants to be audited with no specific reference to the General Auditing Commission, the country’s supreme auditing body.
12. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have Internal Auditor—however; they are subject to the country’s supreme auditing body every year. (Their fiscal year is the same as the country).
13. The Countries above Maritime Authorities are under the supervision of the Minister of Transport.
14. The Countries above Maritime Authorities Directors and/or Members are appointed by the President of their respective countries with the consent of the National Legislature.
15. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking 70% percent of the revenue generated by the Liberia ship registration program, while the Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry) manages the administration of ships flying the Liberian flag).
16. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have 50% percent of the revenue generated by the ship registration program, while managing the entire affairs of their respective Maritime Authorities because they do not have existing contracts with other bodies to manage the industry. But Liberia does (The Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry).
Today in Liberia, the Liberian Senate is discussing an act passed by the House of Representatives that will move the Bureau of Maritime Affairs to an Authority status. At a recent appearance before the House of Representatives Committee on Maritime, Committee on Public Procurement and Concession and the Committee on Judiciary, According to Mr. Rodney D. Sieh, FrontPageAfrica.com—Mr. Benoni Urey, the former Commissioner of the Bureau of Maritime Affairs expressed concerns over what he described as unfair revelations that the BMA, post-Urey is looking to accrue for its operational purposes 70 percent of the revenue generated by the Liberian ship registration program.
Mr. Urey contended that countries with Authority status do not really have existing contracts with other bodies to manage the industry. However, Liberia had the “Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry”, which is responsible for the administration of ships flying the Liberian flag. In addition, some observers say the “Maritime Authority Act” has the potential avenue for future conflict, especially when the Board of Directors is not in line with the Commissioner because the Maritime Authority Act does not spell out the powers of the Board. While LEAD Liberia supports Mr. Urey proposal for the Bureau to be elevated to a Ministerial level; we believe the establishment of an Autonomy Maritime Authority and/or Ministry is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) therefore we are calling upon the Liberian Senate to vote against the Maritime Autonomy Act because loyalty to the country shall be above loyalty to government persons, party and/or the Bureau of Maritime Affairs.
Sincerely,
LEAD Organizing For Liberia
Abraham Hoff, Chief Community Organizer
077384990 leadliberia@yahoo.com
DEAR Senators
LEAD Liberia admonishes the Liberian Senate to put loyalty to the country above loyalty to government persons, party and/or the Bureau of Maritime Affairs thereby voting against the Maritime Authority Act that was passed by the House of Representatives because it is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia). With prudent research and deliberations on these countries (Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone, etc.) listed in the Bureau of Maritime Affairs argument for an Authority status in Liberia, LEAD Liberia concludes that the Maritime Autonomy Act is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) for the following reasons shown below.
We admonish the House of Representatives and the Senate to research a bill thereby getting public opinions, especially when the bill is based on comparison with other Countries—instead of just saying “Yes” and/or “No “without considering the impact on our future and the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia)—they should be engaging and educating the Liberian people on proposals that affect their future and the national interest of the country thereby empowering the people through citizens’ participation in government. DO THE RIGHT THING!
The Propose Liberia Maritime Autonomy Act vs. Other Countries Maritime Authority Act
Liberia Maritime Authority Act vs. (Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone etc. Acts)
1. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking To Be Autonomy Authority.
2. The Countries Above Maritime Authorities Are Not Autonomy.
3. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking Tenures of Seven Years.
4. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have Tenures of Three to Four Years at the “pleasure of the President Of their Respective Countries”.
5. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs wants all commissioners to be immune from prosecution in the discharge of their respective duties in a country where corruption, waste and fraud are the directors and governors of the day. No One Is Above The Law.
6. The Countries above Maritime Authorities Directors and/or members are not immune from prosecution in the discharge of their respective duties.
7. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking to be its own tax collector. (This is the official duty of the Ministry of Finance)
8. The Countries above Maritime Authorities are tax exempt but not tax collectors
9. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking to have the authority to borrow on behalf of the state for the affairs of the Bureau (This is the official duty of the state—not an agency, ministry, department, commission, bureau, etc.)
10. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have the authority to borrow on behalf of the state for the affairs of the Authority with the consent of the Minister of Finance.
11. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs wants to be audited with no specific reference to the General Auditing Commission, the country’s supreme auditing body.
12. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have Internal Auditor—however; they are subject to the country’s supreme auditing body every year. (Their fiscal year is the same as the country).
13. The Countries above Maritime Authorities are under the supervision of the Minister of Transport.
14. The Countries above Maritime Authorities Directors and/or Members are appointed by the President of their respective countries with the consent of the National Legislature.
15. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking 70% percent of the revenue generated by the Liberia ship registration program, while the Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry) manages the administration of ships flying the Liberian flag).
16. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have 50% percent of the revenue generated by the ship registration program, while managing the entire affairs of their respective Maritime Authorities because they do not have existing contracts with other bodies to manage the industry. But Liberia does (The Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry).
Today in Liberia, the Liberian Senate is discussing an act passed by the House of Representatives that will move the Bureau of Maritime Affairs to an Authority status. At a recent appearance before the House of Representatives Committee on Maritime, Committee on Public Procurement and Concession and the Committee on Judiciary, According to Mr. Rodney D. Sieh, FrontPageAfrica.com—Mr. Benoni Urey, the former Commissioner of the Bureau of Maritime Affairs expressed concerns over what he described as unfair revelations that the BMA, post-Urey is looking to accrue for its operational purposes 70 percent of the revenue generated by the Liberian ship registration program.
Mr. Urey contended that countries with Authority status do not really have existing contracts with other bodies to manage the industry. However, Liberia had the “Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry”, which is responsible for the administration of ships flying the Liberian flag. In addition, some observers say the “Maritime Authority Act” has the potential avenue for future conflict, especially when the Board of Directors is not in line with the Commissioner because the Maritime Authority Act does not spell out the powers of the Board. While LEAD Liberia supports Mr. Urey proposal for the Bureau to be elevated to a Ministerial level; we believe the establishment of an Autonomy Maritime Authority and/or Ministry is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) therefore we are calling upon the Liberian Senate to vote against the Maritime Autonomy Act because loyalty to the country shall be above loyalty to government persons, party and/or the Bureau of Maritime Affairs.
Sincerely,
LEAD Organizing For Liberia
Abraham Hoff, Chief Community Organizer
077384990 leadliberia@yahoo.com
Bomi/ Gbarpolu land dispute intensifies
Written by Mack Rogers
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Chairman of the Gbarpolu Legislative Caucus has warned authorities of Bomi County to stop what he calls breeding tribal conflict among the Gola people.
Senator Daniel Nathan said the act of claiming Sawmail and Yomo Towns by authorities of Bomi will not be accepted by the people Gbarpolu County.
He claims the areas belong to the people of Gbarpolu County because they fall within Gbarma district.
Senator Nathan alleged a map paid for by Bomi County Senator Richard Divine erroneously gives the wrong projection about the areas.
The Gbarpolu County Senator spoke to Star Radio Monday in Yomo Town.
Senator Nathan frowned on the alleged insults melted out against chiefs, elders and Development Superintendent of Bomi County on the controversial land issue.
According to Senator Nathan, the land issue is heating up and called on the appropriate authorities to quickly intervene.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Chairman of the Gbarpolu Legislative Caucus has warned authorities of Bomi County to stop what he calls breeding tribal conflict among the Gola people.
Senator Daniel Nathan said the act of claiming Sawmail and Yomo Towns by authorities of Bomi will not be accepted by the people Gbarpolu County.
He claims the areas belong to the people of Gbarpolu County because they fall within Gbarma district.
Senator Nathan alleged a map paid for by Bomi County Senator Richard Divine erroneously gives the wrong projection about the areas.
The Gbarpolu County Senator spoke to Star Radio Monday in Yomo Town.
Senator Nathan frowned on the alleged insults melted out against chiefs, elders and Development Superintendent of Bomi County on the controversial land issue.
According to Senator Nathan, the land issue is heating up and called on the appropriate authorities to quickly intervene.
Civil society groups summoned for insulting lawmakers
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Senate has summoned three civil society groups for what it considers insulting comments made against the Legislature.
The groups include Liberia Democracy Watch, Center for Democratic Empowerment and Institute of Democracy and Development.
The citation relates to damaging comments made by the groups over the Legislature’s action to pass a joint resolution prescribing an electoral threshold.
The groups' through its spokesman George Williams claimed the Legislature’s action reflected “a mentally impoverished leadership and a sinister thought”.
In its session Tuesday, the Senate voted in majority amidst disagreement for the three groups to appear before it this Thursday to explain its comments.
The decision was prompted by a protest letter by Gbarpolu Senator Theodore Momo.
Senator Momo said the group’s action has brought the Senate into public disrepute, and incitement thereby creating insecurity for Legislators.
The Senate was earlier split on whether to summon the groups with lawmakers including Daniel Naatehn insisting that the groups violated freedom of speech.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Senate has summoned three civil society groups for what it considers insulting comments made against the Legislature.
The groups include Liberia Democracy Watch, Center for Democratic Empowerment and Institute of Democracy and Development.
The citation relates to damaging comments made by the groups over the Legislature’s action to pass a joint resolution prescribing an electoral threshold.
The groups' through its spokesman George Williams claimed the Legislature’s action reflected “a mentally impoverished leadership and a sinister thought”.
In its session Tuesday, the Senate voted in majority amidst disagreement for the three groups to appear before it this Thursday to explain its comments.
The decision was prompted by a protest letter by Gbarpolu Senator Theodore Momo.
Senator Momo said the group’s action has brought the Senate into public disrepute, and incitement thereby creating insecurity for Legislators.
The Senate was earlier split on whether to summon the groups with lawmakers including Daniel Naatehn insisting that the groups violated freedom of speech.
Bropleh brothers face prosecution this August
Written by Robert J. Clarke, Jr.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Government has announced the corruption cases involving Albert and Lawrence Bropleh would be heard this August term of court.
The Bropleh brothers are being held on separate accounts of corruption charges.
The Elder brother Albert Bropleh served as Chairman of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority and allegedly stole thousands of US dollars.
Dr. Laurence Bropleh , the younger brother served as Information Minister but was suspended after he was linked to a financial scandal at the Ministry.
Dr. Bropleh later resigned his post and expressed readiness to prove his accusers wrong.
Information Minister Cletus Sieh told Star Radio Solicitor General Wilkins Wright had informed the cabinet that all was now set for the prosecution of the two cases.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Government has announced the corruption cases involving Albert and Lawrence Bropleh would be heard this August term of court.
The Bropleh brothers are being held on separate accounts of corruption charges.
The Elder brother Albert Bropleh served as Chairman of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority and allegedly stole thousands of US dollars.
Dr. Laurence Bropleh , the younger brother served as Information Minister but was suspended after he was linked to a financial scandal at the Ministry.
Dr. Bropleh later resigned his post and expressed readiness to prove his accusers wrong.
Information Minister Cletus Sieh told Star Radio Solicitor General Wilkins Wright had informed the cabinet that all was now set for the prosecution of the two cases.
Rejected Deputy Education minister confirmed
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Reports say the Senate has reversed its decision to deny the confirmation of the Deputy Education Minster for Planning, Research and Development.
According to the reports, the Senate Tuesday voted to finally confirm Dr. Kadiker Dahn after trying a motion for reconsideration by Senator Isaac Nyenabo.
Dr. Dahn’s confirmation process experienced its first breakthrough after the procedural reconsideration motion was passed following a compromise.
The passage of the motion followed appeals for the Senate not to take the individual vote of every Senator but instead vote on the basis of nay and yea.
Nimba Senator Adolphus Dolo led the appeals along with majority members of the Senate after Pro Temp Cletus Wotorson had requested the individual voting.
The Senate last week rejected Dr. Kadiker Dahn, on the basis he did not obtain the required sixteen votes amidst questions over his ability to serve in the position.
Our Legislative reporter says, Pro Temp Wotorson who was critical of Dr. Dahn Tuesday failed to comment on his final confirmation.
But, sources within the Senate said Dr. Dahn was overwhelmingly confirmed with one Senator voting against him.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Reports say the Senate has reversed its decision to deny the confirmation of the Deputy Education Minster for Planning, Research and Development.
According to the reports, the Senate Tuesday voted to finally confirm Dr. Kadiker Dahn after trying a motion for reconsideration by Senator Isaac Nyenabo.
Dr. Dahn’s confirmation process experienced its first breakthrough after the procedural reconsideration motion was passed following a compromise.
The passage of the motion followed appeals for the Senate not to take the individual vote of every Senator but instead vote on the basis of nay and yea.
Nimba Senator Adolphus Dolo led the appeals along with majority members of the Senate after Pro Temp Cletus Wotorson had requested the individual voting.
The Senate last week rejected Dr. Kadiker Dahn, on the basis he did not obtain the required sixteen votes amidst questions over his ability to serve in the position.
Our Legislative reporter says, Pro Temp Wotorson who was critical of Dr. Dahn Tuesday failed to comment on his final confirmation.
But, sources within the Senate said Dr. Dahn was overwhelmingly confirmed with one Senator voting against him.
Rule of law forum opens in Monrovia Thursday
Written by Matthias Daffah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
A special edition of the Wilfred E. Clarke Lecture Forum on social justice and the rule of law opens in Monrovia Thursday.
The forum is organized by the Liberia National Law Enforcement Association in collaboration with the National Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Liberia.
According to a release, the forum will discuss the alleged failures of the legislature to pass on the threshold bill and its implications on the electoral process.
The release said the forum will also discuss the positions of the various political blocks and the stay-home action being allegedly planned by civil society groups.
The one-day event will be held under the theme: Implications for the hosting of credible elections in 2011 in the absence of a threshold as provided y law.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
A special edition of the Wilfred E. Clarke Lecture Forum on social justice and the rule of law opens in Monrovia Thursday.
The forum is organized by the Liberia National Law Enforcement Association in collaboration with the National Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Liberia.
According to a release, the forum will discuss the alleged failures of the legislature to pass on the threshold bill and its implications on the electoral process.
The release said the forum will also discuss the positions of the various political blocks and the stay-home action being allegedly planned by civil society groups.
The one-day event will be held under the theme: Implications for the hosting of credible elections in 2011 in the absence of a threshold as provided y law.
AN OPEN LETTER TO THE LIBERIAN SENATE
KEEPING THE LIBERIA BUREAU OF MARITIME AFFAIRS HONEST
DEAR Senators
LEAD Liberia admonishes the Liberian Senate to put loyalty to the country above loyalty to government persons, party and/or the Bureau of Maritime Affairs thereby voting against the Maritime Authority Act that was passed by the House of Representatives because it is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia). With prudent research and deliberations on these countries (Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone, etc.) listed in the Bureau of Maritime Affairs argument for an Authority status in Liberia, LEAD Liberia concludes that the Maritime Autonomy Act is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) for the following reasons shown below.
We admonish the House of Representatives and the Senate to research a bill thereby getting public opinions, especially when the bill is based on comparison with other Countries—instead of just saying “Yes” and/or “No “without considering the impact on our future and the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia)—they should be engaging and educating the Liberian people on proposals that affect their future and the national interest of the country thereby empowering the people through citizens’ participation in government. DO THE RIGHT THING!
The Propose Liberia Maritime Autonomy Act vs. Other Countries Maritime Authority Act
Liberia Maritime Authority Act vs. (Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone etc. Acts)
1. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking To Be Autonomy Authority.
2. The Countries Above Maritime Authorities Are Not Autonomy.
3. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking Tenures of Seven Years.
4. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have Tenures of Three to Four Years at the “pleasure of the President Of their Respective Countries”.
5. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs wants all commissioners to be immune from prosecution in the discharge of their respective duties in a country where corruption, waste and fraud are the directors and governors of the day. No One Is Above The Law.
6. The Countries above Maritime Authorities Directors and/or members are not immune from prosecution in the discharge of their respective duties.
7. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking to be its own tax collector. (This is the official duty of the Ministry of Finance)
8. The Countries above Maritime Authorities are tax exempt but not tax collectors
9. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking to have the authority to borrow on behalf of the state for the affairs of the Bureau (This is the official duty of the state—not an agency, ministry, department, commission, bureau, etc.)
10. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have the authority to borrow on behalf of the state for the affairs of the Authority with the consent of the Minister of Finance.
11. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs wants to be audited with no specific reference to the General Auditing Commission, the country’s supreme auditing body.
12. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have Internal Auditor—however; they are subject to the country’s supreme auditing body every year. (Their fiscal year is the same as the country).
13. The Countries above Maritime Authorities are under the supervision of the Minister of Transport.
14. The Countries above Maritime Authorities Directors and/or Members are appointed by the President of their respective countries with the consent of the National Legislature.
15. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking 70% percent of the revenue generated by the Liberia ship registration program, while the Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry) manages the administration of ships flying the Liberian flag).
16. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have 50% percent of the revenue generated by the ship registration program, while managing the entire affairs of their respective Maritime Authorities because they do not have existing contracts with other bodies to manage the industry. But Liberia does (The Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry).
Today in Liberia, the Liberian Senate is discussing an act passed by the House of Representatives that will move the Bureau of Maritime Affairs to an Authority status. At a recent appearance before the House of Representatives Committee on Maritime, Committee on Public Procurement and Concession and the Committee on Judiciary, According to Mr. Rodney D. Sieh, FrontPageAfrica.com—Mr. Benoni Urey, the former Commissioner of the Bureau of Maritime Affairs expressed concerns over what he described as unfair revelations that the BMA, post-Urey is looking to accrue for its operational purposes 70 percent of the revenue generated by the Liberian ship registration program.
Mr. Urey contended that countries with Authority status do not really have existing contracts with other bodies to manage the industry. However, Liberia had the “Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry”, which is responsible for the administration of ships flying the Liberian flag. In addition, some observers say the “Maritime Authority Act” has the potential avenue for future conflict, especially when the Board of Directors is not in line with the Commissioner because the Maritime Authority Act does not spell out the powers of the Board. While LEAD Liberia supports Mr. Urey proposal for the Bureau to be elevated to a Ministerial level; we believe the establishment of an Autonomy Maritime Authority and/or Ministry is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) therefore we are calling upon the Liberian Senate to vote against the Maritime Autonomy Act because loyalty to the country shall be above loyalty to government persons, party and/or the Bureau of Maritime Affairs.
Sincerely,
LEAD Organizing For Liberia
Abraham Hoff, Chief Community Organizer
077384990 leadliberia@yahoo.com
DEAR Senators
LEAD Liberia admonishes the Liberian Senate to put loyalty to the country above loyalty to government persons, party and/or the Bureau of Maritime Affairs thereby voting against the Maritime Authority Act that was passed by the House of Representatives because it is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia). With prudent research and deliberations on these countries (Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone, etc.) listed in the Bureau of Maritime Affairs argument for an Authority status in Liberia, LEAD Liberia concludes that the Maritime Autonomy Act is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) for the following reasons shown below.
We admonish the House of Representatives and the Senate to research a bill thereby getting public opinions, especially when the bill is based on comparison with other Countries—instead of just saying “Yes” and/or “No “without considering the impact on our future and the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia)—they should be engaging and educating the Liberian people on proposals that affect their future and the national interest of the country thereby empowering the people through citizens’ participation in government. DO THE RIGHT THING!
The Propose Liberia Maritime Autonomy Act vs. Other Countries Maritime Authority Act
Liberia Maritime Authority Act vs. (Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Sierra Leone etc. Acts)
1. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking To Be Autonomy Authority.
2. The Countries Above Maritime Authorities Are Not Autonomy.
3. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking Tenures of Seven Years.
4. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have Tenures of Three to Four Years at the “pleasure of the President Of their Respective Countries”.
5. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs wants all commissioners to be immune from prosecution in the discharge of their respective duties in a country where corruption, waste and fraud are the directors and governors of the day. No One Is Above The Law.
6. The Countries above Maritime Authorities Directors and/or members are not immune from prosecution in the discharge of their respective duties.
7. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking to be its own tax collector. (This is the official duty of the Ministry of Finance)
8. The Countries above Maritime Authorities are tax exempt but not tax collectors
9. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking to have the authority to borrow on behalf of the state for the affairs of the Bureau (This is the official duty of the state—not an agency, ministry, department, commission, bureau, etc.)
10. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have the authority to borrow on behalf of the state for the affairs of the Authority with the consent of the Minister of Finance.
11. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs wants to be audited with no specific reference to the General Auditing Commission, the country’s supreme auditing body.
12. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have Internal Auditor—however; they are subject to the country’s supreme auditing body every year. (Their fiscal year is the same as the country).
13. The Countries above Maritime Authorities are under the supervision of the Minister of Transport.
14. The Countries above Maritime Authorities Directors and/or Members are appointed by the President of their respective countries with the consent of the National Legislature.
15. The Liberia Bureau of Maritime Affairs Is Seeking 70% percent of the revenue generated by the Liberia ship registration program, while the Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry) manages the administration of ships flying the Liberian flag).
16. The Countries above Maritime Authorities have 50% percent of the revenue generated by the ship registration program, while managing the entire affairs of their respective Maritime Authorities because they do not have existing contracts with other bodies to manage the industry. But Liberia does (The Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry).
Today in Liberia, the Liberian Senate is discussing an act passed by the House of Representatives that will move the Bureau of Maritime Affairs to an Authority status. At a recent appearance before the House of Representatives Committee on Maritime, Committee on Public Procurement and Concession and the Committee on Judiciary, According to Mr. Rodney D. Sieh, FrontPageAfrica.com—Mr. Benoni Urey, the former Commissioner of the Bureau of Maritime Affairs expressed concerns over what he described as unfair revelations that the BMA, post-Urey is looking to accrue for its operational purposes 70 percent of the revenue generated by the Liberian ship registration program.
Mr. Urey contended that countries with Authority status do not really have existing contracts with other bodies to manage the industry. However, Liberia had the “Liberia Ship and Corporate Registry”, which is responsible for the administration of ships flying the Liberian flag. In addition, some observers say the “Maritime Authority Act” has the potential avenue for future conflict, especially when the Board of Directors is not in line with the Commissioner because the Maritime Authority Act does not spell out the powers of the Board. While LEAD Liberia supports Mr. Urey proposal for the Bureau to be elevated to a Ministerial level; we believe the establishment of an Autonomy Maritime Authority and/or Ministry is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) therefore we are calling upon the Liberian Senate to vote against the Maritime Autonomy Act because loyalty to the country shall be above loyalty to government persons, party and/or the Bureau of Maritime Affairs.
Sincerely,
LEAD Organizing For Liberia
Abraham Hoff, Chief Community Organizer
077384990 leadliberia@yahoo.com
Ambassador Barnes Recalled
Source: New Democrat (Monrovia)
Liberia's ambassador to Washington, Mr. Nathaniel Barnes, has been recalled for "reassignment", according to presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio.
During his regular press briefing Monday, Mr. Badio did not give reasons for the recall, only saying that the President has the right to re-assign ambassadors.
Other reports relations between 'Mr. a 2005 presidential contender and founder of the Destiny Party, have been sour.
Mr. Barnes, listed in the Truth and Reconciliation report for alleged economic crimes, also served a Liberia's ambassador to the UN, and before that as Finance Minister in the Taylor regime.
Liberia's ambassador to Washington, Mr. Nathaniel Barnes, has been recalled for "reassignment", according to presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio.
During his regular press briefing Monday, Mr. Badio did not give reasons for the recall, only saying that the President has the right to re-assign ambassadors.
Other reports relations between 'Mr. a 2005 presidential contender and founder of the Destiny Party, have been sour.
Mr. Barnes, listed in the Truth and Reconciliation report for alleged economic crimes, also served a Liberia's ambassador to the UN, and before that as Finance Minister in the Taylor regime.
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