By Rodney D. Sieh
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia -
Shortly after his first round victory in the 2005 Presidential elections, football legend George Manneh Weah’s fate was sealed. In the eyes of those loyal to the football legend, his place in history was all but secured. Major endorsements from veteran politicians Varney Sherman and Ambassador Winston Tubman were supposed to seal the deal on Weah as the next President of Liberia. But that was before the realities of Liberia’s post-war political play sunk in.
In the end, it all came down to experience and the perception that Weah’s perceived lack of education was not worth the risk, leaving voters with no choice but to give Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf the edge over Weah. Sirleaf won 59%-41%, according to the National Electoral Commission. It didn’t help Weah’s case that his political clout posed an even more potent dilemma. The fear among the astute intellectuals was that Weah had not surrounded himself with a core of experience political stalwarts and even though he enjoyed massive popularity amongst the youths, still in awe about his football legacy, the clock soon ticked on Weah’s dream and perhaps his best chance at becoming President of Liberia.
In the aftermath of the run-off, Weah claimed the elections were fraudulent, stating elections officials were stuffing ballot boxes in Sirleaf's favor. However, many election observers, including those from the United Nations, the European Union and the Economic Community of West African States(ECOWAS), reported that the election was clean and transparent. The Carter Center observed "minor irregularities" but no major problems. The second round loss to Sirleaf showed not only showed Weah’s inability to tap into the intellects base but also showed that despite his popularity, he was still unable to protect his strongholds in the vote-rich Monrovia, including New Kru Town, Claratown and West Point.
Five years later and on the eve of another campaign season, Weah and a part of his Congress for Democratic Change have joined ranks with three opposition parties in a bid to unseat President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's ruling Unity Party in the 2011 presidential election. Last weekend, Weah's CDC, the former ruling National Patriotic Party of ex-president Charles Taylor and the Progressive Democratic Party of former warlord Sekou Damate Conneh announced their alliance in a joint statement. "The five-year rule of the Unity Party-led government has been characterized by misrule with untold hardships and abject poverty..." read the statement.
With much riding on the 2011 elections, Weah who believed he was robbed victory in 2005 embarked on his quest to polish his credentials and has claimed that he has been studying for his University degree, Business Administration at DeVry University in Miami. The football legend recently told the Associated Press that his desire for more education was not based on his hope of becoming president, but simply “to improve my potential and because I think it is the right thing to do.”
Many have attributed Weah’s 2005 demise to his educational shortcomings. It remains to be seen whether he has done enough to repair that damage in his quest for the Presidency. For now though, Weah’s more pressing dilemma appears to be how he reestablishes himself as the formidable candidate he was in 2005.
Since 2005, the football legend has faced numerous criticisms about his electability. The fact that he has spent most of his time away from home has also given Weah’s critics ammunition to conclude that he is not in tune with the plight of most of Liberians, especially his base in key districts like New Kru Town, Clara Town and West Point. Even Weah’s acceptance of his 2011 endorsement was held at an indoor New Kru Town rally and not outdoors where he once drew huge crowds.
It has not helped Weah, observers say that he is currently embroiled in the legal troubles of his childhood friend, James Bestman, who was arrested recently in the United States on drugs and money laundering charges. Sadly for Weah, he was on the property at the time of the arrest and despite his explanations that he was only passing by and questioned for ’45 seconds’, close associates of Bestman have confided to FPA that Weah was a frequented visitor to Bestman’s home. There are also concerns that the football legend may have benefited from Bestman financially, a key piece of fact which could hurt any potential political run by Weah.
The Bestman probe, FrontPageAfrica has learned contributed to Weah’s late arrival at this year’s World Cup finals in South Africa. Weah, who had a scheduled appearance at the veterans gala arrived at the World Cup one week after kickoff.
Today, the stains of arrest still haunts Weah as his friend, Bestman lingers in the custody of the FBI and as U.S. prosecutors prepare its case against Bestman. One of the key reasons for the delay of the case going to trial, sources say, is the fact that Bestman has cases pending in a number of different states including the states of Virginia, North Carolina, New York and Maryland. Thus, prosecutors are looking to throw additional charges on in a bid to supersede the indictment to add more counts. As a result Bestman remains in FBI custody in the Howard County jail. No bond hearing has been set and Bestman has not yet been arraigned until prosecutors have consolidated the case for multiple jurisdictions.
While Weah insists that he did not sleep on the property the night leading to the morning arrest of Bestman as has been reported and speculated in many circles, many remain unsure especially after Weah, in admitting that he was on the property at the time of the arrest said he was only questioned for 45 seconds. “When I pulled into the driveway, Mr. James came down the stairs and I saw two officers that served him a warrant that he needed to come with them,” Weah said.
Weah, who has not publicly declared his plans for 2011, has pledged to stand before any force in his quest to defeat Sirleaf in a rematch of 2005 race. Weah, accepting petition from CDC supporters in Logan town recently said: “I will stand before any force, I will stand in the interest of my people and ensure Ellen Administration’s defeat in 2011.” The CDC 2005 standard bearer went on to say that he has always accepted the call of his people and that the issues in 2011 will not be about academics but about corruption and the failed promises of the Sirleaf government.
Despite Weah’s declaration and pledge to take on Sirleaf, there have been numerous speculations that the CDC 2005 standard bearer and the party’s secretary general Lenn Eugene Nagbe recently struck a deal with the ruling party to play the role of the spoiler come 2011: Keep the opposition in disarray and ensure that Weah emerges into a second round run-off with Sirleaf in 2011. It is a matchup, Unity Party officials believe suits them perfectly. Having trounced Weah once, the ruling party is convince that its best chance to win in 2011 is a second round matchup with Weah.
Nevertheless, the timing of the start of the Bestman trial could also be a factor in how well a second presidential quest by Weah materializes and how much of the details of Bestman’s activities traces to Weah.
For the foreseeable future, last weekend’s four-party merger have no doubt raised the stakes on the political future of Weah and his political survival. Keen political observers will no doubt be looking to see whether the football legend survives a potential primary in the newly-formed coalition in the aftermath of his previous declaration that he will not play second fiddle to any other politician. Has Weah gambled the political cards away? Or has the football legend sold the political cards of his congress for democratic change away?
The truth, critics will come as Liberia inches closer to the 2011 elections which is almost a year away when every action or inaction by Weah will be scrutinized by astute political observers and players within his own party, CDC. Lurking in the shadows is the ruling Unity Party, eagerly looking to see how it all plays out or whether it will once again have the luxury of having Weah in another second round duel. But Weah must first survive the political infighting of what will no doubt be a brutal primary as more forces look to mend ties in a bid to take on the ruling party. How Weah measures up remains to be seen. The long and rugged road to 2011 is about to get very interesting.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Ex-Information Min. wants technological education in Schools
Written by Charles Gbollie
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Former Information Minister Dr. Lawrence Bropleh has called for the inclusion of technological education in the country’s national curriculum.
Dr. Bropleh believes there is an urgent need for such consideration due to the improved age of technology and globalization.
He observed Liberia is backward in computer technology with less twenty percent of its population computer literate.
Dr. Bropleh said as a result, many young graduates from high schools across the country lack the ability to write a fitting letter using computer.
The former Information Minister suggested that computer education be taught from elementary to senior level.
The Changing Minds and Changing Attitudes campaigner maintained Liberia can not be redeveloped until the minds of its people are developed.
Dr. Bropleh spoke to Star Radio Saturday when he served as Keynote Speaker at a Scholarship Fund Drive in Monrovia.
The program was organized by the Youth Computer Training Program in collaboration with PHP and South Beach Communities.
Dr. Bropleh is currently standing corruption trial after his resignation from govenrment last year amidst an over two hundred and forty thousand US dollars financial scandal at the Information Ministry.
__________________________________________________________________________
"They pretend to advocate the cause of the people when their deeds in the dark mirrored nothing else but EVIL!! When evil and corrupt men try to champion a cause that is so noble … the moment they are noticed by the public, such cause, how noble it may be, becomes meaningless in the eyes of the people" - Bernard Gbayee Goah.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Former Information Minister Dr. Lawrence Bropleh has called for the inclusion of technological education in the country’s national curriculum.
Dr. Bropleh believes there is an urgent need for such consideration due to the improved age of technology and globalization.
He observed Liberia is backward in computer technology with less twenty percent of its population computer literate.
Dr. Bropleh said as a result, many young graduates from high schools across the country lack the ability to write a fitting letter using computer.
The former Information Minister suggested that computer education be taught from elementary to senior level.
The Changing Minds and Changing Attitudes campaigner maintained Liberia can not be redeveloped until the minds of its people are developed.
Dr. Bropleh spoke to Star Radio Saturday when he served as Keynote Speaker at a Scholarship Fund Drive in Monrovia.
The program was organized by the Youth Computer Training Program in collaboration with PHP and South Beach Communities.
Dr. Bropleh is currently standing corruption trial after his resignation from govenrment last year amidst an over two hundred and forty thousand US dollars financial scandal at the Information Ministry.
__________________________________________________________________________
"They pretend to advocate the cause of the people when their deeds in the dark mirrored nothing else but EVIL!! When evil and corrupt men try to champion a cause that is so noble … the moment they are noticed by the public, such cause, how noble it may be, becomes meaningless in the eyes of the people" - Bernard Gbayee Goah.
Bill to elect County Superintendents introduced
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
A bill seeking the election of County Superintendents and District Commissioners has been submitted to the House of Representatives.
The Governance Commission submit the bill with a view to amend Article 54 (d) of the Liberian Constitution.
The Constitutional provision provides for the President to appoint County Superintendents and other local County officials.
In a letter to the House, the Governance Commission however said after series of consultations across Liberia it was necessary to amend this Constitutional provision.
The Governance Commission said under the proposed Act, County Superintendents and District Commissioners will be elected for a term of six years.
House spokesman Isaac Redd said it also provides for the elected local officials to be removed or impeached for a cause subject to Legislative hearings.
Mr. Redd told STAR Radio, the Governance Commission is of the view the election of key local officials would ensure government’s decentralization and participatory democracy.
The House spokesman said the proposed Act has been sent to the committees on Good Governance, Judiciary and Internal Affairs for review in one week.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
A bill seeking the election of County Superintendents and District Commissioners has been submitted to the House of Representatives.
The Governance Commission submit the bill with a view to amend Article 54 (d) of the Liberian Constitution.
The Constitutional provision provides for the President to appoint County Superintendents and other local County officials.
In a letter to the House, the Governance Commission however said after series of consultations across Liberia it was necessary to amend this Constitutional provision.
The Governance Commission said under the proposed Act, County Superintendents and District Commissioners will be elected for a term of six years.
House spokesman Isaac Redd said it also provides for the elected local officials to be removed or impeached for a cause subject to Legislative hearings.
Mr. Redd told STAR Radio, the Governance Commission is of the view the election of key local officials would ensure government’s decentralization and participatory democracy.
The House spokesman said the proposed Act has been sent to the committees on Good Governance, Judiciary and Internal Affairs for review in one week.
House examines 3b$ BHP Billiton agreement
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The House of Representatives is today beginning a joint hearing into the three billion dollars agreement between Liberia and BHP Billiton.
The House said the joint hearing into the mineral development agreement is intended to scrutinize the agreement for possible ratification.
A statement says, the hearing will be conducted by Committees on Investment Lands, Mines and Natural Resources, Contracts and Monopolies and Judiciary.
The Ministers of Finance, Justice, Lands, Mines and Energy and National Investment Commission Chairman are to appear.
The government representatives are to speak on the advantages and disadvantages of the contract.
The BHP Billiton agreement is expected to pave the way for new iron ore operations in Nimba, Bong, Grand Bassa and Margibi Counties.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The House of Representatives is today beginning a joint hearing into the three billion dollars agreement between Liberia and BHP Billiton.
The House said the joint hearing into the mineral development agreement is intended to scrutinize the agreement for possible ratification.
A statement says, the hearing will be conducted by Committees on Investment Lands, Mines and Natural Resources, Contracts and Monopolies and Judiciary.
The Ministers of Finance, Justice, Lands, Mines and Energy and National Investment Commission Chairman are to appear.
The government representatives are to speak on the advantages and disadvantages of the contract.
The BHP Billiton agreement is expected to pave the way for new iron ore operations in Nimba, Bong, Grand Bassa and Margibi Counties.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Industrial Strake challenges UP-led Gov’t
Written by GNN Post
Source: Global News Network
In just few months away for the holding of Liberia’s general and residential elections come 2011, in a bid either to reelect the current government in power or usher in another government, industrial strake actions have engulfed the country nationwide. Hundreds of workers throughout the country on a daily basis are said to be ‘mouth-lashing’ their employers, most especially the country’s major industrial sites.
Recently the management of Sim Darby Corporation, the group that took over the Guthrie Rubber Plantation Company in western Liberia, Grand Cape Mount County came under attack by its over 2,000 employees in demand of benefits, a situation which led to the abrupt stop of its operation.
Now latest news coming from Grand Bassa County also speak of another strake action on the plantation of the Liberia Agriculture Company, one of the largest plantation in Liberia a situation said to have placed a standstill of the operation of the company.
According to a local radio station quoting Labor Minister Tiawan Gongloe, workers embarked on the strike since Thursday for unexplained reasons.
Minister Gongloe however said a three man Government delegation has been dispatched to the plantation to ascertain the cause of the full blown strike.
He said the delegation headed by Assistant Labor Minister for Trade Union Affairs Cole Bangalu is expected to report on circumstances leading to the strike by Saturday.
Minister Gongloe admitted the strike undermines industrial peace and called on the workers to exercise restraint.
Source: Global News Network
In just few months away for the holding of Liberia’s general and residential elections come 2011, in a bid either to reelect the current government in power or usher in another government, industrial strake actions have engulfed the country nationwide. Hundreds of workers throughout the country on a daily basis are said to be ‘mouth-lashing’ their employers, most especially the country’s major industrial sites.
Recently the management of Sim Darby Corporation, the group that took over the Guthrie Rubber Plantation Company in western Liberia, Grand Cape Mount County came under attack by its over 2,000 employees in demand of benefits, a situation which led to the abrupt stop of its operation.
Now latest news coming from Grand Bassa County also speak of another strake action on the plantation of the Liberia Agriculture Company, one of the largest plantation in Liberia a situation said to have placed a standstill of the operation of the company.
According to a local radio station quoting Labor Minister Tiawan Gongloe, workers embarked on the strike since Thursday for unexplained reasons.
Minister Gongloe however said a three man Government delegation has been dispatched to the plantation to ascertain the cause of the full blown strike.
He said the delegation headed by Assistant Labor Minister for Trade Union Affairs Cole Bangalu is expected to report on circumstances leading to the strike by Saturday.
Minister Gongloe admitted the strike undermines industrial peace and called on the workers to exercise restraint.
COALITION GLITCH? CDC’s ‘Unambiguous Disapproval’ Threatens ‘Grand’ Merger
By Nat Bayjay
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia-
What appears to be a coalition glitch surfaced in the midst of the formation of a grand coalition that is to stand as a major contender to incumbent President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf in next year’s Presidential and Legislative elections as a faction within George Weah’s Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) is expressing opposition to being a part of what is styled and named ‘Coalition for Democratic Change’. As if to further worsen the grand coalition’s dream, several other parties have backed off from what was initially slated to be an eight-party grand coalition, limiting the signing of a communiqué Saturday to only four political parties.
Fearing that the political leader of the party would not be allowed to assume leadership of the coalition, some executive members of the CDC, in an August 14 letter to the Chairman of the CDC, Montserrado Senator Geraldine Doe-Sheriff, described their action to oppose the signing ceremony as an unambiguous disapproval and that the decision to form the collaboration was not based on the knowledge of the locals believed to be the larger base of the CDC.
Coalition Convention- A Slaughter House for Weah?
Budu Wilson, Vice Chairman for Administration, Adama B. Samolah, Vice Chairman for Operation, Acarous M. Gray, Deputy Secretary General and Mulbah K. Morlu, Jr., National Chairman on Policy Committee stated in the letter, “Negotiators of the ‘Proposed Grand Coalition’ appear reluctant to clearly state in the communiqué that the CDC will assume leadership of the coalition. The refusal of negotiators to initially identify the frontrunner of the coalition, coupled with verified anti-CDC leadership campaigns being staged by some stakeholders of the alliance, is a worrying development that may threaten the implementation of any signed communiqué”.
The dissenting letter from within the party’s hierarchy seems to further strengthen speculations that the coalition is ganging up to defeat Weah during whatever conventions that would be held leading to the 2011 elections.
Weah, for his part, insists that if he is to form a part of any alliance or merger, the party with the largest number should head it and Saturday’s signing ceremony that has the signature of his CDC could as well be pointing in the direction of his elimination during the conventions.
The opposing executives said: “In response to your well-circulated ‘Short Message Service’ (SMS).in which you have invited strategic party members to our national Headquarters on 13th August 2010 at 2PM, to brief partisans about a ‘Joint communiqué’ expected to culminate into a ‘Proposed Grand Coalition’, an ideal that has already been named and styled ‘Coalition for Democratic Change’, we wish to express our unambiguous disapproval and opposition on the signing of the communiqué”.
Riding on CDC’s Popularity?
Gray and others believe that the coalition is being formed in order to ride on the grassroots’ popularity of the CDC, as they stated in their letter: “Additionally, we are also under the impression that a mass rally and street parade is being envisioned to accompany the signing festivity, with the Congress for Democratic Change providing political leadership due to its vast grassroots support base”.
Originally planned to comprise of eight parties, the August 14 joint communiqué witnessed only four parties affixing signatures to the communiqué at a well attended ceremony held at the newly refurbished Monrovia City Hall.
Weah’s CDC, Cllr. Winston Tubman’s Liberia National Union (LINU), former President Charles Taylor’s National Patriotic Party (NPP), and former warlord Sekou Damate Conneh’s Progessive Democratic Party (PRODEMP) affixed their signatures on a document, forming what they called a grand coalition named and styled as Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC).
Last year, Cllr. Tubman’s LINU and CDC signed a joint communiqué in the Ghanaian capital in what was expected to set the stage for both candidates to have a joint ticket.
At the time, both Weah and Tubman agreed to collaborate, join resources and efforts to put up a joint challenge during next year’s general elections. The pair also agreed to report to their respective Executive Committees on developments in keeping with the parties’ constitutions. The two political leaders at the time called upon other opposition parties to join in their collaboration efforts.
With Saturday’s signing, observers are getting overly convinced that Weah may be heading to the slaughter-house at the convention.
An inside source of the NPP revealed to FrontPageAfrica recently that under no condition would they sit and allow Weah to head any coalition that they would form a part of.
“But who will sit and allow Weah to head any coalition ticket? We are just dragging him to the convention to defeat him”, the insider had told FrontPageAfrica.
Four other parties who had been mentioned earlier to form a part of the coalition backed off at the last stage with some of them taking to the airwaves to deny ever being a part of any grand coalition.
Liberia’s oldest and longest serving True Whig Party (TWP), the late President Samuel Doe’s National Democratic Party of Liberia (NDPL), and the National Reformation Party (NRP) were said to be a part of the coalition but few hours following the announcement that linked them to the coalition, the TWP and others denied knowing anything about such a grand coalition.
“While it’s true that we have been in series of coalition talks and are willing to form one, we have not finalized anything of such with anyone”, an executive of the TWP had said.
Earlier, former warlord Alhaji Kromah whose party had been linked to the coalition described the action on the part of the NPP as irresponsible because according to him, his All Liberian Coalition Party (ALCOP) had signed or reached no agreement of any coalition.
Additionally, fear of inconsistency seems to also be haunting the CDC opposing executives: “In furtherance, history of political alliances and coalition-building processes has proven very fragile and inconsistent, and the extent of these inconsistencies has always turned out to be disruptive and politically chaotic”.
But Cyrill Allen, Chairman Emeritus of the NPP, provided what appeared to be an entirely different reason for the boycotting parties. He said political parties which should have affixed their signatures on the document to total the eight, were having some problems with the National Elections Commission (NEC), therefore they were unable to sign.
Allen noted that the gathering of politicians to form a grand coalition is not something new in Liberia, because on many occasions political parties have tried to form alliances.
He believed that the merger of the opposition sometimes failed because of greed and personal interest.
Doe-Sherrif, Cllr. Theophilus C. Gould, Atty. Samuel Y. Zaza and Garbla V. Williams signed on behalf of their respective parties as national chairmen during the weekend ceremony.
The communiqué, which was read by CDC Legislative Chairman and Montserrado County Representative Rufus Neufville, told partisans of the various political parties that they met and reviewed the progress made in the on-going discussion aimed at forging collaboration for the upcoming 2011presidential and general elections.
Neufville acknowledged that the grand coalition’s commonality of purpose and philosophy in the promotion of national unity, sustainable peace, good governance and development as necessary conditions for ensuring an effective participatory democracy in Liberia.
He said the UP's nearly five years of misrule has brought untold hardship and abject poverty to the vast majority of Liberians.
Recalling on a convened consultative meeting that was held at the Great Wall China Restaurant on 10th Street, Sinkor, growing out of Montserrado County Senatorial Bi-election November 24, 2009 victory of the opposition on December 3, 2009, Neufville said political leaders of the CDC, NPP, Liberty Party, Alliance for Progressive Democracy (APD) and the NDPL resolved that a joint secretariat would be established to draw up modalities to consolidate collaboration amongst opposition political parties ahead of 2011 elections.
Based on the hiccups being incurred by the coalition, some political historians who have been following the trend of Liberian politics during the past years are arguing that it could be difficult for the grand coalition to yield any fruitful result as anticipated by the framers of the communiqué. With election season only months away, complications of the latest communiqués looking to bolster the opposition political cards appears to be headed for trouble amid uncertainty of cohesiveness and chemistry of those hoping to bond in time for the 2011 political play.
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia-
What appears to be a coalition glitch surfaced in the midst of the formation of a grand coalition that is to stand as a major contender to incumbent President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf in next year’s Presidential and Legislative elections as a faction within George Weah’s Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) is expressing opposition to being a part of what is styled and named ‘Coalition for Democratic Change’. As if to further worsen the grand coalition’s dream, several other parties have backed off from what was initially slated to be an eight-party grand coalition, limiting the signing of a communiqué Saturday to only four political parties.
Fearing that the political leader of the party would not be allowed to assume leadership of the coalition, some executive members of the CDC, in an August 14 letter to the Chairman of the CDC, Montserrado Senator Geraldine Doe-Sheriff, described their action to oppose the signing ceremony as an unambiguous disapproval and that the decision to form the collaboration was not based on the knowledge of the locals believed to be the larger base of the CDC.
Coalition Convention- A Slaughter House for Weah?
Budu Wilson, Vice Chairman for Administration, Adama B. Samolah, Vice Chairman for Operation, Acarous M. Gray, Deputy Secretary General and Mulbah K. Morlu, Jr., National Chairman on Policy Committee stated in the letter, “Negotiators of the ‘Proposed Grand Coalition’ appear reluctant to clearly state in the communiqué that the CDC will assume leadership of the coalition. The refusal of negotiators to initially identify the frontrunner of the coalition, coupled with verified anti-CDC leadership campaigns being staged by some stakeholders of the alliance, is a worrying development that may threaten the implementation of any signed communiqué”.
The dissenting letter from within the party’s hierarchy seems to further strengthen speculations that the coalition is ganging up to defeat Weah during whatever conventions that would be held leading to the 2011 elections.
Weah, for his part, insists that if he is to form a part of any alliance or merger, the party with the largest number should head it and Saturday’s signing ceremony that has the signature of his CDC could as well be pointing in the direction of his elimination during the conventions.
The opposing executives said: “In response to your well-circulated ‘Short Message Service’ (SMS).in which you have invited strategic party members to our national Headquarters on 13th August 2010 at 2PM, to brief partisans about a ‘Joint communiqué’ expected to culminate into a ‘Proposed Grand Coalition’, an ideal that has already been named and styled ‘Coalition for Democratic Change’, we wish to express our unambiguous disapproval and opposition on the signing of the communiqué”.
Riding on CDC’s Popularity?
Gray and others believe that the coalition is being formed in order to ride on the grassroots’ popularity of the CDC, as they stated in their letter: “Additionally, we are also under the impression that a mass rally and street parade is being envisioned to accompany the signing festivity, with the Congress for Democratic Change providing political leadership due to its vast grassroots support base”.
Originally planned to comprise of eight parties, the August 14 joint communiqué witnessed only four parties affixing signatures to the communiqué at a well attended ceremony held at the newly refurbished Monrovia City Hall.
Weah’s CDC, Cllr. Winston Tubman’s Liberia National Union (LINU), former President Charles Taylor’s National Patriotic Party (NPP), and former warlord Sekou Damate Conneh’s Progessive Democratic Party (PRODEMP) affixed their signatures on a document, forming what they called a grand coalition named and styled as Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC).
Last year, Cllr. Tubman’s LINU and CDC signed a joint communiqué in the Ghanaian capital in what was expected to set the stage for both candidates to have a joint ticket.
At the time, both Weah and Tubman agreed to collaborate, join resources and efforts to put up a joint challenge during next year’s general elections. The pair also agreed to report to their respective Executive Committees on developments in keeping with the parties’ constitutions. The two political leaders at the time called upon other opposition parties to join in their collaboration efforts.
With Saturday’s signing, observers are getting overly convinced that Weah may be heading to the slaughter-house at the convention.
An inside source of the NPP revealed to FrontPageAfrica recently that under no condition would they sit and allow Weah to head any coalition that they would form a part of.
“But who will sit and allow Weah to head any coalition ticket? We are just dragging him to the convention to defeat him”, the insider had told FrontPageAfrica.
Four other parties who had been mentioned earlier to form a part of the coalition backed off at the last stage with some of them taking to the airwaves to deny ever being a part of any grand coalition.
Liberia’s oldest and longest serving True Whig Party (TWP), the late President Samuel Doe’s National Democratic Party of Liberia (NDPL), and the National Reformation Party (NRP) were said to be a part of the coalition but few hours following the announcement that linked them to the coalition, the TWP and others denied knowing anything about such a grand coalition.
“While it’s true that we have been in series of coalition talks and are willing to form one, we have not finalized anything of such with anyone”, an executive of the TWP had said.
Earlier, former warlord Alhaji Kromah whose party had been linked to the coalition described the action on the part of the NPP as irresponsible because according to him, his All Liberian Coalition Party (ALCOP) had signed or reached no agreement of any coalition.
Additionally, fear of inconsistency seems to also be haunting the CDC opposing executives: “In furtherance, history of political alliances and coalition-building processes has proven very fragile and inconsistent, and the extent of these inconsistencies has always turned out to be disruptive and politically chaotic”.
But Cyrill Allen, Chairman Emeritus of the NPP, provided what appeared to be an entirely different reason for the boycotting parties. He said political parties which should have affixed their signatures on the document to total the eight, were having some problems with the National Elections Commission (NEC), therefore they were unable to sign.
Allen noted that the gathering of politicians to form a grand coalition is not something new in Liberia, because on many occasions political parties have tried to form alliances.
He believed that the merger of the opposition sometimes failed because of greed and personal interest.
Doe-Sherrif, Cllr. Theophilus C. Gould, Atty. Samuel Y. Zaza and Garbla V. Williams signed on behalf of their respective parties as national chairmen during the weekend ceremony.
The communiqué, which was read by CDC Legislative Chairman and Montserrado County Representative Rufus Neufville, told partisans of the various political parties that they met and reviewed the progress made in the on-going discussion aimed at forging collaboration for the upcoming 2011presidential and general elections.
Neufville acknowledged that the grand coalition’s commonality of purpose and philosophy in the promotion of national unity, sustainable peace, good governance and development as necessary conditions for ensuring an effective participatory democracy in Liberia.
He said the UP's nearly five years of misrule has brought untold hardship and abject poverty to the vast majority of Liberians.
Recalling on a convened consultative meeting that was held at the Great Wall China Restaurant on 10th Street, Sinkor, growing out of Montserrado County Senatorial Bi-election November 24, 2009 victory of the opposition on December 3, 2009, Neufville said political leaders of the CDC, NPP, Liberty Party, Alliance for Progressive Democracy (APD) and the NDPL resolved that a joint secretariat would be established to draw up modalities to consolidate collaboration amongst opposition political parties ahead of 2011 elections.
Based on the hiccups being incurred by the coalition, some political historians who have been following the trend of Liberian politics during the past years are arguing that it could be difficult for the grand coalition to yield any fruitful result as anticipated by the framers of the communiqué. With election season only months away, complications of the latest communiqués looking to bolster the opposition political cards appears to be headed for trouble amid uncertainty of cohesiveness and chemistry of those hoping to bond in time for the 2011 political play.
Government reports “wide cat strike” at LAC
Written by Moses Wenyou
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Government has reported what it calls a wide-cat strike at the Liberia Agriculture Company LAC in Grand Bassa County.
Labor Minister Tiawan Gongloe told Star Radio workers embarked on the strike since Thursday for unexplained reasons.
Minister Gongloe however said a three man Government delegation has been dispatched to the plantation to ascertain the cause of the full blown strike.
He said the delegation headed by Assistant Labor Minister for Trade Union Affairs Cole Bangalu is expected to report on circumstances leading to the strike by Saturday.
Minister Gongloe admitted the strike undermines industrial peace and called on the workers to exercise restraint.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Government has reported what it calls a wide-cat strike at the Liberia Agriculture Company LAC in Grand Bassa County.
Labor Minister Tiawan Gongloe told Star Radio workers embarked on the strike since Thursday for unexplained reasons.
Minister Gongloe however said a three man Government delegation has been dispatched to the plantation to ascertain the cause of the full blown strike.
He said the delegation headed by Assistant Labor Minister for Trade Union Affairs Cole Bangalu is expected to report on circumstances leading to the strike by Saturday.
Minister Gongloe admitted the strike undermines industrial peace and called on the workers to exercise restraint.
Two AFL soldiers expelled for misconduct
Written by Matthias Daffah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Armed Forces of Liberia has with immediate effect expelled from its ranks two soldiers for misconduct.
Privates Robert Kokulo and Pajibo Lester were dishonorably discharged from the Army for illegal possession of marijuana and act of forgery respectively.
According to the AFL Guardian Newspaper Private Kokulo was arrested with the grass on July 23 this year by agents of the Drug Enforcement Agency.
The AFL newspaper also reported that Private Lester superimposed his photograph on Private Zaza Mulbah’s church ID to collect his February and March salaries.
The paper maintains the acts by the two soldiers violate the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
In its August 2010 edition, the paper said the legal section of the AFL thoroughly investigated the accounts of the two soldiers before reaching a decision.
Private Robert Kokulo belonged to the Military Police Company, while Private Pajibo Lester was a member of the Armed Forces Training Command.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Armed Forces of Liberia has with immediate effect expelled from its ranks two soldiers for misconduct.
Privates Robert Kokulo and Pajibo Lester were dishonorably discharged from the Army for illegal possession of marijuana and act of forgery respectively.
According to the AFL Guardian Newspaper Private Kokulo was arrested with the grass on July 23 this year by agents of the Drug Enforcement Agency.
The AFL newspaper also reported that Private Lester superimposed his photograph on Private Zaza Mulbah’s church ID to collect his February and March salaries.
The paper maintains the acts by the two soldiers violate the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
In its August 2010 edition, the paper said the legal section of the AFL thoroughly investigated the accounts of the two soldiers before reaching a decision.
Private Robert Kokulo belonged to the Military Police Company, while Private Pajibo Lester was a member of the Armed Forces Training Command.
NDPL breaks from CDC’s coalition
Written by Emmanuel Broh
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The former ruling National Democratic Party of Liberia has distanced itself from the grand coalition announced by a faction of the Congress for Democratic Change.
The National Chairman of the NDPL clarified no single individual has the authority to commit the party to a coalition except its Executive Committee.
Mr. Nyandeh Sieh said the NDPL will not be a party to Saturday’s signing ceremony and advised organizers to remove the NDPL from the coalition listing.
Mr. Sieh urged NDPL partisans to remain calm by boycotting Saturday’s signing ceremony because the gathering does not have the approval of the party.
He disclosed the NDPL would hold its national convention at the close of this month after which it will decide the next course of action.
At the same time, a former Chairman of the NDPL Hodo Merriam has described the CDC’s pronouncement of a coalition as painful and tarnishing.
According to Mr. Merriam, the hierarchy of the NDPL has not met with anyone in the CDC to discuss the formation of a coalition.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The former ruling National Democratic Party of Liberia has distanced itself from the grand coalition announced by a faction of the Congress for Democratic Change.
The National Chairman of the NDPL clarified no single individual has the authority to commit the party to a coalition except its Executive Committee.
Mr. Nyandeh Sieh said the NDPL will not be a party to Saturday’s signing ceremony and advised organizers to remove the NDPL from the coalition listing.
Mr. Sieh urged NDPL partisans to remain calm by boycotting Saturday’s signing ceremony because the gathering does not have the approval of the party.
He disclosed the NDPL would hold its national convention at the close of this month after which it will decide the next course of action.
At the same time, a former Chairman of the NDPL Hodo Merriam has described the CDC’s pronouncement of a coalition as painful and tarnishing.
According to Mr. Merriam, the hierarchy of the NDPL has not met with anyone in the CDC to discuss the formation of a coalition.
“Everyone betrayed Charles Taylor”-John Richardson
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Association for the Legal Defense of Charles Taylor says it is a known fact that the ex-Liberian President was betrayed in several ways.
The head of the group said ex-President Taylor was betrayed not only by President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf but Nigeria, ECOWAS, African leaders and Liberians.
Mr. John Richardson made the statement while commenting on the fresh account of how Charles Taylor was betrayed.
Mr. Richardson said the account by ex-Nigerian Presidential spokesman Femi Fani-Kayode was not surprising.
According to him, the account confirms how Charles Taylor was betrayed in various ways.
Mr. Richardson said he was pleased to have read and heard another true account of how ex-President Taylor was deceived.
Mr. Richardson also expressed regrets over what he calls the failure of the African Union to send a representative to The Hague to monitor the Taylor trial.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Association for the Legal Defense of Charles Taylor says it is a known fact that the ex-Liberian President was betrayed in several ways.
The head of the group said ex-President Taylor was betrayed not only by President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf but Nigeria, ECOWAS, African leaders and Liberians.
Mr. John Richardson made the statement while commenting on the fresh account of how Charles Taylor was betrayed.
Mr. Richardson said the account by ex-Nigerian Presidential spokesman Femi Fani-Kayode was not surprising.
According to him, the account confirms how Charles Taylor was betrayed in various ways.
Mr. Richardson said he was pleased to have read and heard another true account of how ex-President Taylor was deceived.
Mr. Richardson also expressed regrets over what he calls the failure of the African Union to send a representative to The Hague to monitor the Taylor trial.
KEEPING OUR OFFICIALS HONEST THEREBY OVERCOMING THE ESSENTIAL DEFICIT THAT EXISTS IN THE LIBERIAN SOCIETY
Written by Abraham Hoff
Chief Community Organizer of LEAD Liberia
LEAD Liberia is not talking about the budget deficit. We are not talking about the trade deficit. We are talking about the moral deficit that exists in the Liberian’s society. We are talking about the unity deficit that is destroying the very fabrics of the Liberian’s State. We are talking about the empathy deficit in the government that is exploiting our natural resources thereby leaving ordinary Liberians with the residual side effects of waste and corruption that often define the lives of many of our people especially, disadvantaged families, our seniors, underprivileged youth and young women. The inability to recognize ourselves in one another; the inability to recognize that our past and future are intertwined together because of our collective challenges, collective idea, collective history, and collective hope for a better future for our nation, children and ourselves.
We have an empathy deficit went ordinary Liberians cannot afford to feed their children not talking about sending them to school however some government officials are riding US$100K CARS. We have an empathy deficit went teachers do not receive their salaries as promised and the school system is not preparing our children for the future but government officials are seeking immunity from prosecution or lawsuits in the performance and execution of their duties. We have a deficit went majority of the Liberian’s children are attending schools in forgotten towns and villages of across Liberia. We have a deficit went a few directors and/or executives get paid more than the whole workforce. We have a deficit went the mother of 7 children cannot afford to feed her children not talking about sending them to school. We have a deficit went we give justice to others because of connection while leaving others to fend for themselves.
To the Liberian Government, it’s not enough to seek debt relief for Liberia yet signing a legislature (The Maritime Authority Act) that will indebt future generation for many years to come. It’s not enough to seek debt relief for Liberia yet some members of the Executive Branch are riding US$100K CARS. This is what the debate is all about in 2011. We cannot say that we love Liberia but engage in activities that plunder the natural resources and promote financial irresponsibility in Liberia. We cannot say that we love Liberia but don’t invest in Liberia’s future (The youth).
Just like Honorable Evans Koah, if more politicians and government officials decide to put loyalty to the country above personal greed may be the walls of corruption and waste will become loose thereby pulling it down. If more politicians and government officials decide to put the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) above party ideology may be the walls of lack of quality education and health care for all Liberians will become loose thereby pulling it down. If more politicians and government officials decide to put the interest of the masses above tribalism, nepotism, and religious intolerance may the walls of lack of equality and social justice for all will become loose thereby pulling it down. We have a moral deficit in Liberia that has to be closed. The choice is clear and the time is now. DO THE RIGHT THING and stop playing politics with our future and the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) because loyalty to the country is paramount to loyalty government persons, party and/or any ministries.
Thank you and May God bless the Republic of Liberia.
LEAD Organizing For Liberia
Abraham Hoff, Chief Community Organizer
077384990 leadliberia@yahoo.com
Chief Community Organizer of LEAD Liberia
LEAD Liberia is not talking about the budget deficit. We are not talking about the trade deficit. We are talking about the moral deficit that exists in the Liberian’s society. We are talking about the unity deficit that is destroying the very fabrics of the Liberian’s State. We are talking about the empathy deficit in the government that is exploiting our natural resources thereby leaving ordinary Liberians with the residual side effects of waste and corruption that often define the lives of many of our people especially, disadvantaged families, our seniors, underprivileged youth and young women. The inability to recognize ourselves in one another; the inability to recognize that our past and future are intertwined together because of our collective challenges, collective idea, collective history, and collective hope for a better future for our nation, children and ourselves.
We have an empathy deficit went ordinary Liberians cannot afford to feed their children not talking about sending them to school however some government officials are riding US$100K CARS. We have an empathy deficit went teachers do not receive their salaries as promised and the school system is not preparing our children for the future but government officials are seeking immunity from prosecution or lawsuits in the performance and execution of their duties. We have a deficit went majority of the Liberian’s children are attending schools in forgotten towns and villages of across Liberia. We have a deficit went a few directors and/or executives get paid more than the whole workforce. We have a deficit went the mother of 7 children cannot afford to feed her children not talking about sending them to school. We have a deficit went we give justice to others because of connection while leaving others to fend for themselves.
To the Liberian Government, it’s not enough to seek debt relief for Liberia yet signing a legislature (The Maritime Authority Act) that will indebt future generation for many years to come. It’s not enough to seek debt relief for Liberia yet some members of the Executive Branch are riding US$100K CARS. This is what the debate is all about in 2011. We cannot say that we love Liberia but engage in activities that plunder the natural resources and promote financial irresponsibility in Liberia. We cannot say that we love Liberia but don’t invest in Liberia’s future (The youth).
Just like Honorable Evans Koah, if more politicians and government officials decide to put loyalty to the country above personal greed may be the walls of corruption and waste will become loose thereby pulling it down. If more politicians and government officials decide to put the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) above party ideology may be the walls of lack of quality education and health care for all Liberians will become loose thereby pulling it down. If more politicians and government officials decide to put the interest of the masses above tribalism, nepotism, and religious intolerance may the walls of lack of equality and social justice for all will become loose thereby pulling it down. We have a moral deficit in Liberia that has to be closed. The choice is clear and the time is now. DO THE RIGHT THING and stop playing politics with our future and the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia) because loyalty to the country is paramount to loyalty government persons, party and/or any ministries.
Thank you and May God bless the Republic of Liberia.
LEAD Organizing For Liberia
Abraham Hoff, Chief Community Organizer
077384990 leadliberia@yahoo.com
Friday, August 13, 2010
Senate imposes sanction on three civil society groups
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Senate has imposed a sanction against three civil society institutions after holding them in Legislative contempt.
The Senate said as part of the sanction, the groups must publish and broadcast a letter of retraction of their insulting comments in the media for five days beginning Monday.
The groups include the Liberia Democracy Watch, Center for Democratic Empowerment and Institute for Democracy and Development.
The sanction relates to comments by the groups that the decision of the Legislature to pass a resolution on the threshold Act reflected "a mentally impoverished leadership".
The Senate instituted the sanction Thursday after nearly five hours of hearing from two representatives of the groups.
During the hearing, the groups’ spokesman, George Williams of LDW, expressed regrets for the choice of words, saying it was a misjudgment.
The apology by Mr. Williams came after consultation with the groups’ lawyer, Cllr. Augustine Toe of the Catholic Justice and Peace Commission.
Initially, Mr. Williams was defiant in his remark, insisting they were the architects of the damaging comments against the Legislature.
Our reporter says the other civil society representative Oliver Beyan of CEDE fumbled before the Senate after being asked about his academic credentials.
Mr. Beyan claimed he holds “A” certificate from Legon in Ghana but later said it was an “AA” diploma or “AA” degree from Kwame Community College.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Senate has imposed a sanction against three civil society institutions after holding them in Legislative contempt.
The Senate said as part of the sanction, the groups must publish and broadcast a letter of retraction of their insulting comments in the media for five days beginning Monday.
The groups include the Liberia Democracy Watch, Center for Democratic Empowerment and Institute for Democracy and Development.
The sanction relates to comments by the groups that the decision of the Legislature to pass a resolution on the threshold Act reflected "a mentally impoverished leadership".
The Senate instituted the sanction Thursday after nearly five hours of hearing from two representatives of the groups.
During the hearing, the groups’ spokesman, George Williams of LDW, expressed regrets for the choice of words, saying it was a misjudgment.
The apology by Mr. Williams came after consultation with the groups’ lawyer, Cllr. Augustine Toe of the Catholic Justice and Peace Commission.
Initially, Mr. Williams was defiant in his remark, insisting they were the architects of the damaging comments against the Legislature.
Our reporter says the other civil society representative Oliver Beyan of CEDE fumbled before the Senate after being asked about his academic credentials.
Mr. Beyan claimed he holds “A” certificate from Legon in Ghana but later said it was an “AA” diploma or “AA” degree from Kwame Community College.
New human rights Commissioners submitted to senate
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has submitted to the Senate for confirmation seven nominees of the Independent National Human Rights Commission.
They include Cllr. Punchu Leonard Bernard, Chairperson, Cllr. Dempster Brown and Thomas Abu Bureh, Commissioners.
Others are Boakai Dukuly, Ms. Macdilla Howard, Ms. Ruby Johnson-Morris and James D. Torh.
In a letter to the Senate, President Sirleaf asked the body to confirm her nominees.
Our reporter says this is the second time the President is submitting nominees of the Independent National Human Rights Commission for confirmation.
In January this year, the Senate rejected all of the President’s nominees on the Independent National Human Rights Commission without providing any reason.
Under the TRC Act, the Independent National Human Rights Commission is to ensure the implementation of the controversial TRC report.
The TRC report among others recommends prosecution and public office ban of perpetrators and financiers of Liberia’s brutal civil war including President Sirleaf.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has submitted to the Senate for confirmation seven nominees of the Independent National Human Rights Commission.
They include Cllr. Punchu Leonard Bernard, Chairperson, Cllr. Dempster Brown and Thomas Abu Bureh, Commissioners.
Others are Boakai Dukuly, Ms. Macdilla Howard, Ms. Ruby Johnson-Morris and James D. Torh.
In a letter to the Senate, President Sirleaf asked the body to confirm her nominees.
Our reporter says this is the second time the President is submitting nominees of the Independent National Human Rights Commission for confirmation.
In January this year, the Senate rejected all of the President’s nominees on the Independent National Human Rights Commission without providing any reason.
Under the TRC Act, the Independent National Human Rights Commission is to ensure the implementation of the controversial TRC report.
The TRC report among others recommends prosecution and public office ban of perpetrators and financiers of Liberia’s brutal civil war including President Sirleaf.
George Weah’s CDC announces eight-party coalition
Written by Matthias Daffah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The opposition Congress for Democratic Change has announced the formation of a grand coalition of eight political parties ahead of the 2011 elections.
They include National Democratic Party of Liberia, National Patriotic Party, True Whig Party, and Congress for Democratic Change.
Others are National Vision Party, Liberia National Union, National Reformation Party and Progressive Democratic Party, PRODEMP.
A statement issued Thursday says the parties will sign a formal communiqué this Saturday and draw up a policy document to guide the activities of the coalition.
The statement said following Saturday’s signing ceremony at the Monrovia City Hall, membership to the coalition shall be declared open to all interested parties.
According to the statement, the Coalition for Democratic Change remains a credible and formidable political alternative for Liberia.
The Press and Public Relations Chief of the CDC Amos Swaray disclosed the current eight political parties have similar policies and guidelines.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The opposition Congress for Democratic Change has announced the formation of a grand coalition of eight political parties ahead of the 2011 elections.
They include National Democratic Party of Liberia, National Patriotic Party, True Whig Party, and Congress for Democratic Change.
Others are National Vision Party, Liberia National Union, National Reformation Party and Progressive Democratic Party, PRODEMP.
A statement issued Thursday says the parties will sign a formal communiqué this Saturday and draw up a policy document to guide the activities of the coalition.
The statement said following Saturday’s signing ceremony at the Monrovia City Hall, membership to the coalition shall be declared open to all interested parties.
According to the statement, the Coalition for Democratic Change remains a credible and formidable political alternative for Liberia.
The Press and Public Relations Chief of the CDC Amos Swaray disclosed the current eight political parties have similar policies and guidelines.
Bomi/Gbarpolu land dispute intensifies
Written by Matthias Daffah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Tension remains high between Bomi and Gbarpolu Counties over a contested parcel of land.
Both counties are claiming the former industrial enclave of Sawmill situated few kilometers outside Tubmanburg.
Bomi District Number-Two Representative Tarnue Cooper argued that Sawmill falls under Bomi because the people there voted for him in the 2005 elections.
But Gbarpolu Senator Daniel Nathan dismissed the claim, alleging that the Bomi lawmaker was using an old outdated map to claim the contested territory.
In a counter-argument Representative Cooper warned the land dispute between the two counties was serious and vowed to take the right course of action to resolve it.
According to Representative Cooper, Bomi intends to handle the matter through the sector ministries and would hold a consultative meeting involving Gbarpolu.
Representative Cooper claimed a stakeholders’ meeting chaired by the Internal Affairs Ministry confirmed that the Maher River is the boundary between the two counties.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Tension remains high between Bomi and Gbarpolu Counties over a contested parcel of land.
Both counties are claiming the former industrial enclave of Sawmill situated few kilometers outside Tubmanburg.
Bomi District Number-Two Representative Tarnue Cooper argued that Sawmill falls under Bomi because the people there voted for him in the 2005 elections.
But Gbarpolu Senator Daniel Nathan dismissed the claim, alleging that the Bomi lawmaker was using an old outdated map to claim the contested territory.
In a counter-argument Representative Cooper warned the land dispute between the two counties was serious and vowed to take the right course of action to resolve it.
According to Representative Cooper, Bomi intends to handle the matter through the sector ministries and would hold a consultative meeting involving Gbarpolu.
Representative Cooper claimed a stakeholders’ meeting chaired by the Internal Affairs Ministry confirmed that the Maher River is the boundary between the two counties.
Legal process begins in Ex-LTA Chairman sabotage case
Written by Bruce Boweh
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The economic sabotage case involving former LTA boss Albert Bropleh is expected to begin in Bomi County today.
Criminal Court C transferred the case to the 11th Judicial Circuit in Tubmanburg, during the May term of court.
The defense claimed at the time, publications labeling Mr. Bropleh thieve and criminal prior to his judgment, were major reasons for the transfer request.
Court C in its ruling agreed with the defense’s claim that local prejudice would have worked against its client if the case were to be tried in Montserrado.
The state in 2009 charged Mr. Bropleh for the misuse of public property, theft and illegal disbursement and expenditure of public fund.
Reports say a second defendant, Shirley Marsh, is expected to be tried along with Mr. Bropleh.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The economic sabotage case involving former LTA boss Albert Bropleh is expected to begin in Bomi County today.
Criminal Court C transferred the case to the 11th Judicial Circuit in Tubmanburg, during the May term of court.
The defense claimed at the time, publications labeling Mr. Bropleh thieve and criminal prior to his judgment, were major reasons for the transfer request.
Court C in its ruling agreed with the defense’s claim that local prejudice would have worked against its client if the case were to be tried in Montserrado.
The state in 2009 charged Mr. Bropleh for the misuse of public property, theft and illegal disbursement and expenditure of public fund.
Reports say a second defendant, Shirley Marsh, is expected to be tried along with Mr. Bropleh.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Liberia: National Commission on Delimitation Established
Source: allafrica.com
A National Commission on the Delimitation of Liberia's Maritime boundaries has been established. The Commission was established by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, in keeping with Articles 76 & 83 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Article 76 of the UN Convention provides for the delimitation of the outer continental shelf based on the physical characteristics of the seabed while Article 83 provides that the delimitation of the continental shelf between States with opposite or adjacent coasts shall be effected by agreement on the basis of international law.
An Executive Mansion release says the National Commission on the Delimitation of Liberia's Maritime boundaries would be responsible to guide the process by which Liberia extends its maritime borders beyond the 200-miles economic zone, thus facilitating oil exploration activities.
Government ministries and agencies serving on the Commission are the Ministries of Foreign Affairs; Lands, Mines and Energy; National Defense; Agriculture; Justice; and Transport. The ministries of Planning & Economic Affairs, State for Presidential Affairs, the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCOL), the Bureau of Maritime Affairs and the Environmental Protection Agency are also members of the Commission.
A National Commission on the Delimitation of Liberia's Maritime boundaries has been established. The Commission was established by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, in keeping with Articles 76 & 83 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Article 76 of the UN Convention provides for the delimitation of the outer continental shelf based on the physical characteristics of the seabed while Article 83 provides that the delimitation of the continental shelf between States with opposite or adjacent coasts shall be effected by agreement on the basis of international law.
An Executive Mansion release says the National Commission on the Delimitation of Liberia's Maritime boundaries would be responsible to guide the process by which Liberia extends its maritime borders beyond the 200-miles economic zone, thus facilitating oil exploration activities.
Government ministries and agencies serving on the Commission are the Ministries of Foreign Affairs; Lands, Mines and Energy; National Defense; Agriculture; Justice; and Transport. The ministries of Planning & Economic Affairs, State for Presidential Affairs, the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCOL), the Bureau of Maritime Affairs and the Environmental Protection Agency are also members of the Commission.
Ex-Nigerian Presidential confidant links President Sirleaf
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
A former spokesman of ex-Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has broken silence over what led to the departure and arrest of ex-President Charles Taylor.
In a detailed article, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode blamed President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and former US President George Bush for betraying Charles Taylor.
According to him, President Sirleaf was the real traitor of Charles Taylor after she decided to violate the asylum deal that took the ex-Liberian President to Nigeria.
The former Nigerian Presidential spokesman said the decision of President Sirleaf to request the return of Taylor to Liberia in 2006 was the betrayal of the century.
He said President Sirleaf’s action reflected nothing but that she was an ingrate and American puppet.
Chief Kayode claimed having been seen as the Nigerian and American candidate in the 2005 elections, President Sirleaf betrayed Taylor for international aid.
In the article titled “Charles Taylor: A man betrayed”, Chief Kayode also insisted ex-Nigerian President Obasanjo should not be blamed for Taylor’s arrest.
He said amidst the pressure President Obasanjo only made a mistake to drop Charles Taylor to a border point where he was arrested and transferred to Liberia.
The article by Mr. Fani-Kayode comes seven years after the resignation of Charles Taylor who is standing war crimes trial in The Hague.
Meanwhile, Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio says the Liberian Presidency would not comment on the article because of the ongoing trial of Charles Taylor.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
A former spokesman of ex-Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has broken silence over what led to the departure and arrest of ex-President Charles Taylor.
In a detailed article, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode blamed President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and former US President George Bush for betraying Charles Taylor.
According to him, President Sirleaf was the real traitor of Charles Taylor after she decided to violate the asylum deal that took the ex-Liberian President to Nigeria.
The former Nigerian Presidential spokesman said the decision of President Sirleaf to request the return of Taylor to Liberia in 2006 was the betrayal of the century.
He said President Sirleaf’s action reflected nothing but that she was an ingrate and American puppet.
Chief Kayode claimed having been seen as the Nigerian and American candidate in the 2005 elections, President Sirleaf betrayed Taylor for international aid.
In the article titled “Charles Taylor: A man betrayed”, Chief Kayode also insisted ex-Nigerian President Obasanjo should not be blamed for Taylor’s arrest.
He said amidst the pressure President Obasanjo only made a mistake to drop Charles Taylor to a border point where he was arrested and transferred to Liberia.
The article by Mr. Fani-Kayode comes seven years after the resignation of Charles Taylor who is standing war crimes trial in The Hague.
Meanwhile, Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio says the Liberian Presidency would not comment on the article because of the ongoing trial of Charles Taylor.
Ex-President Taylor spends seventh year in exile today
Written by Matthias Daffah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Former Liberian President Charles Taylor is today spending his seventh year in exile since he resigned and departed the country under pressure.
African leaders including Mozambique’s President Joachim Chissano , South Africa’s Thabo Mbeki and Nigeria’s Oluse gun Obasanjo accompanied Mr. Taylor.
Mr. Taylor sought refuge in the Nigerian resort city of Calabar where he remained until he was turned over to international security forces.
From Nigeria, the ex-Liberian president was formally turned over to the Liberian Government at the Robert International Airport in handcuffs.
He was then flown to Sierra Leone to face seventeen-count indictment for war crimes and crimes against humanity, charges he has repeatedly denied.
Prior to his leaving the Liberian Presidency, Mr. Taylor left behind a memorable statement that: God willing he would be back.
Taylor’s supporters believe he surrendered power to his successor Moses Blah due to pressure from then US President, George Bush.
Though Taylor accepted to leave he demanded that peacekeepers arrive on Liberian soil to avert what he called total destruction.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Former Liberian President Charles Taylor is today spending his seventh year in exile since he resigned and departed the country under pressure.
African leaders including Mozambique’s President Joachim Chissano , South Africa’s Thabo Mbeki and Nigeria’s Oluse gun Obasanjo accompanied Mr. Taylor.
Mr. Taylor sought refuge in the Nigerian resort city of Calabar where he remained until he was turned over to international security forces.
From Nigeria, the ex-Liberian president was formally turned over to the Liberian Government at the Robert International Airport in handcuffs.
He was then flown to Sierra Leone to face seventeen-count indictment for war crimes and crimes against humanity, charges he has repeatedly denied.
Prior to his leaving the Liberian Presidency, Mr. Taylor left behind a memorable statement that: God willing he would be back.
Taylor’s supporters believe he surrendered power to his successor Moses Blah due to pressure from then US President, George Bush.
Though Taylor accepted to leave he demanded that peacekeepers arrive on Liberian soil to avert what he called total destruction.
Rocky Hill residents remain defiant
Written by Hilary Vasco Wiagbe
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Residents of the Rocky Hill Community near the Ducor Palace Hotel say they will not comply with government’s order to vacate the area.
The Chairman of the community told Star Radio they would leave the area only upon the orders of a court of competent jurisdiction.
Mr. Andrew Ngolloe maintained they are not illegal occupants as alleged by the Executive Mansion.
Presidential Press secretary Cyrus Wleh-Badio on Monday urged the residents to accept government’s relocation package as a full scale renovation of the hotel was pending.
The package includes acquiring land in the Caldwell area for what the Executive Mansion considers a reasonable price.
But Mr. Ngolloe says they will not accept any package, saying it is only the court that can determine the real owner of the areas in question.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Residents of the Rocky Hill Community near the Ducor Palace Hotel say they will not comply with government’s order to vacate the area.
The Chairman of the community told Star Radio they would leave the area only upon the orders of a court of competent jurisdiction.
Mr. Andrew Ngolloe maintained they are not illegal occupants as alleged by the Executive Mansion.
Presidential Press secretary Cyrus Wleh-Badio on Monday urged the residents to accept government’s relocation package as a full scale renovation of the hotel was pending.
The package includes acquiring land in the Caldwell area for what the Executive Mansion considers a reasonable price.
But Mr. Ngolloe says they will not accept any package, saying it is only the court that can determine the real owner of the areas in question.
Maryland lawmaker terms Government officials as gangsters
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
A Maryland County Representative has described government officials found in the business of awarding less beneficial contracts in concession areas as gangsters.
Representative Bhofal Chambers said it was counterproductive for government officials to approve concession deals not in the interest of the people.
He made the statement while again condemning the contract that led to the takeover of the Decoris oil palm by the Ivorian agro company, SIFCA.
According to Representative Chambers, it was unacceptable for some government officials to be involved in corrupt practice in the awarding of contracts.
The Pleeblo-Sodoken District-two and ruling Unity Party lawmaker did not identify any of the officials he considered as criminals.
But his statement comes nine days after he put a halt to the operations of the SIFCA contract in Maryland.
Representative Chambers claimed the 60 million investment capital of SIFCA is too low compared to the 127 million dollars being offered by the group, BSP.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
A Maryland County Representative has described government officials found in the business of awarding less beneficial contracts in concession areas as gangsters.
Representative Bhofal Chambers said it was counterproductive for government officials to approve concession deals not in the interest of the people.
He made the statement while again condemning the contract that led to the takeover of the Decoris oil palm by the Ivorian agro company, SIFCA.
According to Representative Chambers, it was unacceptable for some government officials to be involved in corrupt practice in the awarding of contracts.
The Pleeblo-Sodoken District-two and ruling Unity Party lawmaker did not identify any of the officials he considered as criminals.
But his statement comes nine days after he put a halt to the operations of the SIFCA contract in Maryland.
Representative Chambers claimed the 60 million investment capital of SIFCA is too low compared to the 127 million dollars being offered by the group, BSP.
CHINESE ‘JUSTICE’: Chinamen Accused of Killing S. African Go on Trial in Liberia
Source: Star Radio Liberia
M. Welemongai Ciapha, II (213) 077-119-511
DAY IN COURT: Almost a year after the stabbing death of a South African national, allegedly by two Chinese nationals, the lawyer for the accused pair argued Tuesday that his clients could not speak the English Language, and further requested the court to obtain an interpreter. But the trial appears headed from some graphic details as the indictment suggests the victim, Wesley Craig, was allegedly stabbed to death with knives at his Randall Street residence on September 6, 2009 – and the accused had some serious motives for murder.
Monrovia -
The trial of two Chinese nationals, Meng Wang and Li Ma, who were indicted by the grand jury of Montserrado County for their involvement in the killing of a South African, began Tuesday at Criminal Court “B” at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia.
The victim, Wesley Craig, was allegedly stabbed to death with knives at his Randall Street residence on September 6, 2009.
When the case was called for hearing, Atty. Sunifu Sherrif, who is one of the public defenders for Montserrado County brought to the attention of the court that his clients could not speak the English Language, and further requested the court to obtain an interpreter.
The defense submitted that his request was not intended to delay or baffle the proceedings, but in order for his clients to have fair justice.
In response to the application made by the defense, Cllr. Augustine C. Fayiah, one of the prosecuting lawyers interposed no objection.
According to the indictment, copy of which is in the possession of FrontPage Africa, on September 6, 2009 the defendants Wang and Ma purchased two knives with criminal motives and went to the victim’s house.
The indictment further noted that during police preliminary investigation conducted with the accused, it was established that the deceased and the defendants became friends at an entertainment center called the “Village”, where they usually met to play pool.
“That on Sunday, September 6, Wang and Ma with criminal motives, went to the victim’s house to visit him after purchasing the two kitchen knives.
That upon arriving, they met Craig and his fiancée, yet to be identified, and the house boy. They all had conversation for sometime after which the victim’s fiancée left,” the indictment averred.
The indictment further revealed that the defendants remained in the apartment with the deceased and the house boy, and about 6:00 P.M., when the house boy had left, the defendants later returned and knocked the door of the apartment.
When the door was opened, the indictment further disclosed the defendants, Wang and Ma, told Craig that they wanted some water to drink.
Accordingly, said the indictment: “the victim took them to his kitchen, opened the refrigerator and offered them water. When they got through the drinking, the victim walked ahead of them toward the front door, so that they could leave. In the process, they (defendants) grabbed the victim, put a sharp instrument believed to be a knife to the (victim’s) throat, and threatened to kill him if he did not give them the money he had in the house.”
According to the indictment, the victim pleaded with them that he did not have money, but the accused walked with the victim toward his bed-room while the knife was still at his throat.
It is stated in the indictment that the defendants commanded the victim to lay down on his back on the floor, and that while lying down with the knife still pointed at his neck by one of the defendants, the other defendant went in the room, took the victim’s shirt and trousers, tied his feet and hands.
Further in the indictment, it is also averred that the victim managed to have untied the rope, but when the defendants noticed that the victim had untied the rope, they rushed on him, threw him on the bed, got hold of the knives and began stabbing him all over his body.
“The victim was still struggling, when the defendants put his (victim’s) trousers on his neck and tried to strangle him, but to no avail. Co-defendant Meng Wang then slashed the victim’s throat to silence him. That after killing the victim, they searched his whole apartment for money, but did not find any,” the indictment stated.
The indictment further pointed out that after killing Craig, the defendants criminally took one laptop, one Digital Camera, a bed clock, a DVD player and a cigarette lighter and made away with them.
M. Welemongai Ciapha, II (213) 077-119-511
DAY IN COURT: Almost a year after the stabbing death of a South African national, allegedly by two Chinese nationals, the lawyer for the accused pair argued Tuesday that his clients could not speak the English Language, and further requested the court to obtain an interpreter. But the trial appears headed from some graphic details as the indictment suggests the victim, Wesley Craig, was allegedly stabbed to death with knives at his Randall Street residence on September 6, 2009 – and the accused had some serious motives for murder.
Monrovia -
The trial of two Chinese nationals, Meng Wang and Li Ma, who were indicted by the grand jury of Montserrado County for their involvement in the killing of a South African, began Tuesday at Criminal Court “B” at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia.
The victim, Wesley Craig, was allegedly stabbed to death with knives at his Randall Street residence on September 6, 2009.
When the case was called for hearing, Atty. Sunifu Sherrif, who is one of the public defenders for Montserrado County brought to the attention of the court that his clients could not speak the English Language, and further requested the court to obtain an interpreter.
The defense submitted that his request was not intended to delay or baffle the proceedings, but in order for his clients to have fair justice.
In response to the application made by the defense, Cllr. Augustine C. Fayiah, one of the prosecuting lawyers interposed no objection.
According to the indictment, copy of which is in the possession of FrontPage Africa, on September 6, 2009 the defendants Wang and Ma purchased two knives with criminal motives and went to the victim’s house.
The indictment further noted that during police preliminary investigation conducted with the accused, it was established that the deceased and the defendants became friends at an entertainment center called the “Village”, where they usually met to play pool.
“That on Sunday, September 6, Wang and Ma with criminal motives, went to the victim’s house to visit him after purchasing the two kitchen knives.
That upon arriving, they met Craig and his fiancée, yet to be identified, and the house boy. They all had conversation for sometime after which the victim’s fiancée left,” the indictment averred.
The indictment further revealed that the defendants remained in the apartment with the deceased and the house boy, and about 6:00 P.M., when the house boy had left, the defendants later returned and knocked the door of the apartment.
When the door was opened, the indictment further disclosed the defendants, Wang and Ma, told Craig that they wanted some water to drink.
Accordingly, said the indictment: “the victim took them to his kitchen, opened the refrigerator and offered them water. When they got through the drinking, the victim walked ahead of them toward the front door, so that they could leave. In the process, they (defendants) grabbed the victim, put a sharp instrument believed to be a knife to the (victim’s) throat, and threatened to kill him if he did not give them the money he had in the house.”
According to the indictment, the victim pleaded with them that he did not have money, but the accused walked with the victim toward his bed-room while the knife was still at his throat.
It is stated in the indictment that the defendants commanded the victim to lay down on his back on the floor, and that while lying down with the knife still pointed at his neck by one of the defendants, the other defendant went in the room, took the victim’s shirt and trousers, tied his feet and hands.
Further in the indictment, it is also averred that the victim managed to have untied the rope, but when the defendants noticed that the victim had untied the rope, they rushed on him, threw him on the bed, got hold of the knives and began stabbing him all over his body.
“The victim was still struggling, when the defendants put his (victim’s) trousers on his neck and tried to strangle him, but to no avail. Co-defendant Meng Wang then slashed the victim’s throat to silence him. That after killing the victim, they searched his whole apartment for money, but did not find any,” the indictment stated.
The indictment further pointed out that after killing Craig, the defendants criminally took one laptop, one Digital Camera, a bed clock, a DVD player and a cigarette lighter and made away with them.
Eyeing Opportunity: Lawmaker Wants Diaspora Liberians Vote In 2011 elections
Moses Varfee Kowo
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia –
Lofa County Lawmaker, Eugene Fallah Kparkar, has submitted a draft Legislation seeking legal permission for Liberians legally living in other countries to vote in elections in their country.
Kparkar told journalists after the Act was sent to the Committees on Elections, Foreign Affairs and Judiciary that he hope his colleagues will see the proposal in a positive way and to continue the disenfranchisement of Liberians who are living in other countries legally.
Fallah Kparkar says all Liberians legally living in different countries should have the opportunity to vote in their embassies accredited near that country’s capital and that the National Elections Commission shall conduct voter registration for these Liberians at their embassies .
Drafters of the Act quotes article 5.1 of the New Electoral Reform Law of 2004 as their reliance which states: “ Except one who has been judicially declared to be incompetent or of unsound mind, or who has been barred from voting as a result of his/her conviction or imprisonment for an infamous crime which disenfranchises him as a voter and has not been restored to full citizenship, a Liberian citizen who has attained the age of 18 or above and a valid registration card may vote at any election in the voting precinct of the electoral district for which he/she is registered.”
Fallah Kparkar said all Liberians legally living in different countries should have the opportunity to vote in their embassies accredited near that country’s capital and that the National Elections Commission shall conduct voter registration for these Liberians at their embassies .
His remarks were clearly spelt out in section 5.2 of his proposed Act: “where to vote: a Liberian citizen who has attained the age of 18 years or above with a valid registration card shall vote only in the voting precinct in the electoral district for which he/she is registered”
“(B) A Liberian citizen in the Diaspora who has attained the age of 18 years or above with a valid registration card shall vote only in the Liberian Embassy of the country in which the voter resides and have gone through the registration process conducted by NEC in the same embassy.”
But some lawmakers are concern that Liberia might be lacking the technical capacity to conduct elections outside its borders at this time; but others also count on a recent successful process in Liberia in which Guineans residing in Liberia voted in their national elections.
The new recommendation is expected to raise new debate in the Legislature as some Liberians might struggle to define ‘what is the legal definition of people that are living in other parts of the world’.
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia –
Lofa County Lawmaker, Eugene Fallah Kparkar, has submitted a draft Legislation seeking legal permission for Liberians legally living in other countries to vote in elections in their country.
Fallah Kparkar says all Liberians legally living in different countries should have the opportunity to vote in their embassies accredited near that country’s capital and that the National Elections Commission shall conduct voter registration for these Liberians at their embassies .
Drafters of the Act quotes article 5.1 of the New Electoral Reform Law of 2004 as their reliance which states: “ Except one who has been judicially declared to be incompetent or of unsound mind, or who has been barred from voting as a result of his/her conviction or imprisonment for an infamous crime which disenfranchises him as a voter and has not been restored to full citizenship, a Liberian citizen who has attained the age of 18 or above and a valid registration card may vote at any election in the voting precinct of the electoral district for which he/she is registered.”
Fallah Kparkar said all Liberians legally living in different countries should have the opportunity to vote in their embassies accredited near that country’s capital and that the National Elections Commission shall conduct voter registration for these Liberians at their embassies .
His remarks were clearly spelt out in section 5.2 of his proposed Act: “where to vote: a Liberian citizen who has attained the age of 18 years or above with a valid registration card shall vote only in the voting precinct in the electoral district for which he/she is registered”
“(B) A Liberian citizen in the Diaspora who has attained the age of 18 years or above with a valid registration card shall vote only in the Liberian Embassy of the country in which the voter resides and have gone through the registration process conducted by NEC in the same embassy.”
But some lawmakers are concern that Liberia might be lacking the technical capacity to conduct elections outside its borders at this time; but others also count on a recent successful process in Liberia in which Guineans residing in Liberia voted in their national elections.
The new recommendation is expected to raise new debate in the Legislature as some Liberians might struggle to define ‘what is the legal definition of people that are living in other parts of the world’.
Sime Darby Company in criminal allegations
Written by Matthias Daffah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The multi-million dollar rubber concession company Sime Darby has been accused of criminally exploiting the former Guthrie Rubber Plantation.
Bomi County Representative Tarnue Cooper alleged the company which claims to have assets of 849-Million US dollars is still tapping the old rubber trees it inherited.
Representative Cooper alleged since its inception, Sime Darby has been paying workers from the meager latex obtained from the old rubber trees.
According to the Bomi lawmaker, workers who initially earned three hundred US dollars under the old management now earn fifty US dollars under Sime Darby.
The Senjeh District-Two Representative also accused the company of hiring drivers from Monrovia thus denying citizens of the area employment opportunity.
He said these hired drivers are usually given preferential treatment over their home-based counterpart something Representative Cooper described as unacceptable.
Meanwhile, Bomi County Representative Tarnue Cooper says Sime Darby is still using security people that resemble militia forces on the plantation.
He alleged the company has failed to implement its security program as provided for in the concession agreement.
All efforts to get a response from Government representative and Consultant at Sime Darby Boimah Soni failed as his phone rang endlessly.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The multi-million dollar rubber concession company Sime Darby has been accused of criminally exploiting the former Guthrie Rubber Plantation.
Bomi County Representative Tarnue Cooper alleged the company which claims to have assets of 849-Million US dollars is still tapping the old rubber trees it inherited.
Representative Cooper alleged since its inception, Sime Darby has been paying workers from the meager latex obtained from the old rubber trees.
According to the Bomi lawmaker, workers who initially earned three hundred US dollars under the old management now earn fifty US dollars under Sime Darby.
The Senjeh District-Two Representative also accused the company of hiring drivers from Monrovia thus denying citizens of the area employment opportunity.
He said these hired drivers are usually given preferential treatment over their home-based counterpart something Representative Cooper described as unacceptable.
Meanwhile, Bomi County Representative Tarnue Cooper says Sime Darby is still using security people that resemble militia forces on the plantation.
He alleged the company has failed to implement its security program as provided for in the concession agreement.
All efforts to get a response from Government representative and Consultant at Sime Darby Boimah Soni failed as his phone rang endlessly.
Legislature approves resolution to amend constitution
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Senate has finally concurred with the House of Representatives to approve a joint resolution to amend certain provisions of the 1986 Liberian Constitution.
In its session Tuesday, the Senate voted to concur with the House to amend Articles 52 (c), 72 (b), 83 (a) and (b).
The vote followed a report by the six-member conference committee chaired by Grand Gedeh Senator Isaac
Nyenabo.
The Senate endorsed the report for the controversial ten-year residency clause for the Presidency prior to election in Article 52 (c) to be reduced to five years.
Article 72 (b) which among others restricts judges of subordinate courts to retire at the age of seventy was amended for the judges to serve above seventy five years.
A change was also effected in the date of general voting contained in Article 83 (a) from the second Tuesday in October to the first Tuesday in November.
The Senate also agreed to amend Article 83 (b) to provide election of public officers not by absolute majority but by simple majority except for the Presidency.
The Chairman of the Senate’s conference Committee Isaac Nyenabo described the concurrence vote as a great day for Liberia.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Senate has finally concurred with the House of Representatives to approve a joint resolution to amend certain provisions of the 1986 Liberian Constitution.
In its session Tuesday, the Senate voted to concur with the House to amend Articles 52 (c), 72 (b), 83 (a) and (b).
The vote followed a report by the six-member conference committee chaired by Grand Gedeh Senator Isaac
Nyenabo.
The Senate endorsed the report for the controversial ten-year residency clause for the Presidency prior to election in Article 52 (c) to be reduced to five years.
Article 72 (b) which among others restricts judges of subordinate courts to retire at the age of seventy was amended for the judges to serve above seventy five years.
A change was also effected in the date of general voting contained in Article 83 (a) from the second Tuesday in October to the first Tuesday in November.
The Senate also agreed to amend Article 83 (b) to provide election of public officers not by absolute majority but by simple majority except for the Presidency.
The Chairman of the Senate’s conference Committee Isaac Nyenabo described the concurrence vote as a great day for Liberia.
Mass demolition of private homes claims House attention
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
An investigation is underway at the House of Representatives into government’s ongoing demolition exercises in Monrovia and its environs.
The investigation is a result of a letter by Montserrado District-two Representative Rufus Neufville drawing the House attention to the situation.
According to him, the ongoing demolition by the Public Works Ministry which is opening alleys and streets in and around Monrovia is problematic.
Representative Neufville said it was disturbing for concrete structures to be demolished without any notice and compensation for the occupants.
The letter sparked heated debate in the House with division emerging among the Representatives.
Lawmakers including Alomiza Ennos, Reginal Teah, Koukou Dorbor, Edwin Snowe of Montserrado and Eugene Fallah Kparkar of Lofa supported the letter.
However, Representatives Haja Fatta Siryon of Bomi, Moses Kollie of Lofa and Elijah Seah of River Gee and Zoe Pennue of Grand Gedeh objected to the letter.
They argued that the occupants were given prior notice and that they have been reluctant to leave.
Amidst the division, the House summoned Public works Minister Kofi Woods to appear before its appropriate committee on Thursday for clarification.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
An investigation is underway at the House of Representatives into government’s ongoing demolition exercises in Monrovia and its environs.
The investigation is a result of a letter by Montserrado District-two Representative Rufus Neufville drawing the House attention to the situation.
According to him, the ongoing demolition by the Public Works Ministry which is opening alleys and streets in and around Monrovia is problematic.
Representative Neufville said it was disturbing for concrete structures to be demolished without any notice and compensation for the occupants.
The letter sparked heated debate in the House with division emerging among the Representatives.
Lawmakers including Alomiza Ennos, Reginal Teah, Koukou Dorbor, Edwin Snowe of Montserrado and Eugene Fallah Kparkar of Lofa supported the letter.
However, Representatives Haja Fatta Siryon of Bomi, Moses Kollie of Lofa and Elijah Seah of River Gee and Zoe Pennue of Grand Gedeh objected to the letter.
They argued that the occupants were given prior notice and that they have been reluctant to leave.
Amidst the division, the House summoned Public works Minister Kofi Woods to appear before its appropriate committee on Thursday for clarification.
Liberia/China US$ 8.6 million deal backfires
Written by Julius Kanubah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The House of Representatives has ordered an investigation into an 8.6 million US dollars contract signed between Liberia and a Chinese firm.
The contract relates to the renovation of the dilapidated hotel building at the SKD Sports Complex in Paynesville.
The investigation by the House was triggered by a protest letter by Grand Gedeh Representative Zoe Pennue.
Representative Pennue claimed the contract was dubiously signed because it did go through the public procurement and concession commission’s laws.
According to him, it was important for the House to look at the agreement to ensure transparency and accountability.
In its session Tuesday, the House voted in majority to constitute a special committee to investigate the agreement.
The Committee comprises Montserrado Representative Koukou Dorbor, Chairperson, and Grand Gedeh lawmaker Kai Farley, Co-chair.
The membership includes Vinicious Hodges of Grand Bassa, Evans Koah of Nimba and the newly seated River Gee Representative Christian Chea.
Our reporter says the inclusion of lawmaker Chea on the committee came hours after he took the oath to defend and protect the Constitution of Liberia.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The House of Representatives has ordered an investigation into an 8.6 million US dollars contract signed between Liberia and a Chinese firm.
The contract relates to the renovation of the dilapidated hotel building at the SKD Sports Complex in Paynesville.
The investigation by the House was triggered by a protest letter by Grand Gedeh Representative Zoe Pennue.
Representative Pennue claimed the contract was dubiously signed because it did go through the public procurement and concession commission’s laws.
According to him, it was important for the House to look at the agreement to ensure transparency and accountability.
In its session Tuesday, the House voted in majority to constitute a special committee to investigate the agreement.
The Committee comprises Montserrado Representative Koukou Dorbor, Chairperson, and Grand Gedeh lawmaker Kai Farley, Co-chair.
The membership includes Vinicious Hodges of Grand Bassa, Evans Koah of Nimba and the newly seated River Gee Representative Christian Chea.
Our reporter says the inclusion of lawmaker Chea on the committee came hours after he took the oath to defend and protect the Constitution of Liberia.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
President orders ‘illegal’ Ducor residents to vacate, PLUS Ambassador to the United States Nathaniel Barnes refused to go to Liberia despite being ordered by the Liberian President to report.
Written by Robert J. Clarke, Jr.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has again called on people she considers illegal occupants of the premises of the Ducor Intercontinental Hotel to vacate.
Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio told reporters the President has asked the occupants to take advantage of the relocation plan offered by government.
Mr. Badio said renovation work on the hotel will soon begin and government wants to ensure that the work is not hindered.
Meanwhile, the Executive Mansion says it has not received its Ambassador to the United States Nathaniel Barnes despite being ordered to report.
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf last week recalled Ambassador Barnes from the US for what the Mansion calls consultation.
The Presidential Press Secretary told reporters it may take less than a month for the return of the recalled Ambassador.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has again called on people she considers illegal occupants of the premises of the Ducor Intercontinental Hotel to vacate.
Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio told reporters the President has asked the occupants to take advantage of the relocation plan offered by government.
Mr. Badio said renovation work on the hotel will soon begin and government wants to ensure that the work is not hindered.
Meanwhile, the Executive Mansion says it has not received its Ambassador to the United States Nathaniel Barnes despite being ordered to report.
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf last week recalled Ambassador Barnes from the US for what the Mansion calls consultation.
The Presidential Press Secretary told reporters it may take less than a month for the return of the recalled Ambassador.
WAEC mass failures claim of education officials’ attention
Written by Hilary Vasco Wiagbe
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Education Ministry says it is concerned about report of mass failure of senior high school students in this year’s West African Examination Council exams.
The Deputy Minister of Education for Instruction said statistics indicates that the general performance of students has dropped.
Deputy Mnister Mator Kpangbai told the news conference Monday the general performance of students dropped from seventy eight per cent in 2008 to seventy six percent in 2009.
He named poor quality of instruction in schools as one of the underlying factors responsible for the mass failure of students.
The Deputy Education Minister however disclosed the ministry has instituted several measures to improve the quality of instruction in the school system.
He identified the measures as prioritizing teachers’ development and realignment of the existing curriculum with other WAEC member countries.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
The Education Ministry says it is concerned about report of mass failure of senior high school students in this year’s West African Examination Council exams.
The Deputy Minister of Education for Instruction said statistics indicates that the general performance of students has dropped.
Deputy Mnister Mator Kpangbai told the news conference Monday the general performance of students dropped from seventy eight per cent in 2008 to seventy six percent in 2009.
He named poor quality of instruction in schools as one of the underlying factors responsible for the mass failure of students.
The Deputy Education Minister however disclosed the ministry has instituted several measures to improve the quality of instruction in the school system.
He identified the measures as prioritizing teachers’ development and realignment of the existing curriculum with other WAEC member countries.
Campbell agent denies lying over Taylor diamonds 'gift'
Source: BBC Africa News
Courtenay Griffiths: "Miss White, I suggest that your account is a complete pack of lies"
The former agent of supermodel Naomi Campbell has denied lying in her testimony at the war crimes trial of ex-Liberian President Charles Taylor.
Under cross examination, Carole White repeated allegations that Ms Campbell received diamonds from Mr Taylor after a dinner in South Africa in 1997.
Defence counsel Courtenay Griffiths called her account "a complete pack of lies" made up to assist a lawsuit over breach of contract with Ms Campbell.
"It's not a lie," Ms White said.
Charles Taylor
The former agent is suing Ms Campbell for breach of contract, claiming that the model owes her about $600,000 (£375,000) in lost earnings over the past two years.
"Put bluntly," said Mr Griffiths, "For you this is all about money, there ain't nothing funny."
Ms White responded by saying: "I can categorically tell you, this happened. I told people about it after the journey, people that I trusted. It was quite funny at the time. It's not so funny now."
"It has nothing whatsoever to do with my business argument with Naomi Campbell," Ms White added. "This is not about money. This is about a very serious matter and I am telling the truth."
Blood diamonds
Mr Taylor is standing trial at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, sitting in The Hague.
He faces 11 charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, all of which he denies, over his alleged role in the brutal civil war in Sierra Leone, where he is accused of backing rebels responsible for widespread atrocities.
'Blood diamonds'
• Rough diamonds used by rebel groups to finance wars against governments
• Fuelled conflicts in countries such as Angola, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone and DR Congo
• The 2003 Kimberley Process requires its 49 members, who represent 75 countries, to certify shipments of rough diamonds as "conflict-free"
• Critics question the system, saying countries with the worst wars have weak internal controls
Mr Taylor is accused of selling diamonds and buying weapons for Sierra Leone's Revolutionary United Front rebels, who were notorious for hacking off the hands and legs of civilians.
Tens of thousands of people died in interlinked conflicts in Sierra Leone and Liberia in the 1980s and 1990s.
Prosecutors are trying to link the former Liberian leader to the diamonds that Ms Campbell received. He has denied having anything to do with the trade in so-called blood diamonds.
On Monday, Carole White told the court that during a dinner with Nelson Mandela, Mr Taylor told Ms Campbell he would send some men to her guest house to give her diamonds.
Afterwards, she said Ms Campbell was communicating with the men by text and was "very excited" about the diamonds arrival.
Her account contradicted Ms Campbell, who last week testified that she had received the diamonds unexpectedly and did not know who they were from.
'Taylor nodded'
During cross examination, Mr Griffiths queried Ms White's recollection of the dinner and the events afterwards at the guest house.
Carole White said Mr Taylor 'nodded' to indicate that he would give diamonds to Naomi Campbell
The defence lawyer repeatedly asked Ms White how she could be sure that the diamonds were gifts from Mr Taylor.
Ms White told the court she did not hear Mr Taylor directly offering Ms Campbell diamonds at the dinner table.
Instead, she said that Mr Taylor "nodded to Naomi" in agreement when she said "he's going to give me diamonds".
Mr Griffiths then asked Ms White why she thought that two men who came to her guest house to give Miss Campbell a pouch of rough diamonds were sent by Mr Taylor.
"When the men arrived you say they threw pebbles at your window and you looked out. Did the men say they had come from Charles Taylor?" asked Mr Griffiths.
"Not that I recall. They said they had a gift for Miss Campbell," replied Ms White.
"So you assumed they were from Charles Taylor?" said Mr Griffths.
"Yes," said Ms White.
'No recollection'
Last week, Ms Campbell told the court that two unidentified men had come to her room in the middle of the night and given her a pouch of stones.
She said: "At breakfast I told [actress] Mia Farrow and Miss White what had happened and one of the two said, well that's obviously Charles Taylor, and I said, yes I guess it was."
Campbell: 'I saw a few dirty looking stones in the pouch'
But in court today Ms White said she had "no recollection of having breakfast with Mia Farrow".
"Do you recall having breakfast with Naomi Campbell?" asked the presiding judge, Julia Sebutinde.
"I don't recall breakfast at all," Ms White replied.
Mr Taylor, 62, was arrested in 2006 and his trial in opened in 2007.
The former warlord is accused of arming Sierra Leone's Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels during the 1991-2002 civil war - a charge he denies.
Prosecutors say that from his seat of power in Liberia, Mr Taylor also trained and commanded the rebels who murdered, raped and maimed Sierra Leone civilians, frequently hacking off their hands and legs.
Mr Taylor's trial gained little international media coverage until the appearance of Ms Campbell.
Courtenay Griffiths: "Miss White, I suggest that your account is a complete pack of lies"
The former agent of supermodel Naomi Campbell has denied lying in her testimony at the war crimes trial of ex-Liberian President Charles Taylor.
Under cross examination, Carole White repeated allegations that Ms Campbell received diamonds from Mr Taylor after a dinner in South Africa in 1997.
Defence counsel Courtenay Griffiths called her account "a complete pack of lies" made up to assist a lawsuit over breach of contract with Ms Campbell.
"It's not a lie," Ms White said.
Charles Taylor
The former agent is suing Ms Campbell for breach of contract, claiming that the model owes her about $600,000 (£375,000) in lost earnings over the past two years.
"Put bluntly," said Mr Griffiths, "For you this is all about money, there ain't nothing funny."
Ms White responded by saying: "I can categorically tell you, this happened. I told people about it after the journey, people that I trusted. It was quite funny at the time. It's not so funny now."
"It has nothing whatsoever to do with my business argument with Naomi Campbell," Ms White added. "This is not about money. This is about a very serious matter and I am telling the truth."
Blood diamonds
Mr Taylor is standing trial at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, sitting in The Hague.
He faces 11 charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, all of which he denies, over his alleged role in the brutal civil war in Sierra Leone, where he is accused of backing rebels responsible for widespread atrocities.
'Blood diamonds'
• Rough diamonds used by rebel groups to finance wars against governments
• Fuelled conflicts in countries such as Angola, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone and DR Congo
• The 2003 Kimberley Process requires its 49 members, who represent 75 countries, to certify shipments of rough diamonds as "conflict-free"
• Critics question the system, saying countries with the worst wars have weak internal controls
Mr Taylor is accused of selling diamonds and buying weapons for Sierra Leone's Revolutionary United Front rebels, who were notorious for hacking off the hands and legs of civilians.
Tens of thousands of people died in interlinked conflicts in Sierra Leone and Liberia in the 1980s and 1990s.
Prosecutors are trying to link the former Liberian leader to the diamonds that Ms Campbell received. He has denied having anything to do with the trade in so-called blood diamonds.
On Monday, Carole White told the court that during a dinner with Nelson Mandela, Mr Taylor told Ms Campbell he would send some men to her guest house to give her diamonds.
Afterwards, she said Ms Campbell was communicating with the men by text and was "very excited" about the diamonds arrival.
Her account contradicted Ms Campbell, who last week testified that she had received the diamonds unexpectedly and did not know who they were from.
'Taylor nodded'
During cross examination, Mr Griffiths queried Ms White's recollection of the dinner and the events afterwards at the guest house.
Carole White said Mr Taylor 'nodded' to indicate that he would give diamonds to Naomi Campbell
The defence lawyer repeatedly asked Ms White how she could be sure that the diamonds were gifts from Mr Taylor.
Ms White told the court she did not hear Mr Taylor directly offering Ms Campbell diamonds at the dinner table.
Instead, she said that Mr Taylor "nodded to Naomi" in agreement when she said "he's going to give me diamonds".
Mr Griffiths then asked Ms White why she thought that two men who came to her guest house to give Miss Campbell a pouch of rough diamonds were sent by Mr Taylor.
"When the men arrived you say they threw pebbles at your window and you looked out. Did the men say they had come from Charles Taylor?" asked Mr Griffiths.
"Not that I recall. They said they had a gift for Miss Campbell," replied Ms White.
"So you assumed they were from Charles Taylor?" said Mr Griffths.
"Yes," said Ms White.
'No recollection'
Last week, Ms Campbell told the court that two unidentified men had come to her room in the middle of the night and given her a pouch of stones.
She said: "At breakfast I told [actress] Mia Farrow and Miss White what had happened and one of the two said, well that's obviously Charles Taylor, and I said, yes I guess it was."
Campbell: 'I saw a few dirty looking stones in the pouch'
But in court today Ms White said she had "no recollection of having breakfast with Mia Farrow".
"Do you recall having breakfast with Naomi Campbell?" asked the presiding judge, Julia Sebutinde.
"I don't recall breakfast at all," Ms White replied.
Mr Taylor, 62, was arrested in 2006 and his trial in opened in 2007.
The former warlord is accused of arming Sierra Leone's Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels during the 1991-2002 civil war - a charge he denies.
Prosecutors say that from his seat of power in Liberia, Mr Taylor also trained and commanded the rebels who murdered, raped and maimed Sierra Leone civilians, frequently hacking off their hands and legs.
Mr Taylor's trial gained little international media coverage until the appearance of Ms Campbell.
KEEPING THE LIBERIAN GOVERNMENT HONEST
IS THIS THE FUTURE YOU HAVE FOR OUR CHILDREN? THE LIBERIA BUREAU OF MARITIME AFFAIRS HAVING THE AUTHORITY TO BORROW BEYOND ITS MEANS THROUGHT DEFICIT SPENDING. THE AUTHORITY HAVING REVENUE OF $10 MILLION CAN BORROW $15 MILLION TO MEET ITS EXPENDITURE. THAT’S THE KIND OF EXPENDITURE THAT EXPLAINS INDEBTING FUTURE GENERATIONS OF LIBERIA FOR MANY YEARS TO COME. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! STOP PUTTING LIBERIA FUTURE IN DEBTS THAT OUR CHILDREN AND THEIR CHIDREN MIGHT NOT BE ABLE TO PAY OFF.
AN OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT OF LIBERIA
Written by Abraham Hoff
Chief Community Organizer of LEAD Liberia
H.E. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
LEAD Liberia believes that the Maritime Authority Act is a regulatory set-up for indebting our beloved country (Liberia), plundering our natural resources and promoting financial irresponsibility in Liberia—with that being said, we are calling upon the President of Liberia, H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to veto the Maritime Authority Act because it is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia).
According to Frontpageafrica.com, this week Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is expected to sign a revised version of the Liberian Maritime Authority Act which brought in a storm of criticism and international rebuke within the past 10 days for it sweeping grant of powers, mainly dubious, to an unelected body. LEAD Liberia believes it is absurd to give the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners of the Authority immunity from prosecution or lawsuits under this Act in the performance and execution of their duties as Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners and in carrying out any other governmental functions proscribed under the Liberian Maritime Laws and Regulations, provided the actions of said officers and employees are not determined to be negligent or criminal in nature. NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW.
This generation has decided to give the status quo a “generation retirement check. We need a government that leads with trust and integrity thereby siding with the Liberian people. The people have had enough of the same old--fake politicians who are doing nothing positive but stealing taxpayer money from government’s coffers, taking bribe, committing fraud and engaging in waste and corrupt activities, while depleting the country natural resources. The people have had enough of the status quo who have not done an effective job of understanding what our natural resources are [whether they are renewable or not]. The people have had enough of the status quo because they lack fresh ideas and the torch must be passed to the next generation. If not us WHO? If not now WENT?
The status quo said all is well in Liberia; however, as we travel across Liberia we know that all isn't well because parents are struggling to fee their children--not talking about sending them to school--the youth like me-who have to struggle and make it against all odds are struggling to make end meats, not talking about gaining high school education and/or higher education. Today, we don’t have to take a survey to know that all is not well across Liberia. In fact, my story today is part of the larger Liberian’s story. My story here today is pretty unlikely. My family is not part of the elite class and the well connected in Liberia.
Through the help of God and hard work in school, I got a double promotion from seventh grade to eighth grade. Unfortunately, I was unable to enroll for that semester because my uncle, Josiah did not have the financial standing to send me to school and there were no scholarships for students who do well in schools. I was required to pay my school fees before returning to school for that semester. Therefore, I did not attend school for that semester. I ended up selling boiled eggs from Rally Town Market to Water Side Market; from Mamba Point to Broad Street just to help my uncle and his wife paid for my primary education. I grew up selling plastic bags from Rally Town Market to Water Side Market just to help my uncle and his wife paid for my tuition in primary school. In addition, I carried bags of coal on my head from Rally Town Market to people houses just to earn money for other fees in school—this shouldn’t be in Liberia. My story today is part of the larger Liberian’s story.
These corrupt politicians said all is well in Liberia. Today, the Liberian people are the ones doing the lifting while their elected officials are standing on the sideline to watch ordinary Liberians build schools and pay teachers out of their own pocket. I am talking about the schools the government supposed to build and the teachers the government supposed to pay. I am talking about the same people who destroyed our beloved country because of greed and personal agenda. I am talking about the status quo who have had majority in both the Senate and the House without implanting a single appropriation bill that benefits the struggling people of Liberia. OH they have forsaken the struggling people that got them elected in the first place. But now election is around the corner and they are back with their same old promises and policies--LIFT Liberia and/or New Beginning. We have decided to give the status quo a “generation retirement check. They must pass the torch to the next generation and if Not Us WHO? If Not Now WENT?
These people are out of touch with reality, because if they were not…they who have understand the many problems ordinary Liberians are facing day by day….They who have understand the situations of the young boys and girls who are struggling by the day to earn a high school diploma and/or end meats….some are even selling boiled eggs and plastic bags on the streets to pay for fees in schools….while others are towering bags of fire coal on their heads and engaging in child labor and other immoral acts to support themselves and their families--the youth like me-who have to struggle and make it through primary and secondary schools against all odds. However, our government officials are seeking immunity from prosecution or lawsuits under the Maritime Authority Act, this shouldn’t be in Liberia.
Today, my fellow Liberians, I am calling upon you to give the status quo a “generation retirement check. Today, my fellow Liberians, I calling upon you to tell the status quo as President, Barack Obama said, “Not this year--Not this time. Today Liberians, let’s us come together and tell our so-call politicians and the status quo ‘Not this election and not in this generation. The choice is clear and the time is now, so help us God.
Thank you and May God bless the Republic of Liberia.
LEAD Organizing For Liberia
Abraham Hoff, Chief Community Organizer
077384990 leadliberia@yahoo.com
AN OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT OF LIBERIA
Written by Abraham Hoff
Chief Community Organizer of LEAD Liberia
H.E. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
LEAD Liberia believes that the Maritime Authority Act is a regulatory set-up for indebting our beloved country (Liberia), plundering our natural resources and promoting financial irresponsibility in Liberia—with that being said, we are calling upon the President of Liberia, H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to veto the Maritime Authority Act because it is not in the national interest of our beloved country (Liberia).
According to Frontpageafrica.com, this week Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is expected to sign a revised version of the Liberian Maritime Authority Act which brought in a storm of criticism and international rebuke within the past 10 days for it sweeping grant of powers, mainly dubious, to an unelected body. LEAD Liberia believes it is absurd to give the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners of the Authority immunity from prosecution or lawsuits under this Act in the performance and execution of their duties as Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners and in carrying out any other governmental functions proscribed under the Liberian Maritime Laws and Regulations, provided the actions of said officers and employees are not determined to be negligent or criminal in nature. NO ONE IS ABOVE THE LAW.
This generation has decided to give the status quo a “generation retirement check. We need a government that leads with trust and integrity thereby siding with the Liberian people. The people have had enough of the same old--fake politicians who are doing nothing positive but stealing taxpayer money from government’s coffers, taking bribe, committing fraud and engaging in waste and corrupt activities, while depleting the country natural resources. The people have had enough of the status quo who have not done an effective job of understanding what our natural resources are [whether they are renewable or not]. The people have had enough of the status quo because they lack fresh ideas and the torch must be passed to the next generation. If not us WHO? If not now WENT?
The status quo said all is well in Liberia; however, as we travel across Liberia we know that all isn't well because parents are struggling to fee their children--not talking about sending them to school--the youth like me-who have to struggle and make it against all odds are struggling to make end meats, not talking about gaining high school education and/or higher education. Today, we don’t have to take a survey to know that all is not well across Liberia. In fact, my story today is part of the larger Liberian’s story. My story here today is pretty unlikely. My family is not part of the elite class and the well connected in Liberia.
Through the help of God and hard work in school, I got a double promotion from seventh grade to eighth grade. Unfortunately, I was unable to enroll for that semester because my uncle, Josiah did not have the financial standing to send me to school and there were no scholarships for students who do well in schools. I was required to pay my school fees before returning to school for that semester. Therefore, I did not attend school for that semester. I ended up selling boiled eggs from Rally Town Market to Water Side Market; from Mamba Point to Broad Street just to help my uncle and his wife paid for my primary education. I grew up selling plastic bags from Rally Town Market to Water Side Market just to help my uncle and his wife paid for my tuition in primary school. In addition, I carried bags of coal on my head from Rally Town Market to people houses just to earn money for other fees in school—this shouldn’t be in Liberia. My story today is part of the larger Liberian’s story.
These corrupt politicians said all is well in Liberia. Today, the Liberian people are the ones doing the lifting while their elected officials are standing on the sideline to watch ordinary Liberians build schools and pay teachers out of their own pocket. I am talking about the schools the government supposed to build and the teachers the government supposed to pay. I am talking about the same people who destroyed our beloved country because of greed and personal agenda. I am talking about the status quo who have had majority in both the Senate and the House without implanting a single appropriation bill that benefits the struggling people of Liberia. OH they have forsaken the struggling people that got them elected in the first place. But now election is around the corner and they are back with their same old promises and policies--LIFT Liberia and/or New Beginning. We have decided to give the status quo a “generation retirement check. They must pass the torch to the next generation and if Not Us WHO? If Not Now WENT?
These people are out of touch with reality, because if they were not…they who have understand the many problems ordinary Liberians are facing day by day….They who have understand the situations of the young boys and girls who are struggling by the day to earn a high school diploma and/or end meats….some are even selling boiled eggs and plastic bags on the streets to pay for fees in schools….while others are towering bags of fire coal on their heads and engaging in child labor and other immoral acts to support themselves and their families--the youth like me-who have to struggle and make it through primary and secondary schools against all odds. However, our government officials are seeking immunity from prosecution or lawsuits under the Maritime Authority Act, this shouldn’t be in Liberia.
Today, my fellow Liberians, I am calling upon you to give the status quo a “generation retirement check. Today, my fellow Liberians, I calling upon you to tell the status quo as President, Barack Obama said, “Not this year--Not this time. Today Liberians, let’s us come together and tell our so-call politicians and the status quo ‘Not this election and not in this generation. The choice is clear and the time is now, so help us God.
Thank you and May God bless the Republic of Liberia.
LEAD Organizing For Liberia
Abraham Hoff, Chief Community Organizer
077384990 leadliberia@yahoo.com
Monday, August 9, 2010
Charles Taylor 'gave Naomi Campbell diamonds'
Carole White's testimony took most of the afternoon
Source: BBC
Ex-Liberian President Charles Taylor gave Naomi Campbell diamonds after a 1997 dinner in South Africa, the supermodel's former agent Carole White has told Mr Taylor's war-crimes trial.
She said Mr Taylor had promised the model the diamonds during the meal.
The account contradicts evidence given by Ms Campbell, who said she did not know who had given her the gems.
Prosecutors say Mr Taylor traded with rebels in Sierra Leone, giving them weapons in return for diamonds.
Tens of thousands of people died in interlinked conflicts in Sierra Leone and Liberia in the 1980s and 1990s.
Charles Taylor
Mr Taylor denies 11 charges at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, sitting in The Hague, and he has denied having anything to do with the trade in so-called blood diamonds.
According to Ms White, Mr Taylor and Ms Campbell had been "mildly flirtatious" with each other at the 1997 dinner in South Africa, hosted by Nelson Mandela who was the country's president at the time.
Mr Taylor told the supermodel during dinner that he would send some men to give her diamonds, Ms White told the hearing.
"We were sitting around this lounge area at about 10 o'clock at night and we were waiting for these men to arrive," Ms White said.
"She was in communication with them by phone - most likely by text. Someone was informing her that the car was nearly there."
'Surprise gift'
Ms White said Ms Campbell was "very excited" about the diamonds.
"The guys came in and they sat down in the lounge and we sat opposite them... they then took out a quite scruffy paper and they handed it to Miss Campbell and said 'these are the diamonds'," she said.
'Blood diamonds'
• Rough diamonds used by rebel groups to finance wars against governments
• Fuelled conflicts in countries such as Angola, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone and DR Congo
• The 2003 Kimberley Process requires its 49 members, who represent 75 countries, to certify shipments of rough diamonds as "conflict-free"
• Critics question the system, saying countries with the worst wars have weak internal controls
"She opened them and showed them to me. They were quite disappointing because they weren't shiny."
Earlier on Monday, US actress Mia Farrow, who was at the dinner, had also testified that Ms Campbell had been excited by the gift.
Last week, Ms Campbell told the hearing that two men had come into her room in the middle of the night and given her a pouch of stones, and that she did not know who had given her the gift.
She told the court she had given the stones to Jeremy Ractliffe of the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund the next morning because she wanted them to go to charity.
Mr Ractliffe has now handed the gems to police, and on Sunday they confirmed that the stones were real diamonds.
Mr Taylor, 62, was arrested in 2006 and his trial in opened in 2007.
The former warlord is accused of arming Sierra Leone's Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels during the 1991-2002 civil war - a charge he denies.
Prosecutors say that from his seat of power in Liberia, Mr Taylor also trained and commanded the rebels who murdered, raped and maimed Sierra Leone civilians, frequently hacking off their hands and legs.
The Sierra Leone war became notorious for the widespread use of child soldiers.
Source: BBC
Ex-Liberian President Charles Taylor gave Naomi Campbell diamonds after a 1997 dinner in South Africa, the supermodel's former agent Carole White has told Mr Taylor's war-crimes trial.She said Mr Taylor had promised the model the diamonds during the meal.
The account contradicts evidence given by Ms Campbell, who said she did not know who had given her the gems.
Prosecutors say Mr Taylor traded with rebels in Sierra Leone, giving them weapons in return for diamonds.
Tens of thousands of people died in interlinked conflicts in Sierra Leone and Liberia in the 1980s and 1990s.
Charles Taylor
Mr Taylor denies 11 charges at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, sitting in The Hague, and he has denied having anything to do with the trade in so-called blood diamonds.
According to Ms White, Mr Taylor and Ms Campbell had been "mildly flirtatious" with each other at the 1997 dinner in South Africa, hosted by Nelson Mandela who was the country's president at the time.
Mr Taylor told the supermodel during dinner that he would send some men to give her diamonds, Ms White told the hearing.
"We were sitting around this lounge area at about 10 o'clock at night and we were waiting for these men to arrive," Ms White said.
"She was in communication with them by phone - most likely by text. Someone was informing her that the car was nearly there."
'Surprise gift'
Ms White said Ms Campbell was "very excited" about the diamonds.
"The guys came in and they sat down in the lounge and we sat opposite them... they then took out a quite scruffy paper and they handed it to Miss Campbell and said 'these are the diamonds'," she said.
'Blood diamonds'
• Rough diamonds used by rebel groups to finance wars against governments
• Fuelled conflicts in countries such as Angola, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone and DR Congo
• The 2003 Kimberley Process requires its 49 members, who represent 75 countries, to certify shipments of rough diamonds as "conflict-free"
• Critics question the system, saying countries with the worst wars have weak internal controls
"She opened them and showed them to me. They were quite disappointing because they weren't shiny."
Earlier on Monday, US actress Mia Farrow, who was at the dinner, had also testified that Ms Campbell had been excited by the gift.
Last week, Ms Campbell told the hearing that two men had come into her room in the middle of the night and given her a pouch of stones, and that she did not know who had given her the gift.
She told the court she had given the stones to Jeremy Ractliffe of the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund the next morning because she wanted them to go to charity.
Mr Ractliffe has now handed the gems to police, and on Sunday they confirmed that the stones were real diamonds.
Mr Taylor, 62, was arrested in 2006 and his trial in opened in 2007.
The former warlord is accused of arming Sierra Leone's Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels during the 1991-2002 civil war - a charge he denies.
Prosecutors say that from his seat of power in Liberia, Mr Taylor also trained and commanded the rebels who murdered, raped and maimed Sierra Leone civilians, frequently hacking off their hands and legs.
The Sierra Leone war became notorious for the widespread use of child soldiers.
Nigeria: How Obasanjo, Sirleaf-Johnson Betrayed Taylor - Fani-Kayode
Iyobosa Uwugiaren
Source: allafrica.com
______________________________________
ANALYSIS
Abuja — Amidst controversy over the ongoing trial of former Liberian president, Charles Taylor, at the International Court of Criminal Justice, The Hague, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, former presidential spokesman, has described Taylor as "a man betrayed".
Fani-Kayode, a former minister of Aviation, who blamed his former boss, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Liberian president Sirleaf-Johnson and the United States for Taylor's present predicament said, "This was the betrayal of the century."
In a statement entitled, 'Charles Taylor, Naomi Campbell, Blood Diamonds And A Man Betrayed', Chief Fani-Kayode said the agreement with Taylor - not to do anything to him - was put in place before President Sirleaf-Johnson was elected and she was fully aware of its terms from day one.
According to him: "This was the betrayal of the century and, in my view, those that should have known better panicked at the last minute and broke ranks.
"Ironically, the real traitor was not Obasanjo, but rather President Sirleaf-Johnson of Liberia. The agreement with Taylor was put in place before she was elected, but she was fully aware of its terms from day one. She was actually the American and Nigerian candidate for that election and she worked very closely with the Americans, Obasanjo and Nigeria before she was elected to power."
Chief Fani-Kayode, who was a member of former President Obasanjo's kitchen cabinet said that the deal with Taylor was that he (Taylor) would be persuaded to step down as president of Liberia by the ECOWAS leaders and the African Union and would be given a "safe haven" in Nigeria after doing so.
Fani-Kayode added: "He (Taylor) would not be harassed; he would not face prosecution in Liberia, Sierra Leone, or at the International Court at The Hague and Nigeria would not be pressured or harassed by anyone to extradite him to anywhere.
"On his part, Taylor was expected to live quietly in Calabar with his relatives, under the direct supervision and care of Donald Duke, the then governor of Cross River State and he was to stay out of Liberian politics and not in any way interfere with what was going on over there."
He said African leaders - including Chief Obasanjo-endorsed the agreement and seven African leaders later went to Liberia and accompanied Taylor to Nigeria, which was to be his new home and final point of destination for many years and possibly the rest of his life.
The former special assistant (Public Affairs) to Obasanjo added that it was the deal with Taylor that led to a free and fair election in Liberia, which brought President Sirleaf-Johnson to power.
"However, after the lady came to power everything changed. She ditched Obasanjo and Nigeria, turned her back on the ECOWAS leaders and the African Union and she became even closer to Bush and the Americans," Fani-Kayode added.
He said Taylor's present problems started when Obasanjo went on a state visit to America and Bush put suffocating pressure on him to release Taylor to enable him face criminal trial.
Fani-Kayode said that although his former boss fought the matter out long and hard, he later succumbed to pressure from the US and President Sirleaf-Johnson of Liberia.
He said Obasanjo should have resisted the pressure, because all African leaders at that time were supported him on the matter.
Source: allafrica.com
______________________________________
ANALYSIS
Abuja — Amidst controversy over the ongoing trial of former Liberian president, Charles Taylor, at the International Court of Criminal Justice, The Hague, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, former presidential spokesman, has described Taylor as "a man betrayed".
Fani-Kayode, a former minister of Aviation, who blamed his former boss, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Liberian president Sirleaf-Johnson and the United States for Taylor's present predicament said, "This was the betrayal of the century."
In a statement entitled, 'Charles Taylor, Naomi Campbell, Blood Diamonds And A Man Betrayed', Chief Fani-Kayode said the agreement with Taylor - not to do anything to him - was put in place before President Sirleaf-Johnson was elected and she was fully aware of its terms from day one.
According to him: "This was the betrayal of the century and, in my view, those that should have known better panicked at the last minute and broke ranks.
"Ironically, the real traitor was not Obasanjo, but rather President Sirleaf-Johnson of Liberia. The agreement with Taylor was put in place before she was elected, but she was fully aware of its terms from day one. She was actually the American and Nigerian candidate for that election and she worked very closely with the Americans, Obasanjo and Nigeria before she was elected to power."
Chief Fani-Kayode, who was a member of former President Obasanjo's kitchen cabinet said that the deal with Taylor was that he (Taylor) would be persuaded to step down as president of Liberia by the ECOWAS leaders and the African Union and would be given a "safe haven" in Nigeria after doing so.
Fani-Kayode added: "He (Taylor) would not be harassed; he would not face prosecution in Liberia, Sierra Leone, or at the International Court at The Hague and Nigeria would not be pressured or harassed by anyone to extradite him to anywhere.
"On his part, Taylor was expected to live quietly in Calabar with his relatives, under the direct supervision and care of Donald Duke, the then governor of Cross River State and he was to stay out of Liberian politics and not in any way interfere with what was going on over there."
He said African leaders - including Chief Obasanjo-endorsed the agreement and seven African leaders later went to Liberia and accompanied Taylor to Nigeria, which was to be his new home and final point of destination for many years and possibly the rest of his life.
The former special assistant (Public Affairs) to Obasanjo added that it was the deal with Taylor that led to a free and fair election in Liberia, which brought President Sirleaf-Johnson to power.
"However, after the lady came to power everything changed. She ditched Obasanjo and Nigeria, turned her back on the ECOWAS leaders and the African Union and she became even closer to Bush and the Americans," Fani-Kayode added.
He said Taylor's present problems started when Obasanjo went on a state visit to America and Bush put suffocating pressure on him to release Taylor to enable him face criminal trial.
Fani-Kayode said that although his former boss fought the matter out long and hard, he later succumbed to pressure from the US and President Sirleaf-Johnson of Liberia.
He said Obasanjo should have resisted the pressure, because all African leaders at that time were supported him on the matter.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Joint Resolution: End in Itself or Catalyst
Source: The Analyst
Written by The Analyst Staff Writer
The government of Liberia issued a legislative Joint Resolution reinforcing existing electoral guidelines and constitutional provisions – despite irreconcilable demographic shifts due to war and slow postwar recovery – to apply in the 2011 general and presidential elections.
ICGL Says ‘Catalyst’; Calls for Accelerated Efforts
The resolution is a compromise intended to get around the current impasse between the Legislature and the Executive on the allocation of the population-per-electoral district ratio, a necessary condition for the holding of the 2011 elections, constitutionally.
Proponents say that solves the dilemma between having an election without legal constituent demarcations and having one with a legal guarantor of a sort.
But not many agree – amongst them is the International Contact Group on Liberia (ICGL), a cardinal stakeholder in the Liberian recovery process. This brings to the front burner the question of whether the Joint Resolution should be an end in itself (a temporary substitute for the Threshold Act) or a catalyst for more legislative enactments prior to Elections 2011. The Analyst, reports.
The ICGL, though took note of the signing of the legislative Joint Resolution last week, has urged the National Legislature to move quickly to reinforce relevant portions of the Constitution in time for the holding of referendums required for the legal conduct of the 2011 presidential and general elections.
Intent of Legislative Joint Resolution
President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf signed into law a Joint Resolution of the National Legislature, which from all considerations the government intended to be an end in itself – providing the legal framework for the conduct of the 2011 general and presidential elections.
“The issue of setting the Electoral Threshold has dragged on for two long. It may not be the best document but certainly an instrument that can guide us toward an important exercise to sustain our democracy. The National Elections Commission can now begin the process leading to the holding of successful elections next year,” Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio said of the Joint Resolution during a regular press briefing Monday this week.
He then quoted President Sirleaf as saying that those who may have problem with the issuance of a joint resolution instead of a threshold law must consider the greater picture of what the resolution lent to the process and give their support for a smooth and transparent process.
“Among other measures, the Joint Resolution states that the sixty-four (64) Electoral Districts set up and used by the National Elections Commission (NEC) for the conduct of the 2005 Presidential and Legislative elections shall remain constant,” he disclosed.
But he quoted the resolution as saying that for the purpose of the 2011 presidential and legislative elections, each county would retain the existing number of seats it has in the House of Representatives.
From the government’s standpoint, according to observers, that should end the chapter on the Threshold Act debate until otherwise ordered and open the door for preparatory works for the conduct of Elections 2011.
As ICGL Sees It
But for the ICGL, the release of the Joint Resolution is actually the beginning of what must be achieved in order to hold free, fair, and democratic elections in 2011 to which the international community stands ready to contribute generously.
“Members of the ICGL take note of the signing of the “Joint Resolution of the Senate and House of Representatives on the setting of an Electoral Threshold for the conduct of the 2011 Presidential and Legislative elections in Liberia” and encourage all Liberians to remain engaged until the electoral framework for the 2011 elections, as required by the Constitution, is established.
It strongly urges the Legislature to accelerate the passage of the elections-related provisions of the Constitution to facilitate the conduct of the necessary referendum in time for the 2011 elections,” the group said in a position statement issued yesterday.
The statement, which was signed by ICGL, co-chairs Amb. Kenneth Asare Bosompem of Ghana and Amb. Attilio Pacifici of the European Union, did not specify the “election-related provisions” that must be passed, neither did it say what referendum needed to be conducted prior to the 2011 elections.
But the group said it was necessary that the process leading up to the elections was planned appropriately because the 2011 elections were crucial test to the extent of democratization in the country and to the return to normalcy. It said this would be the case because the pending elections were to be handled exclusively by Liberians under the watchful eyes of the international community.
“Therefore, the ICGL urges the National Elections Commission (NEC) to proceed with dispatch all arrangements toward the successful conduct of the 2011 elections,” the statement said.
The statement said once the group was contented that the electoral process was on keel, it would do everything possible to make additional contributions to costs related to the establishment of legal framework for the 2011 elections. It did not say what it would do if the government failed to put into place the required legal framework.
Background to impasse
The current 64-member House of Representatives is based on the on-the-spot registration of voters and existing legislative representation quota in 2005. It was the best solution to give displaced Liberians and returning exiles, who could not return to their original places of abode, the opportunity to take part in the 2005 legislative and presidential elections.
As the result of that ‘solution’, Montserrado and neighboring counties, which were relatively safe for electoral activities, received lion’s share of the house representatives, with nearly half of the representatives coming from Montserrado County alone.
The representation anomaly, plus the conduct of a population census in 2008 in keeping with Article 39, necessitated the review of the population-per-constituency ratio, thus prompting the introduction of the “Threshold Bill” by the Executive Branch of Government nearly two years ago.
The Constitution of Liberia at Article 80 (d) sets the population-per-constituency ratio at 20,000 based on the 1984 national census and authorized the National Legislature to prescribe a different figure “in keeping with population growth and movements as revealed by a national census; provided that the total number of electoral constituencies in the Republic shall not exceed one hundred”.
Since the Constitution came into force in 1986 not only has the populated shifted dramatically, but also the political subdivisions of Liberia have grown from 13 to 15 as the economic withdrew into unrecoverable coma, overshadowing the genuine need to increase in House representation.
The Representative section of the Capitol Building, a parliamentary building constructed sometime in the early 1960s when there were only nine political subdivisions in the country today carries a burden for 15 counties – with a minimum of four lawmakers complete with support staff.
The question that faces the government is how to increase the number of constituencies and representatives without incurring the additional need of expanding the parliamentary building and increasing the legislative wage and incentives bills.
This has been the bone of contention of the Executive Mansion and the Capitol Building – the former arguing on the side of the need to avoid the opportunity cost for increasing representation and enshrining participatory democracy and the latter arguing on behalf of representation of the people.
More than twice the Executive Mansion vetoed a House and Senate concurrence bill favoring a radical increase in representation, arguing that any increase in legislative representation would put additional strain on national resources and undermine the economic recovery process.
It was to get around the stalemate as the 2011 presidential and general election crept silently upon them that the Legislature signed a joint resolution agreeing to disagree and the President immediately signed it into law, hoping that that would put the debate on ice at least until some conditions in the future reawakened it.
Now the question that remains is what would the government – the Executive and the Legislature – do in the few remaining months, in the wake of the ICGL contention for the proper things to be put into place, that it did not do, could not do, in more than two years.
Whatever it finds to do, analysts says, will be a test of nationhood ahead of the elections that many agree will test Liberia’s level of democratization and protection of sovereignty.
Written by The Analyst Staff Writer
The government of Liberia issued a legislative Joint Resolution reinforcing existing electoral guidelines and constitutional provisions – despite irreconcilable demographic shifts due to war and slow postwar recovery – to apply in the 2011 general and presidential elections.
ICGL Says ‘Catalyst’; Calls for Accelerated Efforts
The resolution is a compromise intended to get around the current impasse between the Legislature and the Executive on the allocation of the population-per-electoral district ratio, a necessary condition for the holding of the 2011 elections, constitutionally.
Proponents say that solves the dilemma between having an election without legal constituent demarcations and having one with a legal guarantor of a sort.
But not many agree – amongst them is the International Contact Group on Liberia (ICGL), a cardinal stakeholder in the Liberian recovery process. This brings to the front burner the question of whether the Joint Resolution should be an end in itself (a temporary substitute for the Threshold Act) or a catalyst for more legislative enactments prior to Elections 2011. The Analyst, reports.
The ICGL, though took note of the signing of the legislative Joint Resolution last week, has urged the National Legislature to move quickly to reinforce relevant portions of the Constitution in time for the holding of referendums required for the legal conduct of the 2011 presidential and general elections.
Intent of Legislative Joint Resolution
President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf signed into law a Joint Resolution of the National Legislature, which from all considerations the government intended to be an end in itself – providing the legal framework for the conduct of the 2011 general and presidential elections.
“The issue of setting the Electoral Threshold has dragged on for two long. It may not be the best document but certainly an instrument that can guide us toward an important exercise to sustain our democracy. The National Elections Commission can now begin the process leading to the holding of successful elections next year,” Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio said of the Joint Resolution during a regular press briefing Monday this week.
He then quoted President Sirleaf as saying that those who may have problem with the issuance of a joint resolution instead of a threshold law must consider the greater picture of what the resolution lent to the process and give their support for a smooth and transparent process.
“Among other measures, the Joint Resolution states that the sixty-four (64) Electoral Districts set up and used by the National Elections Commission (NEC) for the conduct of the 2005 Presidential and Legislative elections shall remain constant,” he disclosed.
But he quoted the resolution as saying that for the purpose of the 2011 presidential and legislative elections, each county would retain the existing number of seats it has in the House of Representatives.
From the government’s standpoint, according to observers, that should end the chapter on the Threshold Act debate until otherwise ordered and open the door for preparatory works for the conduct of Elections 2011.
As ICGL Sees It
But for the ICGL, the release of the Joint Resolution is actually the beginning of what must be achieved in order to hold free, fair, and democratic elections in 2011 to which the international community stands ready to contribute generously.
“Members of the ICGL take note of the signing of the “Joint Resolution of the Senate and House of Representatives on the setting of an Electoral Threshold for the conduct of the 2011 Presidential and Legislative elections in Liberia” and encourage all Liberians to remain engaged until the electoral framework for the 2011 elections, as required by the Constitution, is established.
It strongly urges the Legislature to accelerate the passage of the elections-related provisions of the Constitution to facilitate the conduct of the necessary referendum in time for the 2011 elections,” the group said in a position statement issued yesterday.
The statement, which was signed by ICGL, co-chairs Amb. Kenneth Asare Bosompem of Ghana and Amb. Attilio Pacifici of the European Union, did not specify the “election-related provisions” that must be passed, neither did it say what referendum needed to be conducted prior to the 2011 elections.
But the group said it was necessary that the process leading up to the elections was planned appropriately because the 2011 elections were crucial test to the extent of democratization in the country and to the return to normalcy. It said this would be the case because the pending elections were to be handled exclusively by Liberians under the watchful eyes of the international community.
“Therefore, the ICGL urges the National Elections Commission (NEC) to proceed with dispatch all arrangements toward the successful conduct of the 2011 elections,” the statement said.
The statement said once the group was contented that the electoral process was on keel, it would do everything possible to make additional contributions to costs related to the establishment of legal framework for the 2011 elections. It did not say what it would do if the government failed to put into place the required legal framework.
Background to impasse
The current 64-member House of Representatives is based on the on-the-spot registration of voters and existing legislative representation quota in 2005. It was the best solution to give displaced Liberians and returning exiles, who could not return to their original places of abode, the opportunity to take part in the 2005 legislative and presidential elections.
As the result of that ‘solution’, Montserrado and neighboring counties, which were relatively safe for electoral activities, received lion’s share of the house representatives, with nearly half of the representatives coming from Montserrado County alone.
The representation anomaly, plus the conduct of a population census in 2008 in keeping with Article 39, necessitated the review of the population-per-constituency ratio, thus prompting the introduction of the “Threshold Bill” by the Executive Branch of Government nearly two years ago.
The Constitution of Liberia at Article 80 (d) sets the population-per-constituency ratio at 20,000 based on the 1984 national census and authorized the National Legislature to prescribe a different figure “in keeping with population growth and movements as revealed by a national census; provided that the total number of electoral constituencies in the Republic shall not exceed one hundred”.
Since the Constitution came into force in 1986 not only has the populated shifted dramatically, but also the political subdivisions of Liberia have grown from 13 to 15 as the economic withdrew into unrecoverable coma, overshadowing the genuine need to increase in House representation.
The Representative section of the Capitol Building, a parliamentary building constructed sometime in the early 1960s when there were only nine political subdivisions in the country today carries a burden for 15 counties – with a minimum of four lawmakers complete with support staff.
The question that faces the government is how to increase the number of constituencies and representatives without incurring the additional need of expanding the parliamentary building and increasing the legislative wage and incentives bills.
This has been the bone of contention of the Executive Mansion and the Capitol Building – the former arguing on the side of the need to avoid the opportunity cost for increasing representation and enshrining participatory democracy and the latter arguing on behalf of representation of the people.
More than twice the Executive Mansion vetoed a House and Senate concurrence bill favoring a radical increase in representation, arguing that any increase in legislative representation would put additional strain on national resources and undermine the economic recovery process.
It was to get around the stalemate as the 2011 presidential and general election crept silently upon them that the Legislature signed a joint resolution agreeing to disagree and the President immediately signed it into law, hoping that that would put the debate on ice at least until some conditions in the future reawakened it.
Now the question that remains is what would the government – the Executive and the Legislature – do in the few remaining months, in the wake of the ICGL contention for the proper things to be put into place, that it did not do, could not do, in more than two years.
Whatever it finds to do, analysts says, will be a test of nationhood ahead of the elections that many agree will test Liberia’s level of democratization and protection of sovereignty.
An Open Letter To The Liberia House of Representatives
KEEPING LIBERIA MINISTERS WITH US$1000, 00 CARS HONEST
NOT LIBERIA, NOT THIS TIME
Written by Abraham Hoff
Chief Community Organizer of LEAD Liberia
Chief Community Organizer of LEAD Liberia
077384990 leadliberia@yahoo.com
DEAR Representatives
LEAD Liberia applauds Honorable Evans Koah and his colleagues’ efforts to prevent waste in post—conflict government of Liberia thereby launching an investigation into the purchase of luxurious cars by some members of the Executive Branch. Liberia will be a great nation and a better place to live not because of its perfection, but the belief that loyalty to the country is paramount to loyalty to government persons, party and/or any ministers. The belief that working in the interest of the masses and investing in our children and the youth; the belief that Liberians who love Liberia can change it. People who had the audacity to believe that Liberia could be a better place and the courage to work to make it so. Today in Liberia, government officials are riding US$100K CARS, while leaving ordinary Liberians with the residual side effects of poverty, underdevelopment, unemployment, illiteracy, challenges of health, crime and corruption that often define the lives of many of our people especially, disadvantaged families, our seniors, underprivileged youth and young women.
Today in Liberia, our government officials don’t put the people and the country above personal agenda when making critical decisions that could affect the masses and the national interest of the country like purchasing a CUSTOM—MADE US$100K Lincoln Navigator. We the people have been promised change, but we are yet to see the change. And we have been disappointed. Our government officials usually put individual greed above the people and the national interest of the country. If Liberia is to flourish with development, peace, unity, security and prosperity; we must learn to put the people and the national interest of the country above partisan’s ideology and above individual greed, just like Honorable Evans Koah. The challenges ahead are great; however the benefits are even greater.
The LEAD Organizing For Liberia believes we must change not just our policies, but our politics and the corrupt system that often runs our government. These are not just broken politics. These are policy failures that reward their interests over the common interest and the short-term over the long-term. These are broken politics that often puts government at the service of the powerful and more corrupt individuals while leaving the people to fend for themselves and their children. These are policy failures and broken politics that often create a corrupt system for rewarding those individuals who are caught up in corruption scandals and shuts out the voice of the Liberian People. The Liberian’s State is at risk. Poverty is on the rise, and millions of our fellow citizens have no access to healthcare and good education, while families struggling to care for their children and aging parents but our government officials are riding US$100K CARS. The cost of gaining higher education is unbearable for parents, students, university and graduate students. Our Teachers and professors do not receive good pay for good work. This is not the Liberia we dream off. The fail transportation system, underemployed and unemployment are hitting poor families and working families alike.
Today, we are calling upon the Liberian government to implement fiscal policy that will require government ministries, agencies, commissions; bureaus, etc. to keep administrative costs to a minimum while maximizing their ability to provide support and assistance to the suffering people of Liberia. LEAD Liberia is calling upon the Liberian government to launch Liberia Employees Charitable Campaign thereby asking all government employees, especially those in high places of government to donate to the charitable campaign, which will fund projects such as education, seniors programs, food banks, clean water, sustainable community development, etc. since our government officials have enough money to buy CUSTOM—MADE US$100K cars—they should be giving back some of that money to the community and to the suffering people of Liberia.
The theme for this Charitable Campaign shall be REACHING OUT FOR A BETTER TOMORROW. The National Legislation of Liberia shall ensure the limits of fundraising expenses to no more than 10 cents on a dollar. The government of Liberia shall make sure that all government employees giving and participation in this charitable campaign is volunteered through payroll deduction. The Minister of Health & Social Welfare and the Minister of Youth & Sport shall serve as co-chairs for the “Liberia Employees Charitable Campaign” along with a citizen oversight committee. The choice is clear and the time is now, so help us God.
Thank you and May God bless the Republic of Liberia.
LEAD Organizing For Liberia
Sierra Leone: Actress to Testify Before UN-Backed War Crimes Trial of Former Liberian Leader
Source: allafrica.com
The actress and humanitarian activist Mia Farrow is set to give evidence on Monday about blood diamonds that are the current focus of testimony at the ongoing trial of the former Liberian president Charles Taylor at a United Nations-backed war crimes tribunal.
Judges at the Special Court for Sierra Leone (SCSL) will hear from Ms. Farrow and the agent Carole White following evidence given yesterday by the high-profile British model Naomi Campbell.
Ms. Campbell told the SCSL, which is sitting in The Hague in the Netherlands for the trial of Mr. Taylor, that she was given a pouch of "very small, dirty-looking stones" by two unidentified men while staying at the home of the former South African president Nelson Mandela in 1997.
Mr. Taylor, who is on trial on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, has long been accused of using blood diamonds to fuel conflict in Sierra Leone while he served as leader of neighbouring Liberia.
A blood diamond is a diamond that is mined in a war zone and then sold to finance the activities of an army, insurgency or warlord, and they have been a feature of many African conflicts in the past two decades.
But Mr. Taylor denies the blood diamond allegations and has pleaded not guilty before the SCSL to 11 charges, including pillage, slavery for forced marriage purposes, collective punishment and the recruitment and use of child soldiers. The charges relate to his alleged support for two rebel groups in Sierra Leone - the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council and the Revolutionary United Front.
Ms. Campbell said yesterday that the men did not introduce themselves when they gave her the pouch while she was trying to sleep at the presidential home following a dinner party held by Mr. Mandela.
Discussing the matter the next morning at breakfast with Ms. Farrow and Ms. White, Ms. Campbell said she was told the stones were likely to be diamonds and from Mr. Taylor, another guest at the dinner party.
The model said she later gave the stones to a representative of the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund because she wanted them to go to charity. She said she was unaware of Mr. Taylor before the dinner party or the term 'blood diamond.'
The SCSL was set up jointly by the Sierra Leonean Government and the UN in 2002 and is headquartered in Freetown, the capital. It is mandated to try those who bear the greatest responsibility for serious violations of international humanitarian law and national law committed on Sierra Leonean territory since the end of November 1996.
The actress and humanitarian activist Mia Farrow is set to give evidence on Monday about blood diamonds that are the current focus of testimony at the ongoing trial of the former Liberian president Charles Taylor at a United Nations-backed war crimes tribunal.
Judges at the Special Court for Sierra Leone (SCSL) will hear from Ms. Farrow and the agent Carole White following evidence given yesterday by the high-profile British model Naomi Campbell.
Ms. Campbell told the SCSL, which is sitting in The Hague in the Netherlands for the trial of Mr. Taylor, that she was given a pouch of "very small, dirty-looking stones" by two unidentified men while staying at the home of the former South African president Nelson Mandela in 1997.
Mr. Taylor, who is on trial on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity, has long been accused of using blood diamonds to fuel conflict in Sierra Leone while he served as leader of neighbouring Liberia.
A blood diamond is a diamond that is mined in a war zone and then sold to finance the activities of an army, insurgency or warlord, and they have been a feature of many African conflicts in the past two decades.
But Mr. Taylor denies the blood diamond allegations and has pleaded not guilty before the SCSL to 11 charges, including pillage, slavery for forced marriage purposes, collective punishment and the recruitment and use of child soldiers. The charges relate to his alleged support for two rebel groups in Sierra Leone - the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council and the Revolutionary United Front.
Ms. Campbell said yesterday that the men did not introduce themselves when they gave her the pouch while she was trying to sleep at the presidential home following a dinner party held by Mr. Mandela.
Discussing the matter the next morning at breakfast with Ms. Farrow and Ms. White, Ms. Campbell said she was told the stones were likely to be diamonds and from Mr. Taylor, another guest at the dinner party.
The model said she later gave the stones to a representative of the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund because she wanted them to go to charity. She said she was unaware of Mr. Taylor before the dinner party or the term 'blood diamond.'
The SCSL was set up jointly by the Sierra Leonean Government and the UN in 2002 and is headquartered in Freetown, the capital. It is mandated to try those who bear the greatest responsibility for serious violations of international humanitarian law and national law committed on Sierra Leonean territory since the end of November 1996.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Liberia: UN Welcomes Efforts to Contain Spread of HIV/Aids
Source: allAfrica.com
United Nations officials in Liberia have welcomed the launch of a new national strategy to combat HIV/AIDS, stressing the importance of tackling the disease before infection rates become high in the West African country.
Liberia's National AIDS Commission yesterday launched a strategic framework for 2010 to 2014 in the capital, Monrovia, with the target of containing the spread of HIV at its current rate of 1.5 per cent among the general population.
The strategy also aims to mitigate the disease's impact on the health and well-being of people infected with HIV.
While Liberia currently has low HIV infection rates, UN officials note that experts warn that the country's authorities need to increase the intensity of their prevention and care efforts to avert an epidemic of the scale experienced by many countries in Eastern and Southern Africa.
"HIV steadily marches on, and now, rather than later, is the best time for us to rally behind Liberia in preventing the HIV from spreading," said Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu, the Secretary-General's Deputy Special Representative for the Rule of Law.
"We cannot allow Liberia to suffer such a fate, in addition to the challenges of extreme levels of poverty and unacceptably high levels of sexual and gender-based violence."
United Nations officials in Liberia have welcomed the launch of a new national strategy to combat HIV/AIDS, stressing the importance of tackling the disease before infection rates become high in the West African country.
Liberia's National AIDS Commission yesterday launched a strategic framework for 2010 to 2014 in the capital, Monrovia, with the target of containing the spread of HIV at its current rate of 1.5 per cent among the general population.
The strategy also aims to mitigate the disease's impact on the health and well-being of people infected with HIV.
While Liberia currently has low HIV infection rates, UN officials note that experts warn that the country's authorities need to increase the intensity of their prevention and care efforts to avert an epidemic of the scale experienced by many countries in Eastern and Southern Africa.
"HIV steadily marches on, and now, rather than later, is the best time for us to rally behind Liberia in preventing the HIV from spreading," said Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu, the Secretary-General's Deputy Special Representative for the Rule of Law.
"We cannot allow Liberia to suffer such a fate, in addition to the challenges of extreme levels of poverty and unacceptably high levels of sexual and gender-based violence."
All My Discussions With Mr. Taylor Were About Peace In Sierra Leone, Issa Sesay Tells Special Court
Source: The Trial of Charles Taylor of Liberia
A former Sierra Leonean rebel leader testifying for Charles Taylor today told the Special Court for Sierra Leone judges in The Hague that all the discussions he had with the former Liberian president focused mainly on how to bring the conflict in Sierra Leone to an end.
Issa Hassan Sesay, a former interim leader of the Revolutionary Unit Front (RUF) who has been convicted by the Special Court for Sierra Leone for his role in the Sierra Leone conflict and who now is serving a 52 year jail sentence in Rwanda, has spent more than two weeks testifying for Mr. Taylor. In his testimony today, Mr. Sesay gave credence to a regular theme that was prevalent in Mr. Taylor’s own testimony: that Mr. Taylor was a peacemaker and his involvement with rebel forces in Sierra Leone was solely to bring an end to the conflict in that country.
When asked today by a defense lawyer for Mr. Taylor, Silas Chikera what the nature of his discussions with Mr. Taylor were in the year 2000, Mr. Sesay had this to say:
“All the discussion I had with Charles Taylor in 2000 was about peace in Sierra Leone, and it is in those discussions that peace started and that’s why peace returned to Sierra Leone.”
Mr. Taylor has long maintained that he only had dealings with RUF rebels because he was working with the leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to bring peace to Sierra Leone. Prosecutors on the other hand have said that Mr. Taylor was in control of the rebel group and that in his regular meetings with RUF commanders in Liberia, he received diamonds from the rebels, gave them arms and ammunition for use in Sierra Leone, and helped them to plan certain operations that led to the commission of crimes against the civilian population of the country. According to prosecutors, when Mr. Sesay became leader of the RUF, Mr. Taylor instructed him not to allow the RUF to be disarmed by United Nations peacekeepers. Mr. Taylor has denied these assertions. Today, Mr. Sesay told the court that the allegations are lies because Mr. Taylor was a peacemaker.
“Mr. Taylor was concerned about the disarmament in Sierra Leone and the commitment of the RUF…Even Mr. Taylor was one of the ECOWAS leaders who brokered peace in Sierra Leone,” Mr. Sesay told the court.
Mr. Sesay also refuted the testimony of a previous prosecution witness Abu Keita, who in 2008 told the court that on the instructions of Mr. Taylor, Mr. Sesay asked RUF fighters to attack Guinea with the aim of unseating that country’s president, the late Lansana Conte. Mr. Keita told the court that he was among those who were sent to attack Guinea. Mr. Sesay denied this account, saying instead that the the RUF only entered into Guinea when they repelled Guinean forces who had attacked RUF positions in Sierra Leone.
When asked by Mr. Chikera why the RUF had to go into Guinean territory, Mr. Sesay said, “It was to ensure that the Guineans did not attack RUF position and they had been doing it from 1998.”
“The Guineans had been crossing and attacking RUF positions in 1998 and the RUF had been in Kailahun since 1991 and they never crossed into Guinea but the Guineans started attacking RUF positions from [19] 98 up to 2000…When they returned to Guinea, RUF chased them there,” Mr. Sesay said.
Mr. Sesay dismissed as lies, claims by Mr. Keita when he testified for the prosecution that Mr. Sesay sent him and some men to attack Guinea.
“I did not send Abu Keita or any other person to attack Guinea. He is lying. That is a lie,” Mr. Sesay told the court.
Mr. Sesay told the court that Mr. Keita had made up stories against Mr. Taylor because the Prosecutor had made promises to send him and his family abroad and to give him some money for his testimony. He said when the Prosecutor had not honoured his promise, Mr. Keita had threatened to take legal action against the Prosecutor in the Sierra Leonean courts. Mr. Sesay said he read about Mr. Keita’s threat of court action in the Sierra Leonean newspapers while he (Sesay) was in detention in Sierra Leone.
Mr. Sesay’s testimony continues on Tuesday. On Monday, Hollywood actress Mia Farrow and Naomi Campbell’s former agent Carole White will take the witness stand to testify about allegations that Mr. Taylor gave Ms. Campbell a gift of rough diamonds in South Africa in 1997. Ms. Campbell herself testified about the incident yesterday.
A former Sierra Leonean rebel leader testifying for Charles Taylor today told the Special Court for Sierra Leone judges in The Hague that all the discussions he had with the former Liberian president focused mainly on how to bring the conflict in Sierra Leone to an end.
Issa Hassan Sesay, a former interim leader of the Revolutionary Unit Front (RUF) who has been convicted by the Special Court for Sierra Leone for his role in the Sierra Leone conflict and who now is serving a 52 year jail sentence in Rwanda, has spent more than two weeks testifying for Mr. Taylor. In his testimony today, Mr. Sesay gave credence to a regular theme that was prevalent in Mr. Taylor’s own testimony: that Mr. Taylor was a peacemaker and his involvement with rebel forces in Sierra Leone was solely to bring an end to the conflict in that country.
When asked today by a defense lawyer for Mr. Taylor, Silas Chikera what the nature of his discussions with Mr. Taylor were in the year 2000, Mr. Sesay had this to say:
“All the discussion I had with Charles Taylor in 2000 was about peace in Sierra Leone, and it is in those discussions that peace started and that’s why peace returned to Sierra Leone.”
Mr. Taylor has long maintained that he only had dealings with RUF rebels because he was working with the leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to bring peace to Sierra Leone. Prosecutors on the other hand have said that Mr. Taylor was in control of the rebel group and that in his regular meetings with RUF commanders in Liberia, he received diamonds from the rebels, gave them arms and ammunition for use in Sierra Leone, and helped them to plan certain operations that led to the commission of crimes against the civilian population of the country. According to prosecutors, when Mr. Sesay became leader of the RUF, Mr. Taylor instructed him not to allow the RUF to be disarmed by United Nations peacekeepers. Mr. Taylor has denied these assertions. Today, Mr. Sesay told the court that the allegations are lies because Mr. Taylor was a peacemaker.
“Mr. Taylor was concerned about the disarmament in Sierra Leone and the commitment of the RUF…Even Mr. Taylor was one of the ECOWAS leaders who brokered peace in Sierra Leone,” Mr. Sesay told the court.
Mr. Sesay also refuted the testimony of a previous prosecution witness Abu Keita, who in 2008 told the court that on the instructions of Mr. Taylor, Mr. Sesay asked RUF fighters to attack Guinea with the aim of unseating that country’s president, the late Lansana Conte. Mr. Keita told the court that he was among those who were sent to attack Guinea. Mr. Sesay denied this account, saying instead that the the RUF only entered into Guinea when they repelled Guinean forces who had attacked RUF positions in Sierra Leone.
When asked by Mr. Chikera why the RUF had to go into Guinean territory, Mr. Sesay said, “It was to ensure that the Guineans did not attack RUF position and they had been doing it from 1998.”
“The Guineans had been crossing and attacking RUF positions in 1998 and the RUF had been in Kailahun since 1991 and they never crossed into Guinea but the Guineans started attacking RUF positions from [19] 98 up to 2000…When they returned to Guinea, RUF chased them there,” Mr. Sesay said.
Mr. Sesay dismissed as lies, claims by Mr. Keita when he testified for the prosecution that Mr. Sesay sent him and some men to attack Guinea.
“I did not send Abu Keita or any other person to attack Guinea. He is lying. That is a lie,” Mr. Sesay told the court.
Mr. Sesay told the court that Mr. Keita had made up stories against Mr. Taylor because the Prosecutor had made promises to send him and his family abroad and to give him some money for his testimony. He said when the Prosecutor had not honoured his promise, Mr. Keita had threatened to take legal action against the Prosecutor in the Sierra Leonean courts. Mr. Sesay said he read about Mr. Keita’s threat of court action in the Sierra Leonean newspapers while he (Sesay) was in detention in Sierra Leone.
Mr. Sesay’s testimony continues on Tuesday. On Monday, Hollywood actress Mia Farrow and Naomi Campbell’s former agent Carole White will take the witness stand to testify about allegations that Mr. Taylor gave Ms. Campbell a gift of rough diamonds in South Africa in 1997. Ms. Campbell herself testified about the incident yesterday.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
News Headline
