Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Monday, November 8, 2010
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Friday, November 5, 2010
LIVING AMONG THE DEAD - Mass Graves On Duport Road; Residents Want Memorial
We cannot allow the death penalty to be used to silence the past
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| Bernard Gbayee Goah |
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Ellen Wins Libel US$5M Case
Source: Heritage Liberia
The Civil Law Court at the Temple of Justice has held the Publisher of the New Broom News Paper liable for a US$5Million Action of Damages filed against him by President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.
French court orders Rwandan rebel leader to face ICC
Something to think about:
While Liberian former rebel leaders and financiers of war walk freely, French court orders Rwandan rebel leader to face ICC - Bernard Gbayee Goah
While Liberian former rebel leaders and financiers of war walk freely, French court orders Rwandan rebel leader to face ICC - Bernard Gbayee Goah
Ellen Roll Sleeves for U.S$5m Case Against New Broom Publisher
Something to think about:
One would think the president would have considered going to court for allegation of war crime. President Sirleaf is among about 50 individuals recommended by the TRC to be barred from politics in Liberia for 30 years--for being a financier of the war that took away the lives of more than 300.000 Liberians and 5 American citizens. But NO! President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is preparing to pursue her US$5 million libel suit against the Publisher of the New Broom Newspaper, Roland Wowee, fully aware that she is considered in many quarters as an alleged war crime suspect - Bernard Gbayee Goah
One would think the president would have considered going to court for allegation of war crime. President Sirleaf is among about 50 individuals recommended by the TRC to be barred from politics in Liberia for 30 years--for being a financier of the war that took away the lives of more than 300.000 Liberians and 5 American citizens. But NO! President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is preparing to pursue her US$5 million libel suit against the Publisher of the New Broom Newspaper, Roland Wowee, fully aware that she is considered in many quarters as an alleged war crime suspect - Bernard Gbayee Goah
Source:FrontPage Africa
Geneva, Switzerland-
Caterpillars take over fifteen towns in Lofa County
Written by Peter Fahny
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Report from Lofa County says thousands of caterpillars have invaded fifteen towns and villages in Kolahun District.
Our correspondent quotes the district’s Agriculture Officer as saying the caterpillars resemble the ones that invaded Bong County in January 2009.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Report from Lofa County says thousands of caterpillars have invaded fifteen towns and villages in Kolahun District.
Our correspondent quotes the district’s Agriculture Officer as saying the caterpillars resemble the ones that invaded Bong County in January 2009.
Brewerville City Mayor linked to land dispute
Written by Matthias Daffah
Residents of Kpallah in Brewerville, Montserrado County have reported a potential land conflict that could turn bloody.
Residents of Kpallah in Brewerville, Montserrado County have reported a potential land conflict that could turn bloody.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Dr. Gbaba Calls For Interim Government in Liberia Before 2011 Elections
By: Gardea V. Woodson
Source: The Liberian Journal
A Liberian playwright and exiled scholar is calling for the installation of an interim government in Liberia--after president Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf’s tenure expires in 2011-- in order to resolve the political impasse in implementing recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
President Sirleaf is among about 50 individuals recommended to be barred from politics in Liberia for 30 years--for being a financier of the war-- and is largely blamed in some quarters for her failure to implement the TRC recommendations.
On the duties and responsibilities of the interim government, Dr. Gbaba said, will address the issues of establishing war crimes court to try Liberian warlords, form a “National Palava Hut Commission” to address lesser crimes such as rape, arson, torture and economic crimes.
Dr. Gbaba, speaking on Saturday, Oct. 30, at a symposium on the TRC process held at the New School University, in New York, also proposed that the “interim government” be mandated to repatriate stranded and neglected Liberians seeking safety around the world from the onslaught of Liberian warlords and their fighters.
He also said a comprehensive voter education be organized before the presidential and general elections are held, arguing that most Liberian refugees, including himself, have refused to voluntarily repatriate because they fear reprisals, and called on the international community to lend its support in ensuring that there is a safe political and secured environment in Liberia before the general elections.
Dr. Gbaba advised the international community against rushing Liberians to elections, because ”carnage number one” that resulted in the death of 300,000 Liberian citizens, including the five American nuns, has not been adequately addressed and resolved.
Source: The Liberian Journal
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| Dr. Joe Gbaba |
President Sirleaf is among about 50 individuals recommended to be barred from politics in Liberia for 30 years--for being a financier of the war-- and is largely blamed in some quarters for her failure to implement the TRC recommendations.
On the duties and responsibilities of the interim government, Dr. Gbaba said, will address the issues of establishing war crimes court to try Liberian warlords, form a “National Palava Hut Commission” to address lesser crimes such as rape, arson, torture and economic crimes.
Dr. Gbaba, speaking on Saturday, Oct. 30, at a symposium on the TRC process held at the New School University, in New York, also proposed that the “interim government” be mandated to repatriate stranded and neglected Liberians seeking safety around the world from the onslaught of Liberian warlords and their fighters.
He also said a comprehensive voter education be organized before the presidential and general elections are held, arguing that most Liberian refugees, including himself, have refused to voluntarily repatriate because they fear reprisals, and called on the international community to lend its support in ensuring that there is a safe political and secured environment in Liberia before the general elections.
Dr. Gbaba advised the international community against rushing Liberians to elections, because ”carnage number one” that resulted in the death of 300,000 Liberian citizens, including the five American nuns, has not been adequately addressed and resolved.
What I learned From the New York Symposium on the TRC: The Substance & the Politics (Guest Commentary)
By: Michael Keating
I was quite surprised to wake up Monday morning and read on the pages of Front Page Africa, a publication run by my friend Rodney Sieh...
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| Michael Keating |
Monday, November 1, 2010
Man, 25 found dead in police cell
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Written by T. Saye Goinleh
A twenty-five-year-old man has reportedly committed suicide in a police cell in Sanniquellie, Nimba County.
Written by T. Saye Goinleh
A twenty-five-year-old man has reportedly committed suicide in a police cell in Sanniquellie, Nimba County.
Dozens stranded in Voinjama due to bad road
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Written by Peter Fahny
Report says normal traffic from Foya, Lofa County to Gbarnga, Bong County has come to a standstill due to bad road condition between the two counties.
Written by Peter Fahny
Report says normal traffic from Foya, Lofa County to Gbarnga, Bong County has come to a standstill due to bad road condition between the two counties.
MRU countries hold strategic talks in Monrovia
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Written by Matthias Daffah
The validation of a ten-year strategic action plan for the Mano River Union has opened in Monrovia with a call for the harmonization of a sub-regional policy.
Written by Matthias Daffah
The validation of a ten-year strategic action plan for the Mano River Union has opened in Monrovia with a call for the harmonization of a sub-regional policy.
President Sirleaf may be pleading with the United Nations to release the criminal Charles Taylor from prison in The Hague.
Internet Rumor Stirs Concern About Nation's Future and President Sirleaf 's Leadership Style
Source: The Liberian Dialogue
Maybe it is just a rumor – a troubling one for that matter on the Internet, which claimed President Sirleaf is pleading with the United Nations to release the criminal Charles Taylor from prison in The Hague. Since the administration has not come forward yet to deny or admit it, let’s all hope it is just a rumor.
Source: The Liberian Dialogue
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| Taylor |
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| Tewroh-Wehtoe Sungbeh |
On Dual Citizenship: Austin Fallah Praises Senators Wotorson, Kupee, Howard-Taylor
By: Gardea V. Woodson
Source: The Liberian Journal
(L-R) Sen. Howard-Taylor, Sen. Kupee, Mr. Fallah, Sen. Wotorson
A US-based Liberian financial expert has praised Liberian senators Cletus Wotorson of Grand Kru County, Jewel Howard-Taylor of Bong County, and Sumo Kupee of Lofa County, for championing the Dual Citizenship Bill that is currently in committee room under discussion.
Source: The Liberian Journal
A US-based Liberian financial expert has praised Liberian senators Cletus Wotorson of Grand Kru County, Jewel Howard-Taylor of Bong County, and Sumo Kupee of Lofa County, for championing the Dual Citizenship Bill that is currently in committee room under discussion.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
U.S. Symposium Calls for Implementation of Liberia's 'Truth' Recommendations
- FPA STAFF REPORT
Source: FrontPage Africa
SYMPOSIUM PLAY: TRC Commissioner Massa Washington, was one of three former members of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission who participated in a two-day symposium on drawing attention and interest in the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
New York -
Source: FrontPage Africa
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| TRC Commissioner Massa Washington |
SYMPOSIUM PLAY: TRC Commissioner Massa Washington, was one of three former members of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission who participated in a two-day symposium on drawing attention and interest in the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
New York -
‘Dubious Value’ in Some Recommendations at TRC Symposium in America
POLITICAL FOOTBALL: It is fair to say, however, that most of the speakers were critical of the current government’s foot dragging on the TRC recommendations. Unfortunately some of the Liberian speakers (not the commissioners mentioned above) stated that the U.S. State Dept. should pull its support for next year’s election and instead work to install an ‘interim’ government and/or a national commission to de-legitimate the current government. Personally I find these recommendations to be of dubious value. The history of interim governments in Liberia is a sad one and there is no guarantee that the TRC recommendations would fare any better under an interim government than they are faring under the current situation. Nor would the citizens of Liberia.
Michael Keating is a Lecturer at the New School University and Associate Director of the Center for Democracy and Development at the University of Massachusetts Boston.
- Michael Keating, Contributing Writer,
Michael Keating is a Lecturer at the New School University and Associate Director of the Center for Democracy and Development at the University of Massachusetts Boston.
- Michael Keating, Contributing Writer,
Saturday, October 30, 2010
MOJ, Warner Committee on Collision Course
Since the release of the report of the Negbalee Warner Special Presidential Committee on the Carbon Credit Deal more than a fortnight ago, those accused of abusing public trust have been anything but taking the accusation lying down. The situation however turned melodramatic yesterday when just as the committee took to defend its findings and recommendations, the Justice Ministry issued a statement exonerating two of the nine accused, upholding the accusation against one, and promising to recuse itself from further investigation to avoid conflict of interest. Observers say that is tantamount to putting the ministry on collision course with the committee. The Analyst has been looking at the rising contentions.
Source: allAfrica.com
Source: allAfrica.com
Strained Relations: Liberia's President and Her Stepson
By Johnny Dwyer
Source: TIMES.COM
For Liberia's president and celebrated reformer, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Operation Relentless was a rare piece of good news. American DEA agents working closely with Liberian officials arrested five suspects conspiring to turn her tiny, fragile West African nation into a narco-trafficking hub between South America and Europe. A federal indictment alleges that a group of traffickers sought to bribe the director of Liberia's National Security Agency to allow more than $100 million of cocaine to pass through the country. The Liberian official was cooperating with the Americans; he also happens to be the president's stepson, Fombah T. Sirleaf.
For Liberia's president and celebrated reformer, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Operation Relentless was a rare piece of good news. American DEA agents working closely with Liberian officials arrested five suspects conspiring to turn her tiny, fragile West African nation into a narco-trafficking hub between South America and Europe. A federal indictment alleges that a group of traffickers sought to bribe the director of Liberia's National Security Agency to allow more than $100 million of cocaine to pass through the country. The Liberian official was cooperating with the Americans; he also happens to be the president's stepson, Fombah T. Sirleaf.
STANDING BY HER MAN: Ellen Sticking with ‘Trusted Friend’ Boakai as Veep in 2011
Steve Jarvis, FPA STAFF WRITER
Source:FrontPage Africa
Monrovia - Referring to her Vice President Joseph Boakai as a “trusted friend and confidante, Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf declared moments ago at the Unity Party’s convention held at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville that she will be taking her quiet but loyal veep into 2011 Presidential elections next year.
“He has been my friend and will always be my friend and I am proud to present to you the vice standard bearer of the Unity Party,” the President told partisans of the ruling party Saturday.
Source:FrontPage Africa
“He has been my friend and will always be my friend and I am proud to present to you the vice standard bearer of the Unity Party,” the President told partisans of the ruling party Saturday.
Friday, October 29, 2010
DIGGING FOR TRUTH: U.S. Symposium to Address Liberia’s TRC Process
- FPA STAFF REPORT
Source: Frontpage Africa
TRUTH SYMPOSIUM: Jerome Verdier, head of the TRC will deliver the keynote address on Day one of the symposium which will be moderated by Michael Keating, Mr. Michael Keating (Moderator), a Lecturer in the Graduate Program in International Affairs at the New School and the Associate Director of the Center for Democracy and Development at the University of Massachusetts Boston.
New York -
Source: Frontpage Africa
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| Jerome J. Verdier Sr |
New York -
Brumskine-Weah Alliance: Americo-Liberians Take Over Liberia (Guest Commentary)
By: Thomas T. Weah Source: The Liberian Journal
Pres. Sirleaf, Amb. Weah, Cllr. Brumskine
The recent plan to forge a political merger between Charles Brumskine’s Liberty Party and George Weah’s CDC has breathed new life into a well-calculated strategy by the Americo-Liberians to dominate power in Liberia.
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| Pres. Sirleaf, Amb. Weah, Cllr. Brumskine |
The recent plan to forge a political merger between Charles Brumskine’s Liberty Party and George Weah’s CDC has breathed new life into a well-calculated strategy by the Americo-Liberians to dominate power in Liberia.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Liberia: More mass graves discovered in five Liberian counties in September of 2010
Source: Running Africa
There are reports of the discovery of more mass graves in several counties in Liberia. According to a local non-governmental organization the Liberia Massacre Survival Association (LMSA) operating in the country, the graves were recently identified in the counties of Margibi, Grand Gedeh Nimba, Bong and Montserrado.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Big Symposium on Liberian TRC Report Begins Friday in New York
Symposium on the Liberian TRC Process Reform, Redress, and Recovery
Presented by
African Refuge, Inc. International Trauma Studies Program, The New School University, The Institute for the Study of Human Rights, Columbia University and several other civil society organizations
Several Liberian led civil society organizations
Date: October 29-30
Wollman Auditorium, New School University, Manhattan, New York
Staten Island
Is Ex Junta Leader Johnny Paul Koroma Dead Or Alive?
Source: allAfrica.com
Charles Taylor's lawyers contend that former Sierra Leone junta leader who teamed up with RUF rebels to topple the government, and is widely believed to have been executed some where in Lofa County near the Sierra Leone border, could be alive. They want document from prosecutors in the case to prove their case.
From the court: "In their motion, defense lawyers argued that based on the information provided to prosecutors by DCT-032, Mr. Koroma may well be still alive. They argued further that based on information provided to them by DCT-032, the payments that were made to him and the indemnity letter that was written to him by prosecutors were meant to induce him to provide false testimony against Mr. Taylor.
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| Johnny Paul Koroma |
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| Johnny Paul Koroma |
From the court: "In their motion, defense lawyers argued that based on the information provided to prosecutors by DCT-032, Mr. Koroma may well be still alive. They argued further that based on information provided to them by DCT-032, the payments that were made to him and the indemnity letter that was written to him by prosecutors were meant to induce him to provide false testimony against Mr. Taylor.
CDC Grass-Rooters Reject Merger
Source: allAfrica.com
Grassroots partisans of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) have rejected a merger deal signed recently between the party and Liberty Party (LP) of Charles Brumskine, accusing the CDC standard-bearer emeritus George M. Weah of betrayal.
Grassroots partisans of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) have rejected a merger deal signed recently between the party and Liberty Party (LP) of Charles Brumskine, accusing the CDC standard-bearer emeritus George M. Weah of betrayal.
Monday, October 25, 2010
At Status Conference, Defense Say They Will Call One More Witness, Judges Dismiss the Defense Contempt Motion And Set Time Table to End Charles Taylor's Trial
By Alpha Sesay
Source: All Africa
At a Status Conference held today in The Hague, the Special Court for Sierra Leone judges set a time table to end the trial of former Liberian president Charles Taylor.
The judges also dismissed in entirety a defense contempt motion requesting an enquiry into how prosecutors conducted themselves during their investigations. Defense lawyers further indicated that they would call one final witness to testify for Mr. Charles G. Taylor.
Source: All Africa
At a Status Conference held today in The Hague, the Special Court for Sierra Leone judges set a time table to end the trial of former Liberian president Charles Taylor.The judges also dismissed in entirety a defense contempt motion requesting an enquiry into how prosecutors conducted themselves during their investigations. Defense lawyers further indicated that they would call one final witness to testify for Mr. Charles G. Taylor.
Liberia West Africa: CARBON HARVESTING ILLUMINATES LIBERIA’S CORRUPTION
By: T. Q. Harris, Jr.
As international creditors contemplated forgiving Liberia’s $5 billion outstanding debt, high-ranking officials in the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf government at that very moment were secretly selling $2 billion worth of carbon credits from which they expected to profit through bribery and could have caused collapse of the country’s economy. Interestingly, President Johnson Sirleaf had full knowledge of the scam and, in a way, made possible the agreement. Now carbon crime is the latest addition to Liberia’s corruption list.
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf met in person with Mr. Michael Foster, CEO, and another officer of the fraudulent Carbon Harvesting Corporation in February, 2008, according to the Special Presidential Investigative Committee on Carbon Credit Concession Agreement involving the Government of Liberia and the London-based Carbon Harvesting Company. Those facilitating the crime used the President’s meeting as a stamp of approval. This being true, President Johnson Sirleaf must accept some responsibility for the crime which only came to light because of the efforts of Global Witness.
River Gee Citizens Want Inclusion in Pres. Johnson-Sirleaf’s Cabinet
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| Kirkpatrick Weah |
By: Kirkpatrick Weah
Source: The Liberian Journal
Special Report by River Gee County Diaspora Political Committee-USA (RG PolCom)
With its natural wealth and contribution in taxes, which help to fuel the Liberian economy, the citizens of River Gee County are crying out loud for equity.
“We are taxpayers without representation in President Sirleaf’s cabinet, despite our contribution to the development of the country and her promise to treat each county on a level playing field", Pres. Sirleaf's frustrated supporters tell RG PolCom.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Dr. Gbaba is disappointed that the TRC recommendations have not been implemented
By Emmanuel Abalo
Source: Running Africa
A Liberian playwright, political activist and educational scientist Dr. Joseph Gbaba says the country's TRC Report represents the mandate of the Liberian people. In a letter issued over the weekend entitled Open Letter to the UN Secretary General's Special Representative to Liberia, the Philadelphia based activist who has been strongly advocating for the full implementation of the Final Report of Liberia's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) told Madam Ellen Margaret Loj, the UN Secretary General's Special Representative to Liberia and head of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) that " I am disappointed by the deaf ears UN, AU, and ECOWAS peace negotiators like you are paying to the refusal of Liberian warlords to implement the various provisions of peace accords signed by them.
Source: Running Africa
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| Dr. Joseph Gbaba |
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Friday, October 22, 2010
Sassywood or Not? Cabinet Retreat in Buchanan
By: Dr. Abdoulaye Dukule’ (Buchanan, Grand Bassa)
Source: The Liberian Journal
The Chief of the Traditional Council, Chief Zanzan Kanwor took the microphone and after greeting the crowd, said, “we the traditional people have our ways. Last month, a group of young men went in the bush. When they returned home, one of them was missing. After a few days and the parents’ complain, we took them to the police and they locked them up. The CID came and investigated more than one week. Nothing. Then we asked permission to bring sassywood. By the end of the day, the boys admitted killing their friends and we turned them to the police for trial. We want our sassywood, you people can keep your CID.”
Source: The Liberian Journal
The Chief of the Traditional Council, Chief Zanzan Kanwor took the microphone and after greeting the crowd, said, “we the traditional people have our ways. Last month, a group of young men went in the bush. When they returned home, one of them was missing. After a few days and the parents’ complain, we took them to the police and they locked them up. The CID came and investigated more than one week. Nothing. Then we asked permission to bring sassywood. By the end of the day, the boys admitted killing their friends and we turned them to the police for trial. We want our sassywood, you people can keep your CID.”
DON’T MESS IT UP: Unmil Boss Loj Sounds Off On Liberia’s 2011 Elections, Security
By Rodney D. Sieh
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia -
Since taking up her assignment as the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki Moon in Liberia, Ellen Margrethe Loj has been faced with numerous challenges as head of the United Nations Mission in Liberia. Reports of isolated cases of peacekeepers involved in sexual exploitation of Liberian women, the suicide earlier this year of UN worker and last year’s violent activities in Voinjama, Lofa County during which UN peacekeepers faced accusations of taking sides. More importantly, Loj is overseeing a mission tasked with the responsibility of maintaining the peace ahead of the crucial 2011 elections. In this exclusive interview, Loj, also the former head of the UN Security Council's sanctions committee on Liberia weighs in on her inability to address the ongoing sanctions clouding several former officials of the Charles Taylor era given her role as SRSG, the conduct of UNMIL troop and civilian force and her candid views about sexual exploitation and what she is doing to keep UNMIL troops and workers in check.
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia -
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| Ellen Margrethe Loj |
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Judges Order Prosecutors to Disclose Exculpatory Material and Payments Suggesting That AFRC Leader Johnny Paul Koroma Was Not Killed By Charles Taylor
Source: Charles Taylor Trial
by Alpha Sesay
On Wednesday, October 20, 2010, the Special Court for Sierra Leone judges in The Hague ordered prosecutors to disclose exculpatory evidence in their possession that suggests Charles Taylor did not order the execution of Johnny Paul Koroma, the former leader of Sierra Leone’s military junta, the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC).
by Alpha Sesay
On Wednesday, October 20, 2010, the Special Court for Sierra Leone judges in The Hague ordered prosecutors to disclose exculpatory evidence in their possession that suggests Charles Taylor did not order the execution of Johnny Paul Koroma, the former leader of Sierra Leone’s military junta, the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC).
Fears Attack From Liberia
Source: allAfrica.com
Ivorian newspapers are reporting rumours of attack from Liberia as ex-fighters of the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL), once considered allies of President Laurant Gbabo, demand what they say is their war allowance from his government.
Ivorian newspapers are reporting rumours of attack from Liberia as ex-fighters of the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL), once considered allies of President Laurant Gbabo, demand what they say is their war allowance from his government.
AFL 'Widows' On Rampage
Source: allAfrica.com
H. McCarey Marshall
Women claiming to be widows of officers, enlisted men, and wartime recruits of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) yesterday crowded the interception of Benson and Lynch Streets, in demand of the benefits of their spouses reportedly acknowledged by Defense Ministry authorities as missing in action.
H. McCarey Marshall
Women claiming to be widows of officers, enlisted men, and wartime recruits of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) yesterday crowded the interception of Benson and Lynch Streets, in demand of the benefits of their spouses reportedly acknowledged by Defense Ministry authorities as missing in action.
Prince Johnson Intervenes in Arrested Son's Robbery Case
Source: allAfrica.com
By J. V. Boimah
Police Supt. Dave Jallah, commander of the Zone 8 Police depot at ELWA, Monday confirmed the arrest of Senator and presidential aspirant Prince Y. Johnson'son, Prince Johnson Jr., along with and other gang members who alledgedly armed robbed several residents last Saturday night in communities of the ELWA perimeter.
By J. V. Boimah
Police Supt. Dave Jallah, commander of the Zone 8 Police depot at ELWA, Monday confirmed the arrest of Senator and presidential aspirant Prince Y. Johnson'son, Prince Johnson Jr., along with and other gang members who alledgedly armed robbed several residents last Saturday night in communities of the ELWA perimeter.
Corruption Fight in Liberia a BIG Joke!!! (Guest Commentary)
By: James W. Harris
Source: The Liberian Journal
The masses continue to drown in sea of poverty, while heartless officials line pockets
In Bell, California (USA), a working-class suburb just outside Los Angeles, the mayor, Oscar Hernandez, and seven other former and current city officials, were arrested recently. They were charged with allegedly misappropriating more than $5.5 million dollars of public funds paid by taxpayers there.
Source: The Liberian Journal
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| Pres. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf |
In Bell, California (USA), a working-class suburb just outside Los Angeles, the mayor, Oscar Hernandez, and seven other former and current city officials, were arrested recently. They were charged with allegedly misappropriating more than $5.5 million dollars of public funds paid by taxpayers there.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Rights group warns against return of ethnic ideology
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Written by Matthias Daffah
A local human rights group has warned against the re-introduction of ethnic and religious dimensions in the 2011 general and presidential elections.
Written by Matthias Daffah
A local human rights group has warned against the re-introduction of ethnic and religious dimensions in the 2011 general and presidential elections.
US$ 200 million needed to restore Mount Coffee hydro plant
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Written by Moses Garzeawu
A one-day interactive Energy donors and partners Conference has taken place in Monrovia.
The event highlighted the rehabilitation and resurrection of the Mount Coffee hydro plant and development of the St. Paul River Basin.
Written by Moses Garzeawu
A one-day interactive Energy donors and partners Conference has taken place in Monrovia.
The event highlighted the rehabilitation and resurrection of the Mount Coffee hydro plant and development of the St. Paul River Basin.
Opposition Leaders' Dilemma
Source: AllAfrica.com
Liberia's political leaders appear excited about the 2011 presidential and general elections. Depending on which side of the political isle they fall, theyvariously dub the elections "the referendum on the Sirleaf Administration" or "the watershed elections to test Liberia's democratic culture".
But it is now clear that the elections may become something other than a referendum or democratic watershed unless the opposition makes the ultimate sacrifice to avert minority rule in Liberia.
Opposition leader T. Q. Harris thinks that is a fair assessment of the issue and he is rallying opposition leaders to a judgment call for patriotism. The Analyst, reports.
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| Free Democratic Party of Liberia (FDPL's) 2011 presidential hopeful, T. Q. Harris, Jr. |
But it is now clear that the elections may become something other than a referendum or democratic watershed unless the opposition makes the ultimate sacrifice to avert minority rule in Liberia.
Opposition leader T. Q. Harris thinks that is a fair assessment of the issue and he is rallying opposition leaders to a judgment call for patriotism. The Analyst, reports.
- WHY LIBERIANS SHOULD CONSIDER SETTING UP AN INTERIM GOVERNMENT BEFORE 2011
BERNARD GBAYEE GOAH 32 POINTS
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
LIFE AFTER TAYLOR: UN Sanctions a Mystery for Ex-Aides Looking to Sever Ties
- Rodney D. Sieh,
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia –
Benoni Urey, the former Commissioner of the Bureau of Maritime Affairs is now the Mayor of Careysburg. Since his departure from the bureau, he has made the transition into a successful businessman and one of the brains behind Lone Star Communications. Edwin Snowe, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives and still a member of parliament has put the dog days of the Charles Taylor years behind. His short marriage to one of Taylor’s daughter’s resulted in a child. Jewel Howard, Taylor’s former wife is these days working as a senior Senator for Bong County, the stronghold of Taylor’s National Patriotic Front of Liberia. Then there is Emmanuel Shaw, the former Taylor aide now back in Liberia after a long spell in Ghana.
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia –
Benoni Urey, the former Commissioner of the Bureau of Maritime Affairs is now the Mayor of Careysburg. Since his departure from the bureau, he has made the transition into a successful businessman and one of the brains behind Lone Star Communications. Edwin Snowe, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives and still a member of parliament has put the dog days of the Charles Taylor years behind. His short marriage to one of Taylor’s daughter’s resulted in a child. Jewel Howard, Taylor’s former wife is these days working as a senior Senator for Bong County, the stronghold of Taylor’s National Patriotic Front of Liberia. Then there is Emmanuel Shaw, the former Taylor aide now back in Liberia after a long spell in Ghana.
Rivercess Supt/County Attorney in death threat claim
Written by Matthias Daffah
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Rivercess County Attorney Onesimus Banwon has accused Superintendent Wellington Geevon-Smith of trying to kill him.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Rivercess County Attorney Onesimus Banwon has accused Superintendent Wellington Geevon-Smith of trying to kill him.
WHAT DOES IREX WANT? U.S. Taxpayers Money Must Impact Liberian Media
- FPA EDITORIAL Source: FrontPage Africa
Ahead of the 2011 elections in post-war Liberia, the local media is in dire straits in need of tools, practical training and resources in preparations for election coverage. With $US11 million in hand, what does the International Research and Exchanges Board(IREX)has in store to impact the local media? Same old workshops and training? We Have Had Enough!!!
Ahead of the 2011 elections in post-war Liberia, the local media is in dire straits in need of tools, practical training and resources in preparations for election coverage. With $US11 million in hand, what does the International Research and Exchanges Board(IREX)has in store to impact the local media? Same old workshops and training? We Have Had Enough!!!
Former NPFL ‘General Octopus’ Heralds Latest Appointments in UP Govt.
- FPA STAFF REPORT
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia -
John T. Richardson, the head of the National Patriotic Front of Liberia’s ill-fated Operation Octupus blamed for the deaths of five American Catholic nuns with the Catholic Church in Liberia has become the latest former NPFL senior commanders to land a job in the Liberian government.
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia -
John T. Richardson, the head of the National Patriotic Front of Liberia’s ill-fated Operation Octupus blamed for the deaths of five American Catholic nuns with the Catholic Church in Liberia has become the latest former NPFL senior commanders to land a job in the Liberian government.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
WE DON’T NEED A NATIONAL REFERENDUM
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| T. Q. Harris, Jr. |
Surely complacency has set in, trapping Liberia, yet again, in the debilitating claws of stagnation. This is clearly evident in the behavior of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and those currently ruling the country. They act as though all is well, when nothing could be farther from the truth.
From Abuja to Washington, DC, many are concerned about Liberia’s current fragility and hoping in 2011 there will be a significant breakthrough. Arguably, lack of leadership is the central issue.
Rather than prioritize healing and reconciliation in the aftermath of a devastating war, those leading the country have focused their attention on negotiating commercial contracts, filling their pockets, prolonging their stay in office, and lately, amending the Constitution to make changes such as extending the tenure of Supreme Court Justices. If Liberia was ever in need of wise leaders, the time is now!!!
Liberia: Names in Deal to Bankrupt Country
Source: allAfrica.com
When the news first leaked, it said top-level Liberian officials had joined a deal that, if carried out, would have economically bled this country to bankruptcy. The deal was with a British firm in the business of carbon harvesting. London got involved in the investigation and now those said to have been behind the big money deal have been named in a report by a presidential Committee headed by Cllr. T. Negbalee Warner.
When the news first leaked, it said top-level Liberian officials had joined a deal that, if carried out, would have economically bled this country to bankruptcy. The deal was with a British firm in the business of carbon harvesting. London got involved in the investigation and now those said to have been behind the big money deal have been named in a report by a presidential Committee headed by Cllr. T. Negbalee Warner.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
George Weah not VP candidate to Cllr. Brumskine
Written by Vivian Gartyn
Source: Star Radio Liberia
CDC Secretary General Eugene Nagbe has clarified that ambassador George Weah has not consented to run as Vice Presidential candidate to Cllr. Charles Brumskine.
In an interview from the US, Mr. Nagbe told Star Radio, Ambassador Weah only issued a statement agreeing to work with Cllr. Brumskine.
He said the agreement is intended to field a single slate of candidates for the 2011 elections.
Mr. Nagbe said the option remains open for a united opposition ticket.
In the statement, Mr. Weah said while he believes a CDC government under his leadership is the best course for the country, a united opposition could do more.
Mr. Weah says his decision is part of the stride to defeat the ruling party and reverse what he calls the dangerous path Liberia is treading.
He believes such a task can be achieved when opposition leaders sacrifice their personal ambitions to achieve a single slate of candidates for the 2011 elections.
It is not yet clear if the two parties are forming a merger or a coalition.
Meanwhile, George Weah has authorized a CDC exploratory committee to hold discussions with the Liberty Party on how to unite the opposition.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
CDC Secretary General Eugene Nagbe has clarified that ambassador George Weah has not consented to run as Vice Presidential candidate to Cllr. Charles Brumskine.
In an interview from the US, Mr. Nagbe told Star Radio, Ambassador Weah only issued a statement agreeing to work with Cllr. Brumskine.
He said the agreement is intended to field a single slate of candidates for the 2011 elections.
Mr. Nagbe said the option remains open for a united opposition ticket.
In the statement, Mr. Weah said while he believes a CDC government under his leadership is the best course for the country, a united opposition could do more.
Mr. Weah says his decision is part of the stride to defeat the ruling party and reverse what he calls the dangerous path Liberia is treading.
He believes such a task can be achieved when opposition leaders sacrifice their personal ambitions to achieve a single slate of candidates for the 2011 elections.
It is not yet clear if the two parties are forming a merger or a coalition.
Meanwhile, George Weah has authorized a CDC exploratory committee to hold discussions with the Liberty Party on how to unite the opposition.
Friday, October 15, 2010
KEEPING CIIr. CHARLES BRUMSKINE HONEST
Written by Abraham Hoff Chief Community Organizer of LEAD Liberia
AN OPEN LETTER TO CIIr. CHARLES BRUMSKINE
AN OPEN LETTER TO CIIr. CHARLES BRUMSKINE
Why would Charles Brumskine think he should not be brought to justice?
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| George Weah left, Charles Brumskine right |
While serving as Senate leader, Brumskine argued that President Charles Taylor government had respect for human rights. Brumskine demanded that a “Status of Forces Agreement” be signed between Charles Taylor government and the West African peace Keepers.
Dead bodies were alleged to be found constantly in parts of the country under President Charles Taylor. Brumskine believed that other option the Peace Keepers may consider was leaving Liberia if they refuse to sign such agreement. Charles Taylor NPFL Rebels were enlisted in both the military and paramilitary without been demobilized and de-traumatized.
While serving as Senate leader under President Charles Taylor, Brumskine believed the security of Liberia should be in the hands of the Charles Taylor led government.
Read below:Source: Charles Taylortrial.org
On June 5, 2007 at 1:11 pm, Nii Darku said:
Liberia’s current woes began when the Association for Constitutional Democracy in Liberia (ACDL), then a Washington, DC-based pressure movement, was used as a launching pad to oust President Samuel Doe from power.
The war was said to have been planned, executed, supported and defended by Amos Sawyer, Ellen Sirleaf, Tom Woewiyu, Cyril Allen, Charles Brumskine, Romeo Horton, Chu Chu Horton, Taylor E. Major and their flunkeys. On December 24, 1989, the rebel National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL) entered Liberia through Butuo, Nimba County. Peace has since continued to elude Liberia.
Am a Ghanaian but I have been following the every event as it happened in Liberia. Charles Taylor deciding to leave government willingly as an elected President of LIBERIA to Nigeria and his arrest just minutes at the border to Cameroon when Obasnajo was about to meet that George W. BUSH man of the united States of America, I say so because he could have decided to have fought the LAUD REBELS founded and supported by the United States Government. While I do not support the crimes done by Charles Taylor its my opinion that every single person who was involved in the WAR in Liberia like current president of Liberia Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, Amos Sawyer, Tom Woewiyu, Cyril Allen, Charles Brumskine, Romeo Horton, Chu Horton, Taylor E. Major and many more should not be left out of this Trial.
Let me ask a few question here who gave out the first trench of money to found the war? Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. How much time has Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf tried to overthrow the government of President Samuel Doe? Twice and Charles Taylor succeeded the third time. What happened when Charles Taylor was about to enter Monrovia? She wanted to lead the Rebels into Monrovia. How did two commanders of Charles Taylor form their rebel group? Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf did to defeat Charles Taylor. Its a shame! What did Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf say on BBC Focus on Africa? “Level Monrovia and we will rebuild it”
And this is to all those who claim to be human rights activist, there will be NO JUSTICE UNTIL ALL THOSE INVOLVED IN THE WAR ARE BROUGHT TO BOOK AND NOT ONLY Charles Taylor
Nii Darku
niidarku@gmail.com
Accra, Ghana
DREAM TICKET? Weah, Brumskine Join Forces to ‘Defeat’ Ellen, Ruling Unity Party
10/15/2010 - Rodney D. Sieh
Source: FrontPage Africa
A pairing which could dramatically shakeup the dynamics of the 2011 presidential elections in Liberia was signed, sealed and delivered in New York, late Thursday night landing football legend George Manneh Weah of the grassroots Congress for Democratic Change and Charles Brumskine of the opposition Liberty Party on a potential “Dream Ticket” looking to challenge a self-proclaimed “formidable” incumbent President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.
Source: FrontPage Africa
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| George Weah and Charles Brumskine |
Thursday, October 14, 2010
PUL Former Boss Massaley: “Liberian Legislature is Weak and Ineffective”
By: Jeffrey Johnson
Source: The Liberian Journal
Mr. Abraham G. Massaley
October 12, 2010: Former Press Union of Liberia (PUL) President, Mr. Abraham G. Massaley has said that the current legislature is weak and ineffective and President Sirleaf has become too powerful. He said the 52nd legislature has turned out to be a rubber stamp, seconding almost everything from President Sirleaf, including contracts for ratification, many of which are not in the long term interest of Liberia but ratified at lightning speed. He said the judiciary too has not demonstrated independence, noting that we still have a judiciary that is not insulated from political control. Mr. Massaley however warned that the more powerful a president becomes, the fewer restraints others can put on him/her, noting that this has shown to be a recipe for build-up of conflict and political turmoil in Liberia.
Source: The Liberian Journal
Mr. Abraham G. Massaley
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| Abraham G. Massaley |
The Wish Center: The Liberian Government Must Implement TRC Report
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| The Wish Center |
Source: The Liberian Journal
The Wish Center
Socrates (469-399 BC) is an enigma who is largely credited for the founding of Western philosophy (Kofman, 1998). Classical Greek mythology also credited him for the development of ethics. If one takes a closer look at what is obtaining in Liberia today, it has some semblance to the Socratic era. Instead of holding the status quo and accepting the immorality and corruption of his time, Socrates posited himself as the gadfly of the political establishment. This is a sort a sting fly, if you will. Justice for him was more important than serving in cabinet or ministerial position in the government of his time. He was wealthy in ideas, yet financially poor. But this man never crawled or sought after political power from the corrupt government of his time.
Ban Names New Force Commander for UN Peacekeeping Mission
Source: allAfrica.com
A Pakistani general with previous experience serving with United Nations operations in Cambodia has been named the world body's new force commander in Liberia, succeeding a fellow-countryman at the head of the nearly 10,000-strong uniformed component of the peacekeeping mission there.
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced today the appointment of Major General Muhammad Khalid as Force Commander of the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) to replace Lieutenant General Sikander Afzal, whose tour of duty ends on 28 November.
Maj-Gen. Khalid served with the UN Transitional Administration in Cambodia (UNTAC) as a Military Observer in 1992-1993. He has had a distinguished military career since joining the Pakistani military in 1979, including significant command positions. Since December he has served as Commander of the Logistics Area in Quetta, Pakistan.
UNMIL, set up by the Security Council in 2003, played a major role in restoring stability and a democratic government after decade and a half of civil war.
A Pakistani general with previous experience serving with United Nations operations in Cambodia has been named the world body's new force commander in Liberia, succeeding a fellow-countryman at the head of the nearly 10,000-strong uniformed component of the peacekeeping mission there.
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon announced today the appointment of Major General Muhammad Khalid as Force Commander of the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) to replace Lieutenant General Sikander Afzal, whose tour of duty ends on 28 November.
Maj-Gen. Khalid served with the UN Transitional Administration in Cambodia (UNTAC) as a Military Observer in 1992-1993. He has had a distinguished military career since joining the Pakistani military in 1979, including significant command positions. Since December he has served as Commander of the Logistics Area in Quetta, Pakistan.
UNMIL, set up by the Security Council in 2003, played a major role in restoring stability and a democratic government after decade and a half of civil war.
Liberia’s Deputy Police Chief ordered arrested
Written by Bruce Boweh
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Criminal Court A has ordered the arrest of Deputy Police Director for Operations Al Karlay.
The court's action was sparked by Col. Karlay's refusal to honor several of its precepts served on him.
Since October four, the court has been citing Mr. Karlay to appear to answer to a complaint against him.
The complaint regards Mr. Karlay’s alleged refusal to release a truck reportedly involved in a dubious cement deal.
According to court documents, Col. Karlay was cited to only give reasons why the truck was still being held.
His disrespect to the court's summons sparked a series of contempt charges which are currently pending against him.
Our judicial correspondent says it is not yet clear whether the court wants Mr. Karlay detained upon his arrest.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Criminal Court A has ordered the arrest of Deputy Police Director for Operations Al Karlay.
The court's action was sparked by Col. Karlay's refusal to honor several of its precepts served on him.
Since October four, the court has been citing Mr. Karlay to appear to answer to a complaint against him.
The complaint regards Mr. Karlay’s alleged refusal to release a truck reportedly involved in a dubious cement deal.
According to court documents, Col. Karlay was cited to only give reasons why the truck was still being held.
His disrespect to the court's summons sparked a series of contempt charges which are currently pending against him.
Our judicial correspondent says it is not yet clear whether the court wants Mr. Karlay detained upon his arrest.
Bassa lawmaker orders police to leave District-Three
Written by Gabriel Paul
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Grand Bassa County District Three Representative Baron Brown has called on government to withdraw officers of the Police Support Unit assigned in the district.
Representative Brown said since the PSU officers took up assignment in the district, numerous complaints continue to be filed against them.
Representative Brown told Star Radio the citizens have complained of ill-treatment against them by the PSU officers.
Lawmaker Brown said the citizens also complained of the shooting in the leg of a motorcyclist in the FDA Junction area of the district.
Representative Brown said the PSU officers are in the constant habit of setting road blocks under the pretext of conducting inspection.
According to him, instead of conducting inspection they harass and intimidate the citizens and extort money from them.
Representative Brown said the action by the PSU officers in the district does not represent the peace and democracy government is striving to maintain.
Source: Star Radio Liberia
Grand Bassa County District Three Representative Baron Brown has called on government to withdraw officers of the Police Support Unit assigned in the district.
Representative Brown said since the PSU officers took up assignment in the district, numerous complaints continue to be filed against them.
Representative Brown told Star Radio the citizens have complained of ill-treatment against them by the PSU officers.
Lawmaker Brown said the citizens also complained of the shooting in the leg of a motorcyclist in the FDA Junction area of the district.
Representative Brown said the PSU officers are in the constant habit of setting road blocks under the pretext of conducting inspection.
According to him, instead of conducting inspection they harass and intimidate the citizens and extort money from them.
Representative Brown said the action by the PSU officers in the district does not represent the peace and democracy government is striving to maintain.
VARNEY SHERMAN A “POLITICAL BAT”: INPFL Former Field Marshal Prince Y. Johnson Declares on Liberia Return
- Steve Jarvis, FPA STAFF WRITER
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia -
The presidential aspirant of the National Union for Democratic Progress (NULP), Sen. Prince Yormie Jonson says when it comes to politics, Cllr. Varney Sherman is not a man of his calibre, “he is a political bat”.
Aspirant Johnson who is also senior senator of Nimba County, pointed out, “I love Cllr. Sherman because he married a woman from Nimba, but, politically, he doesn’t know what he wants, he is a failure and I am a success”.
Sen. Johnson recalled that during the run-off process of the 2005 elections which witnessed a tense political battle between the Unity Party and the Congress For Democratic Change, he and Cllr. Sherman declared their support for George Weah’s CDC, adding, “I am surprised today that Varney has gone the other way but, we are still going to defeat him”.
Source: FrontPage Africa
Monrovia -
 |
| INPFL Former Field Marshal/CIC ("COMBAT READY" Prince Y. Johnson) now Senator |
Aspirant Johnson who is also senior senator of Nimba County, pointed out, “I love Cllr. Sherman because he married a woman from Nimba, but, politically, he doesn’t know what he wants, he is a failure and I am a success”.
Sen. Johnson recalled that during the run-off process of the 2005 elections which witnessed a tense political battle between the Unity Party and the Congress For Democratic Change, he and Cllr. Sherman declared their support for George Weah’s CDC, adding, “I am surprised today that Varney has gone the other way but, we are still going to defeat him”.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
SHUT OUT: Water Swallows up Cece Beach; GOL Insensitive to Plight, Residents Say
Wade Williams
Source: FrontPage Africa
Cece Beach, Banjol, Lower Virginia -
A normal routine for the residents of CeCe Beach Community in Banjol, lower Virginia is to take off their shoes, roll up their pants or whatever they have on any given day and walk through the water. There are no roads leading to the area, so residents have to settle for less.
Source: FrontPage Africa
Cece Beach, Banjol, Lower Virginia -A normal routine for the residents of CeCe Beach Community in Banjol, lower Virginia is to take off their shoes, roll up their pants or whatever they have on any given day and walk through the water. There are no roads leading to the area, so residents have to settle for less.
Winston Tubman’s 2011 Headache: LINU Gives Ambassador Ultimatum To Resign
Source: FrontPage Africa
Nat Nyuan Bayjay,
Monrovia -
For the second time in his political life, Ambassador Winston Tubman finds himself on the brink of a feud that might either leave his presidential ambition in limbo or make him to become an unattached political party presidential candidate for next year’s elections. Following a previous parting with the National Democratic Party of Liberia (NDPL) immediately after he and 21 other candidates were defeated by the Unity Party five years ago, loss of confidence in Tubman from the Executive Committee of the Liberian National Union (LINU) seems to be landing the former United Nations Ambassador in another parting saga.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
2005 - Jucontee Thomas Woewiyu open letter to Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
Source: The Liberiandialogue
An open letter to Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
Thursday, September 15, 2005
By Jucontee Thomas Woewiyu
Dear Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf:
The Rest of Your Apologies
I write this letter to first compliment you for finally mustering the courage to apologize to the Liberian people for the callous and deadly statement you made on the BBC in 1990 while prosecuting the second and Taylor led version of NPFL wars. You said "Level Monrovia, we will rebuild it," and not "Level the Executive Mansion" as contained in your statement of apology. As you said, you regret making what you now term as a "stupid comment." If you truly regret making a statement that resulted in the death of thousands of your fellow countrymen and women, why replace it now with a false one?
An open letter to Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf
Thursday, September 15, 2005
By Jucontee Thomas Woewiyu
Dear Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf:
The Rest of Your Apologies
I write this letter to first compliment you for finally mustering the courage to apologize to the Liberian people for the callous and deadly statement you made on the BBC in 1990 while prosecuting the second and Taylor led version of NPFL wars. You said "Level Monrovia, we will rebuild it," and not "Level the Executive Mansion" as contained in your statement of apology. As you said, you regret making what you now term as a "stupid comment." If you truly regret making a statement that resulted in the death of thousands of your fellow countrymen and women, why replace it now with a false one?
Sirleaf Pushes for More Arab Partnerships
Source: All Africa News
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Sunday October 10, joined more than sixty African and Arab leaders and Heads of Government attending the second Afro-Arab summit, at the official opening session of the Summit in Sirte, Libya, said a presidential dispatch from Sirte, Libya.
Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, who was the chair of the first Arab-African summit held in Cairo in 1977, called on Arab and African countries to place as a top priority mutual cooperation, within the framework of Arab League (AL) and African Union (AU).
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Sunday October 10, joined more than sixty African and Arab leaders and Heads of Government attending the second Afro-Arab summit, at the official opening session of the Summit in Sirte, Libya, said a presidential dispatch from Sirte, Libya.
Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, who was the chair of the first Arab-African summit held in Cairo in 1977, called on Arab and African countries to place as a top priority mutual cooperation, within the framework of Arab League (AL) and African Union (AU).
Save Liberia Now or Never
Source: allAfrica.com
THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF the National Elections Commission (NEC) that it would be holding a referendum to put a citizen’s stamp on four constitutional provisions that the National Legislature had passed into law in August this year has once again brought the significance of the generosity of spirit in Liberian politics to the fore. The referendum grew out of the intense desire by Liberia’s political elites to change some provisions of the 1986 Constitutions in order to address controversial political questions. Key amongst the questions are the residency clause; the absolute majority requirement for elective office, which invariably leads to cost-intensive runoffs because it of involves more than half dozen candidates; and the national elections timetable and political campaigns, viewed in proximity to the annual rainy season that ends in October.
THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF the National Elections Commission (NEC) that it would be holding a referendum to put a citizen’s stamp on four constitutional provisions that the National Legislature had passed into law in August this year has once again brought the significance of the generosity of spirit in Liberian politics to the fore. The referendum grew out of the intense desire by Liberia’s political elites to change some provisions of the 1986 Constitutions in order to address controversial political questions. Key amongst the questions are the residency clause; the absolute majority requirement for elective office, which invariably leads to cost-intensive runoffs because it of involves more than half dozen candidates; and the national elections timetable and political campaigns, viewed in proximity to the annual rainy season that ends in October.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Rwanda rebel FDLR leader Mbarushimana held in France
TQ Harris Jr. writes in his article entitled: ("The End Of Business As Usual" dated May 9, 2008).
"Unless the hideous crimes committed during the war are adjudicated in a court of law and victims receive proper redress, it is impossible to move on. Liberia needs healing. And the healing process must begin by holding accountable those responsible for atrocities perpetrated against the people. This will not only signify a major step toward genuine reconciliation, it also will serve as a deterrent".
While the United Nations watches over Liberia, people who allegedly committed crimes against humanity during the country’s 14 years civil war walk freely, the Rwandan FDLR rebel group has been arrested in France on war crimes charges.
It is estimated that over 250, 000 Liberians including five Americans were killed during the process. The United Nations must address the actual problem in Liberia. People who committed crimes against humanity as well as went against the United Nations human right charter must not be allowed to walk freely. The United Nations should not be working with these kinds of people.
"Unless the hideous crimes committed during the war are adjudicated in a court of law and victims receive proper redress, it is impossible to move on. Liberia needs healing. And the healing process must begin by holding accountable those responsible for atrocities perpetrated against the people. This will not only signify a major step toward genuine reconciliation, it also will serve as a deterrent".
While the United Nations watches over Liberia, people who allegedly committed crimes against humanity during the country’s 14 years civil war walk freely, the Rwandan FDLR rebel group has been arrested in France on war crimes charges.
It is estimated that over 250, 000 Liberians including five Americans were killed during the process. The United Nations must address the actual problem in Liberia. People who committed crimes against humanity as well as went against the United Nations human right charter must not be allowed to walk freely. The United Nations should not be working with these kinds of people.
Unmil Cuts Mean Trouble Before 2011
TQ Harris Jr. writes in his article entitled: ("The End Of Business As Usual" dated May 9, 2008).
"Unless the hideous crimes committed during the war are adjudicated in a court of law and victims receive proper redress, it is impossible to move on. Liberia needs healing. And the healing process must begin by holding accountable those responsible for atrocities perpetrated against the people. This will not only signify a major step toward genuine reconciliation, it also will serve as a deterrent".
While the United Nations watches over Liberia, people who allegedly committed crimes against humanity during the country’s 14 years civil war walk freely.
It is estimated that over 250, 000 Liberians including five Americans were killed during the process. The United Nations must address the actual problem in Liberia. People who committed crimes against humanity as well as went against the United Nations human right charter must not be allowed to walk freely. The United Nations should not be working with these kinds of people.
"Unless the hideous crimes committed during the war are adjudicated in a court of law and victims receive proper redress, it is impossible to move on. Liberia needs healing. And the healing process must begin by holding accountable those responsible for atrocities perpetrated against the people. This will not only signify a major step toward genuine reconciliation, it also will serve as a deterrent".
While the United Nations watches over Liberia, people who allegedly committed crimes against humanity during the country’s 14 years civil war walk freely.
It is estimated that over 250, 000 Liberians including five Americans were killed during the process. The United Nations must address the actual problem in Liberia. People who committed crimes against humanity as well as went against the United Nations human right charter must not be allowed to walk freely. The United Nations should not be working with these kinds of people.
'Alarming' numbers go hungry in 25 countries: report
Karin Zeitvogel
Source: Smh.com
Poverty, conflict and political instability caused some billion people to go hungry this year, many of them children in Africa and Asia, according to the Global Hunger Index report released Monday.
Out of 122 countries included in the annual report, 25 have "alarming" levels of hunger and four countries in Africa have "extremely alarming" hunger, said the report by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe.
Source: Smh.com
Poverty, conflict and political instability caused some billion people to go hungry this year, many of them children in Africa and Asia, according to the Global Hunger Index report released Monday.
Out of 122 countries included in the annual report, 25 have "alarming" levels of hunger and four countries in Africa have "extremely alarming" hunger, said the report by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Thomas Lubanga: ICC trial of DR Congo warlord to resume...Will Liberia be next??
TQ Harris Jr. writes in his article entitled: ("The End Of Business As Usual" dated May 9, 2008).
"Unless the hideous crimes committed during the war are adjudicated in a court of law and victims receive proper redress, it is impossible to move on. Liberia needs healing. And the healing process must begin by holding accountable those responsible for atrocities perpetrated against the people. This will not only signify a major step toward genuine reconciliation, it also will serve as a deterrent".
While the United Nations watches over Liberia, people who allegedly committed crimes against humanity during the country’s 14 years civil war walk freely. It is estimated that over 250, 000 Liberians including five Americans were killed during the process.
Now that the ICC has resumed the trial of yet another rebel leader in DR Congo, will Liberia be next???
_______________________________________________________________________________
Thomas Lubanga: ICC trial of DR Congo warlord to resume
Source: BBC News
The International Criminal Court's appeals chamber has ruled that a trial of a Congolese warlord should resume after a three-month suspension.
In July, judges halted Thomas Lubanga's trial on war crimes charges and ordered his release when prosecutors refused to hand information to the defence.
Friday's ruling reversed the decision, but also rebuked Prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo for flouting court orders.
Mr Lubanga has denied using child soldiers in eastern DR Congo in 2002-3.
His is the first trial to start at the ICC at The Hague but the case has been plagued by legal challenges.
The 49 year old led the Union of Congolese Patriots (UPC), an ethnic Hema militia - one of six groups that fought for control of the gold-rich Ituri region.
The land struggle turned into an inter-ethnic war in which an estimated 50,000 people were killed and hundreds of thousands were left homeless.
'Binding orders'
Mr Lubanga's trial was suspended in July after Mr Moreno Ocampo refused to confidentially disclose to the defence the identity of an intermediary used by investigators to work with prosecution witnesses.
The judges said his actions amounted to "a profound, unacceptable and unjustified intrusion into the role of the judiciary".
They also ordered Mr Lubanga's release, saying it was "no longer fair" to detain him.
On Friday, the appeals chamber reversed the decision, saying the trial chamber had erred by resorting immediately to a stay of proceedings without first imposing sanctions to force the prosecution to comply.
But presiding judge Sang-Hyun Song rejected the arguments of Mr Moreno Ocampo that the trial chamber had wrongly found that he had refused to comply with its orders, and had misconstrued his position with respect to his duties of protecting victims and witnesses.
The "orders of the chambers are binding and should be treated as such by all parties and participants unless and until they are suspended by the appeals chamber", Judge Song added.
According to the ICC indictment, Mr Lubanga is accused of having committed war crimes of enlisting and conscripting children under the age of 15 years in the UPC's military wing, the Patriotic Forces for the Liberation of Congo (FPLC), and of using them to participate in hostilities.
His trial, which opened in 2009 after a seven-month delay over disputed confidential evidence, has been hit by repeated legal difficulties.
The first witness at the trial retracted his testimony after first saying he had been recruited by FPLC fighters on his way home from school.
One of the problems facing the court is that the Ituri region is still unstable. This means the safety of witnesses cannot be guaranteed.
"Unless the hideous crimes committed during the war are adjudicated in a court of law and victims receive proper redress, it is impossible to move on. Liberia needs healing. And the healing process must begin by holding accountable those responsible for atrocities perpetrated against the people. This will not only signify a major step toward genuine reconciliation, it also will serve as a deterrent".
While the United Nations watches over Liberia, people who allegedly committed crimes against humanity during the country’s 14 years civil war walk freely. It is estimated that over 250, 000 Liberians including five Americans were killed during the process.
Now that the ICC has resumed the trial of yet another rebel leader in DR Congo, will Liberia be next???
_______________________________________________________________________________
Thomas Lubanga: ICC trial of DR Congo warlord to resume
Source: BBC News
The International Criminal Court's appeals chamber has ruled that a trial of a Congolese warlord should resume after a three-month suspension.
In July, judges halted Thomas Lubanga's trial on war crimes charges and ordered his release when prosecutors refused to hand information to the defence.
Friday's ruling reversed the decision, but also rebuked Prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo for flouting court orders.
Mr Lubanga has denied using child soldiers in eastern DR Congo in 2002-3.
His is the first trial to start at the ICC at The Hague but the case has been plagued by legal challenges.
The 49 year old led the Union of Congolese Patriots (UPC), an ethnic Hema militia - one of six groups that fought for control of the gold-rich Ituri region.
The land struggle turned into an inter-ethnic war in which an estimated 50,000 people were killed and hundreds of thousands were left homeless.
'Binding orders'
Mr Lubanga's trial was suspended in July after Mr Moreno Ocampo refused to confidentially disclose to the defence the identity of an intermediary used by investigators to work with prosecution witnesses.
The judges said his actions amounted to "a profound, unacceptable and unjustified intrusion into the role of the judiciary".
They also ordered Mr Lubanga's release, saying it was "no longer fair" to detain him.
On Friday, the appeals chamber reversed the decision, saying the trial chamber had erred by resorting immediately to a stay of proceedings without first imposing sanctions to force the prosecution to comply.
But presiding judge Sang-Hyun Song rejected the arguments of Mr Moreno Ocampo that the trial chamber had wrongly found that he had refused to comply with its orders, and had misconstrued his position with respect to his duties of protecting victims and witnesses.
The "orders of the chambers are binding and should be treated as such by all parties and participants unless and until they are suspended by the appeals chamber", Judge Song added.
According to the ICC indictment, Mr Lubanga is accused of having committed war crimes of enlisting and conscripting children under the age of 15 years in the UPC's military wing, the Patriotic Forces for the Liberation of Congo (FPLC), and of using them to participate in hostilities.
His trial, which opened in 2009 after a seven-month delay over disputed confidential evidence, has been hit by repeated legal difficulties.
The first witness at the trial retracted his testimony after first saying he had been recruited by FPLC fighters on his way home from school.
One of the problems facing the court is that the Ituri region is still unstable. This means the safety of witnesses cannot be guaranteed.
Professor Alhaji Kromah to contest 2011 presidential poll in Liberia
Background:
Alhaji Kromah, former Chairman of ULIMO-K.
Kromah is a Muslim. He is a member of the Mandingo ethnic group and a former member of the Council of State of the past transitional government in Liberia.
Kromah served as Special Assistant to the Vice President during the Tolbert era, he rose to become managing director of the Liberian Broadcasting System and Minister of Information under President Samuel K Doe.
Kromah went into exile in June 1990 following the NPFL rebellion against President Doe. It is believed that Kromah carried out most of his war preparation tactics in Conakry, Guinea.
Upon the emergence of ULIMO-K, his power base focused in the north-west of the country, in and around Lofa County. While harboring in the past a deep personal animosity for Charles Taylor, the two leaders were very closed in Council of State maneuverings which resulted in a joint warfare with Charles Taylor NPFL against Roosevelt Johnson ULIMO- J and George Boley LPC.
It is alleged that Kromah's ULIMO-K committed unimaginable atrocities against women and children in Monrovia during the April 6 1996 war as well as jungle wars in the north of Liberia.
Kromah is a former rebel leader of the ULIMO-K faction, and current professor at the University of Liberia.
Alhaji Kromah, former Chairman of ULIMO-K.
Kromah is a Muslim. He is a member of the Mandingo ethnic group and a former member of the Council of State of the past transitional government in Liberia.
Kromah served as Special Assistant to the Vice President during the Tolbert era, he rose to become managing director of the Liberian Broadcasting System and Minister of Information under President Samuel K Doe.
Kromah went into exile in June 1990 following the NPFL rebellion against President Doe. It is believed that Kromah carried out most of his war preparation tactics in Conakry, Guinea.
Upon the emergence of ULIMO-K, his power base focused in the north-west of the country, in and around Lofa County. While harboring in the past a deep personal animosity for Charles Taylor, the two leaders were very closed in Council of State maneuverings which resulted in a joint warfare with Charles Taylor NPFL against Roosevelt Johnson ULIMO- J and George Boley LPC.
It is alleged that Kromah's ULIMO-K committed unimaginable atrocities against women and children in Monrovia during the April 6 1996 war as well as jungle wars in the north of Liberia.
Kromah is a former rebel leader of the ULIMO-K faction, and current professor at the University of Liberia.
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