Post your view at the bottom of an
article or email it to editor@theperspective.org
Lessons for President Sirleaf and Cabinet: How to Build a Nation
This paragraph is very powerful:
"The second strategy was to create a “First World oasis” in a Third World region. Again, here is the author: “If Singapore could establish First World standards in public and personal security, health, education, telecommunications, transportation, and services, it would become a base camp for entrepreneurs, engineers, managers, and other professionals who had business to do in the region. This meant we had to train our people and equip them to provide First World standards of service. I believed this was possible, that we could reeducate and reorient our people with the help of schools, trade unions, community centers, and social organizations.”
While Liberia is a long way from an "oasis" of the kind in this paragraph, "we have it within our power" to pursue the necessary infrastructure outlined in it. Yes, it is going to take a massive "reeducationing", an arduous task, but there is no short-cut to this.
Thanks Theo; we needed that!
PATRICK SNEH DAVIS AT 01:02PM, 2015/02/23.
Yes. This is yet another brilliant and intellectually stimulating piece from Theo. I was mesmerized on how the paper described the fortitude of Mr. Yuan in taking his country, Singapore, from infancy to being a robust industrial power. What really pierced me during the reading is the fact that unlike Singapore, Liberia is blessed with both a hinterland where one can find some of the most coveted mineral resources in the world, a verdantly green forest and a coastal area where harbors for the shipment and transshipment of goods and services exist. Nevertheless, in the midst of the vast wealth, even a token quality of life for its average citizen is non-existent and it has baffled renown economists for over a century now.
Why should it be this way? One can only grope for answers through the eyes of some researchers who have postulated a hypothesis that the reasons for Africa's underdevelopment is endemic corruption. To begin, the hypothesis states that corruption appears like it is inbred or genetically encoded in Africans so to speak. In buttressing this statement, they cited case scenarios where individuals visited several townships and clans in several West African countries to study ways and means of bringing development into those areas, and they produced these findings. Before they could chat with anyone within the village hierarchy, they had to offer bribes to all the chiefs and elders to accompany a simple hello and a returned welcome. Why? Because according to the findings, giving bribe to village power brokers and elders is a sign of great respect; moreover, it is an African culture tradition!! (kola nut)
On the central government level, when government ministers and lawmakers were asked, was corruption acceptable? They all said an emphatic no. On the other hand, the practice of graft and the acceptance of flush funds and backroom deals was still high among them. The study also discovered that there exists an indirect relationship between attempts to curb down corruption among government ministers and lawmakers in West Africa and the upsurge of more corruption. It states that the more attempts were made to tackle this blithe, the more the malefactors would conjure up other mechanisms to continue the diabolical act. This hybrid headed mismanagement monster has produced a serious crisis of confidence within our society; and not by any stretch of the imagination does it come close to the kind of "CONFIDENCE" which Theo alluded to, within the context of Mr. Yuan's experiences and his beloved country of Singapore.This is the kind of confidence that goes with integrity, hard work and love for one's own country.
I wish that our local and national leaders could read this kind of literature to glean some thoughts that can be used to improve our impoverished society. Many thanks for the incredible insights and I am waiting for Part II. Stay on course; keep driving the message home.
JAMES MCGILL AT 03:23PM, 2015/02/23.
President Sirleaf’s Annual Address to the Nation Revisited
This essay is not just criticism, it a must read for third world policy makers and economics students. We look forward to the publcaton of your books, Theo.
ELLIOTT WREH-WILSON AT 09:44PM, 2015/02/13.
Theo, thanks for this very fine piece exposing the economic flaws and thinking in the President's annual message. Liberia's economic and finance managers would do well to read this piece as well as Drs. Chang and Reinert's book that offers fresh and new thinking on how developing countries can break out of their current economic malaise. A Liberian economist and friend has shared with me that our best hope for real economic development is to shift our emphasis from an export-based economy to one that focuses on developing our human resource capacity. This should begin with our children who would turn six(6) years old in 2017. Looking forward to reading your upcoming book--"The Rubber Republic".
KPANNEH DOE AT 10:42AM, 2015/02/14.
Well said. "Education is a journey not a destination." Perhaps a gift of these books to our govt Ministers will make a difference. I doubt they will have the time to read them after running the streets and engaging these talk shows...grandstanding.
I have read these two books. These are books among others for our government officials to read in order to make educated decisions and not just go with the flow like a log or..."yes ma" minister.
To date I have asked 15 ministers what type of books they read.... there general answer was,"I only read the daily paper...I too busy." For them, education becomes a destination.... the country suffers. So be it.
ROSE ROBERTS AT 07:26PM, 2015/02/14.
Every Fire Starts with a Spark
Thanks Bro. you made some interesting points…True, Liberians cannot sit by idly and watch the questionable death of Counselor Allison goes unanswered! I am not sure whether or not Tyler is involved with Counselor Allison’s death, but his death needs thorough investigation to get to the bottom of it. If your neighbor’s house is engulfed in flame, it is morally imperative and reasonable that you join him to put the flame out, otherwise it is just the matter of time yours will be next. Counselor Allison’s death is surrounded by so many unanswered questions that if Liberians don’t seek answers, we will be doing ourselves disservice. If Counselor Allison was murdered for his stance against the menace in society and has vowed to testify in the LACC investigation, then his death could be the beginning of what is to come if nothing is done about it. It is more of a test to gauge the public outcry and depends on the response this could be the norm, which could change Liberia forever! The freedom that we so yearn for will be out the window and fear will set in...this is the challenge Liberians must respond to meaningfully…
JGBOMO AT 02:53PM, 2015/02/24.
What a heartbreaking loss of an illustrious countryman of ours, Counselor Michael Allison!! I am deeply saddened by the news likewise many other Liberians of goodwill. Hope that the family of the deceased will find solace and peace in the Lord.
Notwithstanding one needs to be careful not to start pointing fingers of allegation and incrimination at any person or group of persons at this time, especially when the death has been described as a mysterious one. My remarks are not intended to vindicate Mr. Tyler or any alleged accomplices who may be part of an ongoing corruption investigation with the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC). However, I beg that we apply more critical thinking skills here. When something is mysterious it is strange, weird, and cannot be explained. Moreover, coincidences are possible. Two incidents occurring simultaneously do not necessarily mean one is the cause of the other. Is it possible for a person to die from drowning due to foul play? Yes. Notwithstanding, real chances also exist for people to die from drowning due to natural causes.
Credible and independent accounts of what transpired during the day of Mr. Allison’s death say that he was with a woman along the beach late that evening, and she saw him drowning. http://www.voanews.com/content/mystery-death-of-liberian-whistleblower-under-investigation/2645635.html The report further states that she was questioned persistently after her first remarks, but she refused to make further comments, since she does not want to prematurely leak critical information.
In portraying the late Allison’s character as a patriotic Liberian, and seemingly a gentleman whose legal practice was above board, Mr. Bartuah, the author, writes, “Poor Allison! He, too, had learned his petroleum law and he was probably a consummate patriot; he had a right, which he passionately tried to defend until his shocking, questionable death a few days ago. It is not clear whether this was a part, or final payment, but instead of preparing a $12,000 check for Allison, Speaker Tyler and his cohorts decided to write a $25,000 check, an excess of $15,000 of Liberian taxpayers’ money.” May be a little clarification is needed here, because that statement could make a reader to wonder whether Mr. Bartuah is insinuating that the late Allison, a man of such impeccable character, was also participating in bribery before his death.
Whatever the case let us hope and pray that justice will prevail; but making unfounded accusations is not the right thing to do at this time.
JAMES MCGIL AT 01:38PM, 2015/02/25.
Dear Mr. Editor:
Thank you very much for the exposition.The
information provided seem real; but I cant figure out where you got the
"350,000 million people dead " Moreover, you failed to provide
the names of these unqualified Liberians in the Government who were working
as cleaners."These indigenous Liberian importees, and one-time US underclass
welfare and perpetual food stamps recipients, and ghetto dwellers are using
their newly ill-gained wealth and undeserved huge salaries to buy luxury
homes and brands named SUVs (sport utility vehicles) abroad, and provide
financial support to their overseas dependent families, concubines and associate"
Thanks
JACKSON BROWN AT 02:39PM, 2014/05/06.
Dear Mr. Editor:
when did you realized all of these that are happening in the Ellen Sirleaf led Government? Weren't you a part of this Government with all of the immunities that you just mentioned of? Are you now talkiing only because you misused of the opportunities that were available to you?
For some of us, we know what led to your dismisal from all of those positions you had. It is a known fact that since you came to Liberia and started working with the Sirleaf Government, you never one day show you wife or family to anybody as a responssible Government Official. We know how you live at Mamba Point.
We also know how you left the University of Liberia IBB Graduate School.
After larvishing all of your resources on the little girls, frustration apprehended you and you know how you were looking in Monrovia in the last three years. You are one of those who had the opportunity and misused it and expect Government to take care of you til death.
One information about you which disqualifies you from accusing others of bribery is. you were fired from LTA because you received bribe. I know that the question of receiving bribe was not strange to you since you were once a Traffic Police Officer during the Doe Regime. Any way, this is what frustration does. Think over it and ask God for Mercy rather than openning a pandora box for yourselve.
ARTHUR TAMBA AT 05:10AM, 2014/05/07.
Dear Mr. Editor:
I am glad u said SKD
Junior wants to test the political waters and not coming with the optimism
that he can win any election in Liberia. Yes, we agree that he is a son
of the late or slain President Doe, but what has he ever done for his people
in Grand Gedeh that would give him more votes over the people centered Zoe
Pennoh? Don't fool him,he can't win any election now in Monrovia. Let save
his resources and not waste them.
DAVID N. TARGBE AT 01:01PM, 2014/04/09
Dear Mr. Editor:
This paper
presents a splendid academic idea. What is lacking is the step-by-step practical
actions needed by the coastal communities and government to achieve these
ideas. This is what is often missing commentaries on Liberia's underdevelopment.
HARRY CONWAY AT 09:49AM, 2014/04/03.
Dear Mr. Editor:
I note with much appreciation and delight the article by the former AG, John Morlu, on the causes of inflation in Liberia. I was immensely impressed by the publication and I couldn’t agree with him more. The Dual Currency policy is also an issue on which I have penned articles since 2009.
Morlu’s article also has sort of reignited the debate on the legality of the CBL loan scheme, its impact on the economy and has naturally reignited the need to further examine the matter from a different perspective.
Accordingly, I wish to submit for your consideration for publication, an unpublished article which i hope will contribute to the discourse. The article questions the legality of the loan as being ultra vires and pinpoints potential for future individual liability for the Governor - for all losses sustained by the state on account of those loans. I hope you will find it worthy of publication.
Sincerely,
Atty. Wonderr K. Freeman
"Let them call it Mischief, when its past and prospered it will Virtue" Ben Johnson (1572-1637)
Centre for Human Rights,
Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria,
Hatfield Campus, Lynnwood Road,
Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028,
Pretoria, South Africa
Tel: +27(0)12-420-6202(school)
+27.8429.64510 (pers. cell.c)
+27.7104.57986 (pers. mtn.)
Dear Mr Editor:
I read Mr. Zazay’s diatribe, “LPRC’s Third Quarter Financial
Results: An Element of Departure from Full Disclosure” with some amusement.
About the only criticism Mr. Zazay makes that has any merit is the one about
the lack of a statement of cash flows. That is something we will produce
in the future.
His comment about the absence of a "cost of sales" betrays a lack
of understanding of LPRC's business. We are not a manufacturing company
or a retailer. Therefore, cost of sales does not apply. It is irrelevant.
I was in the newspaper publishing industry in the United States for 10 years.
Let Mr. Zazay read the published financial statements of the Washington
Post or New York Times, for example, and tell me whether or not he sees
any "cost of sales" figures in their financials. He will not.
Why? Because they are not manufacturers or retailers. There are countless
other businesses that don’t have a “cost of sales” figure
to report. He needs to go back to his textbooks to educate himself as to
circumstances under which "cost of sales" and "gross profit"
are determined.
How did he arrive at the conclusion that our balance sheet cash figure was
overstated by $124,716? He offers narry an explanation. And why is he making
assumptions and then questioning why our financial statements do not support
his assumptions? Stick to the facts.
Liberia operates a dual currency system. Businesses are free to buy and
sell in Liberian dollars or US dollars. So, why is he asking us to produce
financial statements in Liberian dollars? In fact, in LPRC’s case,
we bill all of our customers in US dollars, we pay 99.99% of our bills in
US dollars, our bank account is a US dollar account. So why would we be
mucking about with conversion from Liberian dollars to US dollars and vice
versa?
The $500,000 he refers to is a dividend. A dividend is an appropriation
of profit, not a cost. What is he talking about?
Summary financial statements (such as the ones we are publishing) are not
the appropriate medium for lengthy dissertations on our strategic plan or
business model. If he were looking at financial statements published in
Britain, he would see an income statement with only 5-6 lines, much briefer
than ours. Income statement and balance sheet formats vary from company
to company, circumstance to circumstance.
How Mr. Zazay concludes that LPRC might have liquidity problems, when we
have gone from $50,000 in bank at the end of January to $1.6 million at
the end of September, beats me. He should ask LBDI if we have liquidity
problems. We borrowed $1 million from them for our severance program. The
loan terms called for repayment over 24 months. We repaid it in 8!!!
Yours truly,
Harry A. Greaves, Jr.
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Dear Mr. Nagbe and The Perspective editors,
Thank you for your “reasoned” column, “Should America Have Lied About Liberia’s Security Condition?”
I am an American who has traveled to Liberia (and will again) and have kept track of the US Travel Warnings for years. I was troubled by the Liberian media coverage of the latest warning. I thought the latest travel warning was actually less worrisome than previous warnings. I saw the press create a mountain out of a mole hill; much to do about nothing.
You are to be commended for bringing rational thinking to the issue. Thank You!
Sincerely,
Pastor Bill Pevlor
Victorious Faith Ministries
219 State Street
Algoma, WI 54201
USA
(920) 487-5775
www.VictoriousFaith.com
pastor@VictoriousFaith.com
Dear Mr Editor:
I am very much grateful, first, to God for our existence, for at least we
can breathe air, and second, to you for the exclusive interview you held
with Mr. John Morlu, Liberia's Maritime Commissioner. I must admit that
the interview was to the point, and I think that the learned Commissioner
performed to his best.
However, I must say here that the Commissioner has been with the Maritime
Organization for over twenty years now and all that were said would have
been done before the civil war. Even before the war, there were greater
opportunities for the Maritime to excel in its short and long terms goals.
The then President at the time, the Late President Samuel K. Doe, though
as it was said in the Liberian quarters that he was illiterate, was developmentally
prudent. He engaged in the building of our country infrastructures, to include
roads, public buildings such as the damaged Libyan building in Sinkor, the
unfinished Defense Ministry in Congo Town, the Liberian-Japanese Friendship
Hospital in Sinkor and many others. Although the Late Doe's human rights
record were disgraceful and draconic, He had infrastructural vision for
the country. The Maritime Commissioner and its staffs, including Mr. Morlu,
sat there and did nothing to advance or compete with other non-Liberian
maritime operations. Maybe, the learned Maritime veteran may argue that
he was not the head of the organization at that time, and so he could not
do anything. Okay, I will pass by this. Is he really ready to take the Maritime
Bureau to the next level? Yes, Liberian Maritime has a good program but
only benefit certain individuals. To name them, don't ask me.
Now, having said that I am recommending to the Commissioner that a Maritime
Building be constructed in Liberia to attract international ship owners;
that maritime offices be increased and established in every maritime member
country or ; that the Liberian representative to the IMO and the Commissioner
make quarterly report to the Liberian government and said report be published
in the electronic and print media for the Liberian people own education;
that the Maritime Bureau be autonomous and a Board be established to include
the Ministries of Finance, Foreign Affairs, Commerce, Transportation, Planning
and Economic Affairs, Justice, Defense, Liberia Chambers and Commerce, Liberian
Bar Association and at least three Prominent Liberians.
The Bureau of Maritime Affairs is a strategic entity that all eyes are on.
In this new Liberia with our Iron Lady being the Head of State is doing
all within her means to put Liberia first above all. We must rally around
her to deliver the good, despite our political ideologies. If you can take
a shovel or broom to clean the streets, please don't wait for approval;
do it and do it good. I have no doubt that the Maritime and its Commissioners
can make the different. With President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf in power, every
official in this government will strive to do it right or else your ass
will be kicked, oops! I am sorry.
Therefore, I urge Commissioner Morlu to take the Maritime serious and avoid
partisans politics. Work with the President and the Liberian people and
stay away from the pockets of individuals who are bent on swindling our
coffers. We have come a long way, and we will forget the past. Now that
we are here, what next? is what we should ask ourselves. Liberia needs basic
infrastructures, and it is depending on the proceeds from the Maritime and
other income generating areas to engage in such infrastructural development.
So, please do it right.
Arthur Weah Doe
Dear Mr Editor:
I’ve read articles and listened with apprehension, to the expressions of several Liberians detesting the anomalous composition of the Liberian Legislature. This demonstrates that aspirations and expectations are high. It seems now that everyone sees how high the demands for qualified Technocrats and professionals are becoming. It is quite unfortunate that these expectations don’t meet the demands or the other. Demands and standards remain a dream as long as the underlining policies governing standards for the legislature and any other Branch of Government are un-established, which of course, our President is introducing. We understand that standards for the Legislature were beyond her control prior to taking office, and may be even so now, but it’s never too late. I am surprised that we did not foresee scenarios like the Edwin Snowe’s and others coming prior to the election, which could have been avoided by introducing a national referendum for constitutional amendment specifically in Chapter V, pertinence to qualification and eligibility. Negligence of this made the Liberian Legislature vulnerable as it is presently. It’s become a loop for the uneducated and half educated, even the Chieftaincy could do better. It is quite understood that 70 (seventy) percent of our population is illiterate, and this affects the collective choices made as a nation, but those enlightened and in the institutions of change could effect and perfect the process of change through sound policies, and education beginning now.
The legislature issue is already done. We fear the consequences, however,
there is always a solution. I vividly foresee a continuous education process
to be administered by a separate entity, perhaps, the University of Liberia,
or the empowerment of a Legislative College that transcends the ordinary
orientation process. Whether within that Branch, or a separate entity, I
cannot say, but it’ll definitely help to bring each person on the
same level of thinking, and coherence, despite diverse opinions amidst party
splits.
I hope our legislators can humbly accept any opportunity for self improvement,
whether it is a Month abroad at a seminar, symposium, or short term program
at LU, there is a lot to learn about Parliamentary procedures, Legislative
Governance, Policies and Policy making, Terminologies, Public speaking,
Research, Ethics, Conflict Management, and a lot more. Please do not disappoint
the Liberian People with the “grumble or yes and no-high school politics”
type of attitude. I am positive that Dr. Al Hassan Conteh and Many other
Academicians, who are experienced in organizing the above, would be willing
to do so in collaboration with willing and appropriate institutions abroad.
I pray for the Best.
Elijah B. Karnley
Architect-City Planner & Project Manager.
Atlanta, Georgia
ekarnley@yahoo.com
Dear Mr Editor:
Sincerely,
The Wife of A New Liberian Business Owner
Dear Mr Editor:
Yes, it is true that you one can not be a rich man in Liberia by working hard for his/her riches but through corruption. Time and time again the Liberia majority have to suffer while some village boy coming from a hut with little education get rich within few years and become a speaker. Shame on the fools that elected this man who can not travel because he is not clean. I thought Liberians will stand up to evil people that left the country in darkness. I cried for my people who will once again suffer from these so call representatives. I believed the position of a representative is to deliver what his people want but it is the other way. I said this some times ago that if you elect a fool to represent you, that fool is going to be a sell out. One thing we should know is that a poor man can not stand up to corruption. The few good men are left out because the Liberia people only know corruption. I pray that Sowne have his day in court and if found guilty, he should spend the rest of his life behind bars. long live the state of Liberia.
Farcarthy
Dear Mr. Editor
I am a consistent visitor to your website. Permit me to comment on the referenced
article dated 01-03- 2006.
I might not know you personally, but I know of you and other Liberians who
have been and remain committed to advocating for justice, equality, fairness,
freedom of speech, personal responsibility, good governance, etc, in Liberia
- qualities most Liberians believe are essential and desirable to living
productive and humane lives in a democratic Liberia. Where were these "attack
dogs" and their corrupt sponsors? You have to continue doing what you
do - raising issues for honest debates, etc, because Liberians more than
ever, deserve better, deserve to know the truth about everything that has
an impact on their lives, whether negative or positive.
Let the chips fall where they may. One does not have to be a rocket scientist to know that Mr. Snowe and others did not win jackpots in any formal lottery, inherit from their families such wealth, or earned a salary of such magnitude, period! You don't need to prove anything Mr. Pajibo as demanded by those bigots. Should anyone of the accused refute the allegations that are indeed widespread, they have the right to sue their accusers, a course they have not rightly taken. I will definitely sue if I felt that I was accused falsely and I found it necessary to protect/clear my name, character, reputation, etc, in the appropriate courts of jurisdiction.
One does not have to be rocket scientist either to know that an earring is jewelry and wearing one or more is not limited to one gender. Why will one stoop to such a low level? There are cultures in Africa and elsewhere that wear earnings, nose rings, etc (both male and female). Are they all homosexuals? Michael Jordan and other stars must be homosexuals because they wear earnings?
To those who can not debate issues intelligently and honestly or criticize in a constructive manner for the general public's benefit, this is my sincere advice to you: It is time you change for the better - its not too late. Liberians are fed up with bigots, sycophants, and liars who do not realize the pains, sufferings, deaths, and sorrows they've caused their fellow Liberians, and wish to continue their evil deeds. I can go on and on, but keep on doing what you do Mr. Pajibo - educating/informing us.
We may not always agree with your views/ideas on everything you write or suggest, but we do not have to attack your personality or attempt to assassinate your character because of your expressed views. It is certainly difficult for some Liberians to learn or change for the better, but I join those well meaning Liberians in educating and praying for these category of Liberians as we resolve to meet the daunting challenges faced by our dear nation and people.
jnthnmssq@aol.com
Dear Mr Editor:
Now that we know the true order of the Liberian presidents, so what? To
many of us Liberians we careless, all we care for is a safe country to return
to. Who is dare to give us such? We know we do have a long history, but
what can we show for it?
Thanks any way for your effort but do more.
Tony
Dear Mr Editor:
As I gather information via your website, or others on the world wide web,
I read about the candidates for the Liberian presidency relentlessly quenching
their thirst for this high office.
In the process, they say, reiterate, debate, utter rhetorical sentiments
that they think the voters would like to hear.
I read nothing about anyone of them acknowledging the herculic task of re-building
the infrastructure of the country, most especially in Monrovia, which is
essentially a city built in the early '40's. I read no dialog amongst the
lot of them concerning Urban Planning, City Planning, Mass Transportation,
Storm Drainage Systems, Sanitary Sewer Lines, Underground Utilities, Secondary
Power Distribution Systems, and the list could go on and on.
I see photos of buildings built, or being built in and around the City,
and I have to ask myself.."Are there no innovative Architects, or Engineers
in left in the country?"
With the millions of dollars pumped into that country from foreign aides
couldn't the current regime, or "Interim Government" as they call
it, have done any better than what we now have?
I guess we all know the rest of the story. I certainly do hope and pray
that the next elected president, who ever that happens to be, would be very
interested in rebuilding a nation that has been ravished, raped, and stripped
of all decency, that they will go down in history as the one who redeemed
Africa of its very first Independent Nation.
To the Liberian people, I say to you.. My fellow citizens, let us all come
together, go out and vote for the candidate that has Liberia at heart, and
not one that is on a get rich, or richer quick scheme. No matter who wins,
we must all rally around that individual, and support the winner.One must
not take to anger in defeat, and start down the road to war and destruction
all over again lest we all lose. We all have a very large task ahead of
us, one and all. The President cannot do it all alone, let us prove that
when we sing the refrain " In Unity, Success is Sure" we really
mean it, and we will not fail.
RESPECTFULLY I REMAIN ;
ADOLPHUS G. MCCRITTY-Architect
(Atlanta, Georgia) sonwhip@yahoo.com
Dear Editor:
I think Moses Gray article was a little unfair and incorrect. First and
foremost, the Daily Observer did not accuse John Morlu of being an American.
John Morlu provided his Green Card to the paper and it was published along
with the story. Second, while Moses published Ellen's statement, he neglected
to mention that John Morlu had provided evidence (Green Card) to exnorate
himself and that Ellen and Brumskine have not done so. I think in the interest
of fairness, Moses should have made that important declaration. But he leaves
it in the air as thought John Morlu is guilt. Unfair! Hope all is well with
you in hot sun Liberia.
John Morlu, II
Dear Editor:
Thank you for your article on Khadafi and Liberia. I "ve always felt
thisway about Khadafi's Libya and the way he has destroyed our country.
He needs to be held responsible. Our telecomunication. water , electricity,
etc etc must be paid for by Libya. In as much that he has taken responsibilities
for Flight 103 and several destructions in europe, and has apologized and
paid those countries, the Liberian people deserves the same. His Ambasadorial
represenative runs around in Liberia offering bags of rice to our people.
This is an insult. HE MUST PAY: Thanks for your article.
Thanks
J. Nimene
Dear Editor:
I was pleasantly surprised to see the article by Syrulwa Somah "Promoting agricultural production in Liberia". The Perspective is my main source of information on Liberia, as a Liberian who has lived abroad for the past 15 years. Agriculture appears to receive little or no focus in the efforts to reconstruct the country, a very surprising and alarming situation. Dr. Somah raises a number of very important points, most of which I agree with.
Permit me to make a few additional comments of my own. First
of all, it should be pointed out (contrary to Dr Somah's assumption), the
soils of Liberia and other parts of the humid tropics are not very fertile.
These soils are in fact very fragile once the forest is cleared away. Our
farmers practice shifting cultivation for this, among other reasons. Our
high population growth rate, coupled with the high rate of deforestation
over the past decade means that we must consider alternatives to shifting
cultivation and seek sustainable ways to improve soil fertility
.
While I agree with Dr. Somah's point about investing in agricultural research
at the level of higher institutions, it should be pointed out that even
before the war agricultural research in Liberia was never well developed
and tended to be somewhat centralized. For example, CARI had its main station
at Suakoko and I am not sure how much adaptive research was being conducted.
While Liberia was shut off from the rest of the world during the war, major advances were made in the area of participatory research. This involves a much more decentralized approach to research, with the client, the farmer, playing a major or leading role in setting the research agenda and in conducting research. This, in my view, is a revolutionary change in the way agricultural research is conducted and is something that would greatly benefit the new Liberia.
I am also a big proponent of farmer training, especially given the fact that a huge cohort of Liberian rural youth, many of whom grew up in refugee camps and cities, probably do not have an elementary knowledge of farming. These days we are talking about farming as a business so farmers need to be trained not only in the use of new technologies, but also in changing their entire perspective of farming. Farming does not have a positive image in Liberia and a move away from a subsistence farming mentality to a business oriented mentality, might encourage more people to invest in agriculture. As the saying "there is strength in numbers" implies, small scale Liberian farmers will only acquire bargaining power (to set the research agenda, command higher prices for their produce etc), if they are organized. I agree with Dr. Somah that we should build on the strengths of our traditional forms of organizations e.g. kuus and susu.
Finally, we cannot hope to rehabilitate Liberian agriculture
without radically improving infrastructure, notably roads, marketing structures
etc and policy… There is much evidence worldwide that poor urban households
that are engaged in farming are better off nutritionally than households
that do not farm
.
As a rural sociologist working for one of the leading international agricultural
research institutions, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture
(IITA), I am committed to working toward improving the agricultural sector
in Liberia. Toward this end, I, together with a senior management team from
IITA, will be visiting Liberia in February to explore how IITA can contribute
to the rehabilitation of agriculture in Liberia.
Kind regards,
Sonii David Ph.D.
Participatory Extension Specialist
Sustainable Tree Crops Program (STCP)
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA)
B.P. 2008 (Messa)
Yaounde, Cameroon
Email: s.david@cgiar.org
Web: www.iita.org
Dear Mr. Editor,
I would like to commend Wonderr Freeman for writing the article,
"On Behalf of the Book People" (The Perspective October 25, 2004).
The author pointed out the flaw in the misguided suggestion that "book
people" are to be blamed for Liberia's unsettling problems.
Even though there is hardly any evidence to substantiate this hollow claim (as the author aptly demonstrated), it nonetheless continues to be repeated as a matter-of-fact. But the "book people" should not be surprised. Those who disparaged the "book people" were unable to get an education; some did not have the opportunity, others were just lazybones. It is human that these non-"book people," frightened by the thought that they have to compete with the "book people" for the few good jobs, will attempt to diminish the value of education. This practice was widespread in the Samuel Doe and the Charles Taylor eras. It has intensified, sadly, at a time when Liberia needs the "book people" to clean up the mess that quasi educated presidents like Doe and Taylor left behind.
As one of the "book people," let me say that Wonderr Freeman did a remarkable job in defending us; the author earned the position of "gatekeeper" to the coveted room of the degree holders.
All the best,
William E. Allen, Ph.D.
Dear Editor,
As Liberians gradually get closer to holding elections in 2005, the one
slot almost every Liberians or Tom, Dick and Harry is running for is the
Presidency. My understanding is that there are about 40 or more aspiring
candidates to date. It is also likely that others will declare their intentions
soon or later. However, one person, we all can be sure, who will soon step
up to the plate is the Liberian Soccer Legend and UN Goodwill Ambassador
George Weah.
It is a matter of time before we can hear from King Weah. We now know that
there is the Friends of Weah (FOW), as well as the Liberian National Congress
(LNC) which is envisaged to register as a Political Party in Liberia and
of course the Youth for Weah in Liberia are all indications that George
is bent on joining the crowd of potential Presidential Candidates to contest
the Liberian elections in 2005.
This news of Weah’s intention no doubt is troubling to many would
be candidates. The reason is simple. He is popular, he has personally sponsored
the National Soccer Team , the Lone Star, most especially in time of need.
George Weah has won accolades both nationally and internationally. By virtue
of his trade; Soccer and one time World, Europe and Africa best he is famous,
well connected at home and abroad. But does this constitute a credential
for President of Liberia? The answer is a big No!
Let me also go on record to state that among the array of candidates so
far, there are many least qualified to contest the presidency. In other
word, they do not have the credentials just as Weah. But my concern for
Weah is that he risked loosing the influence and marks he has impressed
on the minds of his admirers and supporters at the expense of greedy people
that now surround him as his friends and partisans. I believe that the strengths
of King Weah is his proven soccer prowess that he can us to lift and challenge
the spirits of Young and potential soccer stars.
The Presidency and soccer are two different things. But this is not to submit
that the candidcay of Weah is a slamdunk. The politics of the election will
come to prove this.
Apart from soccer, what else is Weah known for? I doubt he has the intellectual
capacity to be President. Of course Weah is a classic example of Liberian
soccer history when leaders in the field did not make efforts to develop
the intellectual well being of the players. Weah must learn from past mistakes
in Liberia and beware that those who are encouraging him are bloodsuckers
that want to exploit his fame for their personal political agenda. I believe
there is a political future for George Weah in Liberia, if he so he desires.
But he should have the necessary ammunitions before doing so. One way is
to go to school and personally acquire the necessary education. An honorary
degree will not help. Samuel K. Doe and Charles Taylor had such degrees.
An intellectual deception! Therefore, as the only jewel in the crown in
Liberia's dark past; King Weah will do himself and others some good by staying
out of this race for now. Beware that those who hail the King also calls
for his crucifixion.
Dear Editor,
I read the 10/18/04 piece by Abdoulaye W. Dukule - a very thoughtful piece, by the way - and I thought I should join him in asking: Why Weah should seek the presidency”? Of course, I believe Weah can be president just as I suspect he is capable of being a successful president…and the reasons for my suspicion should not be difficult to follow: (1) the failure of the past thirty years including the Tolbert years make it possible for other Liberians to want to be president - that is, if all we can show is a record of unnecessary incompetence and arrogance; (2) unlike most of the names currently in the race, Weah seems to be untouched by the woeful record of failure and incompetence -besides, he was not part of any failed regimes and he certainly has not been out there perpetually promoting himself for the presidency as Mr. Dukule's twenty four years old interviewee had determined… (3), Weah appears to exhibit rare qualities most of the others in the race seem to lack, namely, the humility and selflessness people expect in their leaders. These qualities appear to set Weah apart from the rest of the field; and people know that. In spite of the naïveté people might ascribe to him, Weah may be offering the Liberian people the breadth of fresh air” Mr. Dukule describes in his piece.
Sincerely,
Elliott Wreh-Wilson
Associate Professor and Chair
Department of Philosophy
Edinboro University
Edinboro, PA 16444
Dear Editor:
I just recently came across a very impressive and educational article on
the net which was written by Dr. Allen in 2003. I am a native of Liberia
but I left the country in 1989 at the tender age of 9 years old. My family
also has roots in Palala, in-fact I have family members who still reside
in that village. I was born and raised in Lamco, Yekepa, Nimba County. I
have always been interested in history, specifically African history. It's
very liberating to know that educated Liberians around the world are extending
their knowledge to the younger generation who may not be particularly familiar
with their history as well they are serving as a reminder to the older generation.
Liberians greatly rely on factual materials like these to preserve and maintain
our history and culture. Thank you Dr. Allen for taking the time to put
this material together.
I am not sure whose hands this email is going to fall into, but I would greatly appreciate any efforts made to ensure that this message reaches Dr. Allen. Thank you.
Sianeah Ricks
Dear Editor:
I re-send my e-mail of rebuttal to Mr. Sawyer's article you published on September 9, 2004 in which he accused me of charging ECOWAS with making a "coup" because you lost the original e-mail sent to you immediately after Sawyer's article was published, I hereby re-submit another one to be published.
In your issue of September 9, 2004, you published an article written by Mr. Amos Sawyer under the caption: "IGNU, Moniba and Transitional Order: Responding to E. Sumo Jones, Sr." in which among many denials and attempts of justification, Sawyer stated " In short, Jones alleges that a coup was made by ECOWAS and all of those who formed the Interim Government."
I wish to deny Sawyer's quoted allegation that I charged ECOWAS with making a coup as he has absolutely quoted me out of context in order to justify what he did which allegation corresponds with figments of his imagination. But for the fact that he leveled the above quoted allegation against me, I would not have dignified his article, under review, with an answer because of the fact that my article to which he obviously took an exception was quite clear and explanatory and I stand fully by its contents.
The reason why I would not bother again to dwell on his unconstitutionally taking over the Government of President Doe whose Government was not overthrown and his side stepping Vice President Harry Moniba is because Dr. Moniba is well, alive and physically present in these United States who is the best person to confirm or disagree with Sawyer's justification for taking over Doe's Government as he did. Maybe, Sawyer has never heard, or read any reactions from Dr. Moniba publicly made against his taking over Doe's constitutionally elected Government that deprived him of the Presidency irrespective of whether or not his action were with the prior approval of the Liberian people consistent with the Constitution as he has labored hard to prevail in his article under review.
Very truly yours,
E. Sumo Jones, Sr..
Mr. Editor:
Mr. John Morlu's article is the first on the Buchanan iron ore story that
makes sense. I share his exasperation with the Liberian media's failure
to do simple research or check the facts before rushing into print. I do
not have all the details of this particular transaction, but simple arithmetic
would have discounted some of the wilder interpretations of what went on.
The stockpile in Buchanan is 700,000 - 800,000 metric tons. It has been
there a very long time. So accurate estimates are a little difficult. It's
only after all of the ore has been shipped that we will know exactly how
much ore of commercial value there is on the ground.
Anyway, based on lands and mines minister Jonathan Mason's disclosure, the
ore was sold to the Chinese at a sale price of $10 per ton. That would give
a total sales value of $7-$8 million. As far as I know, the port of Buchanan
cannot load 700,000 metric tons of ore in one go (I don't know if there
are any ships in the world capable of carrying 700,000 metric tons of ore).
So, the ore is being shipped in lots of about 50,000 tons. My guess is that
the Chinese, given the still uncertain political and business environment
in Liberia, would not contract to pay the entire purchase price before all
of the ore has been shipped. As a prudent business person, I certainly wouldn't.
My guess is that they have contracted to pay on a shipment-by-shipment basis.
Minister Mason gave his interview after one of the shipments and declared
that the government had received $500,000. One shipment of 50,000 tons at
$10 per ton would yield $500,000. The figure would represent the proceeds
from one shipment and should not be confused with the total sales value
of the ore, which the government will realize over a period of time based
on the total volume of ore shipped.
My understanding is that 3 shipments have been made to date. At the current
rate of shipment, the stockpile will probably require 15-16 shipments in
all. But of course the papers didn't want to explain that. It was far more
sensational to report a contrived "discrepancy" and explain that
as NTGL officials "dividing the money".
The story is an important story worthy of public discussion. The Liberian
media has an important civic responsibility to inform and lead public discussion
of issues like this. However, discharging that responsibility requires serious
investment of time and energy in researching the facts and doing simple
analysis to determine whether assertions being made by public officials
or their critics pass elementary credibility tests. By failing to do so,
the media runs the risk of being dismissed as a bunch of sensation-seeking
quacks.
Yours truly,
Harry Greaves
Economic Advisor to the Chairman, NTGL
Dear Editor:
Like other speakers have already stated, I am convinced beyond
all reasonable doubts that the learned Professor is interested in seeing
Liberia moving forward in terms of decentralization as he stated during
his presentation. I beg to differ on grounds that it should be a cause for
the postponement of elections.
We think that the issue of decentralization can be tackled after elections
through our representatives who will be elected. You cannot postpone elections
on the basis of this as if we are in some hurry on decentralization. Our
people are yearning for peace and better leadership that will create the
atmosphere for decentralization.
You cannot be talking about decentralization at this time when the country
is in ruins and people are displaced. With the level of migration in the
country, who will be discussing decentralization. The people in the various
counties should decide their own destinies and if this is to happen, then
the issue of decentralization cannot come into play now.
The major issue now is how our people can get water, light, good education,
good health care, good roads network throughout the country and a leadership
that will restore the hope of the Liberian people. The issue of decentralization
is important but should not be an issue for the postponement of elections.
Dorsla D. Farcarthy
Analyst, Central Bank of Liberia and MS Candidate in Monetary Theory and
Policy at the University of Illinois
Dear Editor:
Thank you for your informative articles on decentralization. I do agree
with all the writers that oppose postponing the elections.
Aaron Boyce
Mr. Hodge:
It is a pleasure to have you comment on my article published on
the new democrat website. Quite sincerely, and from the depth of my heart,
my statement about Dr. Gwenigale was not meant to destroy his reputation.
I see Dr. Gwenigale as one of the most committed and well respectable doctors
in our country.
However, I was only responding to one Mr. Morlu’s misinformation and
in so doing I decided to come too straight on the good old man. And I also
appreciate your comments about the statements I made against Dr. Gwenigale.
I agree that we need to be a bit temperamental with one another especially
those who we consider as our older folks.
I must expressed my personal gratitude to you for taking a moderate position
with respect to the issue and it is with this in mind that I must hasten
to commend you for your objective outlook on issues as they unfold in Liberia.
Once again, thanks for your corrective comments and I do look forward to
meeting with you one of these days.
May God richly bless you as you strive to assist in the process of finding
peace in Liberia.
Yours truly,
Emmanuel Munyeneh
Mr.Editor:
Well, of late the Analyst's advertisement with respect to recruitment placed in their paper is a matter of great concern here - with both print and electronic media having this issue on their talk shows and in newspaper commentaries almost every day since the advent in Monrovia!
Our concern here is that, with t
The experiences of Liberians in Guinea and the Ivory Coast have thought us a lesson - countless Liberians died in these Countries because of similar rumors…! Ghana being the last safe haven for those of us who are still around here in the sub-region. Hearing this kind of information, Liberians on the Buduburam camp were over the weekend subjected to another wave of security check and raid at the camp at dawn in search of dissident groups and arms.
This is not the first time the camp has been raided in this manner. As far back as the Taylor's regime, his then Vice President Moses Blah also gave some fake information to the Government here and they acted upon it by lining out all able-body men under the hot sun indicating that they were in search of arms and drugs!
About three days now, the Ghanaian Interior Minister was interviewed and he confirmed the raid but said that it was in line with the news from the Analyst. He also said that the camp was filled with ex-combatants and such raid would often come from time to time!
So what I want to get across to members of the fourth Estate through you is that they should please cross check their information before going to the press because anything that comes out of this war-torn Country is often believed by the hearer and reader due to the fact that we were once principal actors in this game of conflict!
I do understand all media houses are fighting to make ends meet, but not at the expense of their poor devastated brothers and sisters in refugee camp like the Buduburam camp here in Ghana!
Even as I write to you now enough of security measures about the movement of Liberia from and to the camp are in place. The Interior Minister out rightly said that even the police sub-station on the camp was often attacked by the Liberians! So in their elections period they will not leave any visible doors open but make sure to keep security at its fullest especially on people who were once in this crisis country!
So this is how events have been unfolding here and I hope to keep the general public informed through you as careful eyes are placed on all Liberians here! Take care and let's keep in touch.
Dear Editor:
I have a problem understanding how Liberians leaders set priorities for
for such a poor country.. WHY ON EARTH IS THE LIBERIAN GOVERNMENT BUYING
OVER THREE MILLION DOLLARS WORK OF JEEP CHEROKEE when there are over fifty
pot holes for ever mile of Liberian road? What justifies such when the country
must beg for every penny from foreign governments? There are many cheap
certified used cars around the world that can be used for government functionaries
in a country where corruption is the #1 cash industry. It seems like a position
in government even at the lowest level is a passport to steal and rob the
Liberian people blind and boast about it because it was an acceptable practice
for years. Why's can't Liberians learn from the past? IF THOSE IN GOVERNMENT
WANT TO BECOME "HONORABLE" AND
RICH, I SUGGEST THEY GO INTO THE PRIVATE SECTOR .
SINCERELY
Gerald Newman
Dear Mr. Dukuly;
I must first of all commend you for your unique and remarkable review of Ambassador Freeman's book, MY COUNTRY TIS OF THEE. You have applied the most effective marketing tactic or strategy I have ever seen with regards to promoting a work of literature. Your mastery of excerpting memorable or "catching" sentences is the stuff that PROMOTION is made of. You capture, without a doubt, the readers attention and interest at the very onset, and thus complete the SALES JOB before you even begin your narrative, which I must say is insightful and profound. You have impressed me with your style and the substance of your work. Please continue to write because you can only get better and better.
I pray that God will continue to guide you in the pursuits, and that He will always humble you so you can be a blessing to others.
Fraternally yours,
Winston E. Beysolow
Dear Mr. Editor,
I read Mr. Harry Greaves Jr's interesting rebuttal and comments to the June 1st article in the Analyst newspaper.
I wish to thank Mr. Greaves for educating us about the "near-genius" performance of his daughter at the Georgetown University's "School of Foreign Service" (emphasis mine) and about the "near-genius" performance of his daughter Madia as well as the expected "genius or near-genius" performance of his youngest daughter. He also went thru the pain of telling us about the elite (? elitist) training of Cllr. Varney Sherman. He also told us about his "herculean" work schedule.
I must congratulate him on that. However, I still have a few simple questions and simple requests.
Since he has gone thru the pains to tell us a little about Mr. Varney Sherman, could he tell us a little bit more: whether Mr. Sherman was a legacy, merit or "special "law student at Harvard; when he graduated from Harvard, etc. How he got there. Whether he was on government scholarship; did he pay out of pocket; at what position he graduated in his class and what sort of things he has done since graduation; amount of pro bono work; etc. Any more info will be greatly appreciated.
I am sure with his herculean work schedule, his department will be a model one to see as we begin this new Liberia. Never since the days of President Tolbert, that I have ever heard about such hard working officials of government in Liberia. If he could catalog his achievements to date and what he expects to accomplish come Election 2005 will be an eye opener for all of us.
Adding personal business to an official business government visit is a gray area for most of us. Thus people usually recuse them, etc in these circumstances to avoid any semblance of conflict on interest. I hope he can also tell us more about the accomplishments of the present business visit.
While working at the Washington Post and Dallas Morning News with all that annual revenues the he cites, may I ask : were you a journalist or VP of what division. It seems to have been a lucrative position. I am assuming that your overwhelming patriotism for Liberia led you to leave those positions. If so, congrats. We hope we can see the fruit of your labor at the end of your term in Liberia. I am sure we will be proud of you after we view those records.
With all due respect, Sir, gathering from what you said in your response, you seem to be a unique, new brand of a Liberian government official. I hope this pans out.
Humbly yours,
Lawrence A. Zumo
Dear Editor:
Here is a topic I have touched on several times, according to an article in The Perspective "Al-Queda suspect hid in Liberia after the embassy attacks". I have always stated that Africa will become the new breeding ground for terrorists if the international community continues to ignore the African continent. Almost half of the African countries are governed by ruthless and greedy power hungry dictators, any terrorist organization can approach these dictators and offer them a few million dollars to put in their pockets to allow them to set up a training bases in a rural part of that continent and no one would suspect anything, because majority of the people have no access to radio, television or even printed news for that matter.
On the subject of the Liberian rebels still holding on to their weapons, I believe that the population has to be disarmed in order to establish rule of law for the long term, only law enforcement and the military should be armed.
Last I heard, there were 17 presidential candidates competing for the presidency of Liberia? What a complete joke, I guess the Bassa, Lorma, Vai, Kpelle, Gio and Mano tribes all have their candidates in mind. What’s the population of Liberia today, and what percentage is going to cast a vote? The Bassa organization had its annual conference in Atlanta this past weekend, the Lorma organization is scheduled to do the same I believe. Is this not the same sort of division that put such a strain on Liberia in the first place? We have approximately 6-7thousand Liberians in the Atlanta area, there are said to be 10 different Liberian churches.
We are at a crossroad where all Liberians should put their differences aside and work together for the upliftment of our country. The united nations is scheduled to leave Liberia after the 2005 elections, if we have nothing to prove to the united nations, let’s at least have something to prove to ourselves and our children and grand children.
Peace be unto my dear Liberian brother and friend Frederick j. Williams who was brutalized and later died in the custody of the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Department.
Thomas Awadjie, Atlanta GA
Dear Editor:
News of Liberians stranded in Mali is actually true. I say this because my sister-in-law, (my wife's sister) is among them. My wife and I just got an email from her few days ago. We had to wire some money to her to enable her to leave Mali for Ghana by air. She speaks of miserable conditions of where they are kept. She says an official of the Liberian Embassy in Guinea had tried to intervene but to no avail. She says it is disaster waiting to happen if no immediate actions are taken to alleviate the situation. She said the whole episode started when they, (group of Liberian Refugees in Ghana) decided to charter about three buses to transport them to Liberia. She said upon arrival at the Malian/Guinean border, they were stopped by Guinean authorities and denied entry to Guinea. She said the Guinea authorities accused them of being rebels from Liberian, even though many of them were women and children. She said they appealed to the Guinean authorities to allow the women and children safe haven to continue their trips to Liberia of which they refused. They are in "no man's land", with the UN or AU doing absolutely nothing to help. They are now at the mercy of the Malian government as many of the refugees have no means of returning to Ghana.
Thanks,
Joe Flomo Matthew
Cleveland, Ohio
Dear Mr. Editor:
Thank you very much for such a brillant article on one of Liberia renown
killer, Prince Johnson. I just don't understand how Chairman Bryant would
invite a dog like Prince Johnson to form part of the political process in
Liberia. Is Prince saying the truth? I was in Liberia during the leadership
of Killer Johnson ten years ago and since then, I have not recovered from
the trauma. Inviting a man like Prince Johnson to LIBERIA would create more
violence and delay in the peace process. There are many Liberians who are
still hurting from the pain inflated on them by killer Johnson. I hope Chairman
Bryant would reconsider his decision if he did. Prince Johnson is a nasty
killer and does not need to form part of any government in Liberia. He and
Taylor must face the war court in Sierra leone.
I hope other Liberian would read your article and oppose to Killer Johnon return to Liberia
Henry Peabody
Dear Mr. Dukule:
I am an avid reader of the perspective and I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your articles. I particularly enjoyed reading “Matt the Rebel” He comes across as a very “matter of fact” and genuine about his revelations. I was completely tickled to bits by this section in your article. " The security man clicked his heels and said "Yes Sir, Chief, I will look after your VIP." I just have two simple questions that have perplexed me due to its duplicitous and contradictory context. Though these questions were taking out of his response, maybe you might be able to shine some light for me.
You posed the question "So you regret fighting for Taylor?"
He responded: “No, I am glad we got rid of Doe and the country has changed but I will never fight again, except to defend my family… Too bad we don’t have light and water and people don’t have jobs, but things have to be bad before becoming good again.”
Please allow me to break this down Mr. Dukule:
When he says “I am glad we got rid of Doe and the country has changed. This sentence to me says, finally we got rid of Doe and the country has changed (For the Better)? I am assuming it must be for the better that’s why you are glad you got rid of Doe, Right? So, if it is for the better, why is it “too bad that you don’t have lights and water and people don’t have jobs”. In this context, I understand that too bad means, these amenities once were available but are no longer, that’s why it's too bad. Lastly, he concludes, “but things must get bad before becoming good again.” I construe this sentence to mean, things were once good, but now they are bad, but they will get good again like it once were.
So then I pose your original question “So you regret fighting for Taylor” If all his answers are contradictory to his statements, I beg to ask was he really genuine?
I think he was genuine to the best of his ability. He was a child who was programmed to “get rid of Doe” for the cause of the revolution. For what has now be revealed and analyzed, it would be a crying shame for him to realize that his foundations and reason for fighting was not as clear as he once thought. To think that one has committed atrocities in an illusional revolution, solely for the interest of helping accomplish the goals of calculative man, brings tears to my eyes.
Most Sincerely,
TT
Bro Abdoulaye,
I am very fascinated by your LIFE IN MONROVIA series. Your graphic description
of sites and events in Monrovia has given me a grasp of life in Monrovia.
Particularly frustrating though, is the appauling state of our once cherished
University of Liberia. We hope that the new President and Board of Trustees
will be selfless, responsible, and credible enough to attract badly needed
assitance (financial and academic) that the Unversity stands in dire need
of during this dark and critical period. There is no umbrella organization
of UL alumni in the US to directly channel huge support to the University.
However, I am convinced that the current despicable state of affairs at
the Unversity will gravitate us in that direction. I will be calling Abraham
Massaley, who chairs the University of Liberia Alumni Association in Pennsylvania
to study the possibilities for such venture.
Again, thanks for the good job.
Best regards.
John Erakias Fallah
Hi Mr. Dukule:
I read your story of Matt a few minutes ago, and it touched me deeply. I like the way you wrote Matt's story, and I appreciate your sharing it with us.
Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
Cyril
Cyril E. Broderick, Sr. (Ph.D.)
Dear Sir:
"The Perspective" laudably serves as a marketplace for the free
and balanced exchange of ideas. Even articles that challenge your justified
claim to fair play are eventually bereft of ammunition. This bears hard
evidence in support of your credo to bring proportionality in what you supply.
Your tireless involvement in the drive to wrest control of our common patrimony
from the grips of evil is well known and widely appreciated. So are your
intellectual contributions to the denoument of Charles Taylor. All this
done with characteristic civility.
The foregoing burnish your credentials as instruments for a better Liberia.
However, Mr. Pajibo's recent rejoinder to Agnes Taylor crossed the line
between civil discourse and vituperation.
Pajibo , to his immense credit , has brought to the arena of thought a rich
morsel of views that bear eloquent testimony to his intelligence. It is
my fervent hope his abilities can be further harnessed to advance the hoi
poloi and improve the commonweal.
In addressing Taylor, Pajibo misappropriates his desrved standing as a respectable
commentator and budding public intellectual by a specie of crass repsonse
that denies the marketplace of ideas another quality product from his fine
intellect. Pajibo punches below the belt, opting for the personal vendetta,
ventilating what is unnecessary in order to impugn Taylor. How Pajibo has
chosen to spar with Taylor leaves much to be expected.
While the "The Perspective" can not completely regulate how its
contributors answer their critics ,it can ensure fidelity to its lofty credo
of civil discourse. Your imprimatur is a badge of honor.
Your organ has reaped the respect of many , including myself, for giving
voice to the silent majority ;illuminating injustices;spotlighting corruption
; as well as promoting enterprise healthy to the Liberian experiment.
It is my sincere hope ,as one of your many well-wishers,that you will remain
a shining example of a vigorous forum for civil discourse.
sincerely,
Zack Jeh
Mr. Editor,
I strongly think the purpose of the Perspective on the Internet is to discuss issues and not personality.
The Open Letter to Agnes Taylor, as written by Ezekiah Pajibo, is outrageous and of no substance to the debate other than simply dealing with the lady’s personal life. Who cares about who Mr. Pajibo loved to or was married to? I am sure he came across some reckless ladies that when he looked back, he had regrets. Who even cares whether Pajibo spy in school or not. What matters most now is can he deliver?
Trust me; I personally do not know Agnes neither am I in her defense. I am only contributing or suggesting to your editorial board, that what matters to most of us that visit your web site regularly is to read about issues affecting our nation and how to move forward. I think the issue of concern on the subject matter Pajibo was supposedly responding to; which should be the core of the debate is whether the Chairman had the right to remove Agnes or was it a position allotted to the former government in the Accra peace Talk or the so-called Monrovia Clarifications. These are things (clarifications) that the Liberian people need to know.
Pajibo has to learn to remain with the issues and not personality.
Mr. Editor, thanks for the opportunity and I must say that you are doing a fine job because there are great articles from contributors like Mohamedu Jones, John Josiah, Brownie Samukai, and others that are bringing up issues that are good to debate for the good of the nation.
Respectfully,
Shaffa Kokro
Virginia, USA
Dear Mr. Editor,
Liberia today stands at the crossroads of revitalization of the economy,
and resurrecion of the socio-cultural political fabric or sink into oblivion.
The state of the Liberian economy is that of total destruction, while most
of its citizenery remain cynical about the prospects of their country.
We sit and lament about glorious days gone. Days when Liberia paid its dues, and played significant role within the comity of nations. Liberians still look back with nostalgia when the Iraqs of this world had no say in international fora (before oil...). Some still remember when President Harry Truman of the United States requested Liberia to lend supportto the immediate recognition to the State of Isarel before a critical UN vote on the status of that country. We also remember when Liberia was firm in its opposition to a redical non-alignment movement at the behest of the United States of America. Veteran Liberian diplomats still recall when the Liberian State Department, between 1962-1967 was the voice that Western Powers used to forestall the formation of Continental Government in Africa (Oh, the "cold war" was still very hot).
Yes, we stood by our friends. We can proudly say that Liberia is not fair a weather friend. Liberia stood to be counted when it was needed by the West. And as a proud people, we will still stand by our friends in times of need!
Today, we need those friends. We do not expect any less of them. To request 1% of the total cost of the budget of the reconstruction of Iraq is not too much to ask; especially if one considers that Liberia is a founding member of the League of Nations, and the United Nations. Unfortunately Liberia is the poorest member of the august club of founding members. Just as members of an old boys/girls club that stand up for each other, we should expect the same support from all founding members of the United Nations.
That the Secretary General of the United Nations and the Secretary of State of the United States of America are presiding over this most important event is a welcome development. I join hands with my dear friend, Mr. Pajibo in calling on these true outstanding sons of African Origin to insist on getting at least 1% of the funds that is being earmarked for the reconstruction of Iraq for the construction of Liberia, and total debt forgiveness.
If you truly wish for the "LONE STAR" to begin to shine, once again over Montserrado's virgin heights, please lend your voice to this effort by calling on the International community/actors to make a meaningful contribution to the Liberian Donor's Conference.
A. Sayku Kromah
Philadelphia, USA
Dukule,
I read your article, "Why
Damateh wants Bryant Removed". It is an excellent, exceptionally
and well written article. I seriously doubt that it could had being better
put as you did. Congratulations for a job well done.
The only thing that borthers me a bit is: do these warlords ever see the
big picture that true Liberians see? I mean the massive destructions of
both human lives and properties done to Liberia. Are these people real human
beings or what? Again, it is very troublesome that these same people who
have caused so much sufferings and destructions may never face justice,
thus a real possibility of history repeating itself one day again.
JM Coleman
Atlanta, GA
Dear Mr. Editor,
Please permit me to say a word, or two about the response
of Ms. Agnes Reeves-Taylor to Mr. Pajibo's article titled "Eyes on
the prize," in which Pajibo mentioned that the former government of
Liberia was trying to pressure the Bryant Administration to allow the former
first lady to maintain her job at the International Maritime Board.
I do not see what in that article that prompted such a harsh response from
Ms. Agnes Taylor. She did not deny that her former husband's criminal empire,
of which she is a part, was trying, through the former government of Blah
to have her reinstated at the Maritime program.
I think that Ms. Reeves Taylor is a little angry and frustrated,
which puts her in her Rebel mood. She says that she is qualified for the
position of Liberia's representative to the International Maritime program.
Says that the job entails only paying salaries and maintaining the office.
That statement alone tells you that Ms. Agnes Taylor knows nothing about
how the Maritime program runs.
Agnes, you know that we know how you got that job in London. You are an
integral part of your former husband's criminal Enterprise.
It seems like Ms. Agnes Taylor is living in dreamland. She
thinks that the Liberian people will easily forget how she and her former
husband turned our people into beggars, while they pocketed the wealth of
the country.
Ms. Agnes Taylor, what Mr. Pajibo's article tried to articulate is the fact
that your husband's criminal enterprise is still meddling in the affairs
of our country through the so-called former government.
Ms. Taylor, you should be ashamed of yourself. Can't you see
the children of Liberia eating from the dump sites? Have you been to any
of the displaced camps to see how the people that you helped to displace
are doing? DOES ANY OF YOUR OWN CHILDREN GO TO BED HUNGRY?
Yes, we are trying to "pick up the pieces" in your own words,
but in the meantime, Agnes, PLEASE SHUT UP.
Thank you very much, Mr. Editor, for the space.
Tolo Bonah Corfah
Mr. Pajibo,
I noticed in your story "All
Eyes on the Prize" that you mentioned that the Former Government
of the Liberia was calling on Chairman Bryant to maintain one of the several
wives of the exiled leader as a paid employee at the Bureau of Maritime
Affairs.
I wish to first of all point out that I am an ex-wife of the former Liberian
leader who has held this position for the last four years and may I point
out very effectively. Is there a crime in someone being an ex-wife of a
leader regardless of what that individual is supposedly accused of? Does
this mean that I have no rights as a Liberian or am less a Liberian than
you or anyone else?
Not only am I most qualified for the job, but have the experience and have
performed well. I believe it is about time that Liberians begin to stop
this witch hunting and begin to build a society where all Liberians can
live in peace. Anything short of this could continue the vicious circle
of reprisals.
I have lived in the United Kingdom for the last five years, four of those
in the service of my country. I suggest we get our facts correct before
making disparaging remarks about people we know nothing about.
You must be aware that 'Guilt by Association' is illegal. Therefore, please
do not begin to allude to any assumed guilt on my part for whatever alleged
wrongs that you may accuse the former leader of. I have conducted myself
with the outmost respect and have been most transparent in my dealings.
The position of the Permanent Representative is a Diplomatic one which does
not involve the revenue of the Maritime Programme. It is simply a Representation
to the International Maritime Organisation. There is a budget for the running
of the office which includes salary and office expenses. That is the extent
of the finances handled by that office.
There is nothing wrong with any Faction raising issues of concern and of
interest to them, especially if it brings into question facets of the Accra
Accord. In the interest of our country, we ought to be trying to pick up
the pieces and not start pointing fingers at each other. As you know if
this starts a lot of fingers could be pointed in all directions.
I hope this has put some light on things and will help to clarify matters
for you. You can contact me for any additional information which I will
gladly give.
Regards.
A. Reeves-Taylor
Dear Mr. Editor,
I was dismayed when I read in an article, "New Chairman of LURD Arrivesin Liberia, But..." posted on January 16, 2004 by this Magazine, the forcible arrest of Mr. Mohammed Keita, The Director of Motor Vehicles at the Ministry of Finance by pro-Damate Conneh combatants from Tubmanburg. The illegal arrest of a government official by any camp endangers the fragile peace in our country. It is an assault on the interest of the Liberian People. Mr. Conneh and his cronies have no authority to arrest a government official regardless of his or her affiliation. Only the Liberian Government has the authority to carry out legal arrests. Today, Liberians want to know why Mr. Conneh continues to undermine our people's peace. He has tested the government's authority, and we are concerned that if he does not answer to his crime, he is likely to do more harm in the future.
Jlator Gewleh
Mr. A.Sayku Kromah,
your question/comment of December 23rd/2003,"Why is Chairman Bryant
so Impervious to advice?", is a question that one has to think twice
before responding to.
Because there might not be any truth of they being corrupt.
If they did, according to your article, then I think they should be some
of most wanted men in Liberia today.
Secondly to be frank with you, Mr.Kromah, you should not had asked such
question/made such comment without identifying yourself. By the way, who
are you? Are you one of those who the late President Samuel K. Doe gave
one way ticket(Citizenship) from the neighboring countries in West Africa,
or the grand child of those who came to Liberia ,through the bushes with
short hoes and cutleses without going through legal immigration process
during the Tubman and Tobert Regimes.
Therefore, Mr.Kromah, the only advice I can pass on to you is: if you are
a biological Liberian, then the door is opened as usual for your comments,
If not, you have to shut up. You and all want to make comment when you are
not suppose to.
