Liberia: UNICCO Finally Settles 3-Year Dispute
by Cyril D. Lurlay // //
Mar 21, 2010

The UNICCO peace committee, under the leadership of Hon. S. Gblorzuo Toweh and Dr. Wilfred Boayue, on Saturday, March 20, 2010, brokered a peace deal in the 3-year old dispute between Hon. Andrew Wongeh and the UNICCO National Board of Directors. This hard won achievement took place in a marathon 10-hour mediation session in Newark, New Jersey.


The session was observed by a large cross section of the Nimba community representing Nimbaians from from Alabama to Massachusetts.

More details will come later. However, a key point in the resolution, signed by the principal parties, calls for unified national elections in may, 2010.

The committee expresses special gratitude to

*National Board chairman, Hon. Hendrix Grupee and members of the UNICCO National Board of Directors
*Hon. Andrew Wongeh and members of his administration
*Mr. Nya Dokie and members of UNICCO - New Jersey chapter for a wonderful job of hosting this event on short notice
*Former UNICCO National President, Anthony Koneh, for the dinner and other accommodations

Long live UNICCO, Long live Nimba County, God bless Liberia!!


Cyril D. Lurlay
Committee secretary

Liberia: Judge Blamo Dixon descends guilty verdict on Hans and Mardea
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 19, 2010

The Judge of Criminal Court “B” today, March 19, 2010 descended down a guilty verdict against Mardea Pikue and Hans Williams. Judge Blamo Dixon indicated in his verdict that the defense team was unable to prove their innocent in the mysterious death of the late Angel Togba.

Angel Togba was murdered at the home of Hans Williams and Mardea Pikue years back. The trail surrounding the death of Angel Togba sparked serious public debate with women group and student organizations staging regular protest on an attempt to divert justice.

The guilty verdict announced by Judge Blamo was further attached by a punishment which condemned Mardea and Hans to death by hanging. The two guilty persons are to be hanged by March 27, 2010 provided the defense team does not apply for redress to the Supreme Court.

Prior to the disclosure of guilty verdict on March 19, 2010, the grounds of the temple of Justice which house criminal Court “B”was picked beyond capacity with women and children disregarding all schedules to follow-up on the final verdict issue today.

Angel Togba, 14, was found hanged in the home of Hans Williams and Mardea Pikue but her death according to the prosecuting team was stage managed by Hans and Mardea. The Prosecuting team in their final testimony said Hans and Mardea initially killed the infant.

Liberia: Intellectual Property Symposium kicks off Next week
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 19, 2010

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property and the Liberia Intellectual Property Office holds a three day National Symposium on Intellectual Property aimed at educating, training and researching.

According to a release, the symposium takes place in Monrovia from March 22-24, 2010. The Symposium is expected to strengthen Intellectual Property as a tool for national development and the Intellectual Property policy.

The release notes that the symposium will look at the role of patents, trademarks and geographical indications, industrial designs and copy right in promoting innovation and creativity. The symposium will address capacity building needs in the Intellectual Property area and responses at the international level.

The release says challenges and opportunities for creating awareness of Intellectual Property, education and training programs for creators, users and the public will be the hallmark of the three days symposium.

The release further says that the nature of government support required in Intellectual Property education, training and carrying out Intellectual property research will be highlighted at the symposium.

The release adds that the symposiums will bring together national and international trainers including: Mr. Herman Ntchacho Senior Director of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Mrs. Neema Nyerere-Drago, Senior Program Officer of (WIPO) based in Geneva, Mr. Gift Sibanda, Director General, Africa Regional Intellectual Property organization among others.

Make Lofa findings public
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 17, 2010

The Concern Mandingo Society of Liberia (COMASL) says it wishes to register its strongest indignation about the delay by the government of Liberia to make public the outcome of the investigation conducted by the Inter-Religious Council into the causes of the recent violence in Lofa County, which the group said resulted into destruction of lives and properties of innocent people.

In a release issued Tuesday, March 16, 2010, COMASL said though they understand the delicacy of the matter, via-a-vis the difficult task of building and maintaining peace and reconciliation in the country, they are apprehensive about the negative impact attempts to sweep the truth of the matter under the carpet would have on the Liberian society.

“The polemic generated by the incident, we believe, has once again highlighted the fact that genuine peace and reconciliation is and will remain an illusion in postwar Liberia as long as the relationship between our emotions and the discharge of our national and professional duties continue to delicate how we react to events that are tribal or religious in nature”.

“Our call is, as it has always been, the irrevocable upholding of principles and values of the very democracy we claim to have adopted. The declaration of guilt in the absence of proof, as seen in this incident, has become an unendurable ethos that continues to paralyze the Liberian society and needs to be vehemently resisted if not ejected by all well-meaning citizens. The government, therefore, needs to be blunt, bold, decisive and moreover insensitively honest in dealing with potential pitfalls in its quest for everlasting peace and harmonious co-existence amongst its citizens”.

The Concern Mandingo Society opined that the level of progress and developments obtaining in other countries that are closer and farther from “Liberia were not the products of hate, needless to say of a lamentable social ethos”.

The group has urged the government and religious people in Liberia to break free from what the group described as “This overbearing partnership between emotion and duty,” stressing that “they must know that the success of their missions is not measured by how many skyscrapers, churches or mosques they built but by how well they have succeeded in molding a nation that is in peace with itself, where inter-tribal and religious harmony prevail over temptations, hatred and destructions.”

Liberia: Finance Minister Ngafuan survives incarceration after Sirleaf unplanned visit
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 16, 2010

Hours after news spread around Monrovia concerning the incarceration of Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan on Friday, March 12, 2010 by the Liberian Senate, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf strangely visited the Capitol Building at the astonishment of Liberians.

Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan has been invited by the Liberian Senate to answer questions in relation to the delay in financial allotments of the Lawmakers. Minister Ngafuan was invited to an Executive session and was faced with inquiry for several hours before the arrival of the President motorcade at the Capitol Building.

Being careful with the laws that guide separation of power in Liberia, President Sirleaf proceeded to the office of the Vice President who is also the President of the Liberian Senate. Detail of her discussion with the Vice President is yet unknown, but some Lawmakers hinted this media that the discussion highlighted the threshold bill and other bills before the Senate.

President Sirleaf last month vetoed the threshold bill sent before it on grounds that the population for each constituency was unnecessary.

According to reports gathered within the corridors of the Liberian Senate, a motion was raised by Grand Bassa County Senator Nathanial Innis to detain the Finance Minister during an executive session of the Senate until he can address their allotment which has been delayed.

The Finance Minister survived the motion after President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf reportedly intervened following a surprise visit at the Capitol Building last Friday. It is not however clear what level of intervention the President reportedly made but Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio revealed that President Sirleaf had gone to discuss her Legislative Agenda with the Senate. He further indicated that that the President’s visit had no connection with the appearance of Finance Minister Ngafuan.

Liberia: Commerce Ministry revokes local Business license
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 12, 2010

The Ministry Commerce and industry has revoked the Business Registration Certificate of a local business, the H.B. Incorporated located on Water Street, Monrovia.

The Ministry took the action after it was discovered that H.B. Incorporated altered a Business Registration Document issued by the Ministry.

According to a Commerce Ministry press release, the H.B. Incorporated was issued certificate to engage in the import and sale of provisional goods, but fraudulently included the sale of used clothing and General Supply in the Business Registration Certificate thus violating section 4:11 “ab” of the Business Law of Liberia.

The Ministry added that falsification and alteration of any of its documents is a violation under Business Law and the perpetrators must face penalty.

Liberia: President Sirleaf improves rural market, dedicates multi-purpose market ground in Nimba
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 11, 2010

Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has dedicated a multipurpose market building valued at US3,000; constructed under the Sirleaf Market Fund Program for Marketers of Saclepea, Nimba County.

The Sirleaf market fund is an initiatives of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf aimed at providing modern and decent market hall for marketers especially those residing in rural Liberia. Funds for the market project are usually provided by the President personal friends and those who believe in her program as revealed by Press Secretary Cyrus Badio.

According to the Fund Executive Director Sekou Konneh, UNDP provided part of the money (18,000) for the construction of additional facilities including outside latrine and parking lots.

Speaking at a dedicatory ceremony in Saclepea at the end of her Southeastern tour, President Sirleaf said she remain focus on her earlier commitment in providing decent market environment for her people. “You can now use the structure to sell and empower yourselves”, President Sirleaf told Marketers amidst cheers from cross section of marketers.

She thanked the people of Saclepea region for the level of support in making the project come to light and also lauded those who make the land possible.

Speaking on behalf of the citizenry, the Acting City Mayor of Saclepea Madam Marie Yileyon said they are very happy of the market structure terming it as one of the largest market buildings in the country.

Saclepea market is used by Marketers trading goods from the rural part of Liberia to Monrovia but Marketers in the past, consistently suffered from exact location and market hall.

Liberia: President Sirleaf dedicates feeder roads in rural Liberia
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 11, 2010

Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods, II says priority will be given to the rehabilitation of farm to market road in the next budgetary period. He said feeder roads are very paramount to the improvement of socio-economic development in Liberia.

Speaking during a road inspection on the Forla-Forquelleh/Gwaingea road project in Bong County, Minister Woods said he was impressed to see the road once damaged rehabilitated which according to him will ease the transport difficulties on the people of that area. He challenged Forquelleh residents to get involve in the protection of the bridges and culverts along the road and also engage in side brushing thus bringing durability to the newly rehabilitated road.

Earlier on, the head of Forquelleh women, Ma Doemu Suah on behalf of her colleagues thanked the government of Liberia for the rehabilitation of the road. She said the rehabilitated road has led to drastic reduction in transportation cost. “We used to pay 0 Liberian dollars for transportation fees from here to Gbarnga but we are now paying Liberian Dollars. So we thank the Government so much”, chairlady Suah disclosed.

Although the 14.3 km stretch of road is in its completion stage, the citizens appealed to Government for the project to be extended to the Liberia-Guinea border in order to facilitate trade and cross-border interaction between they and their Guinean counterparts.

In a related development, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has dedicated several feeder roads in the Southeastern region of Liberia particularly in Maryland and Grand Gedeh Counties.

In Maryland County, President Sirleaf drove on the newly rehabilitated Harper-Cavalla/Carblacan road which was in a deplorable state prior to its rehabilitation. The 17-miles road according to citizens of the area has helped reduced transportation difficulties previously experienced by them and expressed immense gratitude to the Government of Liberia.



Other roads being rehabilitated in the two southeastern counties include the 16-miles Bonike route in Maryland, as well as Geeplay and Jarzon Baywaydee roads in Grand Gedeh County. In the town of Geeplay, the President also inspected on-going work on a hand pump that the Ministry is constructing for the town’s residents and took time-off to chat with her people.

Citizens in the project areas expressed delight over the roads being rehabilitated and called on authorities of the Ministry to concentrate on other feeder roads in the regionn.

Liberia: 100 Bed room hospital to be completed soon in Nimba
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 9, 2010

A 100 Bed Room hospital worth US million is nearing completion in Nimba County with President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf expressing total satisfaction over the level of work done on the building.

Located in Tappita Nimba County, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf toured the site of the building with Chinese Ambassador to Liberia Zhou Yuxiao accompanying her to some significant portions of the hospital. The tour was the end of President Sirleaf Southeastern trip where she has gone to interact with her cabinet for the first time in that region.

According to Chinese Ambassador to Liberia, the decision to construct the hospital was based upon request made by Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf when she visited China. He said, the Chinese government initially planned to construct the hospital in Monrovia but such plan was diverted to Tappita, Nimba County upon the instruction of President Sirleaf. The building if completed is expected to be one of the best modern hospitals in the West African region. It is being constructed by the Chinese Government as part of that country’s bilateral assistance to the rebuilding of post conflict Liberia.

Ambassador Zhou also confirmed that construction work would be completed by July for the hospital to officially be dedicated before July 26 as part of programs marking Liberia’s 163rd Independence celebration. He also disclosed that the Chinese Government will make the hospital fully equipped with modern technologies to meet international standards. This year Independence celebration will be held in Sanniquelie, Nimba County.

Speaking with joy during the end of the tour, Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf historicized that during her previous visit to Tappita in 2006; she promised to restore the damaged hospital after citizens of Tappita took her to the site. She said, her administration prioritized two important projects namely; the construction of the new University building at Fendell and the Tappita hospital, rather than rebuilding the burnt Executive Mansion which by statutory necessity, should be housing the President of Liberia.

The Government of the Peoples Republic of China has been unfailing in the rebuilding of Liberia’s damaged infrastructures with both the University Campus on Fendell and the Tappita hospital highlighting its peak.

Other buildings originally constructed by the Chinese Government are yet to be completed with a call from citizens to also look at these structures. The buildings are the National Defense Ministry and the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare all in Congo Town, Monrovia.

Liberia: Former President Doe Mansion turned playground; needs rescue
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 9, 2010

The house of former Liberian President Samuel K. Doe, value at approximately US.5 million dollars located in Zwedru, Grand Gedeh County is a scene of attraction judging from its beautiful outlook.

Located in a giant size compound surrounded by small apartments and a modern swimming pool, the dream of the former Liberian Leader Samuel Doe to see his house, which ordinary citizens consider as “Dream House”, came to an abrupt end which by extension crippled the completion of the house project during the civil war.

Besides the abandonment of the house as far as it completion is concern, the house is currently been used as playground by street kids who assembled there to either fight or play thereby undermining the value of the house.

Other segment of the compound is used for defecation while doors initially planted were taken off. The house according to information gathered was heavily looted by forces of the defunct National Patriotic Front of Liberia formerly of former rebel leader Charles Taylor. Charles Taylor is currently incarcerated for war crime allegation by the International Court.

During my visit in the Southeastern region of Liberia, I personally took out time to visit this beautiful compound and observed its neglect and abuse of it essence.

Giving a descriptive view of the city of Zwedru, One could clearly deduced, taking into consideration the layout and structure of the city that it fairly constitutes the best three in the country. The layout of the street of Zwedru clearly protects anyone carrying map of the city to move from one place to another.

The road network in Zwedru is among the best in the country. It was built with excellent sidewalks alignment and better crossing point.

Of late, the current administration of the county built an area of attraction which gives additional beauty to the city. Triangular center, as it is affectionately called is used to bring Youth of the county together in discussing their common differences and also socialize their internal stress.

Liberia: Rural Liberian women celebrate World Women Day
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 8, 2010

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has by proclamation declared Monday, March 8, 2010, as “International Women Day”, to be observed throughout the territorial confines of the Republic as a Working Holiday. The Day will be celebrated under the Theme: “Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for All”.

President Sirleaf has therefore ordered the Ministry of Gender and Development, Government Agencies, Civil Organizations, Non-governmental organizations and International Non-governmental Organizations concerned, to execute appropriate programs to make the Day meaningful.

The proclamation according to a Foreign Ministry release is in consonance with a Resolution 32/142 adopted in December, 1997 by the United Nations General Assembly declaring March 8, of each year as Women’s Right and International Day for Peace.

The release further states that the observance of the day is to bring an awareness to women on all continents of the tradition that represents almost a century of women’s struggle for equality, justice, peace and development, adding that women have been marginalized for too long, and the need to be encouraged for their unflinching efforts in the development of nations and caring for their families at all times and under all circumstances.

Liberia: Woods declares Toe Town Bridge an emergency case
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Mar 8, 2010

“This is a major bridge that connects two countries. We have to address the rehabilitation of this bridge without delay. This is an emergency that needs prompt solution” says Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods when he visited the Toe Town Border in Grand Gedeh County to assess the bridge that connects Liberia and Ivory Coast.

The Bridge was initially built with thick log but its current status according to Minister Woods is a disaster for Commuters who trade goods between the two countries.

“I am instructing you to proceed to Monrovia and arrange with all parties in contracting the rehabilitation of this bridge without delay. Let a temporary by-pass be prepared in seven (7) days to afford travelers and sellers continue their regular activities while we launch a Bailey bridge in thirty (30) days. I want to see machines on the ground here in four days”, Minister Woods mandate MPW Engineers.

Amid cheers and celebration from local inhabitants in the area, the Public Works Boss outlined President Sirleaf desire to see the Toe Town Border totally rehabilitated which includes roads and bridges.

Earlier, Grand Gedeh County former Paramount Chief Johnny Soe thanked Minister Woods and team for the visit. He said the exclusive initiative taken by the Liberian Government to rehabilitate the bridge shows the highest level of love for its citizens. He said the people of Grand Gedeh County appreciate the level of development instituted by the Sirleaf led government.

For his part, Grand Gedeh County Representative Zoe Pennoh congratulated both the Government of Liberia and the people of Grand Gedeh County for the bold step taken in reconstructing the bridge. “Our major concern as government is to make sure that the people are happy”, he lamented.

The 76 feet long bridge is expected to be dismantled after the temporary bypass which is currently been prepare is completed.

The visit of Minister Woods and team to Toe Town border is in continuation of his assessment on infrastructures around the country. The visit of MPW team also coincided with the Cabinet Retreat held in Zwedru, Grand Gedeh County.

Liberia: Lofa Crisis Continues - Lofa Citizen Demand Resgnation of Suprentendent
by Voffee Jabateh // //
Mar 4, 2010

Lofa Citizens Demand Superintendent Kortimai to Resign

Life in this dusty poverty stricken town is still tensional after one day fierce ethnic violence that left several people dead and properties destroyed. The fighting has seized but there’s no peace here either. Despite the presence of several hundred government security forces and United Nation Peace Keeper, efforts to bring normalcy still seem far away as resident call for the ouster of key government officials.

A source said the main problem is “the level of distrust among the two major ethnic groups, Lorma and Mandingoes, they seem to be angry at each other“.

The city of Voinjama is divided “one side for Lorma people the one for the Mandingoes people. When we arrive this morning at the Voinjama Market, the market women were divided into two groups the Mandingoes people one side the lorma on another side,” said a resident.

A fact finding delegation comprising of members from all the districts in Lofa County started talking to residents about the cause of the recent violence.

Sources said there are many hurdles from both sides that will make the job of reconciling very difficult, if not impossible.

But the main issue of contention for residents is what many called the corrupt and impartial behavior of the County Superintendent, Kalapka Kortimai and County Attorney Auther Sumo both of the Lorma ethnic group. Many residents said they two have been extorting money from Mandingoes business people for no obvious reason. They are also accused of siding with the Lorma group in the recent ethnic crisis.

“Tell Ellen this is dictatorship and if she doesn’t remove these two people from office there will be no peace in Lofa County” said Emmanuel Person, a teacher. Person said the people have no trust in both men.

“I think there are plenty of reasons to warrant the lack of confidence in Kortimai and Sumo to lead this county as chief executives” Morris Kanneh said.

In one meeting with the Interfaith Mediation Committee, the women from the Lorma side walk out for what they called the government failure to arrest Mandingoes people. All efforts to have them return proved futile.

Other said that Superintendent Kortimai is using his office to get even with perceive enemies in Voinjama mostly he’s targeting Mandingoes. Witnesses said he ordered the arrest of the District Commission of Quardu Gboni District, Mamadee Kamara, and a move that has further increased the tension in the County. County Attorney, Auther Sumo also issue warrant for the arrest for youth leader, Boakai Kamara who has been calling for the resignation of Kortimai and Sumo long before the crisis begin.

“Our Message to the president is simple and clear, get these two men off our back, we don’t respect them anymore as our leaders otherwise there will be serious revolt as long as these two individual are posturing as Superintendent and County Attorney. We don’t want trouble but you can’t impose someone on us that’s tearing our people apart and creating confusion all over the place. What we need here is a neutral body for the sake of peace.” A release from the Quardu Gboni Student Association in Monrovia said.

Liberia: CEMESP launches 2009 annual press freedom report
by CEMESP // //
Mar 3, 2010

(CEMESP/IFEX) - The Center for Media Studies & Peace Building (CEMESP) has launched the 3rd edition of its account of threats to freedom of expression with calls for the government and authorities to recognize and support the inalienable rights of others to dissent.

In a statement read at the launch in Monrovia on March 1 2010, CEMESP Executive Director Malcolm Joseph recalled that "the utility of intimidation as a means of enforcing conformance," is a treachery that has no space in our democracy and must be condemned. Speaking further, Joseph noted that "intimidation has taken many forms to renew censorship in Liberia," describing it as a "sad day."

According to Joseph, CEMESP recognizes the right of government and its functionaries to disagree with media reports, but regretted the absence of the "requisite environment to foster the easy and free exchange of information from and about the government". He said in the absence of this, misinformation will easily thrive.

With reference to ethical transgression by media houses, CEMESP said while it does not condone mischief in news reporting, the absence of a regime to compel public officials to respond to public queries obviously provides room for misinformation. The statement said efforts to ensure the reforms that will, among other things, compel pubic officials to respond to press inquiries, has been stalled over the last two years.

CEMESP notes that just as the legislature passes government economic stimulus measures, laws should also be passed to benefit the media, enhancing transparency and making the process of legislative oversight easier.

According to Joseph, "Liberians would recall the sad misapplication of the law through such awkward concepts like criminal malevolence, criminal libel and sedition, which have all been declared unconstitutional in jurisdictions that gave birth to ours."

On the issue of increasing lawsuits against media houses on account of their perceived false reporting, CEMESP said this is healthy for the democracy-building process, considering that it supports the search for justice. The groups however expressed concern that judgments must not be made to the effect of running the media out of business. By that, the judiciary would be supporting attacks on freedom of expression, which ultimately undermines whatever rule of law regimen anticipated in Liberia. CEMESP then drew attention to the recent demotion exercise at the Liberia Broadcasting System on account of a disagreement with management, noting the similarity between the action and a 2006 memo against the broadcast of corruption-related stories.

In introducing the report, the Chairman of CEMESP, Abdullai Kamara, observed that "In this era of recovery in Liberia, one would wish that everything being recovered was in the affirmative and development sense," noting that recovery cannot be in terms of bad governance, corruption and media censorship.

In listing the various violations, CEMESP noted that "aside from the thrashing and brutalization without amends, the threats and actual closure of unfavorable media, whether by the edicts of (former) Information Minister Laurence Bropleh or the detention and prosecution of print house managers on account of articles produced by independent newspapers, are clear indicators of the end of an era of uncensored media, as Liberians and media practitioners have gotten accustomed to since 2003."

"This is the state of the Liberian media as CEMESP encountered across 2009, which is a far cry from the freedom of expression heralded by President Sirleaf at her inauguration in 2006," Joseph read. "That accounts of threats to freedom of expression in 2009 are absolutely within the domain of the government highlights further the level of intolerance, which must be reconsidered," the statement said.

"The challenge is for the government to endeavor to allow people to listen to and understand the truth, which must set the Liberian people free. By doing this, the government must change the statistics by the time the next publication comes forth at the end of 2010."

The center noted that reporting these accounts is not an especially favorable occupation, but indicated that it is challenged in reporting because of the obligation to draw attention to the continued threats to the universally acknowledged right of freedom of expression.

CEMESP then called upon the government, the media and the public at large to see the report as an effort to identify the issues and to rally everyone to accept the fact that people have the inalienable right to express themselves, criticize the government, think to the extent of their wisdom, and perchance enjoy the fullest vestiges of their humanity.

OPINION PIECE FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
by NAVI PILLAY // //
Mar 3, 2010

A girl befriends boys. What could be more normal and ordinary? Yet for doing just that a Turkish teenager was reportedly buried alive by her father and grandfather. This recent piece of news has been met with shock and outrage worldwide. Crimes such as this, however, are in no way exceptional. Indeed, a Court in Arizona is currently hearing the case of a man accused of running down and killing his daughter whom he allegedly considered too “Westernized.” The United Nations estimates that 5,000 women are murdered by family members each year in so-called honor killings around the world.

When women are seen as the carriers of a family’s honor they become vulnerable to attacks involving physical violence, mutilation and even murder, usually at the hand of an “offended” male kin and often with the tacit or explicit assent of female relatives.

“Honor assaults” are carried out to “repair and cleanse” a breach of family or community norms, particularly when sexual conduct is involved. But triggers could also be a woman’s desire to marry or live with a person of her own choice, to divorce, or to claim an inheritance. At times, self-appointed “avengers” are prompted to act just on mere gossip and unsubstantiated suspicions. The perception of fault is even more important than its actual occurrence. Women are condemned to violent sentences without benefit of a hearing of their side of the story and without possibility of appeal.

This twisted logic and the violence it unleashes are pursued even when women have been the targets of unwanted male attention or have been the victims of rape, including incestuous violence. As a result, they are victimized twice while their aggressors’ behavior is condoned. Often perpetrators can count on full or partial exoneration of penalty due to laws that are lenient or that are patchily applied. At times, the assailants may even end up basking in the admiration of their community for having stopped the errant behavior of a disobedient woman and erased its stain with blood.

But violent “honor attacks” are crimes that violate the right to life, liberty, bodily integrity, the prohibition against torture or cruel, inhuman, degrading treatment, the prohibition on slavery, the right to freedom from gender-based discrimination and sexual abuse or exploitation, the right to privacy, the obligation to renounce discriminatory laws and harmful practices against women.

It is both simplistic and misleading to think that these practices belong to retrograde cultures which disdain civilized conduct. The fact is that in all countries of the world women endure violence in spheres that are familiar to them and in which they should expect safety rather than assault. Honor attacks are steeped in the same attitude and stem from the same mind-set that also produces domestic violence. These attacks are rooted in the desire to control women and suppress their aspirations and voice.

Women are entrapped within their home walls by the isolation and powerlessness that violence builds around them. As a result, many assaults against women perpetrated in the domestic sphere remain shrouded in silence and shame rather than being denounced for what they are, that is, egregious human rights abuses.

Although women’s economic self-reliance may offer pathways out of societal constraints and domestic abuse and subjugation, violence against women has been on the increase even in countries where women have achieved financial independence and high social status. That forces some successful entrepreneurs, as well as respected parliamentarians, brilliant scholars and professional women to lead double lives. In public they are regarded as role models among the top echelons of society. In private they are humiliated and attacked.


The typical response to domestic violence is sending women to shelters and removing them from the environment in which they live. In contrast, perpetrators are seldom forced to leave or flee in shame and fear from their own dwellings or their social milieu.

Such approach must be reversed. There is a clear State responsibility to protect women, punish their attackers and make perpetrators shoulder the cost and consequences of their self-righteousness and brutality. This must be done, irrespective of the perpetrators’ situation in a society, their motivation, and their relationship to the victim.

At the same time, men and women, boys and girls must be educated about women’s human rights and everybody’s responsibility to respect the rights of others. This should include recognition of women’s right to control their bodies and their sexuality, as well as having equal access to inheritance, property, housing and social security.

Women are fighting back to ensure that change in attitudes occurs and is consolidated. They increasingly challenge their assailants to explain in court what exactly is honorable about their actions. Women increasingly demand that their tormentors too face the consequences of violence. We must support these courageous women. We must help others to come forward and shred the veil of silence and societal connivance that has allowed cultures of violence to take root.

Liberia: Cookstove For Liberia To Reduce Indoor Air Pollution
by Peter Gbelia // //
Feb 25, 2010

According to the World Health Organization, nearly 3 billion people –or almost half the world’s population –cook their daily meals indoors over biomass-fueled cooking fires. Traditional cooking methods cannot achieve clean combustion so the majority of the heat is wasted and up to 20 percent of the biomass is converted into toxic substances like carbon monoxide, particulates, benzene and formaldehyde. The resulting Indoor Air Pollution (IAP) kills 1.6 million people every year http://www.envirofit.org/?q=our-products/clean-cookstoves/IAP

Due to their increased exposure in the home, over 85 percent of these deaths are women and children under the age of five. IAP-generated illness and deaths strain already poverty-stricken families on the edge, reducing income generation capacity and adding expenses for health care and medication.

To reduce deaths and illness due to IAP, the SJedi Sustainability Trust Micro-loan Project is signing members, who will contribute funds to assist families in Liberia to purchase COOK-STOVES and accessories. Please visit www.envirofit.org for details about the stove. Please email Peter Gbelia, at execdir@empowermentsociety.com for questions about the Trust and the distribution program.

We want to implement by Oct 2010, so please join by emailing me your name and a estimated pledge amount that we will collect in October 2010.

Together we can save lives and the environment!

Thank You,
Peter Gbelia

Liberia: Kota urges other commercial institutions to emulate Firestone example
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Feb 18, 2010

The National President of the Christian Association of the Blind Beyan Kota is commending the Management of Firestone Liberia for extending its community outreach program to the institution and called on others to follow same.

Speaking at a ceremony marking the turning over of a rehabilitated road linking Robertsfield Highway and the Resource Center of CAB, Mr. Kota thanked the management of Firestone for extending helping hand to the visually impaired brothers and sisters of Liberia.

He outlined several difficulties encountered prior to the rehabilitation of the road by the blind students who managed through rough terrain to go to school on the Robertsfield Highway but noted that with the completion of the road and landscaping of the campus and its surrounding, the blind themselves can wisely use their white cane with no much constraint to get on the main road.

“I remembered one time when we brought in a 15-KVA generator, the truck stuck in the sand. We have to get the crane, the crane also got stuck, and that was too much problems and expenses for us”, Kota said.

For his part, the Public Relations Manager of Firestone Liberia, Rufus Karmon said the management of Firestone was delighted to complete the rehabilitation of the road leading to the resource center of the Christian Association of the Blind. “Firestone is just starting the process, and we hope that other corporate institutions will assist this institution” he outlined.

Rough road network is one of the major impediments to the free movement of the visually impaired people in Liberia with majority of them encountering difficulties to move even with the white cane along major road.

Liberia: Non-residency clause posed serious division among Senators
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Feb 17, 2010

What appears to be stiff division is currently ensuing among members of the Liberian Senate over a proposed amendment that seek to allow non-resident Liberians contest the posts of President and Vice President.

The debate came as a result of a 2 year old Legislative resolution 001 by both Senate and House of Representatives proposing a constitutional referendum to amend certain provision of the 1986 constitution of the Republic of Liberia.

Article 52 of the Liberian constitution states: No person shall be eligible to hold the office of President and Vice President, unless that person is a natural born Liberian citizen of not less than 35 years of age, the owner of unencumbered real property valued at not less than twenty-five thousand dollars and must be resident in the Republic ten years prior to his election, provided that the President and Vice President shall not come from the same County. The constitution further forbids non-resident Liberians from contesting the two most top posts in the Country.

Although many Senators called for the enforcement of the residency clause enshrined in the constitution, Grand Kru County Senator Blamoh Nelson cautioned his colleagues to foresee danger in denying other Liberians the right to contest for the Nation’s highest seat. He said the ten years clause is barren on the citizens and clearly violates their birth rights of being a Liberian who should vow for elected posts. He further indicated that nothing should stop any Liberian the golden right but only the electorates should be the ones to deny them by not voting them on grounds that they are strangers.

Montserrado County Senator Joyce Musu Freeman further indicated that the residency clause should remain but the tenure of the ten years enforcement be reduced to five.

On the other hand, Maryland County Junior Senator, Gloria Musu Scott, along with Senators Adolphus Dolo of Nimba County and Theo Momo of Gbarpolu, in their separate arguments said that the residency clause should be maintained to keep politicians who want elected posts to remain in the country.

Liberia: President Sirleaf makes new appointments in government
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Feb 16, 2010

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Monday made new appointments in Government subject, where applicable, to confirmation by the Liberian senate.

The new appointments are: Mr. John B.S. Davies, Comptroller General, Ministry of Finance; Mr. Caine Prince Andrew, Assistant Minister for Administration, Ministry of Finance; Professor Jallah Allan Barbu, Commissioner, Land Reform Commission; Attorney Deweh Gray, Commissioner, Land Reform Commission; Moses Wogbeh, Managing Director, Forestry Development Authority and Asatu Bah-Kenneh, Assistant Minister for Administration and Public Safety, Ministry of Justice.

Other appointments made by the Liberian leader are: Adella Cooper, Assistant Minister for economic affairs, Ministry of Justice; Beauford Weeks, Assistant Minister for energy, Ministry of Land, Mines and energy; Abraham Fahnbulleh, Assistant Minister for Codification, Ministry of Justice; Emma Wuor, Assistant Minister for Correction and Rehabilitation, Ministry of Justice; John D. Martin, Chairman, National Housing Authority; Etweeda Cooper, Acting Mayor, Edina City, Grand Bassa County; Youngor Sleon, Acting Mayor, Voinjama City, Lofa County; Betty Breeze, Acting Mayor, Zwedru City, Grand Gedeh County; Wellington Bellepu, District Commissioner, Panta District, Bong County.

Liberia: IMF delegation to hold discussion with Stakeholders
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Feb 13, 2010

A high power International Monetary Fund delegation headed by its first deputy Managing Director, John Lipsky, is expected to arrive in the country to undertake assessment of Liberia’s Poverty Reduction Strategy and Growth Facility Program (PRGF) from February 14-16, 2010.

A Ministry of Finance release said while in the country, the IMF delegation will meet with Her Excellency, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and her economic management team to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing Liberia.

The IMF delegation, which will be accompanied to Liberia by former Minister of Finance and Director of the African department of the IMF, Dr. Antoinette Sayeh, is expected to hold discussions with the National Legislature, development partners, the private sector, students and faculty of the University of Liberia.

The release further noted that the IMF delegation will also hold talks with number of government officials on key issues including progress and the next step towards achieving the completion point of the highly indebted poor countries initiative (HIPC), by the target date of mid-2010.

The head of the IMF delegation, John Lipsky, is a career Banker who has been at the center of the IMF response to the global financial crisis.

Liberia: Local Road Construction Contractor to benefit from Seminar
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Feb 11, 2010

In a bid to improve the capacity of local contractors in the area of road building in Liberia, the Ministry of Public Works in collaboration with the Association of Liberian Construction Contractors (ALCC), GTZ, the World Bank and InWent is expected to hold a two (2) day capacity building seminar for local road construction contractors at the S.K.D Sports Complex conference hall on Monday and Tuesday, 15-16 February 2010.

According to a Public Works release, the Seminar intends to educate and inform the local construction contractors of the nature of institutional changes taking place at the Ministry of Public Works and alert them to the need to build the required capacity to make their businesses competitive.

The Seminar is predicated upon the realization that many local road construction contractors are unaware of the changes taking place and those being contemplated by the government in reshaping the way infrastructure development projects are executed.

Taking an analytical and comparable view of the local contractors, it is obvious that local construction contractors are lagging behind not only in comprehending the nature of these changes but also developing the requisite capacity to meet the difficult challenges ahead.

The Seminar is expected to feature presentations from renowned international and local scholars and professionals in the field of Civil Engineering, Contract Management, Human Resource Management from Africa, Europe, the US and Liberia. Other presentations will be made by the Contractors’ association, the World Bank, GTZ, InWent and other professional institutions.

Two panel discussions will be held on the themes: (1) Exploring opportunities for capacity development for local road construction contractors and (2) confronting the challenges of the Road Transport Sector in Liberia.

Lebanese Business Tycoon Threatens Lawsuit Against Government For Domestic Debts
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Feb 10, 2010

The President of the famous Holiday Inn Hotel and the Third World Commercial Construction Enterprises (TWCCE), Hafij M. Jahwary has threatened a lawsuit against the Liberian Government for what he called domestic debt.

LIBERIA: UNICEF Sponsored Social Cash Transfer Rescues Lessfortunate Liberians
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Feb 10, 2010

In a bid to rapidly reduce the high rate of poverty amongst Liberia’s rural dwellers and to decrease economic vulnerability the UNICEF’s sponsored Social Cash Transfers pilot scheme last year launched in Bomi County is said to ‘tremendously’ gaining roots in that part of the country.

Liberia: Armed Forces Day tomorrow
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Feb 10, 2010

Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has issued a proclamation, declaring Thursday, February 11, 2010, “Armed Forces Day” to be observed throughout the territory confines of the Republic as a National Holiday.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, President Sirleaf has instructed that all military organizations within the Republic organize and execute appropriate programs, parades and ceremonies, in recognition of the day; and that special attention and honor be given veterans of the Army and Navy, who have worked actively during their service of duty.

The proclamation is in recognition of the supreme sacrifices made by our great military Heroes and Heroines, both past and present, for the preservation of this sacred heritage that is based on social justice, human rights, and the norms of civilized societies.

The President further stated that all government offices, Public and Business houses be closed on the day from six o’clock Ante-Meridian, giving respect, honor and encouragement to men and women who served and are serving the country

Liberia: MPW extends road rehabilitation in rural Liberia
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Feb 9, 2010

In continuation of his tour of county over the inspection of roads, bridges and Public buildings around the country, Public Works Minister Attorney Samuel Kofi Woods, II visited Grand Bassa and Rivercess Counties where he expressed satisfaction over some projects and outlined progresses in the rehabilitation of damaged infrastructures in Liberia.

In Grand Bassa County, Minister Woods, Work Bank Team, Donors and officials of Government inspected current progress made at the 15 km stretch of road between Cotton Tree and Bokay Town. 3.140 km out of the 15km stretch of road currently being reconstructed has been completed with significant improvement visibly seen by virtue of Labour and equipment mobilization.

Speaking at a brief consultative meeting in Bokay Town, Grand Bassa County, Minister Woods expressed appreciation to Donor countries and the World Bank for their support to Liberia’s reconstruction drive. He said funding from Cotton Tree to Bokay Town road is directly from the Liberia Reconstruction Trust Fund initiated by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and administered by the World Bank and the government. He said his continuous visitation at the site is meant to ensure that construction is done on time.

He said road rehabilitation is significantly paramount because it opens access to improve economic and social developments.

For his part, World Bank Country Manager, Ohene Nyanin praised Minister Woods for not just sitting in office but going on the field to inspect the actual project. He said the World Bank and its developmental partners will continue to work for the betterment of Liberia’s infrastructural development. He urged Liberians to exhibit the high degree of patience as road work entails gradual process.

On the same day, Minister Woods and delegation proceeded to Buchanan and were met upon arrival by authority of the county and toured several areas including the presidential site at four houses and the Atlanta Street which is threatened by the Sea erosion. Twelve areas of concern for possible rehabilitation were submitted by the County authority which includes Lewis Street, Open Bible road, Kilby Street among others. Although other long term plans were announced concerning the streets of Buchanan especially with maintenance and protection of infrastructures, Minister Woods stressed the need to institute measures in preventing the spread of sea erosion until permanent solution.

The tour extended on Saturday, February 5, 2010 when Minister Woods and team were joined by Senators Jonathan Barney and George Moore of Rivercess County. Detouring the rehabilitated road to Cestos, the team proceeded via Compound three and toward Rivercess where Minister Woods and technical team stopped at every bridge and damaged portion along the road to take full assessment of the road. Upper Timbo River bridge that boundary Grand Bassa and Rivercess and the Seniea River Bridge were among several bridges and water crossing that the MPW team visited.

Citizens of the two Districts in Rivercess, Morweh and Keadye welcome Minister Woods and team to each town with the regular traditional welcoming ceremony which was equally responded with happiness. “It is certainly a wonderful thing for the first time in the history to see cabinet Minister visiting our area. We are close to seeing the President in our area”, an elderly lady asserts.

“I was sent by the President to look at the roads, bridges and wells. The President is concern about the road and is working hard to make sure that the road is good. We will check them one by one and report back to the President”, said Minister Woods.

Those making part of the team were, Deputy Minister for Community Services Charles Carpenter and other technical Directors as well as Senators Jonathan Barney and George Moore of Rivercess County.

Liberians Raised Funds To Aid Haiti's Earthquake Victims
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Feb 8, 2010

LIBERIANS RAISED SEVERAL THOUSANDS DOLLARS TO AIDE HAITI'S EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS

Residents of Monrovia have raised funds to aid earthquake stricken Haiti, which is located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of the Dominican Republic.

At a fund raising concert on February 6, 2010, Liberians raised L,435 (~ US2) and an additional US,000 was pledged by prominent members of society.

Haiti was discovered by Columbus in 1492 and inhabited by native Amerindians of the Taino tribe.

Liberia: Opposition Lawmakers question President Sirleaf utterance
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Feb 3, 2010

Opposition Lawmakers in the House of Parliament have demanded an apology from Liberian Leader Ellen Johnson Sirleaf over recent statement made on the passage of the Threshold Bill.

At the state of nation address to the National Legislature on Monday, January 26, 2010, President Sirleaf said she would be less responsible if she did not point out the consequences of settling the threshold at 40,000, a level which she said threaten the survival of the State and development.

The population threshold was placed at 4,000 per constituency after long period of debate by Lawmakers in the House of Parliament. The delay which resulted to continuous pressure from the public was controversially passed amidst strong condemnation from some cycle.

At a joint news conference yesterday in Monrovia, the opposition Lawmakers through their spokesman, Bong County and NPP Representative George Mulbah said the statement by President Sirleaf suggests that members of the Legislature acted recklessly when they set the threshold at 40,000, the statement which they considered as affront to their integrities.

Representative George Mulbah, “In the spirit of national reconciliation, we demand apology, absence of which we will be constrained to seek remedy under the constitution and standing rules of the Legislature”.

Commenting on President Sirleaf declaration of intent for the Nation’s highest seat, the Presidency, Mr. Mulbah said, “we the opposition Lawmakers in the House of Representatives deem it not prudent and an affront to this honorable House that the President would use the Annual Message to declare her intention to contest the 2011 elections that, by so doing turned the Honorable Chambers into political rally ground, thereby desecrating our sacred chamber”.

On the issue of dual citizenship, Representative Mulbah asserts “the pronouncement of the President to submit a bill to amend existing laws on retirement is a development, however, her intention to include cabinet members, County Superintendents and heads of Public Corporations who have no defined tenure is unacceptable.

The Lawmakers however resolved to include the President statement on the agenda of the National Legislature for possible debate and deliberation.

Liberia: President Sirleaf identifies with fire victims
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Feb 2, 2010

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has identified with victims of the recent fire disaster which left close to two hundred persons homeless.

According to an Executive Mansion release, President Sirleaf gave a cash donation of US,000 (Five thousand United States Dollars) as her personal contribution toward homeless fire victims most of whom were visually impaired people.

On Monday February 1, 2010, about 200 people in the residential area of Sinkor 5th Street were made homeless as the result of fire outbreak which is believed to have come from a candle lit in one of the wrecked houses.

Although no one was killed in the incident, many persons including children of school going ages were victimized in the process as all their belongings including school uniforms and books were burnt completely during the fire outbreak.

Fire outbreak is very common in Liberia with the average of ten fire outbreaks per month. The capacity to fight fire on the part of government is very limited.

Liberia: Issakaba Boys Reigns Terror on Monrovia
by J. Cholo Brooks // J. Cholo Brooks is a Liberian journalist. As a former correspondent for the BBC African Service and currently the manager of local news agency the Global News Network, Brooks brings an intelligent and compassionate view to the latest in Liberian news. Brooks writes exclusively for TheLiberianTimes.com, for which he serves as Senior Staff Writer. // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Sep 4, 2006

Residents of Monrovia are in constant fear despite the heavy presence of soldiers of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), which is clothed with the authority to mend security in the country.

Criminal gang, calling itself Issakaba Boys are on a nightly basis terrorizing residents of Monrovia and its suburbs, the situation which has created serious concerns amongst the entire population of the city.

Reports of armed robberies and killings in Monrovia and its surrounding areas have increased in recent weeks, leaving most residents to rush to their homes at early hours after their day's work.

Nearly two to three incidents of armed robberies occurred daily in the city, despite police regular night patrol in the city.

Some of the victims who spoke to our Correspondent called on the National Government to do something about this ugly situation, "we are in fear every night, due to threats imposed by these criminals. Government must come out to safe our lives", a resident of the Paynesville Community who few days ago felt prey to these criminals said.

These residents are also calling on UNMIL to do something about this, " UNMIL must come to our rescue to safe our lives," a resident of Sinkor who spoke to our Correspondent in tears said.

Liberia: MPW dedicates another Bailey Bridge in Sinje
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 29, 2010

Deputy Public Works Minister for Technical Services Jenkins Mends-Cole says the protection of Liberia’s infrastructure depends on the collective approach of all Liberians.

Speaking at the dedicatory ceremony of a newly launched Bailey bridge in Sinje, Grand Cape Mount County on January 28, 2010, Minister Mends-Cole said the bridge is indeed significant to the inhabitants because it will help accelerate economic and social activities for residents of Grand Cape Mount and Bomi Counties.

He said Public Works is collaborating with other bilateral partners in rehabilitating roads, bridges and public buildings but requires the full cooperation of all Liberians in maintaining and protecting these infrastructures.

The Deputy Public Works Minister thanked the Pakistani contingent of UNMIL for collaborating with engineers of the Ministry of Public Works in the construction of these Bailey bridges classifying them as true friend of Liberia. He also paid special tribute to soldiers of the Armed Forces of Liberia for their hard work, saying “I am touched and overwhelmed by your smart approach in responding to training acquired from UNMIL in the launching of Bailey bridges. I am proud of your determination to learn at such a high speed”.

He put the construction cost of the 80 feet long Bridge at roughly US,000 which includes logistics and labour. He said the bridge would afford inhabitants of the community the opportunity to transport their goods to the market as well as sick people to the hospitals.

Also speaking at the program, the Force Commander of UNMIL Lieutenant General Sikander Afzal said he was honored by the level of work done by engineers of the Pakistani contingent, MPW and AFL for jointly working together in making this dream a reality. He said other strategic areas besides the regular peace keeping efforts will be prioritized in the rehabilitation of Liberia’s reconstruction drive but pleaded with Liberians to protect and maintain the peace.

The program which attracted scores of government officials, officials of UNMIL, Defense Ministry, AFL, local and traditional leaders, students and youth groups was characterized by jubilation and cultural performances.

The dedication of Sinje Bailey Bridge by the Ministry of Public Works brings to three in less than a month. Earlier this month, MPW launched two Bailey Bridges in Nyanforla and Careysburg in Margibi, Bong and Montserrado Counties respectively.

In another development, MPW and CICO have signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at accelerating ongoing road rehabilitation in Monrovia. Among other things, the MOU calls for the doubling of shifts to enhance road work as well as the recognition of constrains.

Deputy Public Works Minister Jenkins Mends-Cole signed for the Ministry of Public Works while the Managing Director of CICO Liu Libo signed for CICO.

Liberia: PUL appreciates MOL recognition
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 29, 2010

Labour Minister Cllr. Tiawan S. Gongloe says union certificates will become useless if it is not an authority used to seek the protection and welfare of workers and to organize peaceful and orderly discourse with employers that would promote harmonious working relation.

According to a Labour Ministry press release, Minister Gongloe made the statement on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 when the leadership of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) paid courtesy call on him at the Ministry of Labour to express gratitude to the Ministry for accelerating the process of granting a trade union status to the union.

“It is a legal obligation of the Ministry of Labour to review application for union certificate and to certificate organizations that meet the legal requirements for unionizing, but it is encouraging to see people coming back to say thank you, it motivates people to work hard eventhough, it is not necessarily a legal requirement”. The Labour Minister said.

Minister Gongloe noted that the best gratitude the Ministry of Labour can get from any organization is the proper use of the certificate presented to them by the Ministry to operate as a recognized trade union in Liberia.

He said the purpose of unionizing is to seek the protection and welfare of union members and called on the PUL to go forward to use the certificate for the benefit of all journalists in Liberia. “You need to read the labour law to make sure that you seek the interests of your members consistent with standards contained in our law” he added.

The Labour Minister said what the Ministry of Labour needs from the PUL is effective unionizing, that is promoting and creating the condition of understanding between media institutions and their employees within the workplaces at the demand of journalists in keeping with the Labour Law.
Earlier, Press Union of Liberia (PUL) President, Peter Quoiquoi said the PUL was very pleased with the level of attention the Ministry of Labour provided its request to grant the union a trade union status and expressed gratitude to the Minister for the initiative.

Mr. Quoiquoi said the desire of the PUL is to engage their employers to standardize and improve upon the working conditions of its members.

He said it is difficult to talk about ethics without talking about working condition of Journalists.

The PUL President said his institution lookss forward to the Ministry of Labour’s support and cooperation in drafting the union’s first Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

Meanwhile, the Minister of Labour has announced that the Ministry will extend the ongoing inspection exercise to media institutions to ensure that they are in compliance with labour standards.

Liberia: MPW and CICO enter agreement to foster road work
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 27, 2010

In a bid to accelerate the ongoing road rehabilitation within Monrovia city streets, the administrations of the Ministry of Public Works (MPW) and China Chongqing International Construction Corporation (CICO) have agreed to double the regular working hours from one shift to two.

Making the disclosure during late hour road inspection on Tuesday, January 26, 2010 in Monrovia, Public Works Minister Attorney Samuel Kofi Woods, II intimated that after long hours of meeting yesterday with the administration of CICO, it is now agreed that active road work will be carried out during the night hours.

Among other things Minister Woods indicated that additional manpower must be recruited by the Contractors to ensure the speedy rehabilitation of the various streets in Monrovia.

Commenting on the outcome of the road work on the ongoing road rehabilitation in Monrovia, Minister Woods maintained that work is going on as planned but asked for the patience and cooperation of the public adding “let us observe the various signs and abide by traffic diversion.

He also indicated that while the speed of the road work is necessary, precision will also be taken into consideration for quality output.


For his part, the General Manager of CICO Liu Libo acknowledged the importance of the speed in work output and agreed to double the regular working hours from one to two shifts. He said their presence in the street during the night hours was predicated upon Minister Woods’ instruction to physically see people working at night. He said other technical segments of the road require slight delay due to damaged drainages and outdated pipes underground.

The Managing Director who just arrived in the Country from China expressed total confidence in the ability of CICO to do the work classifying CICO as Liberia’s best partner in the road rehabilitation drive. He said the entire Broad Street will be accessible to motorcars by the end of Wednesday, January 27 and significant portions of Benson Street in ten days. He said cars will be rolling on the first layer of the road for two months to observe the tightness of the work until the final layer is erected.

He promised to comply with the Labour laws of Liberia in terms of hiring workers at all categories.

The night time inspection started at 9pm Tuesday on upper Benson and Newport Streets and onward to major other streets within the city where work is ongoing.

Liberia: “I will be a formidable candidate in 2011”, President Sirleaf declares
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 26, 2010

Contrary to her campaign promises on November 27, 2005 limiting her intention for Liberia’s Presidency to one-six year term, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has back-tracked her 2005 campaign promises and announced her preparedness to contest the upcoming Presidential election in 2011 terming her position as “formidable”.

“I will be a candidate. I will be a formidable candidate in the 2011 elections”, President Sirleaf revealed when she delivered her 5th state of the nation address to the National Legislature, amidst cheers from supporters, mainly Lawmakers and partisans of the Unity Party.

President Sirleaf earlier promised the people of Liberia in 2005, particularly on November 27 that when elected to the nation’s highest seat, she would serve for only one term and turns the country over to a successor.

Prior to the declaration of intent for the nation highest seat, several organizations including citizens of Grand Gedeh and the National Traditional Council had petitioned President Sirleaf to contest the presidency due to her commitment to reform the war damaged country.

President Sirleaf was recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission final report to face a 30 year sanction from holding public office for her role she played in the Liberian civil crisis.

“To bring to an end all speculations, that I now announce to you and to the thousands of supporters in radio land and abroad that I will be a candidate, a formidable candidate, in the 2011 elections. Let us travel the rest of this road together knowing that the God who brought us this far will not leave us”, President Sirleaf said.

Other opposition Politicians including Charles Brumskine have condemned recent pronouncement made by President Sirleaf terming her as contradictory in her utterances. Montserrado County Senator Geraldine Doe-Sheriff has termed it as sad day in Liberia for the President to use precious time to address issue of national concern to self glorified political talks.

The announcement made by the Liberian leader puts to rest speculation and rumor surrounding her intention to contest the upcoming election.

Liberia: U.S Ambassador to sign Grant agreement
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 26, 2010

The United States Ambassador to Liberia, Linda Thomas Greenfield, will on Wednesday, January 27, sign grant agreements to provide assistance to several community groups from across Liberia.

The grants will be provided under the “Ambassador’s Self Help Fund” to implement various community development initiatives in the areas of health/sanitation, education (construction and renovation of school buildings) and income generation projects.

The signing ceremony is scheduled for 2: pm at the Public Diplomacy Section of the United States Embassy.

Since 2003, the Ambassador’s Self Help Fund has benefitted thousands of Liberians, including the physically challenged and ex-combatants. A wide range of projects have been funded including construction of schools, clinics, latrines and hand pumps, sugar cane mills, farina machines, office and medical equipment, school supplies and textbooks, as well as farming tools throughout Liberia.

Meanwhile, the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia on Friday, January 22, 2010 launched this year’s Liberia National Spelling Bee Competition in Gbarnga, Bong County.

The event was attended by Representatives of the Ministry of Education including county and district educational Officers. The National Spelling Bee is held annually and it is open to students in the fifth and sixth grades in both private and public schools in Liberia.

The Spelling Bee is an educational program that not only encourages children to perfect the art of spelling but also increases their knowledge of the English language. The Public Diplomacy Section has conducted the spelling bee in Liberia since 2008.

Liberia: Labour Ministry enforces stright compliance to Labour regulation
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 25, 2010

The Ministry of Labour says it has discovered huge disparities in the salaries of Liberian and non-Liberian employees working with various business entities and industrial establishments in the country.

The Ministry said some employers are paying employees below the current minimum wage of Liberia which stands at US{summary}.15 (fifteen cent) per hour for Agriculture workers and US{summary}.25 (twenty-five cent) per hour for industrial workers, this means no employee must be paid less than USD 60.00 per month.

The Ministry, according to a release discovered these labour malpractices when the Minister of Labour, Tiawan Gongloe headed a team of Labour inspectors to inspect several business entities in Monrovia as part of the Ministry’s ongoing mass inspection.

It was also established that some employers have subjected their employees to all forms of ill treatment such as working extra time without overtime pay or benefit, working on holidays/weekly rest days, lack of employment records and work schedules.

At one instance during the inspection, Employees of the Exclusive Supermarket told the Labour Minister that they are working without employment letters for positions they currently occupy; a claim the management denied. The Minister has therefore requested the management of the Excusive Supermarket to present within 24 hours copies of the employment letters provided their employees.

Speaking to reporters at the Exclusive Supermarket on Center Street in Monrovia, Minister Gongloe said the Ministry of Labour under his leadership will not sit and allow employers to dehumanize the workforce of Liberia.

LIBERIA: As Corruption Eats Up Country, Hundreds anxiously Awaits President Sirleaf’s Annual l Message
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Jan 25, 2010

Hundreds of Liberians and foreign residents today at about 1600 hours are preparing to glue to their various radio and television sets to listen to the annual message of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to the 5th Session of the 52nd Legislature in the Joint Assembly Hall of the Capitol Building in

Liberia: Three communities meet CLTS compliance
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 21, 2010

Three communities in Liberia have been declared open defecation free by the coordinating institutions of the Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) program.

The areas according to Public Works release are Sackie Town, Gbokolleh Town and Frank Town, all in Careysburg District, Montserrado County.

The Community Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach focuses on igniting a change in hygienic and sanitation behaviors rather than just constructing toilets. The initiation also hopes to see Liberian communities organize themselves in addressing their sanitation needs through collective movement, without subsidies from outside.

CLTS started in Liberia March 30, 2008 and its originated from India by Dr. Kamel Kar, the founder of the organization. The idea was transplanted in Liberia through the instrumentality of UNICEF and the government of Liberia. Since the inception of CLTS in Liberia, about ten (10) communities have been triggered in Todee and Careysburg Districts in Montserrado.

CLTS hopes to achieve reduction in water related diseases, community driven in all development initiatives and reduction in environmental pollution. There are more than fifteen communities in Liberia as a whole trying to obtain ODF status but at present, only three have met the requirements and are going to be certificated during the official launching of the program.

The coordinating agencies of CLTS in Liberia are the Ministry of Public Works, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, UNICEF, SODES and FAAL.

Meanwhile, strategy developed for the Community Led Total Sanitation program will be launched on Saturday, January 23, 2010 in Gbokolleh Town, Careysburg District, Montserrado County. CLTS according to strategy developed hopes to declare 2010 as “National Year of Sanitation in Liberia. The program is expected to caption the theme “from the bush to the toilet house-communities decide for themselves”.

Liberia: U.S Diplomat Greenfield challenges Liberians to move forward
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 19, 2010

United States Ambassador to Liberia, Linda Thomas Greenfield has criticized recent protest staged by widows of fallen Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) soldiers classifying their actions as “selfish”.

Speaking Saturday to scores of Journalists at the Cabral Estate where she had gone to play scrabble with the Lebanese Ambassador in a community’s tournament organized by TRC Commissioner, Massa Washington, Ambassador Greenfield said it was now time for Liberians to concentrate on what they can do for their country instead of asking government to do everything for them.

Quoting portion of speech delivered by former U.S. President John F. Kennedy during his inaugural address in 1961 which states “Ask what you can do for your country, not what your country can do for you”, Ambassador Greenfield said too many Liberians are getting into the streets asking the government to do something for them adding “let us look forward, not backward, to rebuild this country.

The widows and children of the fallen servicemen on late Friday gathered before the premises of the Capitol Building and the Executive Mansion demanding the government to pay their benefits.

The U.S. Diplomat said the country had gone through 15 years of civil war which made every Liberian in spite of tribe and connection to suffer inhumane circumstances, and it was unfair for any group of Liberians to think that they are the only sufferers of the war.

She further indicated that the international community had since forgiven Liberia by waiving her debt, and so Liberians themselves should forgive their government.

The government of Liberia years back gave the widows money as means of taking care of themselves but whether that was fully arranged in line with benefits is yet to be answered by the government.

Liberia: Dr. Bropleh exits government, prepares for legal defense
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 18, 2010

The suspended Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism Rev. Dr. Lawrence Bropleh has resigned. The tough spoken former Information Minister announced his resignation on January 15, 2010 after rumors of his removal widen like wide fire in the city.

Dr. Lawrence Bropleh: “As I move to provide the appropriate defense to the array of misconceptions, false interpretations and clear fabrications concocted by Mr. John Morlu and his General Auditing Commission, I shall without coercion, voluntarily resign as of his pronouncement by virtue of my dedication to the people of this country and the value and principles that must govern public service practice”.

He said his resignation will afford him time to establish sufficient defense as the case progresses. “This I believed will also provide me the required latitude to mount an effective defense in clearing not just my name but restoring quickly the momentary lapses this has caused my integrity and that of the image of this government. I will submit in the coming days a comprehensive technical analysis of the John Morlu Draft Audit Report for the public to understand and appreciate the flaws, inconsistencies and mere fabrications put together simply out of envy”, Rev. Bropleh disclosed.

The one time confident of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was suspended by the Liberian leader after a scam involving nearly US0,000.00 was uncovered on the payroll of the Ministry of Information. The scam was in connection with the alleged misappropriation of the salaries of some Foreign Service employees which the top two Financial Officers of the Ministry were involved.

Days after the scandal was uncovered, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf without delay asked Dr. Bropleh to immediately return to Liberia to help with the investigation. He was later suspended after preliminary report linked him to the act.

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf later asked the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to launch a full skill investigation into the matter and submit report to her office for prompt action. GAC is a statutory body responsible to audit government ministries and agencies and establish whatever fraud possible.


After months of investigation, the GAC released a draft report of the audit conducted at the Ministry of Information which linked Dr. Bropleh responsible for most of the financial improprieties and fraud at the Ministry.

Dr. Bropleh has however condemned the audit report terming it as unprofessional document poorly handle out of malice on the part of Auditor General John Morlu.

Liberia: GOL and S.S.F signed US.8 million contract for the rehabilitation of Pleebo-Barclayville road
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 14, 2010

The Ministry of Public Works and the S. S. F Entrepreneur have signed an agreement for the rehabilitation of the Pleebo to Barclayville road connecting the two Counties in Southeastern Liberia, Grand Kru and Maryland Counties.

Speaking at the signing ceremony at the premises of the Ministry of Public Works in Monrovia, on January 13, 2010, Public Works Minister Attorney Samuel Kofi Woods, II says Liberia is on the path of rebuilding after history of destruction and pains of suffering and urged all Liberians to embrace national development inspite of whatever differences they have had in the past.

He said the signing of the contract to rehabilitate the road is significant because it will create the necessary and reliable safe access which helps to accelerate trade and free movement in that part of the Country.

He expressed sadness as Liberian to see his countrymen going through unnecessary struggle where to some extend being capsized along abnormal journey to get home in the Southeastern part of Liberia.

He acknowledged the participation of both the caucuses of Maryland and Grand Kru Counties in the signing ceremony and assured them that they will be involved in every step as the work progresses. He promised to furnish them the full copy of the contract for their perusals.

During his confirmation hearing at the Liberian Senate, Minister Woods promised to connect road to all Capital Cities which is being vividly demonstrated at the rural part of Liberia. He however advised Liberians to be patience as road construction is a gradual process.

Also speaking at the program, World Bank Country Manager, Ohene Owusu Nyanin said “the World Bank takes great satisfaction in supporting this particular implementation among the so many; for it was specifically designed to rebuild and augment the capacity of Liberia’s indigenous expertise in undertaking major civil works design and constructed”. He pointed out that the World Bank is not only working on major projects in and around Monrovia but remains focused, in partnership with the Government of Liberia, to improve the primary road networks in the rest of the Country.

For his part, the Senior Senator of Grand Kru County and President Pro-tempore of the Liberian Senate, Cletus Wotorson and Rivercess Senator Jonathan Barney thanked the Ministry of Public Works and the World Bank for the initiative but were quick to reveal that they will be robust in their oversight. They expressed the hope that the US.8 million project will reflect the execution of work on the ground.

Citizens of both Counties have consistently complained for good road for over years now and the signing ceremony has overwhelmingly been greeted by inhabitants of the region. The estimated value of the contract is US,819,144.17 and is expected to cover Seventy Nine (79) Kilometers stretch of road and is part of funding provided by the World Bank through the Urban and Rural Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project Grant (URIRP) and will be implementation by the Government of Liberia through the Infrastructure Implementation Unit at the Ministry of Public Works.

Liberia: Public Works to test newly installed Asphalt Plant
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 11, 2010

The Ministry of Public Works will shortly test a newly installed Asphalt Plant brought into the Country years back.

Making the disclosure on Friday January 8, 2010 when he toured facilities and project sites of the Ministry of Public Works, Minister Samuel Kofi Woods, II said the Plant will help enhance the ongoing road rehabilitation especially the pitching of damaged spots on the pave roads.

The final component of the Plant, the ‘burner’ also called ‘heater’ arrived in the country few weeks and has now been installed making it ready for testing. He expressed delight over the final installation of the Plant outlining its importance to the reconstruction drive of Liberia. “This Plant is intended to produce Asphalt, which is locally referred to as ‘quota’ and it will help with the paving of roads and pitching of the pavement”.

Commenting on the enforcement of zoning regulations in Liberia, Minister Woods warned that he will not compromise the zoning laws of Liberia. He threatened drastic action against all Liberians and expatriate business entities who have erected structures on wetlands which is obstructing the natural flow of water.

Minister Woods cautioned that there would be no compromise in the implementation of the zoning code which has been tampered with for long time now. With regard to the legal regulations surrounding the zoning laws of Liberia, Minister Woods intimated that MPW will follow appropriate procedures which are in line with the laws before going into actions.

He gave the option to those who feel in their wisdom infringed upon to seek the appropriate redress at the Ministry or in any court of competent jurisdiction, noting that as a Human Rights lawyer, he believes in the due process of law.

He said individual right to private property will not be violated outlining that if government wants to use a private property, that person would be properly contacted and compensated.

Minister Woods said it was important for him to be on the road to see for himself the development projects that are ongoing in the country. “I want to be part of the process myself by coming on the spot to make sure that we are doing the right thing and to identify some of the technical problems as well as meet the satisfaction of our workers”, Minister Woods outlined.

Commenting on the Caldwell Bridge outside Monrovia, Minister Woods said the decision has been arrived at already but the process of tendering and procurement which befits international best practice is ongoing. He revealed that it is not just about putting structures in place but noted that the Ministry is taking into account durability and sustainability of these structures as well as the safety of the Liberian people. He pointed out that when the design of the bridge is completed, the public will be informed about the next step. He mentioned however that the bridge has been clean-up and accessible for light vehicles pending the total reconstruction of the bridge.

Liberia: Commitment and love for one’s Country amidst corruption saga
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 8, 2010

The process of reconciling between performance, commitment and love for one’s country as it relates to the current ongoing corruption saga in Liberia requires a holistic approach judging from the excellent performance of some government Ministers.

Already Liberians have been tetchy about the constant dispossession of jobs from them by the Unity party led government which is under pressure to make impact on the availability of jobs to ordinary Liberians. Based on the importation of government officials to occupy sensitive positions in government and the crisis of commitment on the part of these officials, the current Liberian Government through the Auditor General has been greatly involved in the fight against corruption which is becoming rapid in government.

Although the fight of such crisis of corruption remains an uphill task, other faithful and committed Liberians continue to score great points in serving their country.

The interest in the rehabilitation of damaged infrastructures lies in the hearts of all Liberians due to the alarming and devastated portion of our damaged road and bridges. The current Minister of Public Works Samuel Kofi Woods, a renowned Human Rights Lawyer was appointed as Minister in May of 2009 with serious reservations from many Liberians questioning his ability to perform as engineer. President Sirleaf received lot of condemnations during that appointment but her administrative decision and her farsightedness to remain determine in her decision now put smiles on the faces of Liberians.

The performance of Minister Woods at the Ministry of Public Works deserves praises at the highest level. The constant pressure applied by him to ensure that Contractors complied by the contract regulations and his physical presence at almost all Public Works projects sites is another welcoming development.

Road construction is never an easy task especially for Country like Liberia coming out of war. Bless God that Sound leaders like Minister Woods and others at that Ministry are continuing to controvert the impression that all government officials are corrupt. Previous example from the Ministry of Labour and the JPC speaks sufficient that this Brother represents a good example of many good Liberians who willingness to serve their dear country diligently remain remarkable.

Another committed young Liberian who have shown explicit example of love for Country is the Minister of Finance Augustine Ngafuan. Mr. Ngafuan, a young Liberians who have dedicated his service to Liberia in the areas of fiscal policies and Financial Management has proven the greatest level of sincerity for one’s country.

Other good Liberians in leadership like the Minister of National Defense, Health, Planning and others have shown great success as far as the development of Liberia is concerned.

On the contrary, the story of corruption where evil minded individuals, some taxi drivers in the Diaspora placed in lucrative positions feel that it is now time to jump start their reaches since their time spent in developed countries were waste.

The survival of Liberia especially in the process of transformation requires individuals with good records. Although some may hide their conducts, God will surely expose wicked individuals undermining the success of Liberia.

I still hold onto the clause that says “there are still good people in Liberia than the bad people, and good will surely prevail over bad”.

LIBERIA: DSRSG Affirms UN Support for Implementation of the Poverty Reduction Strategy
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Jan 7, 2010

The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General for Recovery and Governance and Resident Coordinator of the UN system in Liberia, Mr. Moustapha Soumaré, has presented a consignment of agriculture implements and computers valued at ,000 USD to two development organizations and the Bangladesh – Liberia Friendship Center in Ganta, Nimba County

LIBERIA: Foreign Ministry Resumes New Passports Issuance
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Jan 4, 2010

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has resumed the issuance of the new Machine Readable Liberia National Passports at the Division of Passports and Visas of the Ministry following a temporary technical glitch.

LIBERIA: Grand Kru Supt Launches Attacks on Detractors ...Says No Political Crisis Over Capital
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Jan 7, 2010

(BARCLAYVILLE, GRAND KRU, JANUARY 7, 2010): Grand Kru County Superintendent, Madam Roseline T. Sneh, has launched a serious attack on certain unscrupulous citizens of the county, who she described as detractors and enemies of progress and development.

Several Queue For GNN Personalities 2009
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Jan 7, 2010

Names of individuals and institutions have been nominated to capture last year Personalities and Institutions of 2009.

Liberia: Bropleh challenges draft audit report, terms Morlu as incompetent
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 6, 2010

Suspended Information Minister Dr. Lawrence K. Bropleh has rubbished the draft audit report compiled and submitted by the General Auditing Commission (GAC) indicting him of financial malpractices and fraud. He termed the document as a political tools prepared by Auditor General John Morlu to settle scores with him.

In his reaction to the draft audit report submitted by the GAC at a local hotel in Monrovia, the suspended Information Boss described the report as substandard, incomplete and fraudulent and therefore challenged the Auditor General (AG) Morlu to show proved that he (Bropleh) illegally took money from anyone.

He maintained that the draft audit report is substandard and only seeks to prove AG Morlu statement that the Unity Party government was three times more corrupt than the transitional government.

The ordained Methodist Reverend also recalled an instance that involved him and AG Morlu at the Robert International Airport (RIA), sometimes in 2008 about a glass door that was allegedly broken by Morlu when the Auditor General, according to the suspended Minister attempted to escape justice. He said the report is a work of envy, vindictiveness and showcase Morlu’s incompetence.

The suspended Information Boss asserted that he has been the only one putting AG Morlu o check whenever he went wrong and tried to criticized the Administration of President Sirleaf noting that Morlu wants to use the audit to get him out of the way as that no one will be able to engage him (Morlu) in attacks on the government.

Displaying a copy of the report to reporters, Rev. Bropleh asserted that exhibit 37, which is a communication written by former Deputy Information Minister Richmond Anderson was manufactured by Mr. Morlu.

The suspended Information Minister was linked to financial malpractices during the discovery of names under the foreign service of the Ministry of Information’s payroll. The amount in question that was allegedly misapplied was US8,032.72.

Liberia: President Sirleaf constitutes Zoning Council, appoints Elijah B. Karnley as Zoning Officer
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 5, 2010

Liberia’s president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has constituted the most talk about ‘Zoning Council’ with the Ministry of Public Works Chairing the Council.

Other members of the Zoning council are: the Ministry of Lands, Mines and energy; the Ministry of Internal Affairs; the Environmental Protection Agency; the Liberia Chamber of Architects; and a representative of the Civil Society of Liberia.

The constitution of the Zoning Council by the President is in keeping with the Zoning Act of 1958, which is currently under revision.

Meanwhile, the President has appointed Elijah B. Karnley as National Zoning Officer in Liberia. Mr. Karnley appointment takes immediate effect.

The absence of Zoning Council to regulate the Zoning laws of Liberia has sparked serious confusion between land owners and those in the habit of building on the alleyway without observing encroachment on others rights.

Of late, the Ministry of Public works has engaged in the process of demolishing structures in violation of the zoning laws of Liberia. With the constitution of the zoning council, it is certain that the law of Liberia regarding zoning regulations will be instituted to the fullest.

Liberia: LACC outlines several challenges
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Jan 4, 2010

The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has hailed its staff for the level of cooperation and dedication to duty during the year 2009. The commendation was made on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 during a year-end staff meeting held at the head office of the Commission on 10th Street, Sinkor.

Speaking during the forum, the Executive Chairperson of the LACC, Cllr. Frances Johnson Morris praised the staff for their patriotism and commitment to the fight against corruption as demonstrated by their tireless efforts in ensuring the implementation of the Commission’s mandate. Madam Morris said despite the challenges the Commission experienced in the implementation of its program, the staff stayed focused and resolute in the fight against corruption, which continues to destroy the country.

Describing the achievements of the LACC during the period, the Chairperson noted that the Commission submitted its first case involving the former Chairman of the Liberia Telecommunication Authority (LTA) to the Ministry of Justice for prosecution, and the formulation and implementation of the assets declaration regime for public officials. The Commission also formulated a three-year work plan and met the IMF benchmark of being operational in one year following its establishment.

The Liberia Anti Corruption Commission has consistently requested officials of government to disclosed their assets but members of the government particularly the Legislative and Judicial Branches of government are yet to comply by the regulation which is impeding the quest to succeed in the fight against corruption.

Of late, statement coming from LACC praised junior officials in Government for complying with government regulation of assets declaration.

The demands to declare assets has been overwhelmingly welcome by ordinary Liberians due to what they considered rapid stealing on government especially within the circles of the imported government officials from the Diaspora.

The Commission has however outlined several challenges including budgetary constrains as well as enough investigators to probe the preliminary aspect of corrupt cases brought before it.

LIBERIA: Foreign Ministry Resumes New Passports Issuance
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Jan 4, 2010

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has resumed the issuance of the new Machine Readable Liberia National Passports at the Division of Passports and Visas of the Ministry following a temporary technical glitch.

LLiberia: Mother Grace - Tee Kpaan 'Life to the Communities' Releases Gift Items To Liberian Children
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Jan 4, 2010

A Liberian humanitarian and rights advocate, Mother Grace-Tee Kpaa, wife of Pastor Oliver Kpaan recently toured Monrovia and its environs providing Christmas gifts to thousands of Liberian children under the theme "Life to the communities".

Liberia: John Sumo Captures American University Who's Who 2010 Title
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Jan 2, 2010

A Liberian studying in the United States, Rev. John Sumo has captured the title in Who's Who among students in American Universities & Colleges for the year 2009/2020.

At TRC Former Chief Justice Opens Up, Accused TWP of Mass Killings
by Global News Network // Global News Network, Inc. (GNN), a local Liberian news agency, and is managed by a Liberian Journalist J. Cholo Brooks. Mr. Brooks served the BBC African Service as its Monrovia Correspondent for over a decade, he is a Senior Staff writer for The Liberian Times (www.theliberiantimes.com). He has been a member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) since 1972. He is also one of the Contact Persons for the Committee to Protect Journalists, a US based Rights Organization. GNN Contact: Phone: +2316461010/+2315885625 // jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.
Aug 7, 2008

Liberia: Belle Citizens hail President Sirleaf for new road
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 31, 2009

The Belle Yella Development Association has described the construction of the Bopolu Belle Yella Road as a considerable phenomenon in the history of Gbarpolu County.

According to a release issued by the Association, the construction of the road in short a period of time by the Unity Party led Government is a fulfillment of a dream which had been anticipated since the independence of Liberia.

The Association lauded President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for the construction of the 48-mile road which has now linked Belle Yella to the rest of the World. The Association said it is heartened by the decision to turn the once infamous Belle Yella community into an oasis of social comfort where farmers can begin to take their product to the market.

The Association said it is particularly impressed by the love demonstrated by the President to the people the county to have walked for at least two hours, urging the Public Works Ministry to ensure that the road reaches Belle Yella in time for the Christmas celebration.

The Belle Yella citizens have meanwhile described the 2009 Christmas celebration as the most festive of all celebrations in the county since its independence, describing President Sirleaf as an Angel sent by God to take the people of Belle District from a land of horror to a land of hope.

The Association is however urging the President to continue to undertake other meaningful projects in the county that would further improve the lives and livelihoods of its residents.

Liberia: UL Political Party wants Gender Minister Gayflor out
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 31, 2009

The Student Unification Party of the University of Liberia is calling on the Government to dismiss the Minister of Gender, Varbah Gayflor, with immediate effect.

In a press release issued in Monrovia, SUP says its call is based on the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) reports and findings which unearthed 22, 000 USD theft, exploitation and abuse from ordinary employees of the Ministry of Gender by Minister Gayflor.

But SUP strongly detests what it calls the LACC Chairperson Cllr. Frances Johnson Morris’ comment that the 22,000 USD theft, exploitation and abuse are not concrete and genuine enough to warrant restitution.

According to the Party, all facts uncompromisingly points to the direction that Minister Gayflor is by all indications culpable and is liable as per the LACC reports and findings.

The Party says it views this ‘sickening’ comments as not only a flagrant disregard for Liberia’s domestic laws and instruments but also a justification of its earlier position of how cosmetic and superficial the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf led government has continued and is continuing to treat the fight on fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement of the country’s resources.

The party describes the comment as a sad day in the recent history of the fight against corruption for a country gingerly recovering from the ruination of a 14 year bloodbath.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Gender and Development has refuted media reports linking it Minister to theft and other criminal activities. The Ministry in its release has drawn its attention to series of publications in the Tuesday, 29 December and Wednesday, 30 December editions of the New Democrat Newspaper implicating the Minister Gayflor to theft.

The Ministry says it is shocked and disappointed by the publications because at the end of the investigation which was preceded by a formal complaint from Mrs. Stephenette Weah in September this year, a summary report on the matter was issued by the Liberia Anti-corruption Commission with no indications of the assertions made by the New Democrat publications.

Liberia: The State of the Liberian Child
by Francis W. Nyepon // Francis Nyepon is managing partner of DUCOR Waste Management in Liberia. He is a policy analyst and Vice Chair of the Center for Security & Development Studies, and serves on several boards of humanitarian, environmental and human rights organizations in the United States and Liberia. He can be contacted at. The statement and opinion expressed in this article are those of Francis Nyepon and do not necessarily reflect those of this publication; hence, this publication can not take any responsibility for my personal views. The material contain herein cannot be reproduced without written permission. // francis.nyepon@Gmail.com
Dec 30, 2009

Today, as 2009 comes to a close, education, healthcare, sanitation, safe drinking water and basic environmental services are luxuries not rights for many children in Liberia. Children are born into a country filled with miserable poverty, squalor conditions and rampant diseases that are preventable. Nearly a million children go through life on a daily basis in a serious struggle to survive, finding their way through life unparented, abandoned, neglected, malnourished, impoverished, uneducated, and discriminated against. For many, childhood, as a time to grow, learn, play and feel safe is in effect meaningless, denying them true joy of living altogether. Many children never get to see their fifth birthday due to preventable diseases and squalor living conditions.

Corruption, patronage, mismanagement, squalor and harsh environmental conditions still exacerbate conditions of poverty amongst children across Liberia. These conditions cause many parents to abandon their children to institutions, orphanages, the streets and adoption. Children’s progress in Liberia has come a long way from the widespread hardship they experienced during the past two decades; however, far too many children still lives in chronic poverty without equal access to opportunity for better health, education, and successful future.

Liberia: Citizens of Belle District celebrate as road enters Belle Yella
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 30, 2009

Camp Belle Yella in the past was considered the most infamous prison center for notorious criminals and those critical of sitting government.

Located in the remotest part of Gbarpolu County in Western Liberia, Belle Yella maximum prison center was established in early 1900’s to detain solidified criminals as well as agonized opposition politicians who rebelled against government in the past.

The prison compound was built very deep into the high Belle forest in order to detest prisoners from escaping once incarcerated at the compound. Priosners were blindfolded and airlifted to the site by military aircrafts.

Barely one year ago, Liberia’s President Ellen Johnosn Sirleaf assured the former paramount Chief of the District, Oldma Jallah Leone that she was going to spend the Christmas with them at the one time, terrified city.

In order to make the President mandate come to actuality, the Minister of Public Works under the energetic leadership of Samuel Kofi Woods worked assiduously to bring the dream of not only the President, but the people of Bella Yella forest to reality.

The over 40 mile road started not only from Bopolu but Brewerville to Bella Yella. The task was enormous certainly but the result electrifying.

The citizens of Bella District are peasant farmers who live simply on the cultivation of rice, plantain and hunting. The nonappearance of motor roads in the district has contributed unconstructively to the development of the area and the successful implementation of the four pillars of the country’s Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS). The PRS is being implemented between April 1, 2009 and June 30, 2011.

The four pillars of the PRS include enhancing peace and national security, governance and the rule of law, economic revitalization and rehabilitation of infrastructures and delivery of Basic Social services.

Prior to the road construction in Bella Yella, the area had no link with the rest of the country as the nearest town is 25 miles away. Citizens walked over three days to reach Bopolu, the capital city of Gbarpolu to buy some basic things for survival.

Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods though happy about the completion of the road appeared very tired after spending over five days in the high forest to ensure that the road is completed on time.

Citizens of the area especially towns nearest Bella Yella collectively thanked Minister Woods for the road and also spending five days in the high forest with them. Old lady Nowee Jallah of Fokpa Town, twelve (12) miles from Belle Yella Town, undoubtedly in the 80’s attempted lifting Minister Woods on her back as indication of her happiness for the road but her strength could not have permitted her quest. She disclosed through an interpreter that it was her first time to see car moving from place to place. She later burst out into tears after minutes of jubilation thanking God for President Sirleaf for her kindheartedness and love for all Liberians.

The road to Bella Yella marks a vital point in fulfilling the government’s promise to carry out a comprehensive development of the country through the implementation of the PRS.

Living condition for ordinary citizens in Bella Yella seems not too different from others in different part of the country except for the economic improvement of inhabitants in the area.

Road network from all indication create the improvement and development of education as well as commercial activities. The price of rice and plantain up to the time of the opening of the road was three time less as compare to Monrovia. Educational condition in the Bella District was far less with unqualified teachers volunteering to serve with the little knowledge acquired.

The prison compound now dilapidated is expected to be transformed into a national museum where past activities within the compound will be documented for future history. Among famous politicians detained and tortured at the prison compound were former leader of the Liberia Action Party (LAP), Jackson Doe, now deceased; Christian Herbert; leader of the Liberia Unification party (LUP), Gabriel William Kpolleh, now deceased; Edward Kesselly of the Unity Party and former student leaders of the University of Liberia.

Giving praises to the Almighty God for the success of the road to Bella Yella, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf upon her return to Monrovia Sunday visited the Sinkor United Pentecostal Church thanking God for answering her prayers for motor road to reach Belle Yella Town, Gbarpolu County.

At the Church service in Monrovia, President Sirleaf said the entry of the motor road into Belle Yella was not an easy task, but that she was optimistic that more strange development will reach in other counties come 2010.

The Liberian leader used the occasion to thank Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods and his team of engineers along with the contractors for their hard work and for making their dream and promise to come to reality.

What is particularly important about the success of the Belle Yella Road is the remarkable effort made by Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods to push on although other projects around the country were ongoing simultaneously.

Liberia: Motorcar road finally entered Belle Yella
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 29, 2009

The scene of Belle Yella on Christmas day was another momentous reminiscence of Liberians visiting the villainous and notorious prison camp established by past government. Belle Yella as it is widely known in Liberia is located at the north of Gbarpolu County with over 40 miles of virgin forest connecting Bopolu to isolated Belle Yella.

Hundred of euphoria driven citizens of Belle Yella Town stood in admiration, some in tears preferably tears of joy on late Christmas night when they glanced for the first time since Liberia’s independence fleet of vehicles including the presidential convoy of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf early last year mandated the Ministry of Public Works to ensure that people of Belle Yella have access to road network in their area. President Sirleaf further assured the people of Bella Yella that she was going to celebrate 2009 Christmas with them. This mandate perhaps seems to be an uphill task for ordinary Liberians but with the dedication of Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods and his team, the dream of the President was realized and smiles again entered the faces of the people of Belle Yella.

The over 40 mile road started not only from Bopolu but Brewerville to Belle Yella. The task undoubtedly was enormous but the result stimulating for not only the President of Liberia but the people of the over twelve(12) villages including Fokpa Town, Gbarnga Bokay Town, Gaipee Town and most especially elder women who felt overwhelmed to see road entering their villages for the first time.

The Liberian President was accompanied by scores of Government officials and two distinct foreign envoys- United States Ambassador Linda Thomas Greenfield and Chinese Ambassador Zhou Yuxiao crossing the Tuma River and smaller streams over tinny sticks and dilapidated bridges.

The road to Belle Yella marks a crucial point in fulfilling the government’s promise to carry out a comprehensive development of the country through the implementation of the Poverty reduction Strategy (PRS).

Fatigued as a result of miles of walk and tour of the former Bella Yella prison compound, the President flew back to Monrovia by a charted UN helicopter, leaving the people of Belle Yella still celebrating and rejoicing for the road.

The prison compound now dilapidated is expected to be transformed into a national museum where past activities within the compound will be documented for future history. Among famous politicians detained and tortured n the prison compound were former leader of the Liberia Action Party (LAP), Jackson Doe, now deceased; Christian Herbert; leader of the Liberia Unification party (LUP), Gabriel William Kpolleh, now deceased; Edward Kesselly of the Unity Party and former student leaders of the University of Liberia.

Liberia: JPC Boss differs with Aloysius Toe, terms Plain Truth story as irresponsible
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 22, 2009

The National Director of the Catholic Justice and Peace Commission (JPC) says the story published by Plain Truth Newspaper with regards to alleged military support to Junta in neighboring Guinea is “irresponsible and lacks basic and convenient attributions”.

Speaking to team of Journalists over the weekend in Monrovia, Cllr. Augustine Toe said whether the story is true or false, the Plain Truth has a duty and responsibility to Liberia and that its publication should not undermine and threaten the security of the state and create unwholesome relations between the peoples of Guinea and Liberia.

Commenting on the unhealthiness of the story, Cllr. Toe said the story has the propensity to cause trouble for thousand of Liberians residing in Guinea at the hand of the junta government. “The Plain Truth story as well as the Newspaper must be condemned at the fullest”, Cllr. Toe maintained.

The Publisher of the Plain Truth Newspaper, Cyrenius Cephas and the Manager of the Seamaco Printing Press Michael Mankine were briefly arrested and detained at the Monrovia Central Prison for publishing story linking the government of Liberia to the Guinean Military Junta. The arrest and detention of the two media workers have been greeted with strong condemnation from the human rights community including the Foundation for Human Rights and Democracy (FORHD) of Aloysius Toe who earlier indicated that the arrest and detention of the two was a clever attempt to muzzle the Liberian press and undermine the dignity of the press.

Contrary to Views propounded by Mr. Aloysius Toe that the arrest and detention of the two media workers was a stamp on free press, Cllr. Augustine Toe indicated that the action of the government does not suggest an attempt to underpin the free press as being insinuated by his fellow human right counterpart.

“Free press all around the World must execute their duty with serious responsibility including the human rights community and the media are not above the law. There is a need for the law to take its course when there is a miscarriage”, Cllr. Toe maintained.

Meanwhile, the government of Liberia as per the laws of the land released from further detention the Publisher of the Plain Truth Newspaper and the Manager of the Seamaco Printing Press on a Criminal Appearance Bond valued US,000.00 after been charged with multiple charges. They are expected to appear in Court in a short period of time.

Liberia: Woods expresses appreciation for new technology in road construction
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 18, 2009

Liberia’s Minister of Public Works Samuel Kofi Woods, II says the rehabilitation and reconstruction of damaged infrastructures require an intensive exploration of new technology and ideology.

He said the reconstruction and development of Liberia’s infrastructures must be the collective participation of all Liberians adding “we must protect the integrity of our infrastructures at all levels”.

Speaking during the Otta Seal construction demonstration at the Madina-Robertsport highway in Grand Cape Mount County on Thursday, December 17, 2009, Minister Woods said it was important moment in his administration as Minister of Public Works for a new technology called “Otta Seal” to be introduced in the country for the first time.

He said he was proud that the new technology in road rehabilitation was introduced during the regime of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and his tenure as Minister at the Ministry of Public Works.

He said the leadership of the Ministry of Public Works look forward to the testing and realization of result from the Otta Seal demonstration.

Earlier, the Project Manager of LAMDA Consultant, Mr. Asa Awuku said there are several advantages in the use of “Otta Seal”. Otta Seal according to him provides lower vehicle operations and maintenance costs; better riding quality and safety among several others.

“One type of bituminous surfacing that has proved to be very cost effective in several circumstances is the Otta Seal. The technology has been used in (Botswana, Kenya, Norway etc”), says Mr. Awuku.

Mr. Awuku also indicated that Otta Seal construction graded aggregate is spread and rolled on a relatively thick film of soft binder. He said rolling and trafficking makes the binder to seep it way upward which is graded at the aggregate of variety of sizes between (0.075mm-16mm).

Also speaking at the demonstration site, the Senior Senator of Grand Cape Mount County, Abel Massalley thanked both the Ministry of Public Works and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for their farsightedness in exploring the technology. He however pleaded with the international community for more assistance in making this dream a reality.


The demonstration is the first of it kind in the country since its invention. It was tested at the end of Madina-Robertsport highway in Grand Cape Mount County. Otta Seal is a new technology introduced by Sam Shawki Fawaz (SSF) which is being contracted by the Liberia Community Infrastructure Program (LCIP) with funding from the United States Agency for International Development to rehabilitate 43 Km stretch of road which links Robertsport city Madina.

USAID provided a total grant value of USmillion to rehabilitate the road.

Liberia: Market ground, a place for comfort
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 17, 2009

The struggle to make Liberia a clean and decent society still remain a hill task challenge with crisis bordering the hygienic condition of the society or selected community with unhygienic concept built in the minds of people who suppose to be seeking better environment.

Although the battle towards cleanliness at certain areas in Liberia continue to worsen on a retrogressing note, people still remain unconscious to the fact that cleanliness detest unhygienic environment and encourages many positive things that develop not only the minds but provide sound health and better decision.

Filth in our various market grounds where mothers go regularly to buy food and where sellers sell food needs not only discussion but total awareness and proper mind developer that cleanliness constitutes better health. Besides transaction at our various market sites, children also accompany their mothers and sometimes keep the entire day either spending time among filth or confine to a particular place for eight to nine hours.

During the first, second and third visits of the I-Help Science delegation to Liberia, an awareness was created although on a smaller scale about the cleanliness of market places and the ways in which filths can be getting ride off at some point in time. The Ihelp American delegation to Liberia came basically to educate Liberian Science teachers and students on how to transform their locally made items to benefit the promotion of science education in Liberia and how to create awareness about cleanliness in our market place.

Monrovia City Mayor Madam Mary Broh of late has been demanding citizens to keep their environment clean but such demand has been heavily protested in some quarters due to many reasons which some see as unforeseen while others see it as provocative.

Market grounds are not only used as place where transactions are carried out but areas where garbage is dumped without remorse of conscience to health education. Toilet facilities at market places in Liberia are deplorable thereby making our nearby rivers and creeks bordering the market places to be polluted.

Health education also known as health science is taught in almost all schools in Liberia but the practical implementation to this is not seen by either parents or students. People prefer taking filth from the various communities to dump it at market grounds because the general understanding of market grounds in Liberia is appalling and disgraceful.

I visited several market centers and spoke to children and their mothers over the hygiene condition of market sites in Liberia and the challenges thereof. The survey conducted proved that not all the mothers feel happy about the filth but according to them, the option to get dispose of their filth is likely impossible. A little girl aged fifteen who was seen playing among the dirt told me in one sentence about the deplorable conditions of the market they were selling. “We sometimes use plastic to toilet”, as portrayed by the little girl.

Science education teaches students about the cleanliness of their environment and the way to keep their body clean. The result of unhealthy condition is mainly sickness and children are mainly the victims of such understanding which is now considered as a tradition at our market places.

Another thing in my opinion that make our market sites very deplorable could be the over crowdedness of the marketers at a single place. People squeeze themselves in a tight place as means of selling to meet their daily living condition and not investigating the poor health condition of the place.

The Liberia marketing Association (LMA) has also been battling with the improvement of toilet facilities at various market grounds around the country but with less result. All market grounds in the country have an extension which contributes highly to the deplorable condition of market sites.

Liberia: Drama intensifies at Angel Tokpa case; Cllr. Dempster exits from Court
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 16, 2009

The first prosecuting witness into the trial of the late Angel Tokpa yesterday took the witness stand at Criminal Court “B” testifying that the story of the death of little Angel Tokpa as claimed by the Defendants is fabricated.

Mr. Joseph Flomo of the Criminal Investigation Division of the Liberia National Police told the Court that it was not possible for Angel Tokpa to have committed suicide according to police investigation.

The witness also mentioned in his testimony that the measurement taken at the place the girl allegedly hung herself proved different from the guidance claimed. He said the late Angel Tokpa 4ft 9inches and the rope she allegedly used was 3ft 8inches making it longer than the distance between the floor and the place where the rope she used to hang herself was tied before putting same around her neck.

He further indicated that if the rope was tied on her neck that means she will rather sit on the floor than hang. Policeman Flomo’s testimony was followed by a direct and cross examination by state and defense lawyers respectively.

Before the commencement of the trial, defendant Hans Williams signaled his lawyers who were busy checking on documents that human rights lawyer, Cllr. Dempster Brown was in the restroom with witness Joseph Flomo who asked the judge to use the restroom.

Without delay, the two defense counsels, Cllrs. Pearl Brown Bull and Francis Galawalo took exception and rush into the restroom to find out what was transpiring between Mr. Flomo and Cllr. Brown. The defense counsel then forwarded the complain to the attention of Judge Blamoh Dixon who is the presiding Judge of Criminal Court “B”. Judge Dixon in response wonders how Cllr. Brown became member of the defense team without his knowledge.

Judge Dixon without hesitation ordered the immediate exit of Cllr. Brown from the chamber of the court since the state could not give account of him.

The late Angel Mardea Tokpa is believed to have been murder after one of her guardians, Han Williams allegedly molested her sexually which led to her been choked by the wife of Hans, Mydea Pique.

Liberia: President Sirleaf's office rejects Plain Truth reports
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 15, 2009

Barely twenty four hours after the Plain truth Newspaper accused the Government and by extension the President of Liberia for supplying arms to dissident forces in the ongoing Guinean crisis, the office of the President says Liberia will never be used as a base to destabilize any country, especially any of its neighbors.

The president said at no time has it supplied arms to anyone to destabilize any government as has been reported in the Plain Truth Newspaper.

Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio who spoke to reporters on the reaction of the President’s office on the issue, which was published in the Plain truth Newspaper, said the Newspaper report is the work of unprofessional reporters.

The paper, quoting unimpeachable sources emanating from Guinean intelligence, said that the Government of Liberia is aiding and abetting dissident forces in that neighboring country by supplying arms and ammunitions.

In its reaction, the Executive Mansion said not only is the issue a reckless lie, but the report failed to take into account the fragility of the situation in Guinea as well as the fact that what happens in that country will have adverse effect on Liberia.

The Presidential spokesman said given the sensitivity of the report, the publisher of the paper, Mr. Syrennius Cephas is now undergoing investigation at the National Security Agency (NSA), where according to Mr. Badio he will provide detail information to the story published by his paper accusing the government of providing arms to dissidents in Guinea to overthrow the junta military government.

He further indicated that the NSA also picked up the General Manager of the Samarco Printing Press, Mr. Michael Makinde in connection with the incident and that he is also providing information to the NSA about the publication.

He says President Sirleaf position on the situation in neighboring Guinea remains consistent to that of the regional body ECOWAS.

The arrest and incarceration of Mr. Cephas and Mr. Makinde contravenes previous report by the Ministry of Justice that no one was arrested in regards to the Plain truth story.

Liberia: Over Bella Yella road construction, Woods scores high point
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 14, 2009

Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods, II has expressed satisfaction over the level of work done at the Bopolu- Bella Yella road but called on engineers to remain focus to the completion of the road.

Speaking during a one day team visit at the virgin Belle Yella road on Saturday December 12, 2009, Minister Woods said with the level of cooperation and motivation among engineers and workers on the road, the certainty for an official opening of the road is imminent for December 18, 2009.

At the first stop of the visit, the Chief Engineer of PEALAT Liberia Construction Company, Mr. Aaron Joboe expressed confidence that the road will be completed before December 24, 2009 for the Christmas celebration. He said the remaining 10 mile road will be aggressively worked on to reach the Town of Belle Yella.

At the second and final stop, the general Administrative Manager of PEALAT Liberia Mr. Aaron
Harris said the reason why the road has reached at an appreciable point is the motto developed at the inception of the work. The motto put in place according to him is “No nonsense, No tolerance.” which workers used as guide to commence work.

In response to statement made by field workers, Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods, II said the initial commitment made to the people of Liberia concerning Belle Yella road is still on course. He said he trusted in the ability of the workers on the field but will continue to encourage them as the road reaches completion.

What is particularly important about the road is not only the historic nature of the area but it is the first time for road to enter Belle Yella.

“Historically as student, I was afraid of Belle Yella, but when the president visited the area, she felt that there was a need for road in Belle Yella and this statement motivated me as Minister”. Minister Woods maintained. The theme for the initial opening of Belle Yella road was: “Respect Human Rights and Dignity.”

The acceleration of the road is predicated upon commitment made by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to Chief Jallah Lone that she was going to spend the Christmas in Belle Yella.

Those that accompanied Minister Woods on the tour were Deputy Minister for Technical Services Mr. J. Jenkins Mens-Cole, Mr. B. Wion Kanteah Sr. Director for Procurement Ministry of Public Works, Abraham Samukai, Comptroller Ministry of Public Works and scores of Journalists.

Liberia: Government expresses preparedness to reclaim sold Embassies, as Cllr Tubman rejects claims.
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 11, 2009

“I am criticizing the government that is why they are targeting me. I was involved in no such act. I will not be intimidated by anyone. I am not a common criminal like I have been referred to, I have never been tried”, were the direct words of the Political leader of the Liberia National Union (LINU), Cllr. Winston Tubman when a local daily reported that he was involved in the sale of Liberian Embassy in France, referring to him as “common criminal”.

Addressing a news conference Tuesday in Monrovia, Cllr. Tubman described the allegation as baseless and unfounded, noting that at no time did he sell the Liberian Embassy in France as alleged in the media.

He said the Embassy is still intact and the reports of his involvement in the sale of the Embassy were what he termed as ‘make up’ intended to smear his high earned reputation.

The former United Nations Diplomat said the government of Liberia is engaged in a calculated plot to keep him silent due to his active stand on corruption in government. “This allegation is coming up now because I am a significant political heavy weight. I am criticizing the government this is why they are targeting me”, he maintained.

Meanwhile, the government of Liberia has confirmed the “criminal sales” of several of its embassies abroad, launching a legal battle to reclaim them.

Addressing a news conference in Monrovia, Foreign Minister Olubanke King Akerele disclosed that the Liberian embassies in Paris (France), Nairobi (Kenya) and London have all been reportedly sold by former Foreign Service Officials.

The Minister said while the government continues to investigate the sales of Liberian embassies around the World, the Ministry has however taken exception to recent publication in the National Chronicle Newspaper that Cllr. Tubman was a “common criminal”.

The Minister however could not detail comments on the sales of the Liberian embassy in France because according to her,the matter was in court.

Liberia: Waste disposals remain a fundamental problem in the Liberian society, says Minister Woods
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 9, 2009

Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods, II says waste disposals remain a fundamental problem in the Liberian society. He said the minds and attitudes of community dwellers must be transformed to present day realities of waste collection in order for the Liberian society to achieve clean and sanitary conditions.

Speaking during a joint tour with World Bank and MCC on Tuesday, December 8, 2009, Minister Woods said the Ministry of Public Works, in collaboration with the Monrovia City Council will shortly embark on public awareness which will persuade community dwellers to be part of the solution of solid waste collection in Liberia. He said a lot more need to be done and money alone cannot solve the problem.


He asked communities to take ownership of their environment adding “we must change our altitude towards waste disposals and the cleanliness of our environment. He said the Government of Liberia has commenced with the enforcement of the law which forbids disposal of garbage and acknowledged that public awareness will help accelerate the conduct of waste at concentrated areas around Monrovia.

Commenting on World Bank involvement on the solid waste collection in Liberia, Minister Woods added that the partnership between World Bank and the Ministry of Public Works is certainly on course but was quick to disclose that World Bank is underwriting the cost of 30% of the garbage generated in Monrovia and its environs. He further stated that the balance 70% will be managed by the Government of Liberia with help from other bilateral partners.

For his part, the Country Manager of the World Bank in Liberia, Dr. Ohene Nyanin supports Minister Woods’s assertion admitting to the fundamental problem especially with community leadership. He said the leadership of various



communities must reorient their behavior and commit themselves to the proper disposal of garbage.

He said all stakeholders in the area of solid waste must go back to the drawing board to develop another workable strategy in creating full awareness within the communities to recognize the actual garbage collection sites and to use them.

Also speaking at the tour, POYRY, the Consultant monitoring collection, outlined numerous difficulties citing public participation in the disposal of garbage. He said garbage bins positioned at various waste collection sites are usually ignored by the community and garbage is dumped at any place on the garbage sites.

For her part, the acting City Mayor of Monrovia, Madam Mary Broh admitted some difficulties as it relates to community participation but vowed to remain steadfast in pushing the law and making community leaders get involve as part of the solution to the problem.

Those making part of Tuesday tour were Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods, World Bank Country Manager, Dr. Ohene Nyanin and Monrovia City Mayor, Mary Broh and scores of Contractors and Journalists.

Liberia: PRS website to decentralize information dissemination to Liberians in Diaspora, says Minister Konneh
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 8, 2009

Liberia’s Planning Minister Amara Konneh says proper dissemination of information as regards the Poverty Reduction Strategy must go beyond national level in order to reach Liberians all across the World.

Speaking during the launch of the “Lift Liberia” website: www.liftliberia.gov.lr, Minister Konneh who is also the National Coordinator of the Liberia Reconstruction and Development Committee (LRDC) said information both on Liberia’s development and challenges will be placed on the website.

He revealed that the website will be equipped with the necessary tools to afford the public follow the development programs of the country. He said information on county development as well as job link on which one can navigate will all be seen on the website. He also maintained that radio component of the Poverty Reduction Strategy can be found on the website.

According to Minister Konneh, update from the website will afford Liberians in the Diaspora to follow activities in the country and make input on the way forward on development initiatives.

Also speaking at the launch of the website, a Communication Officer at the Executive Mansion and also one of the presenters of the “Lift Liberia” radio program, Robtel Pailay, said the significance of the website is to empower and inform the public on happening as it relate to reducing poverty in Liberia.

Madam Pailay indicated that they have already entered arrangement with the Daily Talk Chalk Board, Front page Africa (FPA) and the Daily Observer Newspaper to advertise the Poverty Reduction Strategy program (PRS).

Liberia: Labour Minister Gongloe calls for open communication between employees and employers
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 7, 2009

The Minister of Labour has called on workers and management of UMARCO Shipping Lines to always exchange open communication as means of addressing labour issues that affect the growth of the company.

Minister Tiawan S. Gonglo said open communication reduces high expectation from workers and detest conflict in workplaces.

The Labour Minister made the statement at a social dialogue meeting with both workers and management recently at the company’s premises on Bushrod Island. He called on the management of UMARCO to always work with the workers’ leadership as a way of enhancing social dialogue which could endanger the growth of the company.

According to a Labour Ministry release, the Labour Boss called the UMARCO management to provide decent working conditions for workers as a way of paying back for the quality services which workers provide management. He maintained that both parties have the right under the Labour law of Liberia which must be respected at all times. He encouraged the workers to always improve their work ethics and discipline as employees as employers will always go for the best service.

Speaking on behalf of the management, the Managing Director of UMARCO, Joel Broux thanked Minister Gongloe for the visit and expressed happiness for the audience which afforded him the opportunity to fully brief the Minister about the development at the company. He said there is future plan for the provision of housing policy to benefit UMARCO workers. He dismissed reports that there were lots of foreigners in the employed of the company.

Liberia: Over Muslims deportation, Senator Massallay speaks out
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 4, 2009

The Senior Senator of Grand Cape Mount County has broken silence on the status of the ten Muslims deported from the Saudi Arabian City of Mecca.

Senator Abel Masselley in his clarification revealed that the ten deportees may have been fooled by fellow Muslims by purchasing illegal passports. He said Mecca journey was well-organized and finalized at all levels and there was no need for pilgrims to be deported.

According to Senator Massallay, a total of two hundred visas were offered to Liberian pilgrims by the Saudi Embassy in Guinea. Documents show series of financial transactions in the tune of three hundred eighty thousand U.S. dollars to transport the two hundred pilgrims to Mecca.

The money which the Senator said was his personal initiative required the pilgrims to be transported from Monrovia to the King Andullaziz international Airport in Saudi Arabia. Senator Masselley also clarified none of the two hundred pilgrims that made the trip to Mecca paid a dime to get there.

The Grand Cape Mount Lawmaker called on National Security including the Bureau of Immigration to thoroughly investigate all those implicated in the dubious act.

Regarding the twelve passport confiscated by the Immigration at the Robert International Airport in Monrovia, Senator Massallay said he could not comment further because he was out of the country when the seizure took place. The deportation of Liberian Muslims from Saudi Arabia has sparked serious debate at street corners and Haitai centers with many calling for detail investigation as means of avoiding the recurrence of the acct.

Liberia: Minister Woods turns tough on Contractors
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 2, 2009

Public Works Minister Attorney Samuel Kofi Woods, II says there will be no compromise for non-compliance of contracts. He said any company failing to comply with the time frame of contract without good cause will be dragged to court as per the laws of Liberia.

Minister Woods made the strongly worded statement when he toured several MPW’s project sites in Nimba County over the weekend. The three-day visit to Nimba County took Minister Woods and team to Ganta, Sanniquellie, Tiayee, Saclepea, and Fleedin. The intend of the visit was to give booster to projects at these areas and also discuss and pre-plan with Nimba County authorities ahead of the July 26, 2010 Independence Day celebration slated for Sanniquellie, Nimba County.

On Saturday, November 28, Minister Woods and team departed Monrovia and made a brief stop at Nyanforla bridge where Bailey bridges are been erected. He urged Margibi County Resident Engineer to ensure proper maintenance of the bridge, making particular emphasis on the required tonnage of load plying the bridge.

The MPW team later proceeded to the commercial city of Ganta and was greeted by Nimba County Resident Engineer Mr. Joseph Vapond who led the inspection of MPW projects in Nimba County. At a brief meeting in Ganta with City Mayor Doye Cooper and marketers, Minister Woods expressed delight for the welcome and promised to support the market building project in Ganta provided the official deed for the site is available. “Ganta is close to my heart because of some ties”, Minister Woods maintained. Earlier, the marketers asked Minister Woods to assist them with their market building project because of the uncomfortable selling conditions at their current location. While in Ganta, Minister Woods inspected several projects including the UNICEF sponsored school project at the Gboyee Road and the Custom Post at the Liberia-Guinea border. He expressed happiness over the level of work done but urged community dwellers to develop the sense of ownership of these projects because they are stakeholders in the developmental drive in the county.

Minister Woods and team proceeded to Sanniquellie and were greeted by Nimba County Superintendent Hon.Edith Gongloe Weh. Without delay, Minister Woods and Madam Weh drove to Tiayee Town where the Ministry of Public Works (MPW) is rehabilitating 11.5 mile road with fifteen separate lines of culverts been installed along the road. TUTEX is a Liberia own company been contracted to rehabilitate the road while MPW carry out the supervisory and monitoring roles. Minister Woods expressed satisfaction with the level of work done but called on the contractors to accelerate the job taking into consideration time frame and deadline. “We must take advantage of the dry season and speed up the job”, Minister Woods alerted.

On Sunday, November 29, Minister Woods and team visited several streets, including Fingolo Street and the street leading to the Administrative Hall in Sanniquellie with the aim of improving them ahead of the Independence Day celebration. The tour in Sinniquellie also led the MPW team to the damaged Central High School and other war-affected buildings in the City.

The MPW team later proceeded back to Ganta and met with the Contingent Commander of Banengri II, Lt Col Nurul Huda. Banengri II is the Bangladeshi Contingent of UNMIL assigned in the Ganta region. He thanked the Contingent for their support in rehabilitating major roads in Nimba especially between Ganta and Sanniquellie as well as Ganta and Saclepea. He urged the Contingent to develop policy in transferring the technical knowledge to youth in the area for future benefit. The Bangladeshi Engineering Continent in Ganta also supported the MPW in launching a Bailey bridge over the Gunu River between Saclepea and Ganta. He also thanked Banengra II for their extended support in clearing the surrounding of the newly renovated market in Saclepea City, Nimba County. He said the environment will allow cars to pack outside the main road as is done at other market sites.

The team later proceeded to Fleedin to inspect the ongoing bridge rehabilitation. Fleedin is 22 Km north of Saclepea City. Welcoming Minister Woods and team to Fleedin, the Paramount Chief of Gbein Chiefdom, Henry L. Kramia, said the administration of President Sirleaf has made them to see Cabinet Ministers going deeper to the rural areas. He said since the road and bridge construction in 1972, it was their first time to see Cabinet Minister visiting them. He thanked the Government for targeting bridge construction in their community, something he termed as heart touching. For his part, Minister Woods thanked the leadership especially women for the welcome. “I am deeply touched for women of this town to give such a huge welcome.” He said although the bridge is not finished yet, there is a need to take ownership of public properties for its protection. He promised to make another visit in the future after the bridge has been completed.

At the end of the tour in Fleedin, Superintendent Edith Gongloe Weh asked the citizens to clean along side the road while the Government of Liberia strategizes to improve the condition of the road and other infrastructures.

Liberia: President Sirleaf congratulates Muslims on Abraham's Day
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Dec 1, 2009

Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf on Friday congratulated Muslims within the borders of Liberia on the celebration of Eid ul-Adha which is widely known in Liberia as Abraham’s Day. The day is set aside to commemorate the sacrifice of Abraham.

At the Providence Island in Monrovia, Sheikh Imam Kamara of the Gurley Street Mosque cautioned Muslims to glorify God in all their undertakings and love their fellow human beings. He asked Muslims to pray for the maintenance of peace in Liberia and extended special thanks to neighboring countries for sending peacekeepers in Liberia to restore the current peace we Liberians are currently enjoying.

He advised Muslims to divide animals slaughtered into three parts. The three parts according to Imam Kamara is an instruction given from the Prophet Mohammed. The first part of the sacrifice should be given to your family, the second your neighbors and the third part be given to the less fortunate persons in the community.

He said the day is also special because it is set aside for Muslims to forgive and forget the past and move forward with love and reconciliation. The official praying for this day is certainly within one hour with Muslims from all over the country converging at a specific destination to offer prays.

Liberia: Public sentiment undermines Bropleh case
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 27, 2009

There is an elementary understanding of law which clearly states that an accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty before a competent court of jurisdiction. This further illustrates the understanding that public perception and individual judgment against an accused cannot in no way predict the outcome of truth and reality in any given situation.

The concept of pre-judgment which most often unceremoniously predicts the influence of cases especially trail concerning state officials needs to be aborted from the minds and attitudes of those involved.

The case involving the suspended Minister of Information, Dr. Lawrence Bropleh, who is accused of allegedly misappropriating over Three Hundred United States dollars at the Ministry of Information is gradually taken a zigzag position with some segments of the society already bringing guilty verdict ahead of the actual investigation conducted by the Ministry of Justice. This pre-guilty verdict has now entered the corridor of rumors which is believed that if Mr. Bropleh is vindicated from the corruption scandal and reinstated, the employees at the Ministry of Information will resist his entry at the Ministry.

While we (Liberians) are eager to fight corruption and expose those who are stealing our resources, it must be made clear that people of good characters and moral can be blindly accused of doing things wrongly and at the bottom line, be vindicated.

Investigation requires research and data collection and there is a need to give the Investigators chance to do their work which I believe, will meet the desire expectation of the public. Let us not sum our leaders to be criminals because we have benefitted from their performances which are now transforming the country to the better.

Suspended Information Minister Lawrence Bropleh during his stay at the Ministry of Information developed and created policies in transforming the propaganda machinery of government which leaders of today are benefitting from. He is the current host of the most popular talk show “change in minds and attitudes”. The topic of this radio program in my opinion is the serious impediment to the growth of our country. He has also volunteered his time as Instructor at the graduate program of the State University.

Besides being a Methodist Prelate, Mr. Bropleh is the co-father of several children who he is directly responsible to cater to both academically and morally. I say co-father because children mentioned are not his biological children.

I am outlining these successes not because of any love for Mr. Bropleh but to share with our brothers and Sisters in Liberia to always give chance to investigation especially when it comes to the issue of people’s character.

Whatever and however the outcome of the investigation will be, the system of prejudging an accused person in any given trail is tantamount to the reality and the need to wait for proper accountability is certainly required.

Liberia: CDC Geraldine Doe Sheriff wins Montserrado County By-Election with 58% of vote cast
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 26, 2009

The National Elections Commission (NEC) has announced the final result of the Montserrado County Senatorial By-election with Geraldine Doe Sheriff of the Congress for Democratic Change being announced the winner of the election.

NEC Chairman James Formayan clearly classified the election result as follows. CDC of Geraldine Doe Sheriff captured 58,384 of vote cast which constitutes 58% of the total valid vote of 104,248 and UP Clemenceau Urey captured 45,864 of vote cast which constitutes `44% of the total valid vote of 104,248.

According to Mr. Formayan, the total figure of invalid vote was summed up to 1552. The second round of the Senatorial By-election came as the result of the failure of none of the Candidates to win the first round.

The result announced by NEC makes CDC Geraldine Doe Sheriff to be the next Senator to occupy the vacate senatorial seat which came as the result of the death of Hannah Brent.

The result of the election was announced on Thursday, November 26, 2009 at the headquarter of the National Elections Commission in Monrovia.

Liberia: Government trashes LPRC/Zekhem contract
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 26, 2009

The Government of Liberia has cancelled the contract entered into by the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) and Zakhem for the rehabilitation of damaged facilities of the LPRC’s facilities on Bushrod Island.

The cancelled controversial Zakhem contract valued at over USmillion was negotiated for by the former Managing Director of LPRC, Mr. Harry Greaves who was later dismissed by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

Justice Minister Christiana Tah said that the contract was not in the interest of the Liberian people and therefore it has to be nullified.

The Acting Managing Director of the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) Mr. Nelson Williams on Friday told reporters that the company is losing over several millions United States dollars because of appalling storage facility. Mr. Williams however did not state the exact amount that the Company was losing but stated that the situation needed to be repaired immediately.

Speaking further, Mr. Williams also said over the last three years, the Company has paid to importers of petroleum over one million USD as claims for wastage of these companies products.

He said an amount of US million is needed to cover up rehabilitation works on terminals and pipeline of the LPRC.

Liberia: NPA Emplyees take exception to media reports
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 25, 2009

The President of the Dock Workers Union of Liberia (DOWUL) Mrs. Grace T. Kpaan has sharply reacted to recent media reports accusing the Management of the National Port Authority (NPA) of adopting scare tactics to force employees to sign an increment waiver document as far from the truth.

In a press statement issued over the weekend, it indicates that contrary to said allegation, the new management existing 90 days strategic plan to improve organization excellence all employees with the exception of NPA Executive team were given ten percent increment effective October 9, 2009.

The statement added that said increment equates to a total of 20 percent in 2009 and that adjustments were made to regularize discrepancies in salaries for employees in the same grade level.

Because of this, the statement added that management officially promoted employees who had been in active positions for about three years.

The statement further stated that as a result of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s visit to the Port of Monrovia on October 24 this year; adjustments along with those of the Executive team were halted.

The statement further added that on November 13 this year, president Sirleaf also agreed to remove the hold on the salary increase of the employees after her initial review of the Port’s performance report coupled with the reviewing of the adjustment for the Executive.

Explaining further, the statement said the National Port Authority (NPA) is the gateway to the nation’s economy adding that employees of the entity operate four ports namely: Monrovia, Buchanan, Greenville and Harper indicating that their challenges are both domestic and international.

Concluding, the statement commended President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for her farsightedness ensuring that NPA remains the gateway to the nations’ economy and therefore called on employees of the NPA to remain the gateway to the nations’ economy and therefore called on employees of the NPA to take their job seriously and continue to work to improve the system.

Liberia: Woods visits five Counties; motivates field workers
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 23, 2009

In extension of his tour to inspect the Ministry of Public Works (MPW) projects around the country, Public Works Minister, Atty. Samuel Kofi Woods, II on Saturday, November 21, 2009 visited five Counties where rehabilitation of roads and bridges are ongoing.

Minister Woods and his team visited Montserrado, Margibi, Bong, Grand Bassa, and Grand Cape Counties.

In Montserrado County, Minister Woods inspected the completion of a Bailey bridge connecting Careysburg to Bensonville where he expressed total satisfaction for the level of work done. He said the new bridge in the area is intended to improve the safety of motorists with the aim of lessening transportation difficulties for inhabitants of the area. He thanked the Pakistani contingent of UNMIL for cooperating with MPW Engineers, something he termed as magnificent.

In Margibi and Bong Counties, Minister Woods’ tour extended to Nyanforla Town where the launching of a Bailey bridge is currently taking place. Nyanforla Town Bridge links Margibi County to Bong County. He made particular emphasis on the acceleration of the Bailey bridge due to its vital importance. He said the Bailey bridge is expected to be completed in three days which guarantees free flow of traffic while the construction of a bridge at the bypass gets underway. He said other bridges around the country have been earmarked for construction or improvement but called on community dwellers to take ownership of these bridges in their respective communities. “I am happy over the level of work but also interested to make sure that the work is completed on time”, Minister Woods maintained. The original bridge at Nyanforla Town was obliterated as a result of the civil war in Liberia.

In Grand Bassa County, Minister Woods proceeded to the Cotton Tree to Bokay Town road where CHICO is currently rehabilitating the road and bridges in the area.
Explaining the progress report to Minister Woods and team, BCEOM, the Consultant and Monitoring Engineer, said the geometric design is complete for the full road length but admitted that pavement and bridge design are expected shortly from their project manager. He said the delay in the progress of the work is due to unusual rainfall for the months of October and November 2009.

The Consultant further revealed that Contractor (CHICO) has completed the clearing and grubbing for the full road length while the construction of temporary earth drains is underway. He also disclosed that the construction of two new pipe culverts between Km 9+800 and 14+940 has commenced while several rock outcrops within the proposed road prism have been identified.

Responding to progress made by CHICO, Minister Woods expressed satisfaction per work output but urged contractors to mobilize sufficient manpower and relevant skills that will enhance the acceleration of the work. At Bokay Town, Minister Woods and team visited two important sites of CHICO: the Rock crusher zone and the area where road rehabilitation work is currently ongoing.

In Grand Cape Mount County, Minister Woods and team proceeded to motivate and add booster first to the ongoing construction of the Sinje Bailey Bridge and the rehabilitation of the Polytechnic buildings. He expressed satisfaction but encouraged the workers to remain determined and focused on discharging their respective duties. He later walked from Sinje Bridge to the Polytechnic to greet the workers and inspect the ongoing rehabilitation of damaged Polytechnic buildings.

While in Grand cape Mount, Minister Woods drove to the newly rehabilitated Madina-Robertsport road funded by USAID. He disclosed that a new technology called “Otta Seal” is expected to be demonstrated on 1km at the Robertsport end of the road.

Earlier on November 13, Minister Woods toured major streets and inspected several projects including the ongoing road rehabilitation, public buildings and drainages across Monrovia.

Liberia: Indian Female Police receive Medals
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 20, 2009

The Indian Female Police Unit of the United Nations Mission in Liberia has received medals befitting honors for their dedicated and professional services to the maintenance of peace in Liberia.

Addressing the female peacekeeping unit Wednesday at a medal parade at the Samuel K. Doe Sports Complex in Monrovia, the head of UNMIL Margret Ellen Loj warned members of the UN Mission in Liberia to abide strictly by the rule that holds onto the respect of humanity dignity and resist any form of sexual exploitation. She said sexual abuse at any form is unacceptable which any respectable society least to mention the United Nations will never give credence.

She said the Indian female police unit has inspired Liberian girls and women which she expressed the hope that the performance of the FPU will set a long legacy for not only female in Liberia but the security sector.

The head of UNMIL further indicated the excellent performance of the Indians which has demonstrated that they are capable force in maintaining peace in Liberia. “We are immensely proud of each and every one of you for the difference you have made. For the professionalism you have demonstrated and many Liberian women have begun to emulate you,” Madam Log asserted.

The Indian Female Police Unit commonly called FPU of UNMIL arrived in the Country mid 2007 and currently serves as a rapid reaction force for crowd control and curbed crime and public disorders in joint patrol and operation. The Unit is also trained in the protection of VIPs and combating against extremely difficult security threat.

Liberia: Indian Female Police receive Medals
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 20, 2009

The Indian Female Police Unit of the United Nations Mission in Liberia has received medals befitting honors for their dedicated and professional services to the maintenance of peace in Liberia.

Addressing the female peacekeeping unit Wednesday at a medal parade at the Samuel K. Doe Sports Complex in Monrovia, the head of UNMIL Margret Ellen Loj warned members of the UN Mission in Liberia to abide strictly by the rule that holds onto the respect of humanity dignity and resist any form of sexual exploitation. She said sexual abuse at any form is unacceptable which any respectable society least to mention the United Nations will never give credence.

She said the Indian female police unit has inspired Liberian girls and women which she expressed the hope that the performance of the FPU will set a long legacy for not only female in Liberia but the security sector.

The head of UNMIL further indicated the excellent performance of the Indians which has demonstrated that they are capable force in maintaining peace in Liberia. “We are immensely proud of each and every one of you for the difference you have made. For the professionalism you have demonstrated and many Liberian women have begun to emulate you,” Madam Log asserted.

The Indian Female Police Unit commonly called FPU of UNMIL arrived in the Country mid 2007 and currently serves as a rapid reaction force for crowd control and curbed crime and public disorders in joint patrol and operation. The Unit is also trained in the protection of VIPs and combating against extremely difficult security threat.

Liberia: Ahead of By-Election, President Sirleaf cautions Voters
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 17, 2009

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is calling on partisans of the ruling Unity Party (UP) and the opposition Congress for Democratic Change to stick to the democratic doctrine during to forthcoming Montserrado County Senatorial By-Election slated for November 24, 2009.

The President, in a special statement issued yesterday reminded the partisans of the two parties that no matter who becomes victorious in the election, they as Liberians will still be here in the country to work together to make the nation better for everyone and for the future generation.

The National Election Commission (NEC) last week announced the final result of November 10 poll with the CDC and UP obtaining 35.5% and 29.7% respectively of the total valid votes of 95,462. The two parties have already begun campaigning for the November 24 polls, but President Sirleaf is calling for caution and the country’s interest.

CDC candidates Mrs. Geraldine Doe-Sheriff and UP candidate Mr. Clemenceau Urey have been qualified by the National Election Commission (NEC) to contest the run-off election slated for November 24, 2009.

The release quotes President Sirleaf as saying “no matter who wins, we will be here and we will have to work together to make Liberia better for everyone and for the future generations. We may have our difference, but we can always resolve everything through dialogue and peaceful negotiations,” President Sirleaf maintained. She said abnormalities in the first round of the By-Election on November 10 at some polling places were a learning process for the National Elections Commission.

The Liberian Leader however used the occasion to call on citizens of Montserrado County to turn out in mass to elect the candidate of their choice.

The recent statement of President Sirleaf was received with mix reaction and different understanding by inhabitants of the Montserrado County. Earlier, President Sirleaf directed her support and loyalty to only a single candidate disregarding her position as President. Many see the result of the first round as an indirect defeat to the ruling Unity Party.

Liberia: Public Works Minister challenges Contractors to build quality roads
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 16, 2009

In a bid to ensure the speedy and accurate outcome of current road rehabilitation around major streets in Monrovia, Public Works Minister Attorney Samuel Kofi Woods II and Senior Engineers of the Ministry of Public Works visited key areas around the city.

Areas visited during Minister Woods’ tour were the junction of Broad and Newport streets where road rehabilitation is currently ongoing; the old Executive Pavilion; the unfinished National Housing and Saving Bank; True Whig Party and buildings behind the Executive Mansion. The visit also extended to the current installation of two 24 inch diameter reinforce concrete culverts on Redemption Road behind the BTC military barracks, 12th Street Sinkor as well as the GSA road.

Commenting on the level of work done by the Chinese Company CICO on the road rehabilitation around Monrovia City center, Minister Woods expressed satisfaction so far, but urged CICO to ensure the completion of the work before the end of the present dry season. He said although continuous rain in Monrovia created some delay in the initial commencement of the work, work has now started at an aggressive pace. He reminded the contractors to look at some of the sidewalks near the roads which are in a deplorable state. “In order to boast of quality road, the sidewalks must be fixed to correspond with the standard of the new road”, Minister Woods maintained.

He challenged Liberians to take possession of their environment and protect the integrity of their infrastructures. He said dumping of garbage and digging of sand diminish the life span of bridges and obstruct the free flow of water. He called on Liberians to stop the abuse of their infrastructures, something which weakens national development. He recommended traffic alerts as means of controlling traffic during the rehabilitation work.

At the old Executive Pavilion, Minister Woods revealed the allotment of USmillion in the annual budget for the rehabilitation of two public buildings to include the old Executive Pavilion and the unfinished National Housing and Saving Bank on Ashmun Street. He disclosed that other public buildings will be cleaned for future rehabilitation.

Ordinary citizens residing within Sinkor community have lauded the Administration of the Ministry of Public Works for their timely intervention in reconnecting the road between 12th and 14th Streets which have been blocked for a protracted time.

Minister Woods finally challenged engineers and technicians in the field to speed up and ensure the completion of the two drainages at the Sinkor and the GSA road communities.

Liberia: Liberian Journalists benefit from UNICEF sponsored Photo workshop
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 13, 2009

In a bid to develop the capacities of Liberian Journalists in term of photo taking, UNICEF/Liberia in partnership with an independent and professional photo Journalist last week completed three days photo workshop at the Evelyn’s restaurant in Monrovia.

The lecture series according to Journalist Glenna Gordon was intended to build up and add new value to taking good photos during the course of Journalistic reportage. Miss Gordon further explained during the workshop that good photos explains the veracity at exist in the story which necessitate fairness in news dissemination.

Journalist Gordon, an independent and experienced photo Journalist was contracted by UNICEF to teach local Journalists in the use of cameras and how to take good photos. She explained about light and the shutter speed and at what point in time that one need to adjust his or her camera while taking photos. She indicated that light and shutter speed make a correct exposure so that picture taken is nether too light nor too dark, you need to control the amount of light that reaches the film or digital image sensor.

Motion and shutter speed is in addition to controlling the amount of light that enters the camera, the shutter speed also affects the way that moving object are shown. Madam Gordon also explained about the setting of shutter speed which she said are in fraction of a second. Aperture as indicated in the lecture series controls the amount of light that passes through the lens.

Journalists and reporters from the Liberians Times, Front page Africa, Daily Observer and others were participants of the workshop. The training was also blended with field trip and street photo taking which added more value to the difficulties Journalists go through in taking photos on the street.

At the end of the training, the trainer of the workshop, Glenna Gordon challenged all participants to share knowledge acquired during the event to other Photographers across the country. She asked them to always exercise their skills for self improvement.

Bill Diggs, Nat Bijay, Jerry and Michael Kpayili, all participants of the UNICEF sponsored workshop thanked the organizers for the opportunity and asked UNICEF to make the training exercise a regular thing for the enhancement of local Journalists and Reporters.

Recruitment for the Workshop was done through submission of recent photos taken and the response to few questions asked.

Liberia: Public Works Ministry commences work on two Bailey bridges in two Counties
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 12, 2009

The Ministry of Public Works on November 10, 2009 commenced the launching of two Bailey bridges in Montserrado and Margibi Counties.

Inspecting the launching of the bridges yesterday, November 10, 2009, acting Public Works Minister Johnson N. Gwaikolo said the two Bailey bridges in Careysburg and Nyanforla Town are intended to improve the safety of motorists travelling the adjoining roads with the aim of lessening transportation difficulties for rural dwellers.

Commenting specifically on Nyanforla Town Bridge linking Margibi and Bong Counties, Acting Minister Gwaikolo divulged that the Bailey bridge launched in the area is intended to provide a safer crossing for vehicles plying the road while the reconstruction of the permanent Bridge is being considered. He said other Bridges around the Country have been earmarked for construction but urged community dwellers to get involved in seeking short term employment as means of taking ownership of these bridges in their respective communities. He expressed satisfaction over the level of progress made in accelerating ongoing Bridge construction around the country.

The two Bailey bridges being launched in Careysburg and Nyanforla Town are been jointly implemented by Engineers of the Ministry of Public Works and the Pakistani and Bangladeshi contingents of the United Nations Mission in Liberia.

Speaking on behalf of the Pakistani Battalion in the area, Major Ghasanfor Nawaz Khen said UNMIL Peace keeping roles are divided into several stages. He named peacekeeping, social and infrastructural developments as well as sharing of relevant training with Liberians in whatever way possible.

The two Bailey bridges are expected to be completed in two weeks.

Liberia: Former Montserrado Supt Appeals For Runner-Up To Concede
by PRESS RELEASE // //
Nov 11, 2009

November 11, 2009 I commend the citizens, residents and voters of Montserrado County, Republic of Liberia for the sober and guarded performance in the senatorial by-election of November 10, 2009. The levels of maturity, political consciousness and orderliness displayed by the residents, citizens and voters are praiseworthy.

I commend the ten senatorial candidates for a battle well fought. Your desires to serve the people of Montserrado and Liberia shall not go unnoticed. Continue in the paths of service.

After much reflection and deliberately following the election activities; noticing the flaws, errors, disorganization, and delays attributed to the National Elections Commission; realizing the high costs associated with conducting the elections; aware of the frustrations experienced by scores of voters; and, conscious of other political, social and economic factors, I appeal to the candidate that would be announced to have received the second highest number of votes to concede defeat thus disallowing a second contest. This would be a courageous and bold step in sustaining the nascent peace in Liberia and furthering the democratic process. It would be politically correct and statesmanlike rekindling hope in the Liberian people. It would save millions of dollars that could be used in preparing for the 2011 elections and for development purposes.

Liberia: ECOWAS Commission President Delighted Over Ambassador Conteh Accreditation
by MOFA Press Release // //
Nov 9, 2009

Monrovia, Monday, November 9, 2009: The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas has expressed his appreciation to the Government of Liberia for appointing Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh as its Permanent Representative to ECOWAS.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, Dr. Chambas made the commendation last Thursday in Abuja, Nigeria at an accreditation ceremony held at the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja of the Liberian envoy, who is also Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Speaking at a ceremony, the ECOWAS President said it is his sincere hope that Ambassador Conteh's appointment will encourage the development initiatives and the realization of projects aimed at accelerating the pace of integration in the sub-region, for the greater well being of the West African peoples.

Liberia: Montserrado By-Election, a true sense to democracy
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 9, 2009

As Liberians prepare to elect a new Senator for Montserrado County, a system of democracy is seen been demonstrated at various localities which symbolizes an idea alteration of our ability to arrive at decision without sadistically taking lives of people as done in the past.

Looking back from where we come from, it is precious enough to recognize another important approach to the way people think in term of thoughts which clearly indicate renew hope for the democratic system Liberians continue to yearn for. It is imperative to note that barely six years after fifteen years of carnage, outlandish and the collapse of our societal value, political parties are becoming to courteously respect the rights and understand their own limitation in campaigning to attract voters on their side.

The Montserrado County By-Election as been observed is another test case for not only the enduring election but the bigger election for the presidency and parliamentary elections come 2011. The physical expression written on the faces of expected Standard Bearers in the 2011 election as they buttressed the efforts of their Candidate to contest the Montserrado By-election evidently shows the test to true democracy and the independent of voters to choose who they actually want as leaders of this country.

The contest in term of canvassing between the two most leading political parties, the Congress for Democratic Change and the Unity Party are very thin with multitude of crowd similarly exhibiting responsible attitudes in getting their message out to potential voters. George Weah of the Congress for Democratic Change and Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of the Unity Party are working beyond the clock to ensure the needed victory.

What is not apparent is whether those parading the streets with political aspirants do possess voter cards which I believed is the only way to running better decision. Another point of concern is an extended education to voters in understanding the defeat and victory line that is attached to election. Once people become to comprehend that victory is an advantage and defeat constitutes part the process, then post election conflict will either be minimize or eradicated.

Montserrado County constitutes one third of the result of recent census conducted in Liberia which indicates that if a political party can succeed greatly in Montserado, then the possible chance to ascending to state power is certain and as such, politicians are working beyond the clock to make their presences felt at all cost.

Liberty Party of Charles Brumskine has been complaining about the independence of the National Election Commission prior to the By-Election and such grumble is been culminated into another complain forwarded to the NEC concerning vote buying. Vote buying according to research made constitutes electoral offense under the Liberian law. Although the probe into such complain is expected to be conducted today, one could again wonder while only from the Liberty Party?

Liberty Party is currently putting out a good fight predicated upon huge crowd but with this complain right ahead of election date, it does not mean well for the new democracy we hope to achieve in this country. I hope the National Election Commission can speedily handle that complain in a responsible time for the holding of the Montserrado County By-election. Democracy is better achieved if the rights of all political parties are heard void encroachment to either rights or position. There may be some skirmishes sometime but the decision to remain non-violent must always be decision to achieve.

Liberia: FDA Boss ask to hold on until.....
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 6, 2009

The Managing Director of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), John T. Woods has resigned his position due to worsening health condition that has made him incompetent to continue with his job.

Speaking at a news conference Wednesday at the FDA office in Monrovia, Mr. Woods said communication to President Johnson Sirleaf concerning his condition was accepted, but was asked to hold on till the government can find his possible replacement.

The outgoing FDA Boss is said to be suffering from stroke which affected him while attending an official Forestry conference in the United States. He is currently undergoing medical treatment in New York.

He said as the result of his illness, he cannot effectively discharge the function of the office of the Managing Director of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA). Therefore “I tendered my resignation to the office of the President of Liberia and was accepted in principle without an effective date, Mr. Woods noted.

The ailing FDA Boss said Agriculture Minister Florence Chenoweth, who is also the Chairman of the Board of Directors asked him to hold on while the government searches for his replacement. Mr. Woods was first appointed Managing Director of FDA in January 1978 when the institution was established.

He said during his tenure, the FDA was able to put into place forest regulations and awarded seven logging contracts to several logging companies, which were ratified by the National Legislature and printed into hand bills by the Ministry of foreign Affairs.

Of the seven companies, the Alpha Logging and Wood Processing Company has paid a total of US.4 million as land rental, bid premium and administrative fees. This payment according to him, confirms the Management belief and strategy for awarding contracts to companies with strong financial standing, contrary to claims by critics.

He disclosed that the EJ and J Logging Company, Tarpeh Timber Company and Bargo and Bargo Logging Company have also made partial payment of taxes and other fees, while the rest of the logging Companies are expected to make payment by November 6, 2009.

Liberia: Five Hundred thousands ballot papers arrive
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 4, 2009

The National Elections Commission (NEC) has announced the arrival of ballot papers for the Montserrado County Senatorial By-Election.

According to NEC press briefing, the 500,000 ballot papers arrived in the country from Accra, Ghana on Sunday, November 1, 2009.The ballot papers according to NEC are now under the custody of UNMIL until final preparation are finalized to have them distributed amongst the 937 polling places across 280 voting precincts in the country. NEC further disclosed that logistical preparations for the Montserrrado County Senatorial By-Election are well on schedule.

Packaging of sensitive polling materials including Ballot papers will take place from November 2-4 and the deployment of polling staff as well as sensitive materials will be done between November 8 and 9. NEC further revealed that 950 lanterns and 1000 barrier tapes in addition to other materials are in the country for the upcoming election.

The Commission has however expressed satisfaction over the peaceful manner in which the ten candidates in the Montserrado County Senatorial By-Election have conducted themselves in the process of campaigning.

Liberia: Senate sends out warning over the passage of threshold bill
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 4, 2009

The President Pro-tempore of the Liberian Senate has sent out clear warning to the public that there is no amount of pressure or outside forces that will coerce the Senate to pass the threshold bill.

Grand Kru County Senator Cletus Wotorson said it is misleading and dangerous to spread information which according to him contravenes the true nature that without the passage of the threshold bill, the holding of election is impossible. He said the Senate is currently reviewing the bill for possible consideration but warned outside forces to stop making the Senate appears as spectators to their own responsibilities.

He advised Liberians to share ideas and thoughts with their various Lawmakers in helping to speed out sticking points in the passage of the bill.

The National Elections Commission has signal further risk in the holding of elections in 2011 without the passage of the population threshold bill. Other foreign missions in Liberia including the United States Embassy have been engaged with the National Legislature regarding the conduct of free and fair election come 2011.

The constitution of Liberia also requires the demarcation of constituency after the conduct of census before the holding of National election in Liberia.

Decisions surrounding the passage of the threshold bill are mixed among Lawmakers with significant percentage of them opposing the threshold at above 40,000 while others accept the passage of the bill but with condition.

Liberia: Woods receives Service to Humanity award again
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Nov 2, 2009

Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods has been served with a ‘Service to Humanity’ award by the New Kru Town Association in the United States (NEKTAA).

The award is the most distinct honor bestow on individuals with high integrity, credibility and also individuals who remain constant in the strive of changing and reforming institutions for the better.

Presenting the award to Minister Woods, the outgoing President of NEKTAA, a U.S based Liberian organization, Mr. Nagba Sloh said the actions exemplified by Minister Woods as it relates to performance have made any true born citizen of New Kru Town to walk the streets with the highest degree of pride. He said it took a child from New Kru Town to reject gifts in office or at least turn them over to the procurement office for proper coding in the Ministry. He further indicated that Minister Woods returned unused per diem and repeal draconian laws offensive to labor which for decades undermined workers freedom, amended laws and instituted the comprehensive reform of our labor laws.

Taking retrospective views of Minister Woods’ performance dating back from student leadership to human rights advocacy and now in government, Mr. Nagba Sloh confirmed Philip Wesseh’s assertion revealed in his article that “something good can come from Saigon”. He challenged all citizens of New Kru Town to exemplify honesty, integrity and credibility whenever given the opportunity to serve in public offices.

Receiving the award at Pennsylvania, USA, Minister Woods thanked his compatriots for recognizing his efforts in areas that he worked. He said the award re-energizes his commitment to serve his country at the highest of his potential. “I am extremely proud of the history of my origin because it reminds me of my struggles and confirms my triumph against odds, surmounting difficulties and overcoming obstacles on this long journey”, Minister Woods maintained.

He called on Liberians not to always seek glory but remember the story that leads to such glory adding “we are not saints but we were thought the dignity of labor, honesty and integrity in our New Kru Town”

The Service to Humanity award winner admonished the headship of NEKTAA that there are three types of people to be aware of. Those who have eyes to see and do see. He said they have faith and confidence, they believe in what is possible, they have conviction and aspiration. The second according to Minister Woods are those who cannot see well and need to be assisted. He said with a little bit of faith, they see, they make efforts to be a part. The third group of people are those that will never see. They are blind not because of their eyesight but because they only see the impossible, they have lost faith in themselves and therefore can have faith in nobody else. “As a leader, you must ensure that all will be involved in the running of this organization”, he disclosed.

Minister Samuel Kofi Woods is a recipient of several awards including the Reebok Human Rights award for work as a Human Rights Lawyer in 1994. He also received the Benemerenti award of Merit from Pope John Paul II for service to humanity in 1999 and was honored by the Special Court in Freedom, Sierra Leone in 2004. In addition, he has been honored in several capacities and received an award from the American Bar Association, among several others.

US 39 billion dollars needed to prevent and control the world's leading killer of young children
by WHO Press Release // //
Nov 1, 2009

Geneva / New York: A comprehensive action plan that can save up to 5.3 million children from dying of pneumonia by 2015 is being launched today by the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

Pneumonia is the biggest cause of child deaths in the world, killing 1.8 million children under five years of age every year, more than 98 percent of which occur in 68 developing countries. In spite of its huge toll, relatively few resources are dedicated to tackling this child killer.

The Global Action Plan for the prevention and control of Pneumonia (GAPP) includes recommendations on what needs to be done, specific goals and targets, and estimates of what it will cost and how many lives will be saved. Its aim is to increase awareness of pneumonia as a major cause of child deaths, and it calls on global and national policy-makers, donor agencies and civil society to take immediate action to implement the plan.

Liberia: Liberian Government Launches New Passports in Four Categories
by MOFA Press Release // //
Nov 1, 2009

(MONROVIA, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2009): The Government of Liberia will on Monday, November 2, 2009, formally launch the New Machine Readable Liberia National Passports at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Capitol Hill.

These passports will meet the global requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Compliant Machine Readable Passports to be in effect by April 2010. The new passports are categorized in the following: Diplomatic, Official, Service and Ordinary.

The new Ordinary Passport will be valid for five years, while the new Diplomatic and Official Passports shall be issued for two years, consistent with existing guidelines. Service Passports shall be issued for one or two years, depending on the mission for which they are being issued.

All Liberians are entitled to travel document which is the Ordinary Passport, without discrimination.

First World Pneumonia Day, 2 November 2009
by Bobby Ramakant, CNS // //
Nov 1, 2009

Pneumonia claims two million children under five each year, yet no new drug, vaccine or special diagnostic test is needed to save their lives. The answers are at hand, and effective treatment is both inexpensive and widely available.

So why are children dying? This question is the driving force behind the first World Pneumonia Day (2 November 2009). The Global Coalition Against Child Pneumonia led by Save the Children has organised a Global Summit on Pneumonia in New York and other events around the world to mobilise efforts to stop a disease that kills one child every 15 seconds.

Actions, not answers, are needed to solve the problem, according to Penny Enarson, head of the Child Lung Health Division for the Paris-based International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union).

Liberia: MCC rejects Liberty Party’s accusation
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 30, 2009

The City government of Monrovia says its attention has been drawn to a publication in which the Liberty Party laid blame on Monrovia Acting City Mayor, Mary Broh of destroying down flyers and banners belonging to its candidate for the Montserrado County Senatorial By-election, Darius Dillon.

The City Government of Monrovia unconditionally denies this claim as was published in the Analyst and the Inquirer respectively.

According to press release issued by the department of Communication of the MCC, the claims by Mr. Dillon that his flyers and banners at the ELWA Red-light junction and the Paynesville Red-light junction were taken down by MCC are fallacious as the MCC’s political and administrative authority does not cover those areas.

“For the most part, the City Government in an effort to enhance the ongoing Montserrado County Senatorial By-election has placed no price tag on all campaign flyers and banners displayed in the city of Monrovia”, the release noted.

At the same time, the City Government of Monrovia has urged Mr. Dillon to always confirm his facts before going to the press.

Liberia: Labour is a valuable commodity on the job market, says Cllr. Gongloe
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 29, 2009

Labour Minister Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe says labour is a valuable commodity on the job market and as such, those who buy it must pay valuable price.

According to a Labour Ministry’s release, Minister Gongloe made the statement Tuesday, 27, 2009 when he visited for the first time the headquarters of the Liberia Labour Congress (LLC) on the Somali Drive, Garnerville to acquaint himself with activities of the LLC.

The Labour Minister said it is a shame for a union to lose a case with an employer on the basis of not knowing the law. He said a strong union is one that is knowledgeable of its constitution and the Labour Practices Law of Liberia. He called on members of the LCC to respect and uphold their union’s constitution. He also stressed the need for union’s leaders to encourage workers’ discipline and good work ethics that would make workers indispensable to employers in Liberia.

He told the LLC members that anti-corruption measures are not only applicable to government officials, but are also applicable to worker organizations in the country. He called on trade union leaders to ensure that transparency and accountability remain the hallmark in their day to day activities.

Minister Gongloe said the Labour Ministry under his administration will not interfere in trade union matter but warned that the Ministry will not be intimidated by any of its social partners (Workers`/Employers` Organizations) in upholding the law, regulations and in promoting government’s effort to create a good business climate in Liberia as a way of lifting Liberians out of poverty.

The Labour Boss noted that Regulation #17 recently issued by the Ministry of Labour is not intended to raise money for the government but to ensure that preference is given to Liberians for employment in their own country. He noted that this is the least any government can do for its citizens.



For his part, the President of the Liberia Labour Congress (LLC), Moses Barwror commended Minister Gongloe for the visit and recounted the numerous assistance the Ministry of Labour had provided LLC since its formation as a national umbrella organization of all labour unions in Liberia.

He said the LLC will support the Ministry of Labour to develop laws that are intended to promote decent work programs and job creation for Liberia.

At the meeting, Minister Gongloe accepted a request to visit the National Labour Center at least once in every two months.

Former Superintendent of Montserrado County Endorses CDC Geraldine Doe-Sheriff
by CDC Press Release // //
Oct 28, 2009

Geraldine Doe-Sheriff has been endorsed by Rupel E. Marshall, Sr. former Superintendent of Montserrado County. Marshall made a passionate plea to all voters in Montserrado to vote for Madam Doe-Sheriff come November 10, 2009. Superintendent Marshall stated that the voters’ choice must be “based on who has stood with the ordinary citizens over the years. Who has spoken against reckless downsizing and rightsizing. Who believes in a clean and laid out Monrovia but is opposed to brut force against the people. The votes must be based on who has decried the deplorable state of our roads, our schools and our health facilities.”

Superintendent Marshall categorically asserted that, after reviewing the profiles of all the candidates, “only Madam Geraldine Doe-Sheriff … merits the voters’ trusts and their votes”. He stated that “she is a steadfast advocate for the jobless, the poor, and the sick. She stands in the vanguard of opposing corruption and is a champion for the political and economic rights of every Liberian”. He praised her as a woman of character by not leaving the CDC when other party leaders where going over to the ruling party but instead to ascend to the chairmanship of the party in order to continue to sensitize the ordinary men and women of Liberia.

Liberia: Environmental Protection for a Healthy Environment in Africa
by AEW Press Release // //
Oct 28, 2009

Bowie, Maryland – October 26, 2009. The Africa Environmental Watch (AEW), Inc. formerly Liberia Environmental Watch, will host its 3rd Annual Environmental Conference on October 30, 2009 at Bowie State University to be followed by an Award Dinner in the evening of the same date. The Conference festivities will include expert deliberation of key environmental issues.

The purpose of the conference is to create needed awareness of environmental protection for a healthy environment in Africa, through many robust environmental education awareness programs and pilot initiatives, particularly in Liberia as a case study scenario, because of its post war circumstances. AEW believes that a clean environment, and sound natural resources management can translate to healthy communities, and productive human resources which are keys to enhancing social integrity, economic prosperity, poverty reduction, and political stability.

Liberia: Minister Woods addresses Liberian Community in U.S
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 28, 2009

Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods II, says the issue of national identity still remains a fundamental point in Liberian history. He said while discussion surrounding dual citizenship continues to be debated in some quarters, Liberians continue to refused to recognize the need for national reconciliation between Liberians at home and those returning from abroad.

Serving as keynote speaker at the 4th annual convention of the New Kru Town Association of the United States of America (NEKTAA) over the weekend, Minister Woods shared thoughts on three key issues to the New Kru Town organization. He named the crisis of repatriation, the impact of U.S based Liberian organizations on Liberia and the way forward for New Kru Town.

On the crisis of repatriation, Minister Woods said since 1800s, Liberians have been returning to Liberia due to love for their country. These returns according to the Human rights advocate have been characterized by discord, feelings of marginalization and discrimination from far away land and cultures. “In spite of these returns or repatriations, we are still redefining ourselves, contending with the crisis of identity, legitimacy and the lack of cohesiveness as a nation. We are fragmented on every issue, balkanized at all levels and resistant to what may be good, decent and honest”, Minister Woods maintained.

Minister Woods who holds several awards in Human rights advocacy around the world said a system was developed in the past which preyed on the Liberian citizens subjecting the nation to a state of serfdom. He said the plunder of our society through coercion, use of brute force and naked power became even more pervasive. This kind of leadership according to Minister Woods defies human decency and makes us culpable.

Commenting on the second issue, Minister Woods intimated that the role of US-based Liberian organizations like the NEKTAA have impacted at the best minimum in the transformation of Liberia. “Beset by conflict. Persistent discord, lawsuit, the internal leadership struggles and the bundle of egos must be purged,” he lamented. He said national reconciliation in Liberia will not be possible if Liberians abroad survive on distrust and return to Liberia with the bitterness of life abroad. He further that for the last two years, he had counted more than ten Liberian organizations of different categories engaged in some of the most serious conflict of accountability and transparency. If you cannot account here, resolve your differences; what then can you offer Liberia upon your return my friends???”, Minister Woods pleaded with his compatriots.

Lastly, Minister Woods challenged the leadership of NEKTAA to unite their community and show a difference. He urged them to encourage Logan Town, West Point and Clara Town to be part of a larger Bushrod network. Besides prioritizing health issues in New Kru Town, Minister Woods cautioned his compatriots to adopt a child in New Kru Town and be responsible for their education. Amidst cheers and delight, Minister Woods asked each person attending the convention to pledge a minimum of US.00 to a child in New Kru Town. He spoke on the topic, “The post war challenges and opportunities in New Kru Town”.

Also speaking at the occasion, the retiring national President of NEKTAA Jay Nagba Sloh said he was extremely proud of a son of New Kru town contributing immensely to the transformation of war affected Liberia. He said he was grateful for the sacrificial services Minister Woods was rendering NEKTAA and Liberia as a whole. Mr. Sloh recalled Minister Woods’ many contributions to the political, social, and economic development of Liberia, beginning at the University of Liberia in the 1980s as student leader, then moving up the ladder as an international human right icon, Minister of Labour, and now, Minister of Public Works.

Minister Woods is always willing and proud to identify with his origin, the New Kru Town which is widely known as slum community. He always expresses happiness for his beginning in squalor, slum and deprivation which according to him inspired and motivated his courage for perseverance.

He paid special tribute to Inquirer Boss Philip Wesseh who wrote an article when he received the Reebok International Human Rights award. The article was entitled: “Something good can come from Saigon”.

Liberia: Nimba County Superintendent rescues Dr. Korto from death
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 26, 2009

The Superintendent of Nimba County over the weekend rescued Education Minister Dr. Joseph Korto from being heavily strike to death by Nimba County Senior Senator Prince Johnson in Ganta Nimba County.

The confusion ensued when cross section of Nimba citizens converged at the commercial capital of Nimba County to discuss their social development fund given them by Mittal Steal. Some citizens of the county including students and marketers have consistently complained over the poor handling of the money by authorities of the county including the county Legislative caucus.

The meeting started with diverse views coming from opinion leaders and prominent citizens of the county on how the money was managed and the way forward. Early, several committees were established headed by Ministers Eugene Shannoh and Ambolia Johnson of the Ministries of Land, Mines and Energy and Internal Affairs to target and implement projects of Nimba development funds but such project, according to cross section of the greater population in Nimba County is yet to be seen.

Another side of the story surrounding the project targeted for the development funds in the county revealed that a decision was reached to purchase a road machine to enhance the rehabilitation of damaged roads in the county.

The gathering came at a stand still when Education Minister Dr. Joseph Korto, who is also a prominent citizen of the county, took over the podium to address the citizens over his thinking of the management of the county and the social development funds. Dr. Korto who was straight forward in his speech blasted the Nimba County Legislative caucus for failure to properly handle affairs of the county in a more responsible manner. He brands the entire caucus as irresponsible, visionless and inactive in the running of the county.

The over thirty minute statement delivered by Dr. Korto aggravated the Chairman of the Nimba County Legislative caucus, Senator Prince Johnson who walked from his seat onto the platform to quiet Dr. Korto in whatever means possible at his disposal. It was through the tactical and timely intervention of Nimba County Superintendent Edith Gonglo Weh who smartly stopped Senator Johnson from reaching close to Dr. Korto. The meeting was later disrupted and unceremoniously stopped as the result of Senator Johnson attempt to quiet Dr. Korto at all means. The action of Senator Johnson was later responded with boos from the participants at the meeting which according to Senator Johnson, was masterminded by Dr. Joseph Korto.

Senator Prince Johnson is a former rebel leader who is widely known in Liberia for notoriously killing civilians. He also killed former Liberian President Samuel K. Doe during the civil war of Liberia. His action at some point cannot be taken lightly because his decision to kill is very fast. According to those who lived under his control territory during the war era, Senator Johnson kills and regret in a moment.

Liberia: Methodist men cautions Suspended Information Minister to be calm
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 23, 2009

As the corruption chronicle at the Ministry of Information deepens and scores of Senior Officials under thorough investigation, the Men organization of the Monrovia District Conference of the United Methodist Church, Liberia Annual Conference says it is much concerned having learned that the Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Rev. Dr. Lawrence Bropleh has been suspended and turned over to the Ministry of Justice for investigation.

Rev. Dr. Bropleh is an ordained Minister of the United Methodist Church. He has been suspended for his alleged involvement in a financial scandal at the Ministry of Information in a tune of Three hundred thousand United States dollars.

A press release issued by the United Methodist Men Organization under the signature of its President Rev. Moses K. Yebleh said men of the United Methodist Church of the Monrovia District Conference have assured Minister Bropleh that in the midst of the current difficulties he is going through, the best option is to remain calm, as thou who knowest about him surely will be with him.

The Men Department of the United Methodist Church is known for its slogan “rescue the perishing and care for the dying” assured Suspended Minister Bropleh that situations of such should be expected in one’s life but urged him to be focused. “We do not want to come with any conclusion on the matter, however, as a United Methodist prelate and an Elder in full connection of our Church, we share his grief and we are in prayers with him as his trouble is our trouble for we know that there are raining days in each of us life today and today it is him. The Church through the Men is with him and the entire family as we will never abandon him in these difficult days”, the release outlined.

The Men Department of the United Methodist Church is a credible group within the Liberian Society judging from it remarkable job done in several communities in Liberia.

Dr. Lawrence Bropleh was asked to cut short his visit to China and return home by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to assist with the investigation into the stealing of US0,000 recently uncovered by the Ministry of Finance regarding payroll fraud. Minister Broplen has since denied his involvement in the stealing.

The brother of Rev. Dr. Lawrence Bropleh was similarly sacked as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) for misapplying huge sum of money during his tenure at the institution.

Ordinary citizens view corruption as a normal practice in government where poor enrich themselves in a split moment. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is fiercely fighting corruption but it seems to be deeply rooted in the society and takes time to uproot such culture.

Liberia: Beyan Kota challenges blind people to take courage
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 22, 2009

The President of the of the Christian Association of the Blind (CAB) Mr. Beyan Kota says sight is not their concerns as blind people but the prevention of blindness. He said although they are living with blindness, his concern is to ensure that their children have the right to see.

Mr. Kota said blind men and women have come from being portrayed as beggars from the last 25 to 30 years ago, through their struggle for equality but was quick to note that some blind people still choose to stand on the sidewalk. “Under this government, today, we have gained some basic and fundamental rights and freedom in the Republic of Liberia. Our rights to life, our rights to Liberty and free movement”. He thanked President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for recognizing them as evidence by the proclamation to declare 15 of October as World White Cane Safety Day widely celebrated in Liberia.

He said being blind is not the end to ones hope to move forward and urged other blind people in the country to redirect their minds and do something positive.

Mr. Kota spoke during a program marking the celebration of World Cane day held on 15 October at the Monrovia City Hall.

Also speaking at the program, a Representative of the World Health Organization to Liberia Dr. Nestor Ndayimirije called on the Ministry of Education to provide more learning facilities including vocational schools for the blind in the country.

“Government and partners should promote vocational center and construct more schools for the blind to enable individual with disabilities such as blindness to pursue meaningful careers and employment within their capacities”, Dr. Nestor Ndayimirije outlined in several counts.

Ministry of Planning Building Momentum To Address Brain-drain Woes In Liberia
by MPEA Press // //
Oct 21, 2009

Liberia’s ambition to effectively implement the Poverty Reduction Strategy as a medium term strategy for advancing reconstruction and development is confronted by significant human and institutional capacity challenges.

Following a year of implementation of the PRS and with 18 percent of the more than 300 PRS “deliverables� realized, capacity has been identified as the “binding constraints� in achieving the set targets across ministries and agencies.

In the PRS document, the Government of Liberia concedes to a number of risks and constraints that could derail the implementation of the Poverty Reduction Strategy and frustrate the commitment to generating rapid, inclusive and sustainable growth in Liberia.

Liberia: Vera Bradley pledges support from market tote sales to non-profit working in Africa
by The Hunger Project // //
Oct 19, 2009

New York, New York (October 19, 2009)-- The luggage and accessories company, Vera Bradley, has pledged US $ 10,000 from sales of their exclusive, new, reusable Market Tote bags to The Hunger Project (THP), a non-profit that works to end hunger and poverty in Africa, Latin America and South Asia. The exclusive, eco-friendly bags will be available beginning October 17, and through November 2, at participating retailers.

THP will use this funding in its work to mobilize communities, empower women, and forge effective partnerships with governments so that women, men and children in the developing world can end their own hunger and poverty and become self-reliant.

Liberia: Bravo for the visit of Nigeria's first lady to Liberia
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 19, 2009

History becomes questionable sometimes when it is narrated from generation to generation. The interpretation and understanding of events surrounding history especially when it is interpreted to meet one’s satisfaction void from facts makes future activities not real.

My little knowledge about Liberia and Nigeria relationship can only be validated from Nigeria enormous assistance given Liberia before and after the civil war. Not saying this continuously, will make generation yet unborn to not be conscious of the existing relationship between the two countries. Again, the details in this article will only be limited to the many helps Nigeria offered Liberia during the civil wars.

Let first begin with the participation of Nigeria within the Peace Keeping Force of Liberia's bloody civil crisis. Nigeria troop being an integral part of ECOMOG activities in Liberia actively spearheaded the mission with a clear cut agenda to bring peace to the people of Liberia. Such agenda was misunderstood by some Liberians and warring fictions thereby counter-reacting to the mission of ECOMOG. This reaction intensified to the point that other Nigerian civilians in Liberia became victims of the action of the military activities involving ECOMOG troop.

Besides the inhospitable atmosphere that existed between ECOMOG/Nigerian troop and the NPFL of Charles Taylor in the middle of the civil war in Liberia which led to the deaths of scores of Nigerians in Liberia, Nigerians were never relented in nurturing and accelerating the peace initiatives in Liberia. The former President of Nigeria Sana Abacha was also instrumental in the peace process including the extension of invitation to his major enemy Charles Taylor, to a peace conference in Liberia. There were several peace conferences in the settlement of peace in Liberia but the major turning point was the invitation accorded to Liberia's most well-known rebel leader Charles Taylor to Nigeria.

Many saw the invitation accorded Charles Taylor as a shaggy dog story because the rift between the two parties, Nigeria and NPFL grew to an alarming proportion. After frequent consultations between former Liberian President, then rebel leader CharlesTaylor and other warring fictions in Liberia, agreements to honor the invitation to Nigeria were realized. The commitment of former Nigerian President Sana Abacha to that process guaranteed the peace we are now enjoying today.

Besides the peace Nigeria contributed to Liberia, other helps including medical assistance, technical assistance including teaching staffs were sent to Liberia to help build up the scatter academic programs in Liberia. Nigeria has proven beyond excellent for Liberia and there is a need to recognize it to the highest.

What is principally important and never to be forgotten in my life is the swift coming in of the Nigerian “Vine guard” force in 2003 prior to the departure of Charles Taylor to Nigeria. Several invitations were sent out to the International Communities for countries to contribute men to the hostile zone where four separate rebel fictions were centered around while Liberians were been starved and killed by the warring fictions but thanks again to Nigeria for committing the first men on the soil amidst hostilities.

Last week, Nigerian first lady Dr. Yar' Adua visited Liberia and held discussions with the Liberian leader Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and representatives of women groups on ways of strengthening collaboration between women of Nigeria and Liberia. The Nigerian first lady joined President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Wednesday afternoon at the dedication of the dormitory building of the Tubman National Institute of Medical Arts (TNIMA). The Nigerian first lady and President Sirleaf also visited several institutions including an elementary as well as the Monrovia Demonstration Schools where she presented notebooks to students of the institutions.

Note: I am aware of some 419 activities that are instituted by Nigerians in Liberia but I believed such acts are just isolated events and can not erode the good image of jobs done in the past.

Liberia: Minister Woods addresses Road Show Conference in Belgium
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 16, 2009

Pubic Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods II, says the arrangement of Public-Private partnership is cardinal to the achievement of the desired economic development which will actualize the government's goal of job and wealth creation, security, and economic growth.

In his welcome address at the Road Show conference in Brussels, the capital of Belgium at the opening of the Output and Performance Road Contract project on Thursday, October 15, 2009, Minister Woods said government has embarked upon several initiatives aimed at restoring confidence, promoting the integrity of our infrastructure and accelerating development.

According to Public Works release, Minister Woods named the initiatives as the development of a National Transport Policy which is vital to the socio-economic development of Liberia. The policy as outlined in Minister Woods' speech recognizes that an effective transport sector enhances opportunities for domestic, regional and international trade, accruing enormous benefits to the government, users, providers, operators as well as workers. Key to this as indicated in Minister Woods' speech will be the development of the institutional framework for effective, efficient and sustainable management of the Road sector.

At the infrastructure front, several partnerships have been developed to demonstrate commitment to advancing the provision of rehabilitating our infrastructures and providing basic services for the Liberia people. He named the Master Plan study for the city of Monrovia done by the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the revision of the zoning laws which is geared towards effective land use management, and the reform of construction permits and other forms of licensing. “In order for this to become a reality, there is a need to consolidate a firm and trusted public-private partners”, Minister Woods maintained.

The OPRC according to the release will target two (2) major and economically important links in Liberia as outlined in Minister Woods' welcome address. He named the Bokay Town to Buchanan axis which links the capitol (Monrovia) to the second most important Port city of Buchanan, Grand Bassa County; the Monrovia to Ganta as well as Guinea Border which besides linking Monrovia to the capitals of Margibi, Bong and Nimba Counties also links Liberia to the forest region of the Republic Guinea, a very important economic region which is serviced through the Port of Monrovia. This represents about 330 km of road network.

The Road Show project is the commitment underpinned by the realization that years of broken infrastructure and lack of maintenance have impeded access and constrained Liberia's economic growth and recovery.

Government officials attending the OPRC project in Belgium are Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods, Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan and Natty B. Davis of the Ministry of State without Portfolio. World Bank Country Manager Ohene Nyanin as well as other high profile international partners is also in attendance.

The two day conference runs from October 15-16, 2009 which is expected to be concluded within a significant style. At the end of the conference, Ministry of Public Works and the World Bank will invite Contractors and Consultants to participate in the coming tender, emphasizing the relatively limited risks allocated onto the private sector and the guaranteed source of finance stemming from the World Bank and Donors.

Liberia: Disclosing Public information for the survival of Liberia is legal
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 14, 2009

The recent threat posed by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Port of Authority (NPA) over the dismissal of some employees of the Port for allegedly making the salary of the Managing Director public deserves not only condemnation but a reminder to the Chairman that Liberia is not a one Party State.
 
Biyan Kesselly of the Maritime Commission who happens to be the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the NPA told reporters over the weekend that dismissal waits anyone pointed to be responsible for the leakage of the Managing Director salary due to what he referred to as “confidentiality to Corporate document” although NPA is a Public entity.
 
The threat by Biyan Kesselly clearly indicates that there is some hidden information which by extension could be considered illegal over the administration of the Port. More besides, information regarding Public entity should be made available for public consumption and never create the situation that information within public entities must be restricted from the public.
 
The National Legislature has been dragging its feet on the passage of the Freedom of Information Act due to undisclosed reason. If people in authorities will choose to bully or dismiss employees for exposing the salaries which in my opinion is legitimate then the question of transparency stands to be undermined in it highest.
 
Although the economy of Liberia is gradually picking up but the issue of salary structure depends on the organizations strength or agreement between the employers and employees and the issue of big or small should not be the argument. The ball was in the court of the Chairman of the Board of Directors to give detail explanation to the public concerning the authenticity of the salary as it was done but to send out threat to dismiss an employee for disclosing legitimate transaction especially within Public Corporation for Public consumption is ancient and dictatorial and should be condemned in the highest.
 
People become drunk sometimes when placed in strategic positions and not understanding the strategic nature of the job sometimes lead you to appear as if you are super human. Biyan Kesselly as a promising young man must understand the circumstances behind issues before coming public. What if the public wants you to make public your financial statement in the newspaper or for public consumption, will that be breech of confidence as been understood by you.
 
There is absolutely nothing wrong with paying someone attractive salary as is done in Madam Parker’s case at the NPA. She is qualified and meets the relevant experience to do the job. I would not want to link it with previous job done in the States because salary fluctuate as a given point in time.

Until Mr. Kesselly can retreat his threat of dismissal against employee caught disclosing information to the public, his administration at the maritime stands to answer questions as it relates to operation at the Maritime.
 
 

Liberia: President Sirleaf welcomes views on TRC report
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 13, 2009

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has welcomed debate among Liberians locally and abroad regarding the unedited report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).

According to an Executive Mansion press release, the decision by the Liberia Council of Churches, the National Legislature and others segments of the Liberians society to get involved in the process, is part of an exercise to ensure that all Liberians are given an opportunity to freely express their views on the way forward.

“It is, indeed, healthy exercises that Liberians from all walks of life are freely discussing the report with a view to find a common ground”, the release noted.

The release further revealed that the President is therefore encouraging all Liberians to fully discuss issues arising from the TRC report with their Lawmakers, now on agriculture break, to have a clearer understanding of all the issues at stake, so that as a nation, we can come together and make an informed decision for the good of the country and the future of our children.

The release further indicated that the President has read the report and reserves any official comment until the whole nation is informed as to what is contained in the report.

“The President is totally committed to genuine peace and national reconciliation, which constitutes one of the pillars of her policy. President Sirleaf has worked all her life for the attainment of a society of inclusion, incorporating all aspects of Liberian life. She remains unwavering in the pursuit of those principles”, the release concluded.

Liberia: Senate to return for threshold debate; abort agriculture break soon
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 9, 2009

Days after Pro-temp Cletus Wotorson revealed the likelihood of resuming another fresh legislative operations at the House of Parliament, it has been disclosed that President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is lobbying behind the scene with members of the National Legislature to have them returned from their agriculture break to guarantee the passage of the threshold bill.

The National Elections Commission has consistently alarmed the danger in delaying the passage of the threshold bill something which according to NEC serves as precondition to the conduct of election in 2011.

Addressing the Ministry of Information weekly news conference on Thursday in Monrovia, Deputy Information Minister for Administration Cletus Sieh said President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is requesting the Lawmakers to considering returning at the Legislature for at least two days to finalize debate surrounding the passage of the threshold Bill.

According to Deputy Information Minister Sieh, President Sirleaf is pursuing the return of the Lawmakers because of the significance of the threshold bill to the conduct of the 2011 general and presidential elections. “The President has been behind the scene to ensure that members of the Legislature return from their agriculture break to conclude the threshold bill at least for a day or two,” Minister Sieh maintained.

Earlier, the President Pro-temp of the Liberian Senate Cletus Wotorson revealed the possibility that the Senate will re-convene for a special session to discuss issues surrounding the threshold bill. Senator Wotorson told some of his colleagues that re-convening the senate would be in the interest of the State. He described the threshold bill as an important instrument for the promotion of democracy in Liberia.

Senator Wotorson made the statement Wednesday at a luncheon he organized for the Senate at the Robert L. Johnson Hotel in Paynesville following his return from the United States.

Liberia: FALMD commences the screening of Montserrado County Senatorial Aspirants
by FALMD Press Release // //
Oct 8, 2009

Monrovia, October 5, 2009-The Forum for the Advancement of Liberian Mandingoes and their Descendants says it has commenced the public screening of various senatorial aspirants ahead of the November 10, 2009 bi-election intended to fill the vacant slot currently at the level of the Liberian Senate due to the untimely demise of the Late Hannah G. Brent; Junior Senator of Montserrado County.

The grass root Pro-democracy group said it views the up-coming elections as a litmus test that will portend what is to come in 2011, and as such, deemed it only proper and befitting that civil society organizations get fully involved with community sensitization and awareness. Out of such initiatives, it has embarked on ensuring that major contenders amongst the 11 NEC certified aspirants are brought in an "open forum" to talk to Liberians – especially citizens of Montserrado County – as to why the electorates should cast their democratic franchise-votes for them in the ensuing November polls.

According to a FALMD's press release, the first aspirant to honor its invitation is Hon. Nathaniel Toe, an independent candidate who happens to be the embattled Secretary General of Cllr. Charles Brumskine's Liberty Party. Toe, a long time student activist and Public Defender, spoke yesterday at the Barnersville Junction where FALMD normally conducts its general meetings with an audience of about 250 persons including both the Organization’s members and other interested Liberians.

Liberia: OPRC projects attract major partners, starts October 15-16 in Brussels
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 8, 2009

Public Works Minister Attorney Samuel Kofi Woods II is expected to Chair a two day Road Show Output and Performance Road Contract (OPRC) in Brussels on Tuesday, October 15 through Friday, October 16, 2009.

The purpose of the Road Show project is to provide exposure on marketing the OPRC concept of road construction for the rehabilitation and maintenance works for Redlight to Gbarnga to Ganta (Guinea Border) and Monrovia to Buchanan corridors; expand the pool of contractors for greater competition and more value for money; and provide opportunity to discover lessons learned and experience sharing from other countries (Philippine, Botswana, India and Zambia).

The Road Show-OPRC according to its Chair Attorney Samuel Kofi Woods is expected to bring together key government officials and its foreign partners with several presentations earmarked for the program.

The two day event is expected to be segmented in three major sessions. These sessions include the principles of the OPRC which is expected to be chaired by Hon. Samuel Kofi Woods with Hon. O. Natty B. Davis, Minister of State without Portfolio and Ing. Ehud Cohen, Chief Engineer, TNM Group making separate presentations. Paper 1 at session one will highlight the overview of Development of Liberia during the last years and private participation in Road Sector and Introduction to Output Performance based Road contracts (OPRC) and Bidding Documents.

Session two of day one of the Road Show project will highlight implementation strategy of the project with project overview as it relates to technical/engineering aspects (rehabilitation stage-periodic maintenance stage); technical and performance management (level of service, indicators, risks mitigation). Ing. Carlos Ivan Gomez, senior engineer, TNM Group and Ing. Ehud Cohen Chief Engineer will make separate presentation at session two of day one.

Session three which is scheduled for October 16 will highlight the financial and legal aspect of the Road Show. At that session, Mr. Ran Shelach, senior partner and financial analyst and Mr. Daniel Weissman, senior financial analyst, TASC strategy consultant will present separate papers on the financial and legal aspects of the entire project. Mrs. Alvina Norman, Legal advisor at the Ministry of Public Works and Mr. Haim Bonjack and Mr. Ran Shelach of the TNM/TASC will also present papers on the legal and sample of bidding documents which will finally be climaxed by Honorable Minister of Public Works Samuel Kofi Woods and Mr. Gylfi Palsson, World Bank Representative.

Paper one of the general overview of Liberia will highlight the development of Liberia during the last years: an introduction to Liberia as an investment opportunity, taking into account the reconstruction of the country, in particular in Transport and Road sectors. This will consist of future investments planned by the Ministry of Public Works for the next coming years.

Paper two will highlight private participation in the Road sector and Introduction to output performance based Road Contract (OPRC).

At the end of the OPRC project in Liberia, the Ministry of Public Works and the World Bank will invite the Contractors ad Consultants to participate in the coming tender, emphasizing the relatively limited risks allocated onto the private sector and the guaranteed source of finance stemming from the World Bank and Donors.

Liberia: Labour Ministry commences three days National Conference
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 7, 2009

Labour Minister Tiawan Gonglo says some provisions of the Labour laws in Liberia are obsolete and unable to meet the demands of labour market today. He said the current labour law does not contain enabling legislations for full compliance with ratified international labour conventions.
 
Speaking at the program marking a national conference to review draft labour laws , Minister Gonglo said the Labour code of Liberia was enacted more than fifty years ago and is far different from the economic and social conditions faced by Liberians today. “The need to create an enabling environment to attract private sector investment is also a priority of the Ministry of Labour. This we believe will lead to the creation of more decent jobs for our people, thereby reducing unemployment and poverty”, Minster Gongloe maintained.
 
He said labour law reform is one of the Ministry’s key deliverables under the Government of Liberia’s Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS). “The Ministry of Labour embarked upon this process of Labour law reform in 2006. It began with the identification of laws tat needed to be urgently repealed or amended as a matter of priority. Two of such laws were PRC Decree 1, prohibiting strikes which was repealed in 2006 and section 1508 (3) of the Labour law giving employers the right to hire and fire at will which was amended in 2007”, Minister Gonloe asserts.
 
The three day national Labour conference will discuss the finalization of the Decent Work Bill, Labour Code, the HIV/AIDS at work place policy and national employment policy of Liberia among others. Over One hundred participants from both local and international organization including officials of the Ministry of Labour presented papers at the commencement of the conference.
 
Also speaking at the start of the Labour conference in Monrovia, the President of the Liberia Labour Congress thanked the leadership of the Ministry of Labour for protecting the National Tripartite Council void of outside or governmental influence. Mr. Moses Browror said the conference is very unique in that it provides rooms for discussion. He expressed the hope that the conference will create sufficient solutions to the problems faced between employers and employees.

For his part, a Representative of the International Labour Organization Mr. Colin Fenwich praised the organizers of the National conference for attracting all stakeholders in the Labour Sector reform.
 
The conference is sponsored by the Government of Liberia in partnership with “realizing Rights”-the Mary Robinson Foundation and other partners of the Ministry of Labour.

NEC Overrules Objection to Kromah’s Candidacy
by NEC Press Release // //
Oct 7, 2009

(NEC, October 6, 2009), The National Elections Commission (NEC) has overruled two objections complains filed against the candidacy of Alhaji G.V. kromah in the upcoming Montserrado County Senatorial By-election slated for November 10, 2009.

The New Deal Movement and the National Students Intellectual Council of Liberia, on October 1, 2009 filed two separate objections to the candidacy of Alhaji G. V. Kromah in the November 10, 2009 Montserrado County Senatorial By-election.

A NEC release said, in their complains, the two groups indicated that their objection to Mr. Kromah’s candidacy is predicated on the fact that he is among several persons that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) recommended for persecution for committing crime against humanity during the Liberian civil crisis.

Liberia: Liberia suffers if Guinea conflict is not settle
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 6, 2009

The recent street protest which later changed to civil unrest and the disruption of normal activities in the sisterly Republic of Guinea needs an urgent and quick intervention from not only regional leaders but the World as a whole.

Delay from the World body especially the United Nations in quick intervention usually result to the escalation of conflicts where unnecessary deaths of not only those involved in such a conflict but innocent civilians especially women and children. Moreover, Guinea as a neighboring country to Liberia assisted Liberians during our own civil problems in several ways including the hosting of over thousands of refugees, the contribution of troops to ECOMOG as well as ensuring that Liberian refugees in Guinea are safe and well.

Looking at the population of the two countries, Guinea exceeds far beyond Liberia in terms of area size and population and looking at Liberia’s brittle security, it is expedient enough to get involve with the settlement of the conflict currently at its initial stage in Guinea.

Looking at the nightmare suffered by Liberians and taking Liberia’s story as a case study, one could smartly diagnose that conflict regarding civil wars usually starts in such a manner and later degenerate to a retrogressing style where other countries notably Liberia will equally suffer pain similarly.

Another worrisome story emanating from Guinea as far as the security of Liberia is concern is the alleged involvements of former rebel ULIMO fighters who have now involve themselves into the Guinean conflict. Remember, Charles Taylor succeeded in the recruitment of NPFL fighters because of his connection with President Blasé Compore and Felix Buoyant. Also, ULIMO succeeded in their rebel activities in Liberia because of Sierra Leone and Guinea help to Kromah and the list go around and around.

The involvement of former Liberian rebel fighters in the civil conflict in Guinea further jeopardizes the growing peace in Liberia because of repeated problem in assisting people who gave initial support in any struggle. The fears of not seeing another rebel incursion coming to Liberia from Guinea as the result of military aid Liberian former rebel fighters are giving the Guinean government.

Moreover, not settling the conflict from further escalation will not only stifle the people of Guinea but force the peace loving people of that sisterly Republic to migrate to Liberia whose population and size is far less than Guinea. Beside, the peace currently enjoy by Liberia is characteristically fragile because of the high degree of joblessness and the news of unvarying armed robbery around major cities in Liberia.

Liberia: Policy Advice on the Crisis in Neighboring Guinea
by Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei // //
Oct 5, 2009

This is my second time writing with to you since you took over the leadership of our war-ravaged country. Over the years, I have made attempts to call your attention and the attentions of other decision makers, the citizenry, and the international community to major issues relevant to the socio-economic conditions of our people, the sustenance of the peace, the nurturing of our nascent democracy, and the overall development of our country. I have been speaking through my series entitled ‘Critical Issues of National Concern’ which is widely published by the Analyst Newspaper, the Public Agenda Newspaper, the Daily Observer and several online news outlets. In recent times, I have been opportune to secure a permanent column in the Nation Times Newspaper called ‘Cocorioko’ with the same aims, objectives, and mission of the series ‘Critical Issues of National Concern’.
As we hope to continue to live in peace and that those who wish to advocate for us and fight for freedom will continue to do so constructively, and this time through the democratic process and in the towns, rather than going to the bushes with the bullet, we have seen significant strides in the growth of democracy under your regime occasioned by the level of free speech, an ambience for free media operation, and the submission of the regime to criticisms from all ends. This progress is however, largely accredited to all of the democratic forces that rallied and agitated for change in this country.
In my last communication to you (see the July 30, 2007 of both the Daily Observer and Public Agenda newspapers) I addressed several policy issues regarding corruption and the need to go beyond policy writing to practical implementations in order to address local needs. That discussion was centered mostly on local issues.

Liberia: Labour Ministry clarifies new work permit measures to LCC ; vows to enforce regulations
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 5, 2009

The Ministry of Labour has provided reasons to the business community for the issuance of Regulation #17 increasing the fee of Work Permit from USD0.00 to USD,000.00.

At a meeting held on October 1, 2009 at the request of the Liberia Chamber of Commerce (LCC), Labour Minister Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe clearly explained that the regulation is meant to give effect to section 1507-(1) (2) of the Labour Law of Liberia which provides that no alien employee should work in Liberia unless said alien employee is in possession of work permit and that there is no qualified Liberians to occupy said potition.

The Minister explained that this law was meant to give preference to Liberians for employment opportunity in Liberia. The Minister also said that the regulation is in line with Article 8 of the Liberian Constitution which states “The Republic shall direct its policy towards ensuring for all citizens, without discrimination, opportunities for employment and livelihood under just and humane conditions…”

Finally, the Labour Minister told the LCC delegation that promoting employment for Liberians especially among the youth is one of the steps under the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) of the Government of Liberia to reduce poverty and sustain peace in Liberia and therefore, called upon the business community to fully cooperate with the Ministry of Labour by complying with Regulation #17 of the Labour Law of Liberia.

The LCC delegation appealed to the Labour Minister that the regulation should be gradually enforce amongst other reasons; be a clear criteria for the issuance of work permit taking into considerations, qualification, the number of work permit to be issued to alien working with business entities, job directory of the Ministry of Labour should contain records of Liberians who have been dismissed by employer for fraud, theft, and unemployable conditions in previous areas of work.

They advised government to implement some quick impact programs for skill acquisition and wealth creation in the micro, small and medium enterprises and that government needs to introduce policies that would enhance economic development.

Further, the LCC was concerned that the Labour Law is discriminatory, restrictive and contradict investment promotion. The LCC executives appealed that holders of previous work permit that are determined not qualified by the Ministry of Labour should be given 12 calendar months to wine-up and find suitable Liberians.

In reaction, the Labour Boss said there are more good people in Liberia than bad people and as such, jobs should be advertised to give Liberians the opportunity over others to work in their own country. He promised to convene another meeting with the Liberia Chamber of Commerce (LCC) to deal with the concern raised by them.

He concluded by expressing to them for frank exchange of views as essence of democracy.

Liberia: GUINEA NEEDS URGENT ATTENTION AND INTERVENTION NOW AND NOT LATER
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 2, 2009

The attention of the Mano River Union Youth Parliament Liberia Chapter has been drawn to the recent unfortunate wave of dissonance that has swept heartbrokenly through the capital city of our sister Republic of Guinea leaving at least 157 persons dead.
According to the MRU release, several of their sisters in that part of the Mano River Basin have been raped, countless brothers and fathers manhandled and over 1,000 Guinean citizens reportedly injured, scores of citizens internally displaced while some live under the bondage of fear as reported in the international media.

“We feel this ugly situation must be halted. Our people in Guinean deserve nothing less than peace, stability, security and economic improvement. We come not to only call on the government of France, that intervened when the national madness of civil war was consuming Ivory Coast to erect a checkpoint before the unthinkable continuation of bloodbath that led to that country to return to peace, to now see the need and move very quickly to Guinea and mediate what appears to be a very major problem that is gradually manifesting itself in the form of demonstration whether violent or not”, MRU release asserts.
The release further revealed that it is historically evident in the Basin that major civil disorder has started with demonstration like the Rice Riot of 1979 in Liberia that preceded the 1980 military coup d’etat that again laid the basis for a brutal and senseless civil war that lasted for nearly a decade and a half. When it started in Liberia, it was seen merely as a Liberian problem that needed a Liberian solution without any international intervention. Other nations, especially very powerful ones like the United States of America, France and Great Britain amongst others, sadly dragged their feet until the situation reached an uncontrollable state before attempts were made to stop what became a human catastrophe that has left the scar on the consciences of these powerful nations. At the end of the day, what appeared to be a Liberian problem soon graduated into the Sierra Leonean problem too. The war that started here spilled over and destroyed several valuable lives and properties and transformed the Basin into a hub of nothing positive but heartless brutality, wanton destruction and untold suffering.
“The Sierra Leonean’s and Liberian’s problems again soon transformed itself into the Ivorian problem as the Ivorians tasted the bitterness of war. By this time it clearly became a dangerously contagious Basin virus that was uncontrollably infesting almost every country in the Basin. Today, the once peaceful civilians of Guinean are now in the streets demonstrating and some sadly dying. This must not only claim the attention of the other countries of the Basin, but it must also claim the immediate attention of the Economic Community of African States, the African Union, the United Nations and all well-meaning international and intergovernmental organizations to immediately and unconditionally intervene now and not later before we experience another ‘holocaust in our religion’,’’ the released maintained.
The leadership of the Mano River Youth Parliament called on President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia as Chairperson of the Mano River Union to spearhead an urgent mediation process that must culminate happily into a peaceful and stable Guinea not only for Guinean but for all residents of the MRU basin.
“We the youth who are both the pillars and hopes of the Basin must not be misled by selfish people to achieve their personal desire but must know that the older generation has always found excellent opportunity to conspire against us consistently. They are always prepared to use, misuse, abuse and dash us later when their aims are fully accomplished. This “adult conspiracy” against our generation that deserves better must now stop! The military junta of Guinea must realize that the will of the people must be done and respected. It must not superimpose itself on the people of Guinea to the extent and effect that bloodbath becomes the order of the day. The people of Guinea need to enjoy the fruit of democracy and nothing less. This is our plead”, the release concluded.

Liberia: President Sirleaf commissions water supply to local dwellers
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Oct 1, 2009

Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has commissioned Community Water Supply at the Monrovia Transit Authority community with a call for citizens to develop ownership for public facilities.

In a rather happy mood during the commissioning ceremony on the compound of the Monrovia Transit Authority, President Sirleaf praised Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods for his steadfastness in the development of the reform agenda in the country. She said the commissioning of the Community water Supply further motivate and energize government unremitting stand on the enhancement of Liberia’s recovery drive.

The Liberian Leader thanked the Japanese Government through JICA for their strong partnership in the promotion of the bilateral ties between Liberia and Japan. She said Liberians can only achieve goals if all Liberians get involved in rebuilding major infrastructures damaged as the results of the Liberian civil war.

Speaking earlier, the chairman on Infrastructures and Basic Services, Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods said the current development that is unfolding is a result of growing partnership from the Japanese government as the result of President Sirleaf trip to Japan in 2007. He said the water supply will serve over One thousand inhabitants in eight hours per day. Minister Woods was quick to inform inhabitants of the MTA Community that the project is intended for the community to own, control and protect and advised them to maintain its integrity at all times.
“It is shameful to see people mining sand under bridges and damaging public facilities. We must change our attitudes from destroying our own thing”, Minister Woods maintained.

He thanked JICA for their continuous efforts in reaffirming their country’s commitment to Liberia’s recovery drive referring to the current JICA team as true Ambassador of their country.

Also speaking at the program, the Managing Director of the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation Mr. Hun-Bu Tulay said several areas were targeted in Monrovia for the construction and building of underground water supply but among them, the MTA community was accepted. He however assured that negotiations are ongoing for the construction of several ground water in other communities. He said JICA has accepted project proposal for water supply in the Paynesville community and its surrounding but put the cost of the proposal at US Million. For the Barnesville community, Mr. Tulay outlined that his institution is doing pillar studies which citizens in that area will have independent water supply.

For his part, the Chief Representative of JICA to Liberia Mr. Kumihiro Yamauchi thanked all Liberians for their support to JICA program in Liberia. He said Japan and Liberia resumed the bilateral relation in 2007 which was subsided as the result of the civil war but expressed happiness to be part of Liberia’s infrastructure development. According to Mr. Yamauchi, the focus of JICA is basically around the rehabilitation, reconstruction and the delivery of basic service to Liberia. He said the activities of JICA are to enhance Liberia and Japan bilateral partnership and to help develop urban facilities which include road, storm drainage supply among others.

JICA however turned over the communal water system to the government of Liberia through the Liberia Water Sewer Corporation for its management and maintenance.

Guinea: Details of violence emerge; Amnesty calls for international commission of inquiry
by Amnesty International // //
Sep 30, 2009

Amnesty International today revealed details of the brutal attacks committed by security forces in Guinea, during the suppression of a mass rally on 28 September in Conakry, and the extent to which the violence was organized by the army.

Eyewitnesses told the human rights organization that several women were publicly raped by soldiers, including “red berets” - the Presidential Guard. Sources revealed to Amnesty International that many of the victims were killed by the Guinean security forces, who were deliberately ‘shooting to kill’.

One source told Amnesty International: “I saw bodies hit in the chest and head, some were shot in the back. Many were hit at close range.”

One of the demonstrators told Amnesty International: “The soldiers ripped the skirts off the women, leaving them naked. They hit them with truncheons and Kalashnikovs. I saw two soldiers throw a woman on to the ground and publicly rape her in view of the demonstrators. I was afraid. I saw a soldier rape a naked woman with his truncheon.”Another witness added that he saw a soldier pouring beer on a woman the soldier had just raped.

According to several eye-witness statements gathered by Amnesty International, the attacks were organised by army officers. Witnesses said that several members of the presidential guard were present and supervised the repression. One of them told Amnesty International that these officers “pointed their fingers at the demonstrators and cried ‘shoot them’.”

Liberia: Representative Dunah of Nimba County trashes New Deal Movement statement
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 30, 2009

PRESS STATEMENT BY THE OFFICE OF REP. WORLEA-SAYWAH DUNAH


Tuesday, September 29, 2009: On Saturday, September 26, 2009, we were alerted to an unwholesome barrage of what amounts to political noise from the New DEAL Movement which necessitates a full correction. The New DEAL has asserted among other things that we were not elected by the great people of Zoe-Geh District, Nimba County but by the New DEAL and drugged by that ludicrous logic assigned to themselves the functions of the National Elections Commission to declare a vacancy. And intoxicated by their own circular reasoning, the Party has filled the airwaves with misinformation and committing injuries to democracy in Liberia.

The New DEAL has by the above actions presented to the world a pathetic exhibition of ignorance and ideological rigidity that is not only appalling but totally repugnant to modern constitutional democratic governance. The New DEAL has unfortunately revealed its ignorance of our system of government and elections and betrayed its pretence to democratic norms and thereby crash-landed in intellectual backwardness.

For the record, WE REPRESENT THE PEOPLE OF ZOE-GEH NOT THE NEW DEAL. We won a popular mandate from the people of Zoe-Geh District comprising electoral District # 3 in Nimba County on October 11, 2005 in a single member district direct electoral system in line with our constitution. Campaigning on a platform and slogan of “New Day, New Leader”, we massively defeated nine other contestants and emerged as one of the few elected legislators with a majority mandate.

At the Capitol, we were elected by peers as a Delegate to African Caribbean Pacific and European Union Joint Parliamentary Assembly (ACP-EU JPA) a capacity which we have worked with colleagues to restore Liberia to full status and qualified to the 10th European Development Fund of over 150 million euros. We have organized the Liberian Chapter of the Parliamentarians for Global Action and become the first Liberian lawmaker after the war to serve on the international board of such world-wide parliamentary body; we also served on the organizing committee of the West Africa Chapter of the Parliamentary Network on the World Bank in Dakar in March 2006 and ensured the birth of the Liberian Chapter which was inaugurated by former World Bank President Paul Wolforwitz.

Across the globe, from Tokyo to Cape Town, in Europe, the Americas, we continue to share podiums and expound on international cross cutting issues; and led the Liberian Legislative Delegation to the United Nations Conference on Small Arms in July 2008 under international sponsorship. As an expert, we made remarks on behalf of this country at that United Nations forum.

Among numerous achievements and collaborations at the capitol on bills, issues, etc., we have contributed to modernization in a concrete way, for example we successfully negotiated and brought in three interns from the Pittsburg University Law School who served the Judiciary Committee from June to August 2009 and organized in collaboration with the UNMIL Human Rights Section a training program on human rights instruments and skills for staffers of the Senate and the House of Representatives which is ongoing.

At the same time in Zoe-Geh and Nimba, winds of new hope sweeps, for our people have found out our consistency and leadership for change. The over 100,000 people that we represent have now reasons to be excited for we continue to pursue their best interests. We remain very much dear to the hearts of our people providing new leadership for change and transformation development while at the same time showcasing Zoe-Geh and Nimba at the international scene.

Fellow citizens, from the foregoing, our former colleagues have reasons enough to cry and mourn our departure. But in grieving they have grievously erred forgetting that in this country, legislators are elected by the direct vote of the people unlike South Africa and other European democracies where proportional representation is practiced. In this country, under our constitution seats are won or lost by candidates, as such the statement by the New DEAL Movement is at best a laughable proposition.

The New DEAL must be reminded to desist from cry-baby politics and antics of student activisms as we are engaged in serious national issues that shape the lives of millions. Their statement represents an affront to our people, but we know our people are culturally matured enough to know that it deserves no reply.

For engaged as we are in the pursuit of development in Nimba and Liberia; while abroad we thrive to present the new face of our democratic leadership alongside our illustrious President on the world scene, we will not allow ourselves into distractions- especially so one that is founded on ignorance of our laws and calculated misrepresentation as a public relations stunt to gain media attention.

For us we insist as ever: that we have a responsibility to lead our longsuffering people and we can no longer wait; to procrastinate and waste precious time in useless theoretical calisthenics while our people are languishing in dire poverty is a disservice to Liberia. Our dying people are looking for leadership that changes their lives – that put bread on the table and restore the pride of the Liberian Father as a man; they are seeking a leadership that provides jobs, builds schools and clinics, opens roads, accelerates commerce and trade and gives hope where despair has long reigned. This remains my challenge, to meet up to the needs of our people, finding and building alliances that will change their lives.

And finally, the New DEAL Movement as a party must take recognition that cast in a pivotal national role by my people; my whole life is dedicated towards the attainment of their dreams. Towards this end as a Liberian the exercise of our God-given right remains our sole prerogative; thus let my former comrades cease from making political noise, because for us we can no longer tarry in theoretical arguments. We are moving forward with a new day for our people in alliance with a determined creditable leader that have seen the urgent need to solve the problems that face our generation.




Signed: ____________________________
Worlea-Saywah Dunah
REPRESENTATIVE

Liberia: JICA presents Draft Master Plan to Liberian Government
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 29, 2009

Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods says after an exhaustive collaboration and participation of other line Ministries and agencies in arriving at workable framework for the establishment of a master plan, the process to the implementation of the work is under serious consideration.

Speaking at the seminar marking the Draft final report of the Master Plan study on Urban facilities restoration and improvement at the Cape Hotel in Monrovia, Minister Woods said the current Infrastructure of Liberia which include building of bridges, roads and drainages are far below 30% prior to its final existence before the civil war. He asserted that the urban facilities especially within the Monrovia areas have been stretched by rapid population growth for the past few years due to the movement and concentration of people in the urban areas.

He said the study on urban facilities restoration developed as the result of President Sirleaf visit to Japan in 2007 where she had fruitful discussion with the Japanese government over the master plan study.

The objectives of the study according to Minister Woods were to compile master plan for recovery and reconstruction of urban facilities in greater Monrovia and to compile project implementation plan targeting road, public water supply and the sewage and storm water drainage facilities; to implement the transfer of technology for compilation of development plans among counterparts and agencies of the government of Liberia.

“The study areas of the master plan are the greater Monrovia which includes the city of Monrovia, Paynesville and Johnsville. The scope of the master plan which was done in partnership with the Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA) include, the formulation of the future vision and approach to urban restoration and improvement in the targeted year of 2019; the formulation of land use plan analysis of actual traffic condition; the formulation of restoration plan for sewage sectors; formulation for restoration for storm among others”, Minister Woods maintained.

The study was divided into three groups which include the steering committee, working group and mini workshops. The steering committee was chaired by the Ministry of Public Works with Planning and Economic Affairs Ministry serving as co-chair.

Also speaking at the seminar, the Chief Representative of JICA Mr. Kunihiro Yamauchi said the master plan focused on the recovery and reconstruction of urban facilities, which are road, public water supply, sewage and drainage. “We conducted the study for one year and compiled the results as a draft master plan. Today, we will share it with related organizations. I hope that today’s seminar would be fruitful and valuable for all of you and us”, Mr. Kunihiro outlined.

For her part, the acting City Mayor of Monrovia Madam Mary Broh, thanked the steering committee for the work which she termed as excellent. She said the impact of the post conflict situation is manifested in the mismatch of available basic urban infrastructure and services and the needs of the existing population of the city and its surrounding areas. She further stressed that the master plan provides a chapter for physical and spatial planning in land use, urban transportation and roads, potable water supply and storm water drainage in Monrovia.

In another development, the company hired to rebuild the Via Town Bridge linking Waterside Market to Bushrod Island (CICO) has purchased additional equipment from a Liberia owned business, the Continental Machinery and Support service. The W.100 Cold Planner road builder is made in the federal Republic of Germany.

Making the official presentation to CICO before cross-section of reporters, the Chief Executive Officer of the Company Sando T. Johnson said the equipment is the latest and fast moving material available in recent times. He expressed his institution commitment to buttressing the rebuilding of road in Liberia. He also thanked CICO for the opportunity accorded him to enter into business transaction.

Making a brief statement at the presentation program, Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods expressed excitement over the equipment and hope that it will accelerate the progress on the implementation of the ongoing road rehabilitation. He called for the enhancement of a public/private partnership especially with the participation of Liberian owned companies.

The head of CICO Fu Lianq Guan said his institution will always include the participation of Liberians in enhancing its work in Liberia. He maintained that CICO will accelerate its present work in country.

Liberia: CDC TO COLLAPSE IF FUNDAMENTAL CORE VALUES ARE IGNORED
by Meapeh Gono // Meapeh Gono is a Liberian currently persuing a Bachalor Degree in Business Administartion with Emphesis in Finance at Life University in Atlanta GA. She has great interst in the toatal repressentation of all Liberians, ans issues that confront them as a people. She looks forward to greatly contributing to Liberia in anyway that will leave liberia one inch better than it is. //
Sep 28, 2009

The Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has been struggling in recent days to select a candidate to run in the upcoming by-election for the senatorial seat left by the unfortunate passing of Sen. Hannah Brent. This internal struggle is causing the party a high degree of unnecessary public ridicule. Our leaders' inability to bring all sides to the table for healthy deliberations that in the end will produce a candidate to contest the Montserrado County Senatorial by-election has turned Liberia's foremost opposition party into a comic studio, thus degrading and undermining the party's ability to successfully contest the 2011 general and presidential elections.

The Congress for Democratic Change was founded in 2004 on the principles of participatory and inclusionary democracy. These principles attracted the masses in Liberia and our compatriots in the Diaspora to the party because of its commitment to identify with the political and economic struggles of the masses and in the process, provide avenues for the people to collectively and actively participate in deciding their socio-economic destiny. Many political pundits would agree that some of the root causes of the Liberian civil conflicts and failure as a state are primarily attributed to the exclusionary policies and politics that in effect marginalized and excluded the majority of the citizens from important national concerns. CDC has and will have NO room for any form of elitism and/or tribalism. When will we learn from past misguided practices? Enough is enough! CDC is a party of, by and for the people. The time is now that our party leaders, like our national leaders put the people and Liberia above selves. We take the Democratic Change in "Congress for Democratic Change very SERIOUSLY and LITERALLY. The status quo is no more."

Liberia: Cllr. Brumskine blasts President Sirleaf for lack of vision
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 28, 2009

Amidst praises from some quarters over progress made by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf since her ascendency to the nation’s highest seat, other segments of the Liberian society have continuously condemned and questioned the leadership of the Liberian Leader attributing it to failure.

Over the week end, the Political Leader of the Opposition Liberty Party, Charles Brumskine heavily blasted the Liberian Leader running of government terming it as total failure. The Liberty Party Political Leader made the statement during an interactive discussion with an Islamic Youth organization in Monrovia specifically the Amoghshee areas where he was invited to comment on previous statement that he was embarking on changing Liberia to a Christian State.

Though Cllr. Brumskine cleverly dodged the topic under consideration, he seized the opportunity given him to address the forum to lash out at President Sirleaf ability to lead. He said President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf lacks the vision to lead the people of Liberia and reconcile the nation. Amidst cheers from the Youth group, Cllr. Brumskine further frowned at some irregularities visibly seen in the leadership of President Sirleaf citing the appointments of over aged people in Government. He however referred to the over aged group as Willie Tolbert group which illustrates the appointments of people who served in government thirty years ago.

Commenting on other irregularities attributed to President Sirleaf by critics of her leadership, Cllr. Brumskine intimated that the Liberian leader professes to condemned corruption from the surface but the actuality remains on the contrary. Cllr. Brumskine challenged Liberians to redevelop and rethink their minds in the election of a candidate in the upcoming election warning voters to avoid voting into power any sibling of the Unity Party because the Party has failed the people of Liberia. He also used the occasion to sell the candidacy of Liberty Party Senatorial Candidate Darius Dillon to the people of the areas terming him as the best among others.

In a rather sharp rebuttal to Cllr. Brumskine’s statement, Information Minister Lawrence Bropleh outlined several achievements made by President Sirleaf’s government. He named the ongoing renovation of road between Cotton tree and Bokay town and the recent signing of agreement of road renovation between the Fish town and Harper city. He said President Sirleaf is gaining numerous successes in several areas including the rebuilding of several damaged facilities and the rebuilding of the country’s foreign image.

Liberia: Public Works confirms receipt of GAC letter, but
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 24, 2009

The Ministry of Public Works has confirmed receipt of a letter dated September 21, 2009 from the General Auditing Commission seeking inquiry about the sum of US $ 4,000 (Four thousands United States dollars) allegedly disbursed to a group called “Down trodden in defense of the masses� for Public Relations works.

Briefing Journalists at the conference room of the Ministry of Public Works in Monrovia, the Director of Public Affairs Fasama Kollie said the current administration of Minister Samuel Kofi Woods has made no payment to said organization but however maintained that his Ministry will officially reply the GAC’s letter appropriately and in a timely manner.

According to Mr. Kollie, the period referred to is March 20, 2009 which entails that the current administration headed by Minister Samuel Kofi Woods was not in office. “This clarification is necessary in the face of insinuations that the current administration under Minister Woods is involved�, Mr. Kollie outlined. He said the current administration has a good working relationship and continue to cooperate with the GAC and would do nothing to undermine the work of the GAC.

Liberia: LIMANY Co-sponsors Environmental Conference On Africa
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 23, 2009

After numerous success stories over LIMANY’s humanitarian assistance to various segments of the Liberian society, the Liberian Mandingo Association of New York (LIMANY) has officially agreed to co-sponsor the Africa Environmental Watch (AEW) Third Annual Environmental Conference slated for October 24 and 30, 2009. The conference will be held at Bowie State University

In an official communication dated August 28, 2009 to the President of LIMANY Mr. Abraham Turay, AEW identifies several humanitarian works of LIMANY which have impacted the environmental needs of the people of Liberia.

“Africa Environmental Watch, formerly Liberia Environmental Watch has followed closely and generously enjoyed the activities of your organization both in the Diaspora community and in Liberia. LIMANY continuously provides relevant unfettered information to the community at large and the series of tangible projects LIMANY is undertaking in Liberia especially the ‘LIMANY/I-HELP Liberia Science Workshops’ that bears much relevance to the core value of AEW environmental initiatives particularly in Liberia”, AEW communication outlined.

LIMANY’s President Abraham Turay during one of his visits to Liberia distributed garbage bags to the Liberia Marketing Association (LMA) as means of cleaning their surrounding and keeping the dirt at confine areas.

Liberia: Liberia’s forests do not need to be chopped down - Open Letter to the Liberian Legislature
by Global Witness // //
Sep 23, 2009

The Liberian Legislature has this week been asked to ratify four forest management contracts (FMCs). Problems with the bidding process that gave rise to these contracts have been given wide publicity over recent weeks; less well known is that Liberia has been offered financial compensation from its international partners not to log its forests, because of the value of Liberia’s forests in mitigating global climate change. Simply put, Liberia can preserve its forests and receive funding equivalent to potential logging revenues that the Government could use to boost Liberia’s economy, invest in infrastructure, and in so doing to create jobs. This money is available as soon as the government presents an overview of its needs and technical support to its international partners. Moreover, this is not aid. It is an opportunity for Liberia to profit from its natural resources.

This financial support is related to a mechanism called REDD (reduced emissions from deforestation and degradation), which is being discussed at the international climate change negotiations under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), culminating this year at Copenhagen in December. REDD is being established in recognition of the fact that deforestation is responsible for around 20% of annual greenhouse gas emissions globally. REDD is not due to become operational until 2012; however Liberia has been presented with a rare opportunity by international donors for interim financial support, in order to preserve its forests to prevent carbon emissions. This is dependent on the Liberian Government’s commitment to reducing deforestation and degradation.

Liberia: Muslims climax month long Ramadan
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 22, 2009

Liberian Muslims yesterday joined other Muslims around the World to end the thirty (30) day period of fasting and prayers. At the Salafiya Mosque on King Sao Baso Street in Monrovia, the Chief Imam of the Mosque Salah Sheriff called for concrete reconciliation and development initiative across the country.

“Liberia is the oldest in Africa, but what can we show that we are old? Absolutely nothing. It is now time that we all come together and think for the better of our country; do things and behave well for the sake of the future generation. Let redirect our attention in developing our country by building better structures on our major streets”, Imam Sheriff outlined.

The Muslim Cleric called on all Muslims around the country to see the end of Ramadan with the highest degrees of love which entails forgiveness for all.

Imam Sheriff challenged all Muslims within the borders of Liberia to emulate the example of Allah, stressing that Allah instructed all Muslims to be good to one another even after the Holy month of Ramadan.

Also speaking after the end of the day’s prayer, the Director of Standards at the Ministry of Commerce Mr. Mohammed Turay called on all Liberians to forget what wrongs have erupted in the past and embrace national reconciliation and developments.

He congratulated all Muslims in Liberia for successfully going through the Ramadan unhindered.

Liberia: “Labour Ministry to enforce regulations on employment soon”, Says Minister Gongloe
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 18, 2009

In a bid to curtail unlawful employments in Liberia, the Ministry of Labour has revealed plans for the enforcement of the Labour Law of Liberia requiring employers to prefer Liberians over non-Liberians as provided for under section 1507 of the Labour Law of Liberia.

Addressing reporters at the conference room of the Labour Ministry on Wednesday, September 15, 2009, Labour Minister Tiawan Gongloe said the Labour Laws of Liberia prohibits the Ministry of Labour from issuing work permits to aliens until it is satisfied that there is no qualified Liberian to be employed in the position in which the alien seeks employment or for which an employer seeks to employ an alien.

Section 1507 of the Labour Law states “except as hereinafter provided, no employer shall employ an employee not a Liberian citizen unless such alien employee is in possession of a permit issued by the Ministry of Labour authorizing his employment in the capacity in which it is satisfied that suitably qualified Liberians are not available to meet the Labour requirements of the employer concerned and that the alien employee has satisfied alien residence requirement”.

Minister Gongloe also outlined categories of permits for aliens who wish to seek employment in a formal sector. According to the Labour Minister, all aliens who seek employment in the formal sector, that is, institutions, Corporations, Partnerships, and other entities including self employed aliens, shall pay a fee of One thousand United States Dollar. Category “B” which is basically limited to ECOWAS citizens seeking permit to work in the formal sector and its requirement fees of One Hundred United States Dollars.

Fees levied for employment permits in category “C” states “ECOWAS Africans who seek employment in the formal sector are required to pay a fee of two Hundred United States Dollar”.

“In mid October 2009, the Ministry of Labour will embark upon a robust inspection of all areas of employment to ensure compliance with this regulation”, Minister Gongloe maintained.

Unemployment rate in Liberia is believed to be around 85% of qualified Liberians with youths graduating from College expressing daily frustration over job creation.

Liberia: PRC to renovate Ministry of Health Building
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 21, 2009

The recent statement by the Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Public Works over plans to complete some halted Chinese funded projects in Liberia entails an excellent breakthrough by the current government with regards to grades scored at its technical and infrastructural fronts.

According to Public Works Ministry release, a Chinese Technical team is presently in the Country collaborating with the Ministry for the prompt implementation of these projects. Although there were several projects halted as the result of the discontinuation of diplomatic ties in late 1980 by the Governments of Liberia and the PRC, the release made specific reference to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare building in Congo Town.

It should be considered major breakthrough because the Ministry of Health building has been standing unattended to for the past decade without substantial plans for its completion. The problem surrounding the completion of the Building escalated when former Chinese Ambassador Lin Songtian publicly slapped Liberians in the face that the Ministry of Health Building in Congo will never be touched by the Chinese Government. During his tenure to Liberia, Ambassador Songtian indicated that the Ministry of Health will continue to be untouched by the Chinese Government as model for the former Liberian Leaders refusal to take reasonable decision during the past. The statement from the former Chinese Ambassador, although genuine in its nature, left us (Liberians) undecided about how to get that giant size Ministry of Health structure completed.

I am confident that with the level of quality leadership at the Ministry of Public Works, the implementation of such project will be accelerated so as to save government of needless spending of rent and other payments to house government Ministries.

Former Liberian Presidents Samuel Doe and Charles Taylor cut off diplomatic ties with the People Republic of China during their regimes which led to several projects undertaken by the Chinese Government stopped but such decision was revoked by the leadership of former Liberian President Moses Blah thereby denying the Republic of China on Taiwan in favor of the People’s Republic of China. This decision has yielded positives result judging from the mounted development taken place in Liberia by the Chinese Government.

The Samuel K. Doe Sports Complex once abandoned by the Chinese Government was renovated to modern standard while the Campuses of the University of Liberia at Fendell currently under renovation by the Chinese.

Liberia: Imam Sheriff calls for National Reconciliation and Forgiveness
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 19, 2009

The Chief Imam of the Salafiya Mosque says misunderstanding surrounding definite day for the breaking of the Holy Month of Ramadan should not be any problem to baffle people. Imam Salah Sheriff said the options are clear in the Holy Koran with exact instructions on the day to end Ramadan.

Imam Sheriff indicated that Ramadan is set for thirty (30) days running but if the moon appears a day ahead of the thirty days, then Muslims can honor that instruction and break their fast.

In an exclusive interview with this media, Imam Sheriff prays that Allah extends forgiveness upon all first and then forgive the sins of their forefathers Adam and Eve. He reminded all Muslims to seek reconciliation with their brothers and protect the peace in Liberia.

He also reminded Liberians that Ramadan requires the total involvement of all outlining several Books sent from God. According to Imam Sheriff, the Book of Abraham was revelation sent on the first of Ramadan while the Book of Moses was sent on the 6th of Ramadan. He further indicated that the Book of David was revealed on the 12th of Ramadan while the Book of Jesus which is the Bible on the 18th of Ramadan. The Koran according to Imam Sheriff was sent on the 24th of Ramadan.

Imam Sheriff also admonished Liberians building out of Liberia to redirect their attention to building in Liberia adding “only Liberians can build Liberia”.

He thanked LIMANY and other humanitarian organizations including the government of Liberia for their continuous supports accorded them during the period of Ramadan. He extended particular appreciation to the Liberia National Police for provided them security during the period of Ramadan.

Liberia: “Labour Ministry to enforce regulations on employment soon”, Says Minister Gongloe
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 18, 2009

In a bid to curtail unlawful employments in Liberia, the Ministry of Labour has revealed plans for the enforcement of the Labour Law of Liberia requiring employers to prefer Liberians over non-Liberians as provided for under section 1507 of the Labour Law of Liberia.

Addressing reporters at the conference room of the Labour Ministry on Wednesday, September 15, 2009, Labour Minister Tiawan Gongloe said the Labour Laws of Liberia prohibits the Ministry of Labour from issuing work permits to aliens until it is satisfied that there is no qualified Liberian to be employed in the position in which the alien seeks employment or for which an employer seeks to employ an alien.

Section 1507 of the Labour Law states “except as hereinafter provided, no employer shall employ an employee not a Liberian citizen unless such alien employee is in possession of a permit issued by the Ministry of Labour authorizing his employment in the capacity in which it is satisfied that suitably qualified Liberians are not available to meet the Labour requirements of the employer concerned and that the alien employee has satisfied alien residence requirement”.

Minister Gongloe also outlined categories of permits for aliens who wish to seek employment in a formal sector. According to the Labour Minister, all aliens who seek employment in the formal sector, that is, institutions, Corporations, Partnerships, and other entities including self employed aliens, shall pay a fee of One thousand United States Dollar. Category “B” which is basically limited to ECOWAS citizens seeking permit to work in the formal sector and its requirement fees of One Hundred United States Dollars.

Fees levied for employment permits in category “C” states “ECOWAS Africans who seek employment in the formal sector are required to pay a fee of two Hundred United States Dollar”.

“In mid October 2009, the Ministry of Labour will embark upon a robust inspection of all areas of employment to ensure compliance with this regulation”, Minister Gongloe maintained.

Unemployment rate in Liberia is believed to be around 85% of qualified Liberians with youths graduating from College expressing daily frustration over job creation.

Liberia: "Labour Ministry to enforce regulations on employment soon", Says Minister Gongloe
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 18, 2009

In a bid to curtail unlawful employments in Liberia, the Ministry of Labour has revealed plans for the enforcement of the Labour Law of Liberia requiring employers to prefer Liberians over non-Liberians as provided for under section 1507 of the Labour Law of Liberia.

Addressing reporters at the conference room of the Labour Ministry on Wednesday, September 15, 2009, Labour Minister Tiawan Gongloe said the Labour Laws of Liberia prohibits the Ministry of Labour from issuing work permits to aliens until it is satisfied that there is no qualified Liberian to be employed in the position in which the alien seeks employment or for which an employer seeks to employ an alien.

Section 1507 of the Labour Law states except as hereinafter provided, no employer shall employ an employee not a Liberian citizen unless such alien employee is in possession of a permit issued by the Ministry of Labour authorizing his employment in the capacity in which it is satisfied that suitably qualified Liberians are not available to meet the Labour requirements of the employer concerned and that the alien employee has satisfied alien residence requirement.

Liberia: Minister Woods visits BRE amidst fears of Swine flu
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 16, 2009

In the wake of an emergent fears over the existence of Swine Flu at the Buchanan Renewable Energy and extended caveat from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in venturing around the areas, Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods braved the threat and developed courage on Monday, September 14, 2009 and met with authorities of the BRE and tour facilities at the Company.

Minister Woods led the World Bank team currently visiting Liberia to Buchanan, Grand Bassa County to assess road network presently under construction but took up time to hold discussions with the Management of the Mittal Steal Iron Ore Company and the Buchanan Renewable Energy and also discuss the BRE concept and their understanding of future of the sector in Liberia.

Though visibly unprotected, Minister Woods took up time with the Management of the Company where interaction between he and authorities of the Company discussed the future prospect of the Company and its transferrable benefits to ordinary citizens in the area judging from the over anxiety built with local dwellers.

The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare few days back issued caution to Liberians and foreigners within the borders of Liberia about the detection of H1N1 FLU (Swine flu) in Liberia which according to them originated from an expert at the Buchanan Renewable Energy who just returned from England on vacation. The virus according to reports later spread increasingly among other BRE workers which seven workers were affected by the virus.

Liberia: World Bank Country Director Diwan expresses satisfaction over road rehabilitation project in Liberia
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 15, 2009

World bank Country Director Ishac Diwan has expressed satisfaction over the level of work done at the first phase of the road rehabilitation process in Liberia. Mr. Diwan said the first phase of the World Bank sponsored road project connecting Monrovia to Bokay Town Bridge has confirmed earlier commitment by the government of Liberia to rehabilitate major roads around the country.

Leading the World Bank Country Director to Buchanan at the head of top Public Works Officials, Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods sporadically stopped at major locations to elucidate in detail the exigency of the upgrading of the road networks around the country.

At the first major stop at Bokay Town Bridge in Grand Bassa County, Minister Woods and Mr. Diwan stressed the need to expand the road rehabilitation to Buchanan during its second phase of the road project. Bokay Town Bridge was built by the West African Peace Keeping Force after warring fictions in the Liberian civil conflict damaged it in a bid to grab control of territories. Mr. Diwan also praised Public Works Minister Samuel Kofi Woods for ensuring the acceleration of the road project which its accomplishment is expected before its expiration date.

Despite the rutted but damaged road network between Bokay Town and Buchanan, Minister Woods and his visiting World Bank team momentarily stopped at the Road Maintenance Training Center (RMTC) in Grand Bassa County to inspect facilities at the training center and the prospect to rehabilitate the facility. The Road maintenance Training Center (also known as Camp Mechlin) was established in 1976 to train middle level technicians for the maintenance of the road built around the country.

Liberia: Labour Minister Gongloe challenges Liberian students to prepare for the future
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 11, 2009

The Minister of Labour Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe says his administration is working out strategies intended to create employment opportunities for Liberians through the enforcement of relevant provision of the Labour Law of Liberia.

Minister Gongloe made the statements over the week at a farewell program held in honor of over One hundred vacation students who benefitted from this year Government of Liberia sponsored vacation job program at the Ministry of Labour.

Minister Gongloe called on the students to set priorities for their future; live in accordance with their income; work hard and wait for the future. “Lives that are earned through hard work can be more appreciated” he noted.

Minister Gongloe said the principal objective of the vacation job program is to enables students to obtain work experience, ethics and discipline to make informed occupational choices, as well as gain income to continue their schooling.

He then reminded the students to work hard in all they do, nothing that no big names, big School, Churches or Political Party connection can guarantee a better future for anyone.

Speaking on behalf of the students Mr. Elijah Wionpo Doe expressed thanks and appreciation to Minister Gongloe and the Government of Liberia for allowing them to work during the vacation period to acquire working experience.

He said the opportunity will help them get back to school and reduce some burdens on their parents.

Liberia: Threshold Bill passed with celebration at the House of Representatives
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 9, 2009

After months of debates and compromises over the passage of the most contentious population Threshold Bill, the House of Representatives has concurred with the Liberian Senate over the passage of the Bill but with condition.

The House unanimously voted the passage of the Bill and placed it at 40,000 people to each constituency but with the provision that no County get less than two Representatives in the House. The resolution to reach the passage of the Threshold Bill came days after Maryland County Representative David Selleh filed a motion during last week debate. According to Representative Selleh, instead of suiting the provision to meet a single County, it was essential to pass the Threshold at 48,000 providing each County maintains the current seat at the House but his motion was however defeated resulting to serious smack in the faces of the lowly populated Counties.

The Threshold Bill was sent before the National Legislature nine months back with the hope of its swift passage after the completion of the National Census as means of guiding the National Election Commission to conduct and demarcate constituencies ahead of the 2011 general and presidential elections.

Although huge celebration was seen among Lawmakers after the passage of the Threshold Bill, other Lawmakers including Buffor Chambers, David Selleh, and Alex Tyler were seen expressing disappointments over the Bill adding “the Bill was meant to suit only Grand Kru County at the disadvantage of other Counties”.

The enactment of the Bill is subject to the endorsement of the President of Liberia which indicates that additional twenty three (23) seats will be added to the already sixty four (64) seats at the House of Representatives.

In another development, a conglomeration of political and opinion leaders in River Gee County have rejected the appointment of William Quaye as the new Superintendent of River Gee County. According to the spokesman of the group, former Chief Justice Chea Cheapo, the appointment of Mr. Quaye as Superintendent of River Gee did not meet the approval of stakeholders in the county and as such, a process is underway to lobby for his denial at the Liberian Senate. He said the decision to oppose the nomination of the newly appointed Superintended is due to his greenness in government but a citizen of River Gee, James Sampson has termed as rubbish recent statement made by Cllr. Chea Cheapo. Mr. Sampson said Mr. Quaye possess the requisite qualification to serve as Superintendent of River Gee judging from the long experience as Principal of the only High School in the County. He frowned at others who are overzealous for power to stop the discordant predisposition within the county and embrace and support the new Superintendent.

Liberia: Labour Ministry prioritizes Labour laws regarding employment
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 9, 2009

The Ministry of Labour says it is in preparation to rigorously enforce the Labour Law regarding the employment of persons not Liberians.

In a letter of reminder to the stakeholders in the labour sector which includes the Bankers Association, Firestone Rubber Company and Liberia Chamber of Commerce, the Labour Ministry said that employment of Liberians over non-Liberians is not only a morally compelling choice for all well-intended employers who desire sustainable peace, security and progressive reduction of poverty in Liberia, but also a legal obligation of employers under the Labour Practices Law of Liberia.

Section 1507 sub-section 1507.1(1) (2) and (3) provides that (1) “Except as hereinafter provided, no employer shall employ an employee not a Liberian Citizen unless such alien employee is in possession of a permit issued by the Ministry of Labour authorizing his employment in the capacity in which he is to be employed.

(2) The Ministry of Labour shall issue such permit only in cases in which it is satisfied that suitable qualified Liberians are not available to meet the labour requirements of the employer concerned and that all alien employees have satisfied alien residence requirements.

(3) The Ministry of Labour may withhold permits in respect with nationals of any country not according at least equal rights in employment to Liberians”.

In addition to those provisions of the Labour Law, the Ministry expects employers to accord Liberian employees the same treatment that alien employees receive with respect to remuneration and conditions of employment in accordance with Section 1507 (2) of the Labour Law of Liberia. Section 1507(2) of the Labour Law provides, “Alien employees who have satisfied the requirements of this Chapter and Liberian employees shall be entitled, having due regard to efficiency and length of service to equal treatment in respect of wages and conditions of employment”.

According to a Labour Ministry statement, the rigorous enforcement of this law will provide space for the employment of more Liberians by the business community in Liberia.
The Ministry of Labour is therefore calling on all stakeholders to comply with these laws by showing preference for Liberians in all categories of employment as a way to create more employment opportunities for Liberians.

The Ministry has written similar letter to the Bankers Association of Liberia.

Liberia: President Sirleaf brands Minister Korto as irresponsible leader
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 8, 2009

The recent action of Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf at the E. Jonathan Goodridge Public High School branding the Minister of Education and former Presidential Candidate Dr. Joseph Korto as irresponsible and reckless in the discharge of his duty entails a matter of attention as we gradually enter the 2011 Presidential election.

Being irresponsible in leadership as affirmed by the Liberian President further illustrates a better picture over the ability of Dr. Korto to administratively control the affairs of any entity least to mention the Country as a whole.

In a bid to substantiate the views of the President concerning the griminess of the giant size institution, I personally visited the E. Jonathan Goodridge High School in Barnersville and realized that the President’s action to suspend authorities at the Ministry to be lightered.

Besides the poor running of the institution, other investments like the structures and buildings which are considered assets of government are seen unattended to as far as its renovation is concern.

Coming back to the capriciousness of Dr. Korto as Minister of Education, one could doubt how effective an individual given the task as Minister of Education and by extension, heavily supported by national and international organizations and also supported by the government as indicated in the budget of Liberia would ignored and downplayed his responsibility in making learning condition in Public Schools an acceptable areas for education. What if Dr. Korto had won the 2005 election in Liberia?

As a former Presidential Candidate, there is a need to clear the air over the irresponsibility quality attributed to you Dr. Korto so as to safeguard your ability to govern or share and inspect responsibilities given you. While it remains factual that President Sirleaf is the Boss of Dr. Korto, classifying Dr. Korto and his entire deputies as irresponsible clearly taint the credibility and characters of these educated individuals. On the other hand, there is also the need for Dr. Korto as a Politician to clear the air over the irresponsibility character attributed to him. Remember, statement alluded to individual’s credibility without prompt response may likely follow them in the future.

The Ministry of Education is just a section of the entire administration of the country and branding Dr. Korto as irresponsible person only indicate his inability to run the affairs of the whole country.

The actions against the heads at the Ministry of Education should also be extended to other institutions in government. Significant percentage of people employed in government institutions usually go free from the inability or refusal of their Bosses to monitor them thereby impeding the needed results expected from such output. I believed the action against the heads at the Ministry of Education will signal warning to other heads of government institution to dedicate responsibility and further monitor such responsibility.

Liberia: Education Minister Korto and three deputies suspended
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 7, 2009

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has with immediate effect suspended the Minister of Education Dr. Joseph Korto and his three deputies for one week without pay and benefits.

The suspension of Minister Korto and his three deputies came in a wake of an unanticipated visit by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf on the campus of the E. Jonathan Goodridge Public High School in Barnersville outside Monrovia where she discovered the surrounding of the campus of the Institution insalubrious and unhygienic.

President Sirleaf on Monday, September 7, 2009, described the learning atmosphere at the institution to be horrendous something which she ordered the institution closed for one week. The visit of President Sirleaf at the E. Jonathan High School was predicated upon threat of strike action by students of the school due to filthy learning condition and bad Administrative practice.

In a rather tough frame of mind, President Sirleaf termed the leadership at the Ministry of Education as irresponsible and inattentive considering its failure to institute requisite administrative and instructional measures at the institution.

Information Minister Dr. Lawrence Bropleh revealed that funds for the cleanliness of the campus will be made accessible from the Presidential Project Budget due to the exigency of the case at the institution.

Public Schools in Liberia are disappointingly managed with students in rural areas sitting on cement blocks to learn something which have been reported consistently in the media. Observers classified the President impromptu visit at the institution as a welcoming venture and challenged her to continue to make such visit a habitual exercise to other Public Schools around the country.

The Ministry of Education shares the giant size of the country’s budget with absolutely ineffective policy and poor implementation something which parents and guardians of students attending these institutions have complained for prompt remedy and solution but to no avail.

Deputy Ministers suspended along with Minister Korto are Hester Williams Katakpa, John Emmanuel Roberts and Mathew Zazay.

Liberia. Public Works warns heavy vehicles from plying Caldwell Bridge
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 4, 2009

Amidst public quarrel over the desertion of the Caldwell Bridge linking the Township of Caldwell to Monrovia, the Ministry of Public Works has again warned all trucks plying the Caldwell road via the bridge to halt immediately.

According to the Public Relations Director of the Ministry of Public Works, the Ministry years back extended similar warning to truck drivers and Truck owners carrying load weighting seven (7) tons to observe the warning so as to save lives and properties.

Mr. Fasama Kollie said the Ministry is asking all truck drivers to use an alternative route via Bardnersville Estate to Caldwell until the renovation of the bridge is completed.

Meanwhile, consultation and negotiation surrounding the reconstruction of the Bridge is ongoing with both international and national stakeholders while engineers from the Ministry of Public Works continue to institute requisite measures in making the Bridge accessible for light vehicle.

Liberia: Tribalism undermines National Development and threatens peace
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 3, 2009

The existence of tribes is intended to create the understanding of love, common interest and its transformation to real life. Tribe may be understood as a group of people united by common ancestry and customs, forming a community under a leader or leaders. Another understanding of tribe could be a class or set of people.

In African setting particularly Liberia being a case study, a dissimilar approach to such understanding is highlighted in every facet of the Liberian society. Example, the United Methodist Church in Liberia is currently divided due to tribal issue. As a Methodist myself, I do not want to pretend over the reality that tribal differences have penetrated the Church thereby retrogressing its essence or performance.

There is an open secret that people of the Bassa tribe of Bishop John G. Innis are positioned in key places thereby developing serious division among the entire congregation. Again, this concept of tribalism which has a profoundly negative effect on our society is normally practiced ubiquitously in Liberia. People convert power to tribalism making only the tribe in power to be greatly privileged ahead of others that are not in power.

Although it may not be vocally said but the key to obtaining opportunities greatly depend on the question, “what is your tribe”? I submit that such question is rarely noticed in the current government but is not eliminated anyway.

Even in the Mosque, people become more connected to their tribesmen in disseminating messages to the Supreme Being. I took personal observation during our recent trip to Grand Cape Mount County when LIMANY outreach program decided to share rice among Muslims there. LIMANY is the Liberian Mandingo Association in New York and is believed to have significant portion of its membership to be Mandingo/Muslims. Muslims are fundamentally not Mandingoes anyway and the anxieties to confine the distribution among only Mandingo Muslims were trashed out by the leadership of LIMANY. The decision to distribute rice during the month of Ramadan to all Muslims and not limiting such gesture to only Mandingo clearly manifests the true intent of LIMANY as an organization.

Tribalism does not only damage others but redirects its actions to people that seem to advocate for it. As a son of Nimba County, I will emphasis on some key points that tribalism cause the people of my land. It was believed prior to the civil war in Liberia that people of Nimba County were marginalized, disenfranchised and alienated as the result of former President Samuel Doe’s leadership. Not to dissipate time into explaining the pros and cons of such believes, Charles Taylor introduced a civil war in 1990 with 98% of his Special Forces Commandoes being either Mano or Gio. Other questions were asked along the way like “what is your tribe”? That supposed to me that people of Nimba County especially the Gio and Mano were well secured and suitable in Taylor’s territory as compare to areas controlled by Samuel Doe. To the disappointment of everyone under Taylor’s territory, scores of potential citizens from Nimba County earlier protected by Samuel Doe were viciously murdered by the same Special Forces Commandoes (Manos and Gios).

Over thirty potential citizens, all civilians including Jackson Doe, Stephen Daniels and others were killed by their kinsmen. This is what tribalism does. It appears to be a practical tool for effective work but customarily inflict indiscriminate casualties on meaningful results.

Again, President Sirleaf has scored excellent marks in stamping out tribalism in her government. Not many noise about tribalism is heard but it intend is an aged old practice in Liberia.

Tribalism undermines national development and reconciliation. Liberia as a corporate entity should be the only property for all Liberians and all tribes. Let us resuscitate the consciousness of Liberians that tribalism has done absolutely no good for us. We as Liberians can rise above tribalism and embrace patriotism and nationalism.

Liberia: President Sirleaf offers apology to Muslim Community for the second time in three days
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 2, 2009

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has for the second time expressed remorse and apologized to the Muslin Community in Liberia for the action of Acting Monrovia City Mayor Mary Broh for what erupted on Sunday at the Benson Street Mosque in Monrovia. President Sirleaf along with Madam Broh visited the Mosque premises on Tuesday where the Liberian Leader asked Muslims to let go this nightmare and turn a new page.

The Liberian Leader who has been hailed in some quarters for her timely intervention reminded Liberians that no group, religion, party, tribe or organization is more important than the others and called on all Liberians to develop the spirit of love and forgiveness. President Sirleaf who sounded more reconciliatory cautioned leaders of organizations and religious groupings to institute excellent leadership abilities in resolving problems in non-violence means.

For her part, the acting City Mayor of Monrovia Madam Mary Broh regretted the incident at the Benson Street but ensure further consultation with community dwellers before implementing City ordinance. Madam Broh did not however offer apology for the act committed but sounded reconciliatory in her statement.

Speaking on behalf of the Muslim Community in Liberia, Sheik Kafumba Konneh lauded the President for her prompt intervention and welcomed the apology on behalf of all Muslims in Liberia. He said the cleanliness of the City of Monrovia is everybody business and Muslims will never sit to see their Mosque indecent.

Religious intolerance is not frequent in Liberia but sometimes inflame as the result of little differences. It can be recalled during the administration of Charles Gyedu Bryant that several Mosques and Churches were burnt and scores of deaths recorded after confusion which many Observers considered unnecessary developed between some elements of the Muslim Community and the Christian Community in Monrovia. It was the quick intervention of UNMIL and some refine religious leaders from both the Christian and Muslim communities that brought the situation to an end.

Liberia: 36.82% candidates failed WAEC
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 2, 2009

The West African Examinations Council has released the results of the 2009 Senior High Certificate examination for Liberian Schools.

Addressing a news conference on Monday, the head of WAEC-Liberia, Thomas Gaie said the West African Examination Council was faced with several challenges, which include the crushing of their computers due to virus, the collapse of the only generator during active service of operation, and the lack of sufficient supply of equipments for the processing of the examination’s results.

He maintained that the May 2009 High School examinations attracted the total entries of 21,346 candidates from 325 schools across the country, which 12,950 or 60.67% of the candidates were males and 8,396or 39.33% were females. The females’ entry included two blind candidates from Montserrado County.

He revealed that the overall performance of the candidates for the examination was poor, as compared to that of the May 2008 examination. He said out of the 18,410 candidates that this report covered, only 11, 631 or 63.18% made a successful pass. This figure comprised 7,097 males and 4,534 females. A total of 6,779 of the candidates failed the examination. This figure comprised 4,117 males and 2,662 females.

He said the May 2009 examinations produced only one division-one and nine division-two candidates from the 18, 410 candidates. The division-one candidate, Hester Andoh, aged 16 came from J. J. Roberts United Methodist School; she is the best performing candidate on the examination.

He said besides the Division one and two Candidates, other institutions were rated excellent predicated upon the success of all their Candidates during the Examination. The Schools are: Ford-Madden-Monrovia; School of Prime System, Paynesville; Highway Academy in Montserrado County; and the C.H. Dewey P.M session in Bomi County.

Liberia: Teahjay’s appointment pushes National Reconciliation Drive
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Sep 1, 2009

Liberia has gone through pains of division and abhorrence which resulted to decade and a half of carnage and calamities. During these periods, tribes went against each other while political alliances were developed with common interest portrayed. All these were intensified during the war where one tribe killed the others and vice visa with over two hundred and fifty thousand deaths.

In order to cure this acrimony, a give and take approach and by extension embracing a person or tribe that is believed to be your greatest rivalry on board the Canoe of reconciliation, national development and peace building.

It is no secret that the newly appointed Superintendent of Sinoe County, Milton Teahjay and President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf are from two different political parties with separate but noticeable characters. They both are no strangers to the political history of Liberia. The offensive and defensive wordings from these two individuals clearly indicate the understanding that President Sirleaf will never appoint Mr. Teahjay in her government while on the other side; Teahjay would not accept Sirleaf’s appointment.

Let me give two examples of infuriating statements once made by Mr. Teahjay against Mrs. Sirleaf. (1) During the campaign prior to the elections of 2005, Mr. Milton Teahjay of the Congress for Democratic Change asserted that “let hair grow in my palm if Ellen Johnson Sirleaf becomes President”. (2) During Teahjay appearance at a local radio station in Monrovia, he said “corruption is unbridled to the extent that the keys of the country’s vault are in the hands of the President’s son.

Although there were divergent views to Teahjay’s assertion from within government, many people still hold the views that Teahjay was very abrasive and controversy against the President and the Unity Party. Others, including Information Minister Lawrence Bropleh felt that Teahjay was being vociferous because he wanted attention from the President.

I will like to acclaim the President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for taken an intrepid step toward national reconciliation. It was least expected for President Sirleaf to appoint her adversary to such a sensitive position but the other side of the coins clearly signal forgiveness and reconciliation. The President appointment of Teahjay should not be seen as a sign of weakness but a process towards reconciliation. There are other sincere and committed Liberians in the opposition that can be able to contribute meaningfully to Liberia’s recovery drive. Besides being in opposition, it is certainly clear that Teahjay is a Liberian with enormous experience about government.

Thanks to President Sirleaf for the appointment of Teahjay in Government. I will also like to challenge the Sinoe County Legislative caucus to reconsider their decision against their kinsman. I believed everyone including members of the caucus and Teahjay has good for Sinoe County. I urge you, Lawmakers to stop the disunity and work as a collective force in pushing your county forward. Remember the words of U.S Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, “only Liberians can move Liberia forward”.

I am convinced that the caucus did not signify any harm against their kinsman but further reminder that he (Teahjay) is going to work with visionaries. Liberia is for Liberians and only Liberians can solve Liberia’s problem. Let follow the example of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in pushing forward reconciliation. It is hard to pardon sometimes but for the sake of Liberia, let us all get on board. Criticism makes people to know their wrongs and quickly rectify them.

Observers within and outside government are wondering whether Mr. Milton Teahjay will accept the appointment as Superintendent of Sinoe County. Their concerns are based on the rivalry between Mr. Teahjay and President Sirleaf of late. President Sirleaf as a political actor knows that Liberia is for Liberians and the reconciliation and development of the country is the collective responsibilities of all. It would mean absolutely no problem for Teahjay to accept his appointment. The reasons are clear judging from the pains and suffering Teahjay went through for the sake of the people of Sinoe County. I remembered during the regime of Charles Taylor that Milton Teahjay stood firm in debunking Taylor’s government for allowing Captain Mawhy to inflict pains against the peace loving people of Sinoe County although he was in government. With such concept and understanding surrounding the love of his people, one can clearly deduce that his administration in Sinoe will certainly impact the people.

Remember, we (Liberians) owe whatever positive for Liberia disregarding where we come from. Patriotism and loyalty to one’s nation should be the order of the day and we need to follow the examples of order peace loving nation if we have to move from one level to the other.

Liberia: President Sirleaf dissolves Presidential Task Force headed by Mary Broh
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Aug 28, 2009

Just about three days after the disgruntle action of the Presidential Task Force headed by Mary Broh against the Islamic community at Benson Street Mosque, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has dismissed with immediate effect the Task Force and ordered all operations ceased.

The dissolution of the Task Force came as the result of its action on Saturday evening during the evening hours of prayers by Muslims at the Benson Street Mosque during the Holy period of Ramadan. According to Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio, President Sirleaf has extended apology to the Muslim Community in Liberia for the action of Madam Broh and assured them that this will not be repeated.

Madam Broh on Saturday reportedly thwarted the evening prayer exercise of Muslims on Saturday by wasting prepared meals set aside for the breaking of fast and insulting Imams of the Mosque. The action of Madam Broh has been condemned by all well meaning Liberians especially people outside the Islamic faith. Mr. Badio further maintained that the dissolution of the Task Force was in furtherance to its expiration which was already in the making but maintained that Madam Broh still remains the Acting City Mayor of Monrovia following her appointment by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

The Presidential Task Force was established to ensure the cleanliness of Monrovia and its environs but it appears that Madam Broh was going beyond its mandate. Many Liberians have lauded President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for her prompt intervention and called all Muslims to be calm and remember the Holy Month. Of late, Madam Broh has come in conflict with citizens especially those living within the vicinity of Rotor Town for illegally demolishing their structures under the guise of keeping Monrovia clean. Others have questioned her ability to clean the city evident of the huge piles of garbage on the major streets of Monrovia while others see her action as direct attack against the Islamic faith in Liberia.

Liberia: Tribalism, a virus to National Reconciliation
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Aug 28, 2009

Tribalism has been one of the major problems to the negative history of Liberia. Because of its hypersensitive nature, Politicians in Liberia embark on tribalism to divide and rule the people of Liberia judging from Liberia’s past political history.

The People’s Redemption Council of former Liberian President Samuel Doe launched a military stratocracy under the guise that the Americo-Liberian (Congoe) were debasing their resources and instituting dominate over political powers in Liberia. As such, in 1979, they were overwhelmingly welcomed by sizeable percentage of Liberia’s population thereby intensifying the division in Liberia to segments and portion.

Segments and portion are further illustrated as people from the same place that speak the same tribe with the same ideology. Such ideology requires defense of interest whether such interest is positive or negative. After the success of the PRC Coup plot, military personnel combating the rule of the Americo-Liberian ascended to State power although with limited knowledge on government. Liberians who were considered disadvantaged under former Liberian President William Tolbert regime felt increasingly happy over the action of the PRC since One Hundred percent of PRC’s memberships were considered sons of the natives.

Former Head of State Samuel Doe, a son of Grand Gedeh County became the Chairman of the PRC with other PRC members like Thomas Quoiwukpa coming from Nimba County. They were all sons of the natives but originated from diverse tribal background in Liberia. Those who were fortunate to have benefitted from government scholarship under Tolbert’s regime, although natives like George Boiley, Harry Yuan, Samuel Dokie, and Charles Julue also became divided under tribal lines.

Politicians forced out of power by the PRC sat over the fence and watch the game played by members of the PRC. As soon as they discovered that tribal difference has hit the PRC, where Mano and Gio felt resentful as the result of the rift between Samuel Doe and Tomas Quoiwukpa, Commander-in-Chief and Commander-general respectively, discontent that led to alliances started to develop among PRC members, Politicians and the nation as a whole.

The alliance of tribalism created deep wounds between the youths, women groups and all sectors of the Liberian society. Former President Samuel Doe engaged in a workable tactic to protect himself in State power. In other to do so, his kinsmen from Grand Gedeh County were heavily recruited into the National Army thereby developing an intense abhorrence in the military especially under tribal line.

At this point, tribalism has grown chronic at all places in Liberia. Schools, Churches, Mosques, football teams, talent shows, as well as the market grounds were all contaminated and infiltrated by tribalism. Then come the ‘fence sitting Politicians’ who capitalized on the baloney of tribalism to create further aggression which led to total societal crumple.

Samuel Dokie, a Mano man attempted killing Charles Julue a Krahn man in Yekepa; Charles Julue a Krahn man killed without Court trial D.K. Wohnsalea, Eugene Kidau and other men believed to have come from Nimba County. Samuel Doe and Jackson Doe organized a peace conference between the Krahn, Mano and Gio tribes in Sinniquellie but at that point, tribalism was already deep rooted in Liberia. Then the Mandingo tribe was also dragged into this problem through petty advocacy that was insignificant to the building up of tension among tribes in Liberia. Jackson Doe was an elder of Nimba County who was considered prominent among the Gio and Mano tribes.

Then come Charles Taylor and his NPFL. Knowing fully well that the Mano and Gio were unhappy as the result of the tribal differences, he (Charles Taylor) decided to use Nimba County via Ivory Coast to launch his rebel war on Liberia. Without debate, 98% of Charles Taylor fighting force was either Mano or Gio with significant percentage of AFL soldiers coming from the Krahn tribe.

CONCLUSION

It is certainly realistic and relevantly unarguable that tribalism has created deep wounds among us as Liberians. Politicians have used tribalism as tool to divide the peace loving people of Liberia in order to satisfy their political ambitions. The solution to this scourge is a collective approach by all Liberians in creating the necessary framework and consciousness to the consequence of tribalism in Liberia.

Thanks to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Although she is battling with corruption in government, the issue of tribalism has been smartly handled by her administration. There has been no record of tribal differences since she ascended to power but her government is under great challenge to uproot this negative device which if not carefully studied, could be blown out of proportion.

I am of the strongest conviction that tribalism can be trashed out from the Liberian society as long as people begin to develop the sense of nationalism above tribalism. If we as Liberians considered nationalism above tribalism, then the process of national reconciliation which is slow coming will definitely be intensified and accelerated for the good of Liberia and the generation yet unborn.

Liberia: stinking garbage swallows one-third of Monrovia streets
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Aug 25, 2009

Several streets and communities in Monrovia have been swallowed by mountains of disgusting odor and unpleasantness which authorities of the Monrovia City Corporation continue to disregard at the dismay of citizens and foreigners residing in Monrovia.

The improper disposal of garbage in Monrovia is largely blamed on poor planning in Urban Waste Management Program at the MCC. The filthiness of the city especially key streets in Monrovia is due to initial instruction by the MCC for citizens to transport the grime at the designated street corners for onward disposal by the MCC.

The instruction which many Health and Sanitation workers have questioned came as the result of a presidential mandate that every first Saturday in a month be declared as an obligatory cleaning-up day in Monrovia. According to assessment conducted among scores of community leaders and health workers, the filthiness of the City is due to the failure of the government to include them in the overall planning and implementation stages of the garbage disposal of Monrovia.

Some suggestions obtained from the survey entail a collective approach from all parties including the government of Liberia, stakeholders and sponsors of the UWN to engage in further strategies that would be sustainable instead of an ad-hoc solution to the rubbish problems in Monrovia.

In order to validate the severity and danger such stockpiles of garbage have swallow the city, I noticed one-third of the city being filth by garbage with an imminent fear of cholera outbreak suspected among children seeking for valuables among these garbage. As a result of the stockpiles of garbage around Monrovia, the population of Monrovia continues to experience both water-and air-borne diseases on a greater scale.

As regards the actual locations of garbage in Monrovia, I started my survey from Waterside via Duala and back to Red-light market. Stockpiles of garbage were seen at the Red-light market, New Georgia junction, Supermarket in Gardnesville, Chicken Soup factory junction, Stephen Tolbert community, Duala, Logan Town, Via Town, Lynch street, Newport street, Gurley street, behind Health Ministry, eight separate locations in Sinkor community, eight separate locations in Congo Town and Paynesville communities just to name few.

The rainy season has further worsened the already alarming mountains of stinking garbage which diseases such as malaria and fever are currently on the increase owing to the fact that several smaller water ponds settle in many areas that comprise mosquitoes breeding dens.

Liberia: Four Mosques in Monrovia benefit from Limany's Ramadan Rice Distribution
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Aug 23, 2009

Sunday, Aug. 23--In continuation of the distribution of rice to Muslim community in Liberia, the Liberian Mandingo Association in New York (LIMANY) today donated bags of rice to four Mosques in Monrovia. Mosques benefiting from LIMANY’s rice distribution were the Jacob Town Mosque, Double Bridge Mosque, New Georgia Mosque and the Salafiya Mosque on King Sao-Bosso Street.

Presenting the rice on behalf of LIMANY, a Representative of LIMANY in Liberia Mr. Mohammed Turay said the donation was in fulfillment of his organization’s commitment to sharing with the Muslim community during this period of Ramadan. “Your brothers, sisters, fathers and children in New York see this as a way of identifying with you in Liberia. They would have loved to be here with you in Liberia to go through the period of Ramadan but time could not permit them”, Mr. Turay maintained.

At the Jacob Town Mosque, a member of the Mosque Alijahi Bendu-Mohammed Kromah thanked the LIMANY family for thinking about them during this period of Ramadan. He said sharing of gifts are some requirements of the essence of the fast and called for Allah blessing on them.

Liberia: Balawala laments plight of Liberian Artists, calls for cultural policy to protect the industry
by Nvasekie N. Konneh // //
Aug 23, 2009

Liberia’s foremost entertainer and producer Kekura Kamara, popularly known as Malawala Balawala has been lamenting the plight of the arts and culture industry in Liberia and the painful struggle Liberian artists have to go through to gain relevance.

“Today in Liberia artists are struggling,” Kekura declared during an exclusive interview with contributing writer Nvasekie Konneh, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania recently. He revealed that Liberian artists go through the creative process, including going to the studio, putting in time and resources to produce their albums, but at the end of the day, their efforts are not fairly rewarded.

Liberia: Illicit drugs increase prostitution, rape, arm robbery violence etc; another frontline opened
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Aug 21, 2009

Although the Drug Enforcement Agency has buttressed the UN Secretary-general recent statement of illicit drug trade in Liberia, the official mouthpiece of Government has vehemently denied the report. Acting Information Minister Cletus Sieh discards reports that Liberia is a center point for illicit drugs trafficking something which signals government unpreparedness to fight against the growing transaction in Liberia.

While it remains factual that the Ministry of Information is responsible to promulgate and build government’s image out there, loyalty and commitment to one’s country and government need to be prioritized and stressed to the fullest.

Blinding one’s eyes deliberately to the truth under the semblance of protecting government image even at the detriment of the government you seem to protect signal the highest degree of treachery and mendacity and a clever attempt to circuitously seek the downfall of the government that you seem to protect.

According to the official position of the Drug Enforcement Agency, citizens especially those within central Liberia prefer enlarging their marijuana farm instead of rice farm because of the high demands for drugs. There are public outcries within and outside government that the drugs laws in Liberia are weak thereby making illicit drugs deal an ‘open secret transaction’. It is preferably certain that some officials in government are benefiting from the illicit drugs trade in Liberia and are habitually discouraging government from instituting punitive actions against this distasteful practice. Anyway, this is not the main point.

I will like to express gratitude to the Secretary-general of the United Nations for elegantly unearthing the illicit drugs trade in Liberia and further challenge Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to take the stand. The Secretary-general of the United Nations without dragging on the fact of illicit drugs trade in Liberia further warned that if this practice is not curtail, Liberia would resurface to another hostilities which by extension will be counter-productive to the peace process in Liberia.

What is astounding about the UN Secretary-general statement concerning illicit drugs trade is an immature and falsehearted comment made by the deputy Information Minister that Liberia is not a center of illicit drugs trade. It is sometimes better to keep silence than make statement that would undermine the future survival and prosperity of out dear country.

Due to the increment in illicit drugs trade in Liberia, illegal activities such as arm robbery, prostitution, rape, violence against women just to name a few have increase on an disquieting rate. The proliferations of warring fictions during active war era in Liberia were centered on drugs abuse and illicit drugs trade. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), a government Agency responsible to fight against illicit drugs in Liberia is rarely seen as a center for ghost due to what many considered as “no serious place”.

Another observation about the increase in illicit drug trade in Liberia is the recent tough laws enacted by the Sierra Leonean government. Illicit drug traders are now migrating to Liberia to continue their trade due to the weakness of drug laws in Liberia. If tougher action is not taken at this point, drug dealers will soon organize themselves into arm groups as done in Southern American countries only to protect their business.

The fight against illicit drugs trade is not about blind loyalty but sincere commitment and collective actions by all Liberians. BRAVO UNITED NATIONS SECRETARY-GENERAL FOR SAVING LIBERIA FROM THIS UNWHOLESOME BUSINESS.

Liberia: Taylor’s family describes Stephen Rapp departure as disgraceful
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Aug 20, 2009

Former Bomi County Representative and Spokesman of the family of former Liberian President Charles Taylor has termed as disgraceful and slap in the face the premature exit of the Chief Prosecutor of the ongoing war-crimes trail of the former Liberian Leader in The Hague.

Mr. Sando Johnson says the outgoing Chief Prosecutor of the trial against Charles Taylor, Mr. Stephen Rapp and his cohorts have absolutely no case against Charles Taylor and as such, he is taking leave of the case in order to escape disgrace and shame. He said the international community has no proof to show that will support their allegation against Mr. Taylor. He categorized the Chief Prosecutor’s role in the ongoing trial as a failed mission something which according to him has been masterminded by Mr. Rapp and his likes. Mr. Johnson raised these points during a telephone conversation when he was asked to response to Mr. Rapp’s news conference in Monrovia.

The outgoing Chief Prosecutor of the ongoing Taylor’s trial, Mr. Stephen Rapp at a news conference on Tuesday in Monrovia announced that he was quitting the prosecution team due to his new assignment as United States Ambassador-at-Large for War Crimes affairs. According to Mr. Rapp, his nomination to the new assignment has now been confirmed by the U.S Senate.

Excerpts of Rapp’s news conference: “At this important stage in the trial of Mr. Taylor, it is essential that Liberians and Sierra Leoneans continue to be fully informed of the proceedings in court. People must know that the trial continues in a fair, transparent and efficient manner. In July, I was nominated by President Barrack Obama to be confirmed by the Senate and I have given notice to the United Nation Secretary-general that I will resign as Special Prosecutor on September 7. I will then immediately take up the new post, which is based in the U.S State Department in Washington in the office of Secretary Hilary Clinton”. “I am going to use my position to lobby for sufficient funds for the smooth operations of the trial of former Liberian President Charles Taylor”, Mr. Rapp noted.

Former Liberian President Charles Taylor is facing multiple charges of war-crime and crimes against humanity. He was accused of fueling the war in neighboring Sierra Leone which led to the deaths of thousands of civilians but Mr. Taylor has denied these allegations terming it as the work of his detractors.

Liberia: President Sirleaf makes new appointments in government
by Michael Kpayili // Michael Kpayili is a staff writer for TheLiberianTimes.com. Kpayili has written articles which have appeared on TheLiberianTimes.com since late 2005, and his hard hitting investigative journalism has earned the respect of the Liberian press community. // mkpayili@theliberiantimes.com
Aug 20, 2009

Liberian Leader Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has made new appointments in government awaiting confirmation by the Liberian Senate.

Those appointed, according to the Executive Mansion release are Sylvester Grigsbye, deputy Minister at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for International Corporation replacing Conmany Wesseh who has been named as Ambassador to the European Union; Samuel Thompson, deputy Governor, Central Bank of Liberia; Mildred Reeves, member of the Board, Central Bank of Liberia; Sam Jackson, member of the Board, Liberia Petroleum Refining Corporation; Edith Gongloe Weh, Superintendent, Nimba County replacing Robert Karmei and Cooper Mykers, Assistant Superintendent, Nimba County.

Others appointed by the President are Daku Mulbah, Attorney, Montserrado County and Darr Cooper, Acting City Mayor, Ganta City, Nimba County. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf also nominated individuals to serve on the Independent National Commission on Human Rights. The long awaited members on the Independent National Commission on Human Rights are: Counselor M. Beedor-Wla Freeman, Chairman of the Independent National Human Rights Commission; Loseni Bility, a graduate of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law; Attorne