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Several
Recognized by Liberian Government at Investiture
(MONROVIA-July
24, 2008): The Liberian Government has conferred Distinctions
on a number of citizens and other distinguished personalities
for their sacrificial services rendered the country and its
people.
An
Executive Mansion release says the distinctions were conferred
by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Thursday at an investiture
ceremony, held at the C.Cecil Dennis Auditorium in Monrovia.
The program was part of celebrations marking the 161st independence
anniversary of Liberia. Among those honored were Professor
Euphemia Abdullah, former Dean of the Teacher's College of
the University of Liberia; Dr. Louise C. York, Former President
of the African Methodist Episcopal University and Dr. Robert
Dennis, Chief Medical Officer, JFK Medical Center.
The Liberians were admitted into the Order of the Star of
Africa with the grade of Grand Commander.
The
Liberian leader, who is also Grand Master of the Orders of
Distinction, also admitted The Proprietor of Montgomery Dry
Cleaning, Mr. Lafayette Montgomery and a retired Lutheran
Bishop, Reverend Joseph Diggs, Sr. into the Human Order of
African Redemption with the grade of Knight Grand Commander.
Also honored at the ceremony was 99-year old David Lake, an
educator who advocated women's education in the country. Mr.
Lake was admitted in the Order of the Star of Africa with
the insignia of Grand Band. The Liberian leader also conferred
Mr. Joe Richards, the Humane Order of African Redemption in
the grade of Knight Great Band. Mr. Richards, an engineer,
was instrumental in setting up the General Services Agency
of Liberia, for which he became its first Director-general.
A Paramount Chief, Mr. Joseph Nyandibolo, was also honored
by the President. Mr. Nyandibolo was admitted into the Humane
Order of African Redemption with the grade of Knight Commander.
As Paramount Chief of Kolahun District, he is the Oldest serving
Chief in Liberia.
In
a related development, the Liberian leader has conferred posthumous
distinctions on the late human rights and democracy crusader,
Albert Porte. Mr. Porte a teacher and renowned writer, was
admitted into the Humane Order of African Redemption with
the grade of Knight Great Band. The founder and proprietor
of Snapper Hill Clinic, the late Dr. Varsay Sirleaf was also
honored posthumously with the Human Order of African Redemption
with the grade of Knight Great Band.
During
Thursday's program, Former Public Works Minister, Mr. Gabriel
J. Tucker was accorded special recognition by the President
for his sacrificial services to the country and its people.
Mr. Tucker served as Public Works Minister under three Presidents
(Tubman, Tolbert and Doe). A professional civil engineer,
he was instrumental in the implementation of several development
projects in the country, primary among which is the O.A.U.
Conference Center, the Gabriel Tucker Bridge and Rally Time
projects lunched under the administration of the late President
William R. Tolbert. The President lauded Mr. Tucker's contributions
to the country, describing him as a man with a strong spirit.
Meanwhile,
the Liberian leader has spoken highly of the ultimate sacrifices
rendered the country by five catholic nuns reportedly killed
by forces loyal to the defunct National Patriotic Front of
Liberia in 1992, as well as the Reverend Father Damain Yawo
Kwashie. The nuns and priest were conferred the distinctions
of Grand Commander in the Order of the Star of Africa, posthumously.
The
Program attracted members of the diplomatic corp, the United
Nations family, government officials as well as friends and
relatives of the honorees. - The End -
Executive
Mansion Provides More Details on Rationale Behind Armed Robbery
Bill
(MONROVIA-
July 24, 2008): On Tuesday, July 22, 2008 President Ellen
Johnson Sirleaf signed into law "An Act to amend chapters
14 &15 Sub-Chapter (c), Title 26 of the Liberian Code
of Laws Revised, known as the New Panel Code Law of 1976,
by adding thereto four new sections thereby making the crimes
of armed robbery, terrorism and Hijacking, respectively, Capital
offences, and providing punishment thereof."
Section
15.34 (4) of this Act provides that "In the event death
occurs during the commission of a crime of Armed Robbery,
Terrorism or Hijacking, the accused convicted under Sections
14.54, 15.32 and 15.33 of this Act shall be sentenced to death
by hanging or imprisonment for life without possibility of
parole".
The
President is fully cognizant that Liberia as a State Party
is a signatory to the UN's Second Optional Protocol aiming
at the abolition of the Death Penalty commonly known as the
'Second Optional Protocol'.
However,
she shares the view and responded to the appeal of the majority
of the people for a robust response to the increasing level
of crime involving robberies that include physical assault
rape and murder by robbers who attack innocent citizens, thereby
creating panic and a confidence crisis in the society.
The
President is committed to revisiting the Act for possible
amendment as soon as the situation is brought fully under
control and sustainable peace is assured. - The End -
NIC
BOSS HOLDS BUDGET HOSTAGE--- summon on Thursday
The
Chairman of the National Investment Commission (NIC) has been
accused by some members of the House of Representatives of
holding the fiscal year 08/09 National Budget hostage because
of his continual failure to appear before the House Plenary.
Chairman
Richard Tolbert was invited by the House three weeks ago to
provide information concerning tax waiver to some companies
that cost nearly over one million dollars of government revenue.
Mr.
Tolbert was scheduled to appear before plenary Tuesday, 22
July 2008 but again failed and wrote his fourth excuse informing
the body about his illness since his arrival back to the country
and appealed to appear 31 July.
It
appears that some members of the House are not taking Mr.
Tolbert continual refusal lightly and a motion made by Lofa
County Representative Eugene Kpaka was carried that the NIC
Boss must appear on Thursday 24 July 2008 and may be held
in legislative contempt if he fails to show up before that
august body.
During
the debate in plenary, the Chairman on the House Committee
on ways, Means and Finance Rep. Emmanuel Nuquay of Margibi
County revealed that $600,000 of unpaid taxes was discovered
in the draft 08/09 budget from the Buchanan Renewable Energy.
According to the lawmaker, this was taxes that Mr. Tolbert
allegedly levied to that company. The assertion by the representative
could mean that the delay in the passage of the budget rest
on some of the issues raise by the Legislative Joint Working
Group on the budget.
If
that is the case, the National Investment Commission Boss
made find himself in a tense confrontation before the House
Plenary as he is alleged to have usurped the function of the
legislature by granting tax waiver.
Article 34 (d) of the Liberian Constitution, gives the legislature
the power to levy taxes and Article 34 d (i) states that all
revenue bills, duties or taxes and other financial bills shall
originate in the House of Representatives. - The End -
As
July '26 Anniversary celebrations continue, President Sirleaf
Tours More Development Projects in Margibi
(MONROVIA-July
22, 2008): President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Tuesday broke grounds
for the construction of a National Cultural Center in the
country. Performing the ceremony, the President said the celebration
of Liberia's culture must involve the use of the country's
soil for agricultural production. The Liberian leader called
for the clearing of the 50-acre parcel of land to allow for
agricultural production, along side the cultural center to
be built. The President said when completed, the cultural
center would provide a true representation of Liberia's culture
and one that all Liberians will be proud of. She thanked Information
Minister Laurence Bropleh and staff for the initiatives in
relocating the center. The President also praised the people
of Gben Town in Marshall Territory, Margibi County for providing
the land for the construction of the center. The project,
the Liberian leader emphasized will not be completed in one
year; "it will be done little by little."
According
to information Minister, Bropleh, the center, when completed,
will consist of a theater, a school and a clinic.
An
Executive Mansion release says, Tuesday's ground breaking
for the construction of the National Cultural Center is part
of programs marking this year's 161st Independence anniversary
of the country. President Sirleaf earlier during the day toured
other projects including the 'Right to Play Recreation Center;
the Liberia Renaissance Education Project; Road rehabilitation
work in Marshall City; the Rafiki Children's village and the
construction site for a four-star hotel on the Robertsfield
highway.
At
the site, the President was greeted warmly by workers who
expressed thanks and appreciation for her efforts in creating
employment opportunities for them. President Sirleaf thanked
the workers for the hard work and later shared with them some
food items in keeping with the spirit of the nation's independence
anniversary.
Completion
date for the hotel is set for March 2009. Contractors assured
the President that the project is on course.
The
Independence Day anniversary activities continue Wednesday
with the dedication of a number of projects, including the
Dolo Town Market in Kakata, and the Mende Town Elementary
School in Mende, Margibi County. The President will also inaugurate
purified water facilities in Kakata city and dedicate a Science
and Technology building at the Booker Washington Institute
in Kakata, Margibi County, followed later by a prayer service
in the afternoon at the Centennial Memorial Pavilion in Monrovia.
President
Sirleaf Signs into Law an Act making Armed Robbery, hijacking
and Terrorism capital offenses.
(MONROVIA-July
22, 2008): President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has signed into
law an act, making armed robbery, terrorism and hijacking
capital offenses.
The
act to amend "chapters 14 and 15 sub-chapter (c), titled
26 of the Liberian code of laws revised, known as the new
penal law of 1976, by adding thereto four new sections thereby
making the crimes of armed robbery, terrorism and hijacking,
respectively, capital offences and providing punishment thereof."
The
President also signed 'An act to establish the national bureau
of Veterans Affairs' as well as 'An act to implement the convention
on the prohibition of the development, production, stockpiling
and use of chemical weapons and on their destruction to which
Liberia is a party'.
Present
at the signing ceremony were the Chairman of the Senate's
Committee on the Executive, Senator Gloria Scott; the Chairman
of the House of Representative's Committee on the Executive,
Hon. Kettehkumehn Murray; Montserrado County Representative
Richard Holder; Bomi County Representative Haja Fata Sayon
and Minister of State for Legal and Financial Affairs Morris
Saytumah. - The End -
July
'26 Celebrations Anniversary celebrations Kick off
(MONROVIA,
July 21, 2008): Celebrations marking the 161st Independence
anniversary of Liberia have begun with an intercessory service
Sunday attended by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. In remarks
during the service, the President said Liberians have to be
thankful to the Almighty God for restoring Liberia's positive
image amongst the comity of nations.
The
President thanked the church for praying for the nation and
urged religious institutions to continue offering prayers
for the country and its people.
The
President, has meanwhile, pledged to resurrect the construction
of a primary school in Teewor Village, Grand Bassa County.
The construction of the school came to a standstill when some
American missionaries who came to provide assistance were
fell victims to armed robbery earlier during the year.
According to an Executive Mansion release, the Liberian leader
spoke on Sunday at an intercessory service held at the Kakata
United Methodist Church in Margibi County, to mark the beginning
of the nation's 161st independence celebrations. Also present
at the service were the UN Special Representative of the Secretary
General Ellen Loj, Cabinet Ministers and members of the diplomatic
corps.
For
his part, the District Superintendent of the United Methodist
Church in Margibi, Rev. J. Alfred Barchue, urged Liberians
to work with the current government to achieve national development.
Following
the intercessory service, the President toured the C.H. Rennie
Hospital in Kakata to thank the medical staff for keeping
the facility functional in the midst of challenges. The President
also toured the King Gray area in Paynesville to sympathize
with victims affected by Sunday's flood waters.
Meanwhile,
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has pledged her government's
support towards developing the living conditions of Liberians
in all parts of the country including the Logan Town suburb
of Monrovia.
The
President made the pledge over the weekend when she commissioned
a bus stop to aid traffic flow and pedestrian movement in
the community. The bus stop, located opposite the Logan Town
Cinema, was constructed by a local group known as the United
Women In Action for Development. Accompanied by Logan Town
Commissioner, Wilhelmetta Carlos, the Liberian leader received
an enthusiastic welcome by hundreds of community residents.
An
Executive Mansion release says the President Johnson Sirleaf
also toured a children's playground currently under construction.
The playground, which is near the Logan Town market, is being
built by a private group, Liberians United to Serve Humanity
(LUSH), under the United Nations Military Mission in Liberia
(UNMIL's) Quick Impact Project at a cost of 25-thousand United
States dollars.
The
project is receiving financial support from the Sirleaf Market
Women Fund. The Fund, which is the brainchild of President
Sirleaf, was setup to provide financial support geared towards
improving the conditions of marketers across the country.
- The End -
PRESIDENT
SIRLEAF PLEAS WITH LAWMAKERSBaltimore C. Verdier
There
are reports that President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has written
the National Legislature requesting a month extension of that
body annual agricultural vacation.
The
52nd National Legislature is expected to go on recess 31 July
and returned January 2009.
Information
reaching TLC revealed that the president wants the lawmakers
to pass into law about ten crucial bills before they take
their vacation. President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is expected
to submit some new Acts for legislation and others that have
been submitted months ago but are still lock-up in both the
Senate and House of Representatives committees room.
It
has not been established as to what bill the president intends
to submit but it is strongly believed that two of those Acts
have to do with the ratification of two Mineral Development
Agreements between the Government of Liberia and two mining
companies that are expected to operate the Bong Mines and
the Western Cluster.
The
ratification of these agreements would help boost the economic
strength of the country, provide more jobs for Liberians as
well as help government to meet its poverty reduction strategic.
Others
include the creation of the Anti-Corruption Commission, Land
Commission, the New Defense Law, amendment in the Criminal
Law, Revenue Code of 2000 among others.
The lawmakers themselves are working overtime to pass some
of those bills that have been stock up in their hands and
have advance some steps to get the loads off them as the agricultural
vacation draws closer.
The
House is now convening Wednesday in addition to its regular
sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays while the Senate last week-end
held a three day working session in Tubmanburg, Bomi County.
At the same time, the House Committee on Information Culture
and Tourism will Wednesday of this week begin public hearing
on an Act to make the State Broadcast Radio, Liberia Broadcasting
System a public broadcaster, the freedom of Information Act
and an Act to create an Independent Broadcast Regulator.
Some
of the speakers that are expected to form part of the hearing
include Prof. Lamine Warity, a Commissioner of the Liberia
Telecommunication Authority, Prof. Joe Muldah, Chairman, Department
of Mass Communication University of Liberia, Dr. Amos Sawyer
Chairman, Governance Commission. Others are Information Minister
Dr. Lawrence Bropleh, opposition politician Dr. Togba Nah
Tipoteh, the President of the Press Union of Liberia Mr. George
Barpeen, and the Director of the Catholic Justice of the Peace
Commission Cllr. Agustine Toe among others. - The End.
Nigeria's
new ambassador to Liberia has presented his Letters of Credence
to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
(MONROVIA-July
18, 2008): President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has paid tribute
to the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the human and material
sacrifices made during the years of Liberia's civil war.
According
to an Executive Mansion release, the President spoke Friday
at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs when she received the Letters
of Credence of His Excellency Ebenezer Ayolodele Adigun, Ambassador
Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Republic
of Nigeria to Liberia. During the ceremony, the President
traced the historic relationship between both countries and
praised Nigeria for advancing a strong position on Liberia's
debt. The President emphasized that Liberia hopes to repay
Nigeria by being a strong country in the comity of nations
as well as a strong private sector partner.
For
his part, Ambassador Adigun expressed his government's delight
with the pace of development and pledged to work towards taking
the relations between both countries to a higher level.
In
another development, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf says
there is a need for all African countries to come together
and take strong positions to be able to compete internationally.
The Liberian leader is also suggesting that another meeting
be held for African leaders to fully discuss how a union government
can be achieved.
The
President spoke Friday at the Foreign Ministry when she met
with Dr. El-Medani El-Azhari, Secretary General of the Community
of Sahel Sahara States (CENSAD). The Liberian leader stressed
that another meeting on the union government needs to be held
because the recent conference in Sharm ElSheikh, Egypt, was
dominated by the political situation in Zimbabwe.
For
his part, Dr. El-Azhari stressed that his mission to Liberia
was intended to solicit President Johnson Sirleaf's view on
how a unified African action can be achieved following the
recent CENSAD summit in Cotonou, Benin. He also praised the
level of recovery achieved by the Liberian leader and her
government since her ascendancy as President of Liberia. -
The End -
Sirleaf's
Midnight Tour
(MONROVIA-July
17, 2008): President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Thursday night
made a surprised tour of several areas in the suburbs of Monrovia
greatly affected by the recent upsurge in armed robbery in
Monrovia and its environs. The tour which began late Thursday
night and lasted well into midnight, covered areas mainly
in Paynesville, including the General Services Road, Joe Bar,
and the Zone-Five police station vicinity.
According
to an Executive Mansion release late Thursday night, the tour
by the Liberian leader was intended to get a first hand assessment
of the security situation in Monrovia at night. During the
tour, gangs of youths were noticeably converged in isolated
corners of some of the areas toured. It is believed that some
of these individuals may be involved in the wave of armed
robbery in the city and its environs.
In
a brief chat with a number of on-duty police and security
officers, the President thanked them for their sacrifices
and assured the officers that the government will step up
its support to help them confront the criminals bent on disturbing
the peace of citizens.
The
President's assessment tour follows an assurance that government
would not relent until the increasing wave of armed robbery
in Monrovia and its environs is contained. She spoke to reporters
Wednesday following her return from a state visit to Namibia,
preceded by a visit to South Africa, where she addressed the
6th Nelson Mandela Lecture.
"If
this is what it will take to instill a sense of security in
our people, we are prepared to do it," the President
pointed out.
The
President was escorted on the assessment tour by a contingent
of the Liberia National Police, backed by the United Nations
Military Mission in Liberia (UNMIL). - The End -
UN
human rights expert wants Police strengthen
Written by Julius Kanubah
Monday, 14 July 2008
The
UN Independent Expert monitoring human rights activities in
Liberia says there is a need to strengthen the Police force.
Dr. Charlotte Abaka said more should be done to support the
Liberian National Police to tackle crimes.
According
to her although armed robbery activities are happening everywhere
in the World, the case of Liberia is unfortunately on the
upsurge. Dr. Abaka spoke to Star radio Monday after monitoring
a hearing on the draft act to establish the Independent National
Human Rights Commission.
She
frowned on the alleged delay of the Judiciary in dealing with
cases of armed robberies. The Human Rights Expert observed
that the Monrovia Central Prison is overcrowded with suspects
of armed robbery.
Dr.
Abaka also described as problematic the draft bill to amend
the arm robbery act. She advised the Legislature to give a
maximum sentence on capital offence instead of death.
Meanwhile,
the Judiciary Committee Chairman of the Senate says the draft
bill to amend the arm robbery act is being cautiously reviewed.
According to Senator Frederick Cherue, the committee is reconciling
the capital punishment and the global convention against such
penalty. - The End -
Liberia
and Namibia have agreed to cooperate in a number of areas
including agriculture, fisheries, education and tourism.
(Windhoek-Namibia,
July 14, 2008): Liberia and Namibia have reached an agreement
aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two
countries. The framework agreement on Economic, Technical,
Scientific, Cultural and Tourism Cooperation, seeks mutual
benefits in the fields agriculture, fisheries, gender equality
and child welfare. The agreement also covers areas of cooperation
in vocational training, industry, mining and energy, education,
culture and tourism, among others.
An
Executive Mansion dispatch from Windhoek says modalities of
the agreement will involve the exchange of data and technical
information, experts, specialists and consultants.
A
Joint Commission is to be established to ensure the implementation
of the agreement. The Agreement was signed on behalf of the
Liberian government by Information Minister, Dr. Laurence
Konmla Bropleh, while the Foreign Minister of Namibia, Dr.
Maco Hausiku signed on behalf of his government.
The signing followed discussions between President Ellen Johnson
Sirleaf and Namibian President Hifikepunye Pohamba.
Meanwhile,
the leader of Namibia's liberation struggle and founding President
and Father of the Nation, Dr. Sam Njoma, has paid a courtesy
call on President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Dr. Njoma, reflecting
on the days of the struggle, praised Liberia's leading role
towards Nambia's independence. He recalled that Liberia along
with Ethiopia, as members of the League of Nations, brought
litigation against apartheid South Africa, which was then
administering Namibia, seeking an end of the illegal occupation
of Namibia. "We remember you country's courage and will
forever remain grateful to you," the former Liberation
fighter said. Additionally, Dr. Njoma acknowledged the presence
of Former Foreign Minister, T. Ernest Eastman, who is a part
of President Sirleaf's delegation, and praised him for his
particular role in facilitating the support given to him and
others during the days of Namibia's struggle for independence
by the Liberian government.
President Sirleaf, for her part, lauded Dr. Njoma for his
commitment to the struggle and the Liberation of his country
from colonial rule. The President recalled the role Namibia
played towards peace and stability in Liberia when the country
sent in peace keepers to Liberia to help secure the peace.
Dr. Njoma is part of a delegation of eminent African leaders
expected to attend this year's independence anniversary of
Liberia.
The
longstanding historical ties between Liberia and Namibia were
again highlighted during a State Dinner Sunday night, hosted
by President and Mrs. Pohamba in honor of the Liberian President
and delegation.
In
continuation of her visit, President Sirleaf Monday toured
a diamond cutting and Polishing factory in Windhoek. Liberia
which also mines diamonds, is in discussions with Namibia
on ways of enhancing cooperation between the two countries
in the diamond sector.
President Sirleaf also toured a Primary school, reminding
students of their responsibilities toward the future growth
and development of their country. The students, interacting
with the Liberian leader, thanked her for the visit and spoke
of their admiration for her.
President Sirleaf arrived in Windhoek Sunday afternoon at
the start of a two-day state visit. The President and party
were received upon arrival by her Namibian counterpart, His
Excellency Hifikepunye Pohamba, officials of government and
members of civil society groups, as well as traditional dances
and cultural groups.
The
President's visit to Namibia follows a visit to Johannesburg
at the invitation of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, where
she delivered the 6th Annual Nelson Mandela Lecture, held
in Kliptown, Soweto last Saturday.
Before
departing South Africa, the President of the African National
Congress, Mr. Jacob Zuma, paid a courtesy call on President
Sirleaf. Mr. Zuma said he had looked forward to a meeting
with the Liberian leader to share thoughts on and show appreciation
for the President's articulation of a new kind of an emerging
leadership that seeks the African renaissance.
President
Sirleaf welcomed the meeting and thanked Mr. Zuma for his
role in the African liberation movement. The President concludes
her visit here Tuesday, when she addresses a Joint Session
of Parliament before departing for home.
- The End -
Liberian
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has arrived in the Namibian
capital, Windhoek at the start of a two-day state visit.
(Windhoek,
Namibia-July 13, 2008): The leaders of Liberia and Namibia
will Monday hold official talks centered on bilateral cooperation
between the two countries. The discussions between President
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Namibian President Hifikepunye Pohamba,
will culminate with the signing of a framework agreement on
economic, technical, scientific, cultural and tourism cooperation
between the two nations.
An
Executive Mansion dispatch says President Sirleaf arrived
in Windhoek Sunday afternoon at the start of a two-day state
visit. The President and party were received upon arrival
by her Namibian counterpart, His Excellency Hifikepunye Pohamba,
officials of government and members of civil society groups,
as well as traditional dances and cultural groups.
The
official arrival ceremonies included the inspection of the
Guard of Honor and a 21 gun salute. A State Banquet is being
tendered in honor of the President and her delegation Sunday
night.
As
part of the state visit, President Sirleaf will Tuesday address
a Joint Session of the Namibian parliament and tour other
potential areas of cooperation in the diamond and fishing
industries. Namibia is a major producer and an exporter of
fish.
The
President's visit to Namibia follows a visit to Johannesburg
at the invitation of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, where
she delivered the 6th Annual Nelson Mandela Lecture held in
Kliptown, Soweto last Saturday.
Before
departing South Africa, the President of the African National
Congress, Mr. Jacob Zuma, paid a courtesy call on President
Sirleaf. Mr. Zuma said he had looked forward to a meeting
with the Liberian leader to share thoughts on and show appreciation
for the President's articulation of a new kind of an emerging
leadership that seeks the African renaissance. President Sirleaf
welcomed the meeting and thanked Mr. Zuma for his role in
the African liberation movement.
Sunday's
meeting was witnessed by Liberian opposition leader, Dr. Togba
Nah Tipoteh who formed part of the President's delegation
at the Nelson Mandela Lecture. Dr. Tipoteh also thanked Mr.
Zuma, and added that despite political differences all politicians
must work together for the common good of their respective
countries, and that is why he accepted President Sirleaf's
invitation to join her in South Africa. - The End -
President
Sirleaf Meets Mandela - Speaks of his execeptional Courage
(Johannesburg-South
Africa-July 11, 2008): On the second day of a visit to South
Africa as guest of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Liberian
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was Friday guest of Former
South African President Nelson Mandela and his wife, Michel,
ahead of Saturday's Mandela Annual Lecture, at which President
Sirleaf is this year's prime lecturer.
During
Friday's lunch meeting, the Liberian President briefed the
former South African President on the programs and policies
of government since she assumed the leadership of the country.
The Liberian leader spoke of steady progress in the country's
recovery program despite the enormous challenges her government
faces. The Chief Executive informed President Mandela that
she was exceptionally honored and humbled to be in his company
and extended warm and best wishes on behalf of the Liberian
people as Mr. Mandela observes his 90th birth anniversary.
The President told Mr. Mandela that the people of Liberia
were proud of the exemplary leadership he has provided for
the people of Africa and the world. "Your courage and
wisdom, added to your exceptional spirit of forgiveness and
reconciliation is beyond imagination," The Liberian leader
said of Mr. Mandela.
Responding,
the Former South African President thanked the Liberian leader
for accepting his Foundation's invitation to serve as this
year's key lecturer. Mr. Mandela praised the Liberian leader
for her courage and determination to the development the country
following years of conflict.
According
to an Executive Mansion release, Mr. Mandela praised the Liberian
President for her leadership and expressed the hope that President
Sirleaf will continue to adopt policies and programs that
will benefit the country and its people.
Friday's
meeting between Presidents Mandela and Sirleaf was the first
between the two leaders since President Sirleaf's election
two years ago. A former Liberian foreign Minister and a one-time
associate of Mr. Mandela, Mr. T. Ernest Eastman also joined
President Sirleaf at the occasion, attended as well by Information
Minister, Dr. Laurence Bropleh and the Assistant Minister
of Foreign Affairs for African Affairs, Mr. Henry Fahnbulleh.
Earlier
during the day, the Liberian Chief Executive participated
in a breakfast meeting hosted by the Nelson Mandela Foundation
at the Gordon Institute of Business Science. The event which
attracted well over one-hundred influential female South Africans,
including the country's Deputy President, Madam Phumzile Ngcuka,
afforded President Sirleaf the opportunity to highlight her
government's progress, prospects and challenges, as well as
issues confronting women on the continent. South Africa's
former first lady, Mrs. Gracel Michel, who was full of praises
for the Liberian leader, challenged South African business-women
to take concrete steps in helping the President succeed. "She
is our face, she is our vision, we all must take responsibility
to make her succeed," she urged the women. The meeting
was also attended by Mrs. Winnie Mandela, who noted that despite
their numerical advantage women in most African countries
including South Africa, have not done enough to impact changes
in society. Too often, Mrs. Mandela said, women sit in their
comfort zones and become complacent. Mrs. Mandela, who promised
to visit Liberia soon, urged women to organize themselves
and exert their influence.
Friday's
events also included a tour by the President and her delegation
of the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory and Dialogue and the
Apartheid Museum where the President viewed some of the artifacts
and memoirs on display as well as photographs and other documentaries
depicting the struggle against apartheid.
The
day's events concluded with a dinner, tendered in honor of
the President by the Chief Executive Officers of the Nelson
Mandela Foundation. President Sirleaf used the event, which
attracted influential leaders and South African entrepreneurs,
to outline the progress her government continues to make to
attract private investment in the country. The major challenge
facing government, the Liberian leader said, is to provision
of jobs for the country's mainly youthful population. In a
keynote address, the Executive Chair of Circle Capital Ventures,
Dr. Mamphela Ramphele, acknowledged the progress taking place
in Liberia and urged South African business men and women
to explore the vast investment opportunities Liberia offers.
Liberia's
Miatta Fahnbulleh crowned the evening with a spirited rendition
of her famous song, entitled 'This is our time,' as mainly
women participants stormed the floor, joining hands and dancing
to the rhythm of the music.
President
Sirleaf arrived in Johannesburg Thursday and was met upon
arrival the O.R.Tambo International Airport by officials of
the Liberian embassy, headed by Ambassador Lois Brutus and
an Executive of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Dr. Mothomang
Diaho, who expressed delight to have the President honor the
Foundation's invitation to participate in the festivities.
Later
during the day, the Liberian President hosted a press conference
attended by local and the international press, during which
time she reiterated Liberia's position on the political situation
in Zimbabwe, describing the elections in that country as not
representing the overwhelming wishes of the people of Zimbabwe.
The President said she was honored to be invited to serve
as the guest lecturer at this year's Lectures by the Nelson
Mandela Foundation, describing the former South African President
as Africa's hero, who embodies all the positive characteristics
of sound leadership. - The End -
President
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf arrived Thursday in Johanisburg
Johanisburg-South
Africa): President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf arrived Thursday
morning in Johanisburg, South Africa to participate in programs
marking the 90th birth anniversary of Former South African
President Nelson Mandela.
The
President was met upon arrival O.R.Tambo International by
officials of the Liberian embassy, headed by Ambassador Lois
Brutus and an Executive of the Nelson Mandela Foundation,
Dr. Mothomang Diaho, who expressed delight to have the President
honor the Foundation's invitation to participate in the festivities.
President
Sirleaf will Saturday deliver the keynote address at the 6th
Anual Nelson Mandela Lecture at the Walter Sisulu Square in
Soweto. President Sirleaf is the second serving President
and the second female to address the Lecture. The first was
Professor Wangari Mathaai of Kenya, the first women to receive
the nobel prize from Africa.
The
Annual lecture is the Foundation's flagship dialogue event
which is aimed at addressing social issues of national and
continental importance. The event will be broadcast live on
Saturday on the South Africa Broadcasting Corporation to the
rest of the continent.
The
President will Friday participate in a breakfast meeting intended
to to discuss with Foundation Trustees, influential leaders,
especially women, the oppportunities Liberia offers.
The
President will provide an outline of the prospects and challenges
of her administration and elicit cooperation and collaboration
to meet and resolve these challenges.
Washington
Redskins star Malcolm Kelly Meets President Sirleaf
(MONROVIA,
July 08, 2008): President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has commended
Mercy Ships for its continuous support towards revamping Liberia's
health sector. The President said efforts by Mercy Ships have
left an indelible mark on Liberians which can never be forgotten.
According
to an Executive Mansion release, the President spoke Tuesday
at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs when she met with officials
of Mercy Ships. The visit by Mercy Ship authorities was also
graced by Malcolm Kelly, an American football star from the
United States. Mr. Kelly, who plays professional football
for the Washington Redskins team in America's National Football
League (NFL), is currently in the country to conduct an athletic
speed and fitness program for Mercy Ships. The program, which
is ongoing at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville,
includes 40 local athletes from various sporting disciplines.
President
Sirleaf commended the American football star for identifying
with the Mercy Ships cause. She recalled that Mercy Ships
came to Liberia at a time when the country's health services
needed to be fully revamped. The process, the President noted
began with what she referred to as "wonderful things
by giving the young people of Liberia a new lease of life."
The Liberian leader further commended Mr. Kelly for thinking
about Liberia as the country strives to rebuild after a 'difficult
past' and challenged him to share his experiences and goals
with young Liberian children.
For
his part, Mr. Kelly expressed his pleasure in contributing
to the success of Mercy Ships' outreach programs. He promised
to return to Liberia to continue the program as well as explore
other areas for possible assistance. - The End -
25
schools in Monrovia and its environs have signed a resolution
calling for a non-violent approach in resolving crisis.
(MONROVIA-July
8, 2008): Twenty-five high schools in the Monrovia area have
signed a resolution calling for a non-violent approach as
a means of seeking redress. In the resolution, the students
said they will not support, nor participate in any direct
or indirect form or manner of violence as a means of bringing
attention to, or address problems and/or dissatisfaction facing
students and other young people of Liberia. The resolution
also commits the students to promote, encourage and support
civil measures such as continuous dialogue and constructive
engagement among young people and students, in dealing with
problems which may arise among students and constituted authorities.
The students pledged their personal and institutional commitment
to fostering national programs and activities to put an end
to all forms of violence among young citizens of Liberia.
President
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who graced the ceremony, lauded students
for their decision to denounce violence. The President urged
the students to go beyond denouncing violence by making the
resolution a part of their daily undertakings. The Liberian
leader also urged the students to join government in its efforts
in promoting the Poverty Reduction Strategy. The President
said it was important for students to understand government's
vision to tackle poverty. The Liberian leader encouraged students
and other young people to study the document to know what
it entails so as to hold government accountable. She said
the successful implementation of the strategy rests with all
Liberians.
The
President challenged the Ministry of Education to formulate
programs involving students to ensure that forums are organized
in other parts of the country to help discuss the strategy
and gather feedbacks that would serve as a guide toward the
successful implementation of the program.
The
Chief Executive assured students that government will continue
to prioritize education because it provides the best option
for growth and development.
Tuesday's
signing ceremony at the William V.S. Tubman High School was
attended by a cross section of students from several high
schools throughout Monrovia and witnessed by Education Ministry
officials including Minister Joseph Korto, MCSS Superintendent
Victoria Duncan, as well as the principal of the William V.S.
Tubman High School and Information Minister, Dr. Laurence
Bropleh.- The End -
President
Sirleaf On Zimbabwe Elections - Urges African Union to Declare
Election results Unacceptable
(Sharm
El-Sheikh, Egypt: July 01, 2008): President Ellen Johnson
Sirleaf has called on the African Union to pronounce the June
27th elections in Zimbabwe as not credible and declare the
results unacceptable, if the Union is to maintain its credibility.
The
President spoke Tuesday, during the 13th Ordinary Session
of the African Union (AU) in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, when
she made her intervention to colleagues during a closed session.
She said the international community should work with the
Southern African Development Community (SADC) to find a permanent
solution to the situation in Zimbabwe. She put forward Liberia
as a case in point, saying the 1985 election was endorsed
by Africa and the world, which frustrated the true will of
the people of Liberia and subsequently engendered a fourteen
year civil war that left over two hundred thousand persons
dead. The Liberian leader called on the African Union to be
courageous to say that 'all is not well in Zimbabwe' and that
the request by SADC for a postponement of the June 27 Zimbabwean
elections should be heeded.
The
President reminded Summit participants that the African Union
Observer Mission declared the June 27th elections fell short
of the accepted AU standards, and that this was a similar
position taken by the Pan African Parliament and the United
Nations Security Council. She urged Summit participants to
take a firm stance as well: 'All these persons and institutions
cannot be wrong, cannot be conspiratorial as we may be made
to believe,' she stressed. President Johnson Sirleaf also
emphasized that the call for a peacekeeping mission in Zimbabwe
is not realistic, adding that it may be necessary for SADC,
in concert with the African Union Peace and Security Council,
to put in place some civilian peace monitors who might constitute
an early warning system in order to monitor and prevent further
escalation of the crisis. She finally called on the AU be
consistent with the standards it promotes.
The
13th AU Summit ended with its Chairman and Tanzanian President
Jakaya Kikwete giving a summary of what the leaders had achieved
during their two-day deliberations. President Kikwete said
the leaders of Africa had shown what he referred to as 'the
cause of Africa.' He said they had discussed the pivotal issue
of water and sanitation and agreed on how best to proceed
as well as manage scarce resources and scale up consumption
in the water sector.
He
further revealed that the leaders had discussed the global
food crisis and have received commitments from multilateral
organizations on ways in which they can assist in alleviating
the crisis. The AU Chairman added that the Union discussed
the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and launched a landmark
consensus report on how to achieve the benchmarks in Africa.
He said the report states that Africa is now only half way
in achieving the MDGs by 2015.
President
Kikwete also revealed that the leaders had a lengthy discussion
on the way forward towards a Union Government of Africa, adding
that an implementation of the process should commence by the
next Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in January 2009. He said
the Union looked at its conflict areas on the continent and
commended the AU for its work in restoring peace in Kenya.
President Kikwete also said the leaders had discussed what
he referred to as 'a way forward on Zimbabwe' as well as the
progress made in the New Partnership for Africa's Development
(NEPAD). The AU Chairman then characterized the Sharm El-Sheikh
gathering as a landmark Summit and declared its adjournment.
President
Johnson Sirleaf has left Egypt at the end of the AU Summit
for the United States for a private visit. She is scheduled
to return to Liberia next week. -The End-
The
Liberian Government has chosen 10 winners of the Poverty Reduction
Strategy (PRS) Naming Competition
(Thursday,
June 26, 2008): The Liberian Government has chosen 10 winners
of the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) Naming Competition,
launched in late March. Dr. Shadrack R. A. Bryant was chosen
as the Grand Prize Winner for his entry, LIFT LIBERIA. President
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and her Cabinet chose LIFT LIBERIA because
it captures in a succinct manner what the people of Liberia,
with the help of Government initiatives, are attempting to
do. Dr. Bryant described his entry as a slogan that will encourage
Liberians "to embrace a brighter future," devoid
of the mistakes of the past. When notified about his award-winning
entry, Bryant said, "I am overwhelmed with joy to be
selected by our dynamic and God-given leader, Her Excellency
Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of the Republic of
Liberia. It is my prayer that I will be of more assistance
and blessing to my beloved country." Dr. Bryant will
receive a US$1,000.00 cash prize, US$100 in scratch cards,
and an all-expense paid 3-day trip to any county of his choice.
Over
200 entries were judged on a 25-point system for originality,
coherence, brevity, creativity, and applicability to Liberia's
PRS. The Competition allowed Liberians in the 15 counties
to decide not only the scope of their development plan, but
also the conceptual framework for describing that vision and
its policies and programs in a unique slogan or phrase unique
to Liberia. Participants were asked to sms entries, e-mail
entries or deliver entries to their respective county superintendent
offices. Nine consolation prize winners were chosen in this
order: Paul Winn, Jr., Own Your Own; Frederick Hunda, Jr.,
Work for All, Wealth for All; Archibald S. Abban, Work for
Something, Don't Sit for Nothing; Burphy J.K. Herron, From
Poverty to Plenty; Humphert Whiegar, Total Involvement for
National Development; Jehu Kune Browne, Live to Work, Work
to Live; Pricilla Johnson, A New Liberia for New Liberians;
***Abubakar Morris, Hut to House Policy***; and Prince Kallon,
Do It Yourselves. Winners will be available for interviews
upon request.
In
April 2008, Liberia launched its PRS which outlines policies
and programs to enhance national security, increase economic
growth, strengthen governance and rule of law, and develop
infrastructure while providing basic services. The FINAL PRS
is available for review on the Executive Mansion site (www.emansion.gov.lr)
as well as the Ministry of Finance website (http://www.mofliberia.org/).
Hard copies of the PRS are now in circulation.
The
Liberia Poverty Reduction Forum (LPRF) begins today in Berlin,
Germany. The LPRF provides the opportunity to present Liberia's
first Poverty Reduction Strategy to its partners and will
highlight the goals and anticipated challenges during the
implementation phase. - The End -
The
Liberia Poverty Reduction Forum kicked off Thursday in Berlin,
Germany with a major boast toward the Liberian government's
relenting push toward total debt relief
(Berlin-
June 26, 2008): The Liberia Poverty Reduction Forum has opened
in the German political capital of Berlin, with President
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf urging the international community to
endorse the strategy towards its implementation over the next
three years. President Sirleaf made particular appeal for
additional funding to help the country rehabilitate its damaged
infrastructure including roads and the ports, which she said
remain seriously underfunded. Without additional funding in
this area, the Liberian leader warned, 'we would have a scale
back on our aspirations for the next three years. We would
be constrained in creating an attractive environment for the
private sector which we look to as the engine of growth in
the medium to long term.'
The President urged partners to provide the resources through
the Liberia Reconstruction Trust Fund, which the World Bank
is administering on Government's behalf. "It makes it
much easier for us, if funding is channelled into one fund,
rather than through many different channels." The World
Bank, Germany and Sweden, the President said, have all contributed,
but a tremendous funding gap still exists.
According
to an Executive Mansion dispatch from Berlin, the President
spoke of significant progress toward debt relief since the
last Forum in the United States last year. She lauded all
countries and international partners for their support. With
the support, the President said Liberia has cleared all arrears
with the major multilaterals, reached the HIPIC Decision Point,
and obtained a generous agreement from the Paris Club. "Our
total debt is about $1 billion less than it was 18-months
ago. We still have a ways to go, but I want to thank everyone
of your for helping us move forward with debt relief."
The
Liberian leader also spoke of progress in the country's key
areas of development including economic revitalization, peace
and security and governance and the rule of law with the goal
to promoting responsible institutions of justice, human rights,
and governance. President Sirleaf: "Just yesterday, the
World Bank Institute released its new Governance Indicators
for 2007 and it showed a large improvement for Liberia for
the second year in a row. In 2004, Liberia ranked 190th of
206 countries in the world on 'control of corruption' - one
of the worst rankings in the world. In 2006, our ranking jumped
to 145. And in 2007, we moved up to 113th. In three years,
we have moved up 73 places. I am not yet satisfied, but I
am pleased our efforts are beginning to show results."
Despite
the progress in debt relief and other areas of the country's
development, the Liberian leader cautioned the international
community against complacency, warning that the country is
at a critical juncture in its recovery process. "While
the shadow of war is receding, it is far from gone. Many young
combatants remain unemployed, and the risk of a return to
conflict remains real. The three years will be critical. I
believe our success or failure in that time will determine
Liberia's future. We can not wait and keep telling people
to be patient for a job sometime in the future. We must forge
ahead as quickly as possible. We need to see results now and
show people that peace, democracy, hard work, accountability,
and cooperation pay off with real dividends."
The
President also urged the international community and partners
to consider modest amounts of funding to directly support
the country's budget. "We do not expect, and are not
asking for huge sums to go through the budget, only modest
initial sums to get us started," the President emphasized,
acknowledging that her Government has much work to do to further
strengthen the country's public financial management, which
she noted has made strong initial strides.
The
Liberian leader again reiterated the need to speed up the
process of implementation of both government and partner led
projects. She pointed out that there is a need to reduce the
time from commitment to cash and from cash to completion.
"In some cases, slow implementation has been due to weak
government capacity. In other cases, it has been due to capacity
problems and burdensome procedural requirements with partners.
So I ask you to take a serious look at your capacities and
procedures with a view towards speeding things up, and we
will so the same, "the President assured partners.
Meanwhile,
it has been announced in Berlin that Germany is cancelling
over $400-million dollars in bilateral debt Liberia owes this
European country. Outgoing Finance Minister and the German
Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development,
Madam Heidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul are signing an agreement Thursday
in Berlin, immediately cancelling the amount. In a statement
at the opening session, the German official also announced
an additional 10-million Euros (over 15-million US dollars)
towards the Liberian Reconstruction Trust Fund.
The
Liberian President, who meets German Chancellor Angela Markel
Thursday afternoon at the Chancellor's office, thanked the
German government and people for hosting the Forum and for
their commitment to Liberia's reconstruction efforts. The
President made particular mention of Germany's support and
generous contributions for debt clearance areas to the World
Bank, the IMF and the African Development Bank.
Thursday's
opening session was also addressed by the United Nations Special
Representative of the Secretary-General, Madam Ellen Margrethe
Loj; the Administrator of USAID and Director of US Foreign
Assistance, Ms. Henrietta Foe and the Director, Strategy and
Operations for the Africa Region of the World Bank, Mr. Michel
Wormser.
The
representatives lauded the progress taking place in Liberia
and promised to continue their support to enhance and consolidate
the country's development programs.
The
Liberia Poverty Reduction Forum has entered the second plenary
session with an overview of the Strategy and Lessons from
the Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy (IPRS). The session
is being chaired by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf with the
Special Representative of the UN Secretary-general, Madam
Ellen Loj serving as co-chair. Presenters include the outgoing
Minister of Finance, Dr. Antoinette Sayeh; the outgoing Minister
of Planning, Dr. Toga McIntosh and the National Coordinator
of the Liberia Reconstruction and Development Committee, Mr.
Natty B. Davies.
President
Sirleaf and delegation arrived in Berlin Wednesday for the
two-day Forum which is being hosted by the Liberian government
and co-sponsored by the World Bank and the Federal Ministry
of Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany. - The
End -
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