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You have reached the LIMANY Archives.  Articles are listed below in time order.  You also may search for the article you are looking for by using the Google box on the left provided by GoogleLiberia.com.

Liberia: Senate finally passed threshold Bill as President Sirleaf makes new appointments in government
Jul 3, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
After series of setback over the passage of the Population Threshold Bill at the National Legislature, the House of Senate has finally concurred with the House of Representatives over the population apportioning for each constituency in Liberia.
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LIBERIA: TRC Recommends Prosecution For Warlords, Others, Pres. Sirleaf Gets 30-Year Ban
Jul 3, 2009
Global News Network
Following nearly four years of investigating Liberia's conflict period (1979-2003), the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in its final report has recommended names of several key actors in the Liberian civil war including former the current President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and former Presidents; Charles Taylor and Moses Blah.


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We Beg For Good Governance, Transparency And Justice
Jul 2, 2009
Daoud (Chidao Deni) B. Kenneth, RN, BSN
Houston, Texas
When I read the article “The Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Government vs. The Nigerian Businessman” by Mr.J.Kerkula Foeday, July 1, 2009, I had no option but to join him in his cry for for good governance, transparency and justice.

A nation emerging from a long fratricidal civil war and aspiring to be among the comity of civil nations ,cannot afford to be seen as lawless and autocratic ,where a few men determine what is lawful and what is not.
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We Beg For “Good Governance, Transparency And Justice”
Jul 2, 2009
Daoud (Chidao Deni) B. Kenneth, RN, BSN
Houston, Texas
When I read the article “The Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Government vs. The Nigerian Businessman” by Mr.J.Kerkula Foeday, July 1, 2009, I had no option but to join him in his cry for for good governance, transparency and justice.

A nation emerging from a long fratricidal civil war and aspiring to be among the comity of civil nations ,cannot afford to be seen as lawless and autocratic ,where a few men determine what is lawful and what is not.
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The Incarceration of Sekou Damate Konneh-Lessons to learn
Jul 2, 2009
Varfley A. Dolleh
Limany Political Columnist

By Popular Demand
The rise and fall of the estranged couple following their heroic liberation of the sub-region, especially, Guinea and Liberia remains a misery.

We call on the “Mandingo Caucus of Liberia” to liaise and advocate leading to the release of Mr. Konneh. We specifically appeal to Former Finance Minister, Lossene Kamara to manifest gratitude in helping a man that lost every thing as a result of maintaining in-law ship which led to his eventual political pit hole.
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Planned Demonstration in the Making in Monrovia
Jul 2, 2009
The Analyst
Massive preparations are being planned in Monrovia by certain elements within the Mandingo Community to stage a non-violent street demonstration in protest to the prolonged detention in Guinea of the former presidential candidate for the Progressive Democratic Party for Liberia (PROTEMP), Mr. Sekou Demante Conneh.
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Death Announcement
Jul 2, 2009
King Mohamed
Alhaji A.M Shereiff *Wata Molee*
This is to announce the death of Alhaji A.M Shereiff "Wata Molee" of Monrovia Liberia. This event occurred on June 30, 2009 in Togo as he was returning to Liberia. Sheriff was a businessman between Ivory Coast and Liberia as well as Togo and Liberia. The cause of his home going was a car crash. Alhaji A.M Sheriff was a son of the late old man Moigbeh Sheriff of Voinjama Lofa county.
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Liberia: Citizens stage a sit-in action to mount pressure on senators for the passage of Threshold Bill
Jul 2, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com


Amidst the surliness of the climate this morning in Monrovia, over hundred members of the civil society organizations converged at the ground of the Capitol Building to build up pressure on their Senators to ensure the passage of the most controversy Population Threshold Bill currently before the House of Senate.
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CDC endorses Weah-Tubman Communique
Jul 1, 2009
CDC Press Release
In keeping with the policy of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) to collaborate with like-minded opposition parties and eminent Liberians, the National Executive Committee of the party has given its unwavering support to the communiqué signed on Wednesday June 24, 2009 in Accra, Ghana between its Standard Bearer Amb. George M. Weah and Amb. Winston Tubman of the Liberian National Union.
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We Beg For “GOOD GOVERNANCE,TRANSPARENCY AND JUSTICE”
Jul 1, 2009
Daoud (Chidao Deni) B.Kenneth, RN, BSN
Houston, Texas
When I read the article “The Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Government vs. The Nigerian Businessman” by Mr.J.Kerkula Foeday, July 1, 2009, I had no option but to join him in his cry for for good governance, transparency and justice.

Yes indeed, President Ellen and her Government should embrace these good qualities in order to strengthen our fledgling democracy.
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BWI lauds The I-Help Liberia Project at BWI's 80th Birthday Celebration
Jul 1, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Saturday, June 27-Principal Jackollie thanked the I-Help Liberia Project for their fresh initiatives in the area of science at BWI.
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Liberia: “Class politics has steadily reduced in Sirleaf led government”, says MRUYP 1st deputy Speaker
Jul 1, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
+2316-426528
The first deputy Speaker of the Mano River Union Youth Parliament Liberia Chapter said the gap between the white skin politics that conspired against the dark skin during decades back is gradually closing up as predicated upon existing reality at present.
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The Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Government V. The Nigerian Businessman: The Time to Demonstrate Good Governance Principles
Jul 1, 2009
J. Kerkula Foeday
In 2006 the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Government seized more than half million United States Dollars from Chief Valentine Ayika, a Nigerian businessman. More than two years following the seizure of the Nigerian businessman’s money, the Ellen Government informed the public that it used the money for “national security operations”. Chief Ayika, disbelieving the information about the use of his money, turned to the law for redress of his case, which is now before the Supreme Court of Liberia.
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The Dynamics Of A Transforming Society
Jul 1, 2009
Francis W. Nyepon
The vision to significantly transform the Liberian society must first deal with changing behavior, attitude and mindset of people at the bottom of the social strata. Change can never come to Liberia with the majority of its people believing that public officials do not have their best interest at heart as a collective; or the majority of the people being stuck at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder. The lack of adequate healthcare, difficulties accessing education, employment, social marginalization, inadequate sanitation, unsafe drinking water, indecent hygiene practice, and treated garbage means that many Liberians are dying unnecessarily or living in destitution.
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AYAUSA’s President raps about The Importance of Education to our community
Jun 30, 2009
Mende Youths of NJ

Issa Fofana,President of AYAUSA keynote address at the annual Mande youth Association's Graduation Honoring Program.

Of all the requirements to successfully put our community, our countries and Liberia in particular, back on the map of civility and integrity, and also to improve our standings and status in our host nation, education stands out as the most pivotal. It is in this light, Ladies and Gentlemen, that I ask your indulgence, as I deliberate on the topic: “The Importance of Education to our community, Liberia, our countries in Africa and where we live”
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Public Employees Work For The Liberian People, Salaries Must Be Disclose
Jun 30, 2009
Ramses K Nah
McKinney, Texas
Ramses_nah@yahoo.com
Upon assuming the assignment as Auditor General, John Morlu, declared that the Ellen Johnson Government was three times more corrupt than the previous administration, the President took strong exception to that statement.

Nevertheless, this administration has not shown any transparency in its actions and dealings and gives the perception of not being accountable to the Liberian people. Numerous allegations of corruption have been made with no attempt to investigate, and mitigate such concerns.
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Our Government and This National Budget
Jun 30, 2009
Ramses K. Nah
Ramses_nah@yahoo.com
McKinney, TX
The National Budget of the Republic of Liberia as presented by the Ministry of Finance poses a serious conflict of interest. The conflict here is that the Ministry of Finance has developed, prepared and is now, defending the National Budget. It is appalling to have the Ministry of Finance, a Revenue collection and management arm of the executive perform the budgetary and Fiscal policy function. Where is the Office and Director of the Budget Bureau?
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The Real Game Goes To Trenton, NJ
Jun 29, 2009

Saturday, July 25, 2009 @ 12:00 Noon
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The Dynamics Of A Transforming Society
Jun 29, 2009
Francis W. Nyepon
The vision to significantly transform the Liberian society must first deal with changing behavior, attitude and mindset of people at the bottom of the social strata. Change can never come to Liberia with the majority of its people believing that public officials do not have their best interest at heart as a collective; or the majority of the people being stuck at the bottom of the socioeconomic ladder. The lack of adequate healthcare, difficulties accessing education, employment, social marginalization, inadequate sanitation, unsafe drinking water, indecent hygiene practice, and treated garbage means that many Liberians are dying unnecessarily or living in destitution.
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Death Announcement
Jun 27, 2009
MUSA FOFANA
Sidiki Kromah of Atlanta, GA

The Atlanta Mandingo Community is saddened to announce the death of Brother Sidiki Kromah. This sad event occurred on Friday June 26, 2009 at the East side Heritage Center in Snellville, GA.

Brother Kromah passed after a protracted illness. May Allah have Perfect mercy upon him. Ameen
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Liberia: Kelvin Sebwe finally retire from local and international football
Jun 26, 2009
Miichael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
The most publicized retirement match of Liberia’s most inexhaustible Midfielder Kelvin Sebwe has ended on a poor note with an array of high profile international Stars invited for the festival disappointing the honoree and fans of their respective clubs based in Liberia.
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Death Announcement
Jun 25, 2009
Dulleh Family
Alihaji Blama Gboni Dulleh

The Dulleh family in Liberia and the United States wishes to inform the Islamic Community and the Liberian Community about the Death of Alihaji Blama Gboni Dulleh aka Blama Gboni of PHP South Beach, Lynch Street, Monrovia. This sad event occurred today Thursday June 25, 2009 in Monrovia. Funeral arrangement is scheduled to take place in Barkedu, Lofa County, where he was born in keeping with Islamic faith.
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A Lofa County Representative opposes TRC’s recommendation - a war crimes Court in Liberia.
Jun 25, 2009
Press Release
Hon. Malian Jallabah, Representative
Lofa County

A Lofa County Legislator,Hon Malian Jallabah, has called on the citizens and the international community to prevent the Truth and Reconciliation process from turning into another civil crisis in Liberia.

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Liberia: Another frontline opened, War crime court or Forgiveness
Jun 25, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
+2316-426528
As the mandate of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission draw closer, strong debate surrounding actions and recommendations of the TRC as it relates to the establishment of a war crime court or forgiveness have sparked in major quarters and institutions around the country.
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A Critique of Alhaji Kromah and the 2011, Election--Can He Win the Presidency?
Jun 25, 2009
Varfley A. Dolleh
Limany Political Columinist
As the political playing field in Liberia becomes muddy in the wake of frantic preparations for the “2011 Legislative and Presidential Elections”, one of the enterprising political messiahs vying for this contestable office will be Professor Alhaji GV. Kromah. With unimpeachable credentials, plus a vibrant and unique constituency, political pundits are speculating, “Whether or not he could win the pending Election”. What are his chances as we politically endeavor to elucidate?
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Liberia: Expert Panel Urges Security Council To Extend UN Mission
Jun 24, 2009
Global News Network
A group of experts monitoring United Nations sanctions on Liberia has called for the extension of the world body’s peacekeeping mission in the West African country to assist the Government in regaining control of its natural resources.

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Liberia: Vice President Boakai admits President Sirleaf frustration over corruption
Jun 24, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
+2316-426528
In a bid to attract investment in Liberia, Vice President Joseph Boakai has revealed series of discussions and meetings between him and several international business people who have expressed interest in doing business in Liberia.
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Death Announcement
Jun 23, 2009
Press Release
Chara Massah Veronica Hansford-Gitau

It is with profound sadness that we must inform you of the passing of Chara Massah Veronica Hansford-Gitau, our beloved daughter, mother, sister, niece, and friend on Saturday, June 6, 2009 at Interfaith Medical Center in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Chara is survived by her mother, Amelia Cooper; her father, Ambassador J. Charles Hansford Sr.; her children, Kimathi and Gichura; her brothers, Charles Jr., Daffeh, and Salchi and her sisters, Bendu, Famatta, Maimah, Shawna, Wanda, and Zoe and their respective families.
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Liberia: President Sirleaf reconstitutes NASSCORP Board, as Jeremiah Solunteh acts as temporary President
Jun 23, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
+2316426528
Author:
Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has again reconstituted the Board of Directors of the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP).
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Death Announecment from Phoenix, AZ.
Jun 22, 2009
mohamed Enzah Dorley

We are saddened to announce the death of Sekou sesay A.K.A Vieux of Phoenix, AZ. He passed away on Thursday, June18, 2009 after a brief stay on life support.
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Taylor’s Rebel War Hunts Pres. Sirleaf, May Be Banned In 2011 Elections
Jun 22, 2009
Global News Network
Despite efforts by individuals considered as Pro-Unity Party partisans’ quest to petition President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to run for next term come 2011 general and presidential elections may not succeed.


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Harvard University Scientists Vist Rural Liberia; visit the Jabateh’s farm in Kpein
Jun 21, 2009
Michael Kpayili

After week of lecture at various Universities and colleges in and around Monrovia, the two young Harvard trained Scientists extended their science outreach program to rural Liberia commencing with the commercial city of Ganta, Nimba County.
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Visiting I-Help Liberia/LIMANY Science delegation distribute foot wears in rural Liberia
Jun 20, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Dr. Adam Cohen and Benjamin Rapoport distribute shoes among the needed in Ganta. There are more shoes where these came from and Ganta to benefit.

In an attempt to rejuvenate the spirits of the most vulnerable people in Ganta, the two Young visiting scientists shared foot wears among women and children at designated locations in Ganta. Dr. Adam Cohen and Benjamin Rapoport went beyond their science awareness and lecture series to identify with people they termed as most needed.
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The Dark Side of the Immigrant Community-Liberia as a case Study
Jun 19, 2009
Varfley A. Dolleh
Limany Political Columnist

Crimes attributed to the “Liberian Immigrant Community” has been on the rise for a protracted length of time, since the “United States Government” generosity of resettling desperate refugees into the USA, came into fruition for almost two decades unabated. However, same became amplified recently following the gruesome killing of two young immigrants in “New York City”, for trying to rob a Professional footballer through the “Black Money Scheme”.
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What is true is difficult to hide no matter what!...Exposing the truth of “earnest errors”
Jun 19, 2009
J. Kerkula Foeday
Sir Winston Churchill (http://www.quotationspage.com/quotes/Sir_Winston_Churchill/) (1874 – 1965) oftentimes says “men occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing ever happened.” Clearly, this has been the case with the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Administration since coming to power over three years ago. Let me just cite a few examples here. In 2006, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf tried to bribe the press by giving US $ 500.00 to some journalists and media institutions.
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“It Is A Black Lie! I Did Not Join Unity Party” - Cllr. Francis Garlawolo Denies UP Membership
Jun 19, 2009
Global News Network
A one time defense Counsel of former Liberian leader, Charles Taylor has denied media reports of joining the ruling Unity Party of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf recently in Bong County.


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Canadian Oil Company Announces Humanitarian Aid For Liberia, Targets Medical Assistance for 2009/2010
Jun 18,2009
Global News Network
The people in Liberia, West Africa, will soon benefit from a Canadian oil company's humanitarian program that will focus on providing medical assistance to that part of the African continent.

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American Scientists Experience Liberian Tradition, Prepares Traditional Food
Jun 17, 2009
Global News Network

Expressing interest in the Liberian ways of life, two visiting American Scientists from a United States based Harvard University this week carries their science and technology in a topical Liberian kitchen, preparing Liberian dishes and sharing jokes with housewives.

The two American Scientists before getting into the kicken went over to a nearby pump to get water fopr the cooking
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Two Young Harvard Scientists visit Liberia Medical College
Jun 17, 2009
Michael Kpayili

In a bid to touch all science related institutions in Liberia, the visiting I-Help Liberia Science delegation on June 17, 2009 visited the Medical College of the University of Liberia and met with the Deans and Faculty Staff of the institution. The visit according to I-Help Liberia Project Coordinator based in Liberia, Abraham Jabateh is to acquaint the visitors with activities at the institution and the ways in which his Organization can help improve academic work at the institution.
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Visit to Liberia by UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping ends, calls for support for security and justice sectors
Jun 17, 2009
UNMIL Press

Mr. Le Roy discusses rule of law issues with court officials and lawyers in Bong County as SRSG Løj looks on (Photo: E. Tobey/UNMIL)

Monrovia, Liberia – The UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, Mr. Alain Le Roy has expressed satisfaction over the level of progress made by the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) and the Government of Liberia in securing peace and security. Mr. Le Roy made this statement at the close of a three-day visit to Liberia to assess the level of work done by the Mission.
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The alarming rate of corruption in Liberia concerns UN Special Envoy
Jun 17, 2009
GLOBAL NEWS NETWORK

United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, Mr. Alian Le Roy, left and UNMIL Chief Ellen Margrethe Lřj address local media Tuesday.

The United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, Mr. Alian Le Roy has expressed serious concern over the alarming rate of corruption in the Ellen led government.
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Two US scientits motivate Liberian teachers and students at UL
Jun 16, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Dr. Adam Cohen lectures UL students at Fendell Campus

Two young US scientist are guests of the I-Help Liberia Project and LIMANY currently visiting Liberian schools and creating awareness on the importance of science and research work.
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Guthrie’s Workers on strike action again
Jun 16, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Flashback, A victim of Guthrie Rubber Plantation Saga

Workers of the Guthrie Rubber Plantation have again entered another strike action at the government owned Rubber Plantation for what the Workers Union termed as stoppage in salary payments and other benefits by the Management of the Plantation.
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Visiting I-help Liberia/LIMANY Science delegation inspires students at UMU, UL and WIS with local materials for experiments
Jun 15, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Dr. Adam Cohen works with the Liberian Women In Science and Technology
The I-Help Liberia Science delegation visiting Liberia on Friday and Saturday extended their lecture session at several institutions and organization in Monrovia with practical explanation and physical test displayed before students and teachers attending the session.
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Governance & the UN Presence in Liberia
Jun 15, 2009
Francis W. Nyepon
Seven years ago the United Nations intervened in Liberia to pave the way for peace after almost 20 years of political decay, economic dislocation, social mismanagement, forced migration and severe population displacement. Many in the international Community were convinced that the UN was better able to bring about peace, respect for the rule of law, and facilitate good governance and economic activities to restore Liberia to an expectable level of normalcy where basic life would be restored.
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Historical Preservation and National Food Security: The Way to Self-Development
Jun 15, 2009
Syrulwa Somah, PhD
A Speech Delivered At Booker Washington Institute (BWI)-May 27, 2009

Promoting agricultural production and reforming our environment should be a must in the new Liberia , in order to maximize the nation’s resources for the benefit of all Liberians. I believe that with only a little over three million people, Liberia might not need 10 or more years to achieve food self-sufficiency, if only the new national leaders of Liberia made agricultural production a national priority and rallied the Liberian people to the cause.
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We Are Experiencing Technical Problem
Jun 15, 2009
Author:
We will be back soon
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We Are Experiencing Technical Problem
Jun 15, 2009
Author:
We will be back soon
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We Are Experiencing Technical Problem
Jun 15, 2009
Author:
We will be back soon
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We Are Experiencing Technical Problem
Jun 15, 2009
Author:
We will be back soon
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We Are Experiencing Technical Problem
Jun 15, 2009
Author:
We will be back soon
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We Are Experiencing Technical Problem
Jun 15, 2009
Author:
We will be back soon
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BWI- A Dream Turned Into Reality
Jun 14, 2009
Syrulwa Somah, PhD
Dreams are born through men and women such as the birth of BWI in Liberia. It all unfolded in the 1800s when a wish of a freed slave Lewis Adams and owner George W. Campbell need each other to achieve their individual goals: “give my people education and I help elect you senator” catch-22 situation. Though Adams could read, write and speak several languages, he had no formal education.
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Fighting Corruption in Liberia – Why I Think the Unity Party Led Government Lacks Genuine Political Will
Jun 13, 2009
J. Kerkula Foeday
The culture of corruption and impunity in Liberia is unarguably entrenched and commonplace. It has, as the International Crisis Group succinctly noted in 2006 and referenced in my 2007 letter (http://www.liberianlawyers.org/ALLA/whatliberianeeds1.htm) to members of the Liberia National Legislature through the House Speaker, helped spark and nurture the crises in Liberia. This fact has been sadly acknowledged by nearly every national and international group helping Liberia overcome its many problems and challenges that have log-jammed its drive for growth, stability, and sustainable development. Anti-corruption advocates and institutions have meanwhile identified one key factor that is critical to a successful fight against corruption in any system and country. And that critical factor is political will.
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Liberia and Rampant Corruption
Jun 12, 2009
Varfley A. Dolleh,
Limany Political Columnist

On the morning of April 12th 1980, abruptly awaken by explosion of munitions, with Monrovia engulfed by pandemonium, and not knowing what was unfolding, only to have been part of history in realizing that the Government of “Late President William R. Tolbert” had been ousted violently by pseudo military men headed by “ Late Master Sergeant Samuel Kayon Doe”. Although, several reasons were given as motivating forces for the coup d'état, but the most popular jingle at the time was “Rampant Corruption and the misuse of public offices”. Mindful of that event, I am apprehensive that unless, the “Sirleaf Government” curbs the uncontainable wave of “Rampant Corruption”, the future could be bleak.
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Liberia and Rampant Corruption
Jun 12, 2009
Author:

On the morning of April 12th 1980, abruptly awaken by explosion of munitions, with Monrovia engulfed by pandemonium, and not knowing what was unfolding, only to have been part of history in realizing that the Government of “Late President William R. Tolbert” had been ousted violently by pseudo military men headed by “ Late Master Sergeant Samuel Kayon Doe”. Although, several reasons were given as motivating forces for the coup d'état, but the most popular jingle at the time was “Rampant Corruption and the misuse of public offices”. Mindful of that event, I am apprehensive that unless, the “Sirleaf Government” curbs the uncontainable wave of “Rampant Corruption”, the future could be bleak.
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Dr. Cohen and Rapoport meet with Liberia Education Minister Dr. Joseph Korto
Jun 11, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Speaking during an interactive discussion with Dr. Adam Cohen and Mr. Benjamin Rapoport at the Ministry of Education today, Mr. Korto said it was a welcoming development to engage in a partnership with other institutions around the World if education system in Liberia will be invigorated. He commended the organizer of I-Help Liberia Project for the initiative established in helping to improve both the Science curriculum and science education in the Country. Dr. Joseph Korto said the Vernier technology introduced in the school system by the I-Help Liberia team is currently helping teachers and students to speedily do their assignments and other physical examinations.
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The Fundamental Rights Of Free Speech And Expression In The Consolidation Of Democracy In Liberia: The Role Of The Media And The Civil Society
Jun 11, 2009
Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei
+2315694498 /pericle925@yahoo.com /www.ibrahimnyei.blogspot.com
This article was first published in the CEMESP Journal of January 2009, ‘THE TRIUMPH OF IMPUNITY: ATTACKS ON FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION IN LIBERIA 2008’

Liberia is a transitioning state struggling to heal wounds of a protracted civil conflict that resulted from a culture of marginalization, (attempts to alienate inalienable rights) suppression of inalienable rights, and opaque system in government transactions - underpinned by a system of bad governance. The people’s views were suppressed and crushed, thereby keeping them a distance from the administration of their country. This promoted imperial leadership, undermined democracy, and all values of transparency and accountability.
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Make �Black Tuesday’ a Continuous, not a One-Time, National Struggle Against Corruption
Jun 10, 2009
J. Kerkula Foeday
Brooklyn Park, MN 55428
763-742-5666
The pervasiveness of corruption in Liberia is real and its impact seems to be felt everywhere. Inaction or I-don’t-care behavior seems not be an option any more. Even ordinary people and groups are speaking out loudly. Yesterday, June 9, 2009, a number of civil society organizations staged a protest march (which is being dubbed as �Black Tuesday’) against the rampant occurrences of corruption in the Unity Party (UP-led) government of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Let me pause here and take off my hat to the groups and individuals who partook in the protest march.
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I-Help Liberia Project donates Microscope to JFK medical Hospital, visits TNIMA
Jun 10, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Dr. Adam Cohen and Ben Rapoport visited the John F. Kennedy Medical Hospital and formally donated a modern Microscope to the medical center. The donation is in fulfillment to request earlier sent to LIMANY for possible aid by family of the John F. Kennedy Medical Center. Presenting the Microscope on behalf of the I Help Liberia family, Dr. Adam Cohen expressed the hope that the material will be used for the benefit of the hospital. He said their visit to Liberia is predicated upon inspiration from their former teacher at Hunter College High School, Mr. Asumana Jabateh Randolph who established the I Help Liberia project.
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Our Working Visit To Liberia-Working For A Cause, Part I
Jun 9, 2009
Benjamin I. Rapoport and Adam E. Cohen

Dr. Adam Cohen and Mr. Rapoport of Harvard University meet with faculty and staff of Booker Washington Institute (BWI) in Kakata, Liberia

We are excited to learn how we and others abroad can help advance science education in Liberia. We are especially excited to begin thinking creatively about how to use the many natural resources BWI does have, including especially its biologically diverse surroundings and very capable vocational training programs, to help the school develop sustainable, self-sufficient, locally available alternatives to educational supplies from abroad.
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Dr. Cohen lauds Hunter College High School for many donations to Liberian School system
Jun 9, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Kakata, Liberia: The Visiting United States Science delegations to Liberia and alumnae of the Hunter College High School have expressed delight for the level of support the Hunter College High School has rendered to Liberian School System.
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Two Harvard trained Science experts arrived in Liberia
Jun 8, 2009
Michael Kpayili

After long months of preparation over the visitation of two American Science Experts to Liberia, Dr. Adam E. Cohen and Benjamin I. Rapoport have finally arrived in Liberia. The two Harvard trained experts are implementing guests of the I-Help Liberia Project and the Liberian Mandingo Association in New York (LIMANY) Science program established in Liberia years back. Both Ben and Adam have been inspired to try to give back to Liberia as much as Liberia has given to them through Mr. Randolph’s teaching.
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The Incarceration of Sekou Damate Konneh-Lessons to learn
Jun 6, 2009
Varfley A. Dolleh
Limany Political Columnist

The rise and fall of the estranged couple following their heroic liberation of the sub-region, especially, Guinea and Liberia remains a misery.
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Corruption in Liberian Government-Simple Reality of National Development Series 21
Jun 6, 2009
Mohammed Swaray
It is worrisome to citizens and detestable to tax payers to see public funds being ensnared into embezzlement and corruption in the cycle of government. The government of Liberia has solicited information from the public and the media on issues of corruptions in government. Anti corruption commission has been set up to support government efforts in fighting corruption in Liberia.
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Special Court Clarifies Charles Taylor’s Legal Team Representation
Jun 5, 2009
J. Cholo Brooks
globalnewsn2003@yahoo.com
Mobile Line: +231646010 / +2315461010


In a communication to the GNN today, the Chief of Outreach and Public Affairs, Peter C. Andersen said, “ Several articles this week, most of them in the Liberian press, have suggested that the Special Court has prevented Charles Taylor from communicating with his lawyers.”


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Liberia: Women in Science /I-help Liberia conduct Science workshop for Ministers and Directors at the Ministry of Education
Jun 5, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
+2316426528
Women in Science and Technology in partnership with the I-Help Liberia today conducted a one day science workshop for Ministers, Assistant Ministers and Directors at the Ministry of Education with the aim of creating further awareness on the Vernier Technology introduced by the I-help Liberia organization based in New York, the United States of America.
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Press Union Of Liberia Issued Press Statement On The Death Of Veteran Journalist Chauncy Cooper
Jun 4, 2009
J. Cholo Brooks
globalnewsn2003@yahoo.com
Mobile Lines: +2316461010/+2315461010
Veteran Liberian Journalists, Stanton Peabody will tomorrow lead an array of journalists at the PUL headquarters to sign the book of condolence in honor of one of the founding heroes of the Union, Chauncey Cooper.
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Disfranchising the Mandingo Community-Looming Reality---2011 Election
Jun 4, 2009
Varfley A, Dolleh

If subscribing to the political paradigm that participatory democracy and inclusive representation are cardinal elements in sustaining a flagging democracy, wherein, both the “Government and its subjects” reap, then same could be an illusion for the “Mandingo Community of Liberia”, excluded during the just conducted census by the “Ellen Sirleaf Government”. What is most troubling is the recklessness and wanton exclusion of the Mandingoes, mainly from Nimba County because of the lack of political will on Government to resolve the issue of the usurpation of their lands by the Gios and Manos. With the formulated “40,000 Thresh Hold Bill” ratified by the “House of Representative”, the question remains, “Whether of not they could get adequate representation in the House of Representative in Liberia”?

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Liberia: Multiplicity of Political Parties entangle voters in arriving at decision
Jun 4, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
+2316426528
The over crowdedness of Political Parties within the landscape of Liberia during elections most often confuses voters over the calibers of persons to vote for. Political Observers have attributed the proliferation of political parties in Liberia to the slow path in achieving genuine democracy judging from the political strength of those in opposition.
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An Emerging Perception Among US Officials “Liberians Are Unpatriotic”
Jun 3, 2009
Nimely-Sie Tuon
There is a growing perception among US officials familiar with Liberians and other African nationals in that US, that Liberians, especially those in the United States, are unpatriotic individuals who have little or no interest in the future of their country. These were some of the sentiments expressed by some US officials during an informal gathering near Washington, DC.
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NEWS RELEASE Robert L. Johnson Announces Grand Opening of New Liberian Resort Hotel , The RLJ Kendeja Resort & Villas Opens U.S. Gateway to Liberia
Jun 3, 2009
J. Cholo Brooks
globalnewsn2003@yahoo.com
Mobile Lines: +2316-461010 / +2415-461010
Robert L. Johnson, Chairman of The RLJ Companies, today announced the grand opening of his latest business development, the RLJ Kendeja Resort & Villas located in Monrovia, Liberia.


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Delta postpones flights to Kenya, Liberia
Jun 2, 2009
HARRY R. WEBER /AP
ATLANTA (AP) — Delta Air Lines Inc. had to scrap its much-anticipated inaugural flight Tuesday from the U.S. to Kenya because the U.S. government says it won't allow the world's largest airline operator to serve that route until security concerns in and around Nairobi are resolved.
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Taylor Family Speaks on Special Court New Stance to Deny Taylor Access to His Legal Team
Jun 2, 2009
J. Cholo Brooks
globalnewsn2003@yahoo.com
Mobile Line: +2316-461010/+2315-461010
A family member of former Liberian leader, Charles Taylor who is currently in detention in The Hague has accused the trial chamber of the UN backed Special Court of denying Mr. Taylor justice by issuing a ruling denying accused former President Charles Taylor access to his legal team who are supposed to guide him in the days leading to his taking of the witness stand until the 25th of June, 2009.


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Rwandese Peace Advocate, Victim of 1994 Genocide Immaculee Arrives Tomorrow
Jun 2, 2009
J.Cholo Brooks
globalnewsn2003@yahoo.com
Mobile Line: +2316-461010/+2315-461010
The Rwandese Peace Advocate Ms. Immaculee ILibagiza will arrive in the country Wednesday as guest of Liberia’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
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Liberia: Town Chief Flomo of SKT lauds Blyden Kennedy for constant support to the town, challenges others to follow
Jun 2, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
+2316426528
Although infrastructure developments in terms of road rehabilitations are steadily taken place in rural Liberia, inhabitants of some cities and towns have engaged themselves into self-help development and by extension the transformation of both human and social enhancement from bad to good.
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Former 2005 Presidential Contender Killed In The US
Jun 1, 2009
Breaking News
Dr. Joseph Mamadee Woatee, one of the presidential contenders in the 2005 general and presidential elections was on Saturday night, May 30, 2009 shot and killed by group of armed men at his rental bar in Baltimore, Maryland.

No arrests have been made as the gunmen immediately fled the area after they shot Dr. Woatee, but our source in Baltimore reports that police are investigating the killing.

Dr. Woate was one of the many presidential contenders in the 2005 general and presidential elections that brought President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to power. He ran on the ticket of the Labor Party as Standard-bearer.

Dr. Woate served as president of the Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas, or ULAA, an organization considered by many as the umbrella organization of US-based Liberians.

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Liberia: Reconciliation, a driving force behind National development—Ambassador Dunbar
Jun 1, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
+2316426528
As the Presidential Committee probing Nimba Land dispute enters its implementation stage, survey conducted over the weekend in Nimba County indicates an irresistible desire for the settlement of the land conflict.
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Morris Koffa Addresses Environmental Issues in Liberia
May 31, 2009
Thomas Kai Toteh

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Morris Koffa Addresses Environmental Issues in Liberia
May 31, 2009
Thomas Kai Toteh
One On One With Morris Koffa of AEW

To the public, I say the safety of our environment is as critical as defending our nation against invasion. We all bear the responsibility to protect it for our health and longevity. Those that choose to ruin it must be deterred whatever way necessary. God created this earth well balanced; every thing in it forms part of nurturing processes. The whole idea of living is living well. We all bear equal responsibility to ensuring the protection of our environment in whatever possible.

The current environmental situation in Liberia is challenging.
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Firestone Liberia turns over hand pump to Owensgrove District
May 29, 2009
J. Cholo Brooks
globalnewsn2003@yahoo.com
Mobile Lines: +2316461010/+2315461010
Citizens of the Township of Owensgrove in Lower Grand Bassa County were the proud recipients of a hand pump constructed by the Management of Firestone Liberia as part of the company’s Community Outreach Program.


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Liberia: MOL&BIN embarked on joint inspection exercise; target several counties
May 29, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
+2316426528
Consistent with the Statutory mandate of the Ministry of Labour to regulate the labour sector of Liberia and uphold the rule of law in order to dignify the labour community, the Ministry of Labour in collaboration with the Bureau of immigration and Neutralization (BIN) has embarked on a joint inspection exercise of business and industrial establishments within Montserrado County and its environ.
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Gold Star Resources Corp. Launches Humanitarian Society to Aid Liberian People
May 28, 2009
J. Cholo Brooks
globalnewsn2003@yahoo.com
+2316461010
Gold Star Resources Corporation, a US based humanitarian organization recetly announced the launch of a non-profit entity called Gold Star Humanitarian Society as part of the Canadian company's commitment to contributing to the social welfare of the Liberian people throughout its resource exploration permit area within the Roberts and Bassa Basins of south coastal Liberia.


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Liberia: Former deputy Chief of Mission in Washington welcomes recommendations from Committee on Nimba land dispute.
May 28, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
+2316426528
The former deputy Chief of Mission at the Liberian Embassy in Washington D.C, U.S.A and prominent son of Nimba County is calling on all parties to the land conflict in Nimba to adhere to recent recommendations sent forth by the Presidential Commission established to probe the land crisis in the County. Ambassador Abdullah K. Dunbar said issue that has to do with land dispute is the matter of give and take and at such, Nimbaians should see reasons to embrace the recommendation.
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Issa Fofana gets Bachelor Degree in Health Services Administration at Lehman College of the City University of New York
May 27, 2009
AYAUSA News
After hard works, sleepless nights, and tireless efforts, the remuneration has finally come. Our son, brother and friend, Issa Fofana graduates from Lehman College, The City University of New York with a Bachelor degree in Health Services Administration, Ceremony to be held On Thursday May 28, 2009 at 10:30am, at Lehman Campus
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Liberia: Passport scarcity hits the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; over two hundred cut off
May 26, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com

Over two hundred Passport applicants are currently trapped at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs due to an alleged passport shortage. According to some irritated citizens who have applied for passport since two months, authorities at the Division of Passport have continuously postponed the delivery of their passport due to what they termed as grudge breach to the right to own passport.
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Somalian, Global Trouble - A recipe for International Oceanic Terrorism
May 26, 2009
Musa V. Sheriff
Vancouver, Canada
The issues of piracy in Somalia have appealed to security experts, policy makers and shipping companies on a global scale to provide answer to this controversial question: What can the International community do to eradicate the syndicate of Somalian piracy so that ships have access, once again, to the Gulf of Aden in the face of this near-global recession? As the drama on the sea unfolds and becomes so dead serious, one could argue that Somalia has become a security threat on the high sea.
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Bility Elected as Chapter Leader of the United Federation of Teachers
May 25, 2009
By Delores Stroman
When he clobbered his opponent in a special election in September 2008 (75 to 15), to fill the vacant post of UFT Chapter Leader at Middle School 53, many staff members and observers correctly predicted that Mohammed S. Bility will be a major force to reckon with, if he decided to run on his own term, for the next UFT Chapter post in May of 2009. Mr. Bility ran to complete Mrs. Andre Naham's three-year term as Chapter Leader. Mrs. Naham had resigned her post to become an administrator (Dean) in the school.

During his campaign to become Chapter Leader in mid-May of 2009, Mr. Bility laid out his successes in the eight months he served as chapter leader, and his agenda for the next three years if re-elected. He took credit for successfully reducing the suspension of staff members; for reducing excessive paper work obligation imposed by the school administration;
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It Makes A Difference To Have Gender Balance In Security Institutions - Says UN Envoy As She honors Ghana Police Contingent
May 25, 2009
Author:
UN Envoy Ellen Margrethe Løj has stressed the importance of women’s participation in peacekeeping and called on troop and police contributing countries to follow Ghana’s example, whilst urging that country to do even better.
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Veep Boakai Holds Discussions With Muslim Leaders In London
May 25, 2009
Foreign Ministry Release
Vice President Joseph N. Boikai on Monday, May 18, 2009, began a four-day private visit to the United Kingdom at the invitation of Reverend Trevor Cockings, founder and director of “His Church Charity”, an organization based in Lincolnshire , England .

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Liberia: I-Help Liberia Project to conduct lecture at Science Day program at the University of Liberia
May 25, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
The ‘I-help Liberia’ science team based in Liberia is expected to make series of Presentations at the incoming University of Liberia Science Day program on June 1, 2009 at the Fendell Campus of the University.
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Issues and Challenges in National Development
May 23, 2009
Mohammed Swaray
Simple Reality of National Development Series 20
For certain no one can quantify the level of challenges confronting the incumbent leadership. Even more formidable, perhaps are the challenges overlapping what we may envisage. No doubt we can outline the myriad of successful achievements made in the areas of resuscitating the image of Liberia, the rehabilitation and construction of roads, development in the public and private partnership, reviews and amendment in some critical policies, establishment of some commissions and agencies, the high level manpower employment initiative under Senior Executive Service program and the rehabilitation of schools and hospital. Taxes and salaries have been reviewed and the economy is open to any meaningful investors. These outlined achievements may be inadequate to mention all that this government has achieved. However, does this mean that every agencies of government are accounting on these achievement?

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US-based ACANA Launches $ 50,000 Fund-drive
May 23, 2009
ACANA-News
ACANA IS 10 YEARS OLD THIS YEAR and is expending her programs to meet demands from the African immigrant communities. The organization founded ten years ago by Mr. Voffee Jabateh, MSW is pleased and honored by the fact that most of the community members are coming home to ACANA to access the resources that ACANA has and is advocating for on their behalf.
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Liberia: Legal actions, not permanent travel ban buttresses democracy at its fullest
May 22, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
The Security Council delegation visit to Liberia over the week has sparked serious debates around the country with many political observers detesting the position statement announced by the head of delegation Madam Susan Wright. Although the UN delegation arrived in Liberia with set agenda, the issue of travel ban took center stage in validating the outcome of their visit.
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Minister Woods assumes leadership at Public Works Ministry
May 21, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Newly appointed Minister of Public Works Samuel Kofi Woods has taken over the gavel of authority at the Ministry of Public Works. The ceremony which saw segments of different societal backgrounds including prelates, market women, employees of Labour and Public Works, government officials took place at the premises of the Ministry of Public Works.

At a brief but quality occasion, outgoing Public Works Minister Luseni Donzo pay tribute to her Excellency Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for the confidence she has and continue to have in him to be part of her legacy as not only the first female President, but also, a replica of what he believes a President should be.
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Liberia: Labour Ministry donates fleet of vehicles to Labour Commissioners around the country
May 20, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
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Minister Woods hails MOL Employees
May 19, 2009
Author:
Monrovia, May 19, 2009… Outgoing Labour Minister Atty. Samuel Kofi Woods, II has praised employees and staff of the Ministry of Labour for the level of support he received during his tenure at the Ministry.
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Liberia: Five Incompetent LTA Commissioners resigned as President Sirleaf appoints Commissioners shortly
May 19, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
Five Commissioners at the Liberia Telecommunications Authority have resigned their posts after instruction forwarded to them by the President of Liberia directly after May 13, 2009 emergency meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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Liberia: Another jailbreak at the Monrovia Central Prison again
May 18, 2009
Author:
Over thirty five Correction Officers are currently undergoing investigation at the Ministry of Justice for their alleged connection into Saturday, May 16, 2009 jailbreak at the Monrovia Central Prison.
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Another Corruption Scandal or a Diversionary Scheme in Liberia?
May 17, 2009
J. Kerkula Foeday
On January 16, 2006, in her inaugural address to the Liberian people and the international community, the President made this observation about good governance in Liberia: “We know that our desire for an environment for private sector-driven sustainable growth and development cannot be achieved without the political will and a civil service that is efficient, effective and honest.” Madam President, you were right yesterday and you will be right today if you make this same assessment about creating an environment for efficient and effective private-sector enterprise development and growth. We need genuine political will and honesty if we are to foster sustainable growth and development in Liberia. Please demonstrate genuine political will and honesty today, especially as regards fighting corruption in Liberia. Again, this is another challenge for you, Madam President.
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Liberia: I-Help Liberia project support team organizes six workshops in various school in Monrovia
May 15, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
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PUL Hits At Liberian Senate Pro Tempore For Brutalizing Colleague
May 13, 2009
J. Cholo Brooks
jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.com
Mobile Line: +2316461010
The Press Union of Liberia has term as unacceptable, the recent aggression on journalist Solomon Ware of Truth FM by the Senate President Pro Tempore, Cletus Wotorson.

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Liberia: A gradual transformation of the cleanliness of Monrovia and its environ
May 13,2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
Author:
The current developments underway by the Liberian government are enormous and the result, from all degrees of certainty proves positive as far as end users (citizens) are concerned. Due to self-explained reasons, Liberia suffered a lethal and bloody civil war which benefitted fragment of the society politically and economically while others received lasting pains and torment. It is certainly a magnificent thing to see Monrovia and other key cities in Liberia been change to modern cities but serious reflection and an indebt research is required if some portion of Monrovia will be developed and changed.
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Bong County Gears Up For July 26, Reconditions Road Network, Sports Stadium
May 13, 2009
J. Cholo Brooks
jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.com
MobileLine: +2316461010
Residents of Gbarnga, Bong County are to shortly enjoy smoothly walking and driving on their city’s major streets and its environs following a massive rehabilitation of these roads by a contracted Liberian firm which has already started the process.
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Issa Fofana: A Promise Fulfilled
May 13, 2009
Momoh Sekou Dudu
In these United States, it is not uncommon for immigrants to go astray, to wander from the straight and narrow to the fast lanes where looming danger lurks. It takes faith, courage, hard work, and perseverance to avoid the many luring pitfalls that we encounter each day on the streets of our adopted country. These treacherous snares are especially ominous for our youths. Often times, in our roles as parents, community leaders, and role models, we are cynical, even churlish, about our youths’ ability to stay above the fray in these circumstances. Sometimes, our cynicism is validated by brutal realities in our communities; other times, we are reminded to be hopeful by the success of those youths who manage to steer clear of the inviting quandaries camouflaged as golden opportunities and/or quick fixes.

Today, I am thrilled to be reflecting about one youth whose exploits in this land of lust, bust, and real opportunities give me hope instead of despair. Issa Fofana is my younger brother by lineage. He also happens to be my former student. So, my pride and happiness about his impending college graduation is two-pronged.
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The Politicization Of The Mandingo Community: Internal Identity Crisis; Elitism Vs Grassrootism; Who Yields The Dividends?
May 13, 2009
Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei
05694498/pericle925@yahoo.com/www.ibrahimnyei.blogspot.com
With what Liberian Mandingoes went through before reaching this far, their professed role in the 2005 elections that was widely criticized and seeing as an internally divided tribe, and the way forward as some local organizations like the elite-based Mandingo Caucus ( NMC) and the so-called grassroots-based Concerned Mandingo Society are working toward are central to this article.

The most important thing is the internal dispute and sometimes negative classifications that occur within the Mandingo community, and this is where the outsiders see as leakages in their attempts to demeaning the Mandingoes in Liberia: there is a complete disunity amongst Liberian Mandingoes, and the Mandingo ethnic group is the only ethnic group so far seeing in Liberia with a well established elite organization riding and collecting political olive branches using the name of the entire tribe.
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Where is the Fulfillment of the Promise?
May 12, 2009
J. Kerkula Foeday
An Open Letter of Concern to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Vis-ŕ-vis the Issue of Corruption in Liberia

Fellow Liberians, we know that if we are to achieve our economic and income distribution goals, we must take on forcibly and effectively the debilitating cancer of corruption. Throughout the campaign, I assured our people that, if elected, we would wage war against corruption regardless of where it exists, or by whom it is practiced.

Today, I renew this pledge. Corruption, under my Administration, will be the major public enemy. We will confront it. We will fight it. Any member of my Administration who sees this affirmation as mere posturing or yet another attempt by another Liberian leader to play to the gallery on this grave issue should think twice.
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Liberia: 2,346,093 out of 3,476,608 people barely eat One United States Dollar meal a day
May 11, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
After numerous debates and arguments at the National Legislature over the passage of the threshold bill, the Minister of Planning and Economic Affairs has announced the official reports of the national census conducted by LISGIS.
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Several Questioned LEC Officials Indictment, Calls It “Witch-Hunt”
May 10, 2009
J. Cholo Brooks
jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.com
Mobile Line:+2316-461010 / +2315-461010
Recent media report that several officials of government and other former officials were last week indicted on countless number of charges by the Liberian Government has been described by several Liberians as “Witch-Hunt” on the part of the government.
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Liberia: Is failure a trademark for government prosecuting arm? Government to enter another legal battle again
May 8, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
The Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Justice is contemplating on prosecuting additional past and present government officials for engaging in acts that breach the laws of Liberia. The past and present government officials according to information gathered are expected to be prosecuted for economic sabotage, illegal possession of arm, forgery and so on.

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Liberian journalist assaulted by senator
May 7, 2009
CEMESP/IFEX
On 5 May 2009, reporter Solomon Ware of Truth FM Radio station in Liberia's capital, Monrovia, was physically assaulted by the president pro tempore of the Liberian Senate, Cletus Wotorson, as the reporter tried to ask him a few questions concerning the abrupt adjournment of the Liberian Senate.
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UNMIL launches new radio channel (YFM 97.1 FM) for young people
May 7, 2009
UNMIL Press
Monrovia, Liberia – The UN Mission in Liberia – UNMIL – through its Public Information Office and UNMIL Radio, has launched a new radio channel for young people called Youth FM (YFM) on 97.1 FM. YFM was created to serve the needs of young people in Liberia who make up half of the country’s population. Like UNMIL Radio, this new radio channel will broadcast programmes daily on a 24-hour basis, initially in Montserrado County.
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Nigeria National Defense College Delegation Visits The TRC
May 7, 2009
J.Cholo Brooks
jcholobrooks@theliberiantimes.com
A visiting delegation of the Nigeria National Defense College Wednesday visited the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Liberia (TRC).


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Ex Liberian rebel leader, Sekou Damate Conneh jailed in Guinea
May 5, 2009
Henry Flomo
Africanews
The military junta in Guinea has arrested and detained ex-Liberian warlord Sekou Damate Conneh in the capital Conakry. Conneh led the defunct rebel fashion-the Liberian United for Reconciliation and Democracy or LURD- whose military pressure saw the premature departure of former Liberian leader Charles Taylor into exile.
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A week-long science workshops held by the I Help Liberia Project and LIMANY came to a well celebrated end at the University of Liberia (UL) Fendell Campus
April 20, 2009
Mohammed Kromah

A week-long science workshops held by the I Help Liberia Project and the Liberian Mandingo Association New York to introduce new technology in the Liberian classrooms came to a well celebrated end and a soccer match between BIOSUL and CHEMSUL at the University of Liberia (UL) Fendell Campus, outside Monrovia.

During the closing ceremony, Asst. Education Minister for Vocational and Technical Education, Yonton B. Kesselly, Sr. said that the crowd in the presentation hall is an evidence of the desire for science knowledge in Liberia and testimony to the effort put forth by the science delegation from the US
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I Help Liberia Project and LIMANY donate a new cordless microscope to the John F. Kennedy Hospital Maternity center.
April 14, 2009
News

Monrovia, Liberia March 13, 2009: The I Help Liberia Project in collaboration with LIMANY has donated a new cordless microscope to the John F. Kennedy Hospital Maternity center.

The donation according to the head of I Help Liberia Project/LIMANY delegation, Asumana Jabateh Randolph, was prompted by the delegation previous visit in February 2009 to JFK hospital, when they saw the need for a powerful microscope and one that would work cordlessly.
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I-HELP Libera Project /LIMANY Science delegation extends workshops to private schools around Monrovia
April14, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Not to limit their visit to only Public Schools in Liberia, the I-HELP Liberia Science delegation currently visiting Liberia conducted Workshops to two private schools in Monrovia with several teachers and students participating.

During the lecture series at the Don BOSCO Polytechnic High School in Monrovia, the head of delegation Mr. Asumana Jabateh Randolph briefly lectured the teachers and students on the importance of analyzing data during examination and testing in science laboratory.
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I-HELP Liberia Project/LIMANY commences several workshops in Liberia; donates several laboratory items to BWI
April 11, 2009
Michael Kpayili

The I-HELP Liberia Project in collaboration with the Liberian Mandingo Association of New York on Saturday April 11 buttressed the building-up of a giant Science laboratory for the Booker Washington Institute in kakata, Margibi County with over forty Science Teachers benefiting from the Vernier technology introduced by the visiting United States delegation.
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Addressing Poverty In Liberia
May 1, 2009
Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei
pericle925@yahoo.com/05694498
Critical Issues Of National Concern Xi

In attempts to discuss chronic poverty and living standards in a country with abundant resources and favorable climate for agricultural activities – considerable amount of rainfall and sunshine - this edition of the series will assess the meaning of poverty in the Liberian context and its impacts in the rural and urban settings. Intermittently, the writer will attempt to provide recommendations through the analysis.
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Former Chief Justice Emmanuel Nyan Gbalazeh Receives State Burial
Apr 30, 2009
TEXT/Photos By: J. Cholo Brooks

Remains of Chief Justice Gbalazen lying in state

Former Liberian Chief Justice, Emmanuel Nyan Gbalazeh who died two weeks ago following a protracted illness at a local hospital in Monrovia was over weekend buried in his home county administrative headquarter, Sanniquellie, Nimba County with several organizations, including the Supreme Court of Liberia and the Liberia Bar Association.
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Liberia: President Sirleaf mandates compulsory city cleanliness
Apr 29, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
Liberia’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has issued a proclamation making the first Saturday in every month a general clean up day. The day according to a Foreign Ministry release is named ‘Monrovia Clean-up Day’ and is aimed at buttressing the efforts of other government institutions in making Monrovia and its environs a clean place to live.
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Mary Broh, Task Force and Urban Sanitation
Apr 28, 2009
Sheikh M.A. Swaray

Simple Reality of National Development Series 19

It is usually outstanding when ovations for development in society are eminent to public servants. But it could be terrifying and frustrating if methodological issues become hindrance to the success of these ovations. An irresistible truth about development is that it comes with hard and sometimes hash decisions that affect some people in society and while other get pleased. However, this does not negate the fact that development must be professional and methodological. It will be naĂŻve to lambast the intention of madam Broh for having Monrovia and its environ clear and sanitized.

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Secretary-General's message on World Malaria Day, 25 April 2009
Apr 28, 2009
UNMIL Press
Sorry that this one is coming a bit late, but still useful because malaria is still around.

Last year on World Malaria Day, I issued a call to action to put a stop to malaria deaths by ensuring universal coverage by the end of 2010. The response has been tremendous. To date, we have been able to provide mosquito nets to more than 40 percent of people at risk of dying from this disease. In many countries, malaria deaths have decreased by two-thirds.
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Monrovia Clean-Up Day Declared .. To Be Observed in Greater Monrovia Area
Apr 27, 2009
MOFA Press

(MONROVIA, APRIL 27, 2009): The President of Liberia, Her Excellency Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, has issued a Proclamation, declaring the First Saturday of each month as MONROVIA CLEAN-UP DAY, which is to be observed within the Greater Monrovia Area (GMA).
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Liberia: Victims of Liberia’s civil war also need recognition
Apr 27, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com

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Liberia: Compensate the destroyers; an examples of lasting conflict in Liberia; deterrence versus anti-deterrence
Apr 25, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf recent reward and subsequent distribution of Five thousands and Seven thousand five hundred United States dollars to former rebel generals deserves an ascending questions judging from the actions of the recipients of said tax payers money. I say tax payers because the money paid to the so-called ex-rebel generals will be reflected in the annual budgetary reports.
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Aid and Sustainable Development: Introducing a New discourse for growth,
Apr 24, 2009
News
A Liberian student of the Institute of Social Studies (ISS) has told a gathering of African Students in Berlin, Germany, that the mean challenge the continent faces is a paradigm shift that gives a new meaning to leadership as one that values every human life irrespective of political, economic or social status.
Speaking recently on the topic : “Aid and Sustainable Development, Introducing a New Discourse for Growth”; Bobby Livingstone , who is also Vice President of the African Students Committee (TAC) in the Netherlands, reminded participants that the hopeless and voiceless people on the continent who have for a protracted period been victims of socially and ethically bankrupt leaderships are looking up to a new breed of African academicians and technocrats to introduce an alternative discourse....
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Liberia: Senator Nyenabo justifies the delay in the passage of threshold bill; blamed Executive branch of government.
Apr 23, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
Senator Isaac NyenaboA man many political observers considered as veteran and Scholar at the House of Senate has spoken for the first time over the delay in the passage of the controversial population Threshold bill at the National Legislature.

Former President Pro-tempore of the Liberian Senate and Senator of Grand Gedeh County, Isaac Nyenabo said the communication sent to the National Legislature by the Liberia Institute for Geo Services and Statistic Information (LIGIS) is just a preliminary document and not a draft document for possible debate. Speaking to Reporters yesterday in Monrovia, Senator Nyenabo said it would be unprofessional and a constitutional blunder for members of the National Legislature to act upon document that is preliminary.

Although there have been public outcries over the delay in the passage of the threshold bill, the former President Pro-temp said the Executive branch of Government which LIGIS is directly working under should be held responsible for the incomplete reports sent to the Legislature. He urged the Census House to resend the document for the sake of transparency and professionalism and update all sticking phrases enshrined in it.

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Saturday Is World Malaria Day ..To Be Observed As Working Holiday Day
Apr 23, 2009
MOFA Press Release
(MONROVIA, TUESDAY APRIL 22, 2009): The President of the Republic of Liberia, Her Excellency Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has issued a Proclamation, declaring Saturday, April 25, 2009 as “World Malaria Day”, to be observed throughout the Republic as a Working Holiday.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, the Day will be observed under the theme: “Counting Malaria Out” with the slogan “Accelerating Malaria Control to Reach the MDGS”.
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Rooting Out Corruption In Liberia On A Holistic Front
Apr 23, 2009
DUWANA BAKON'GO SESAY, II.
ANTI-CORRUPTION ANALYST
dusesay@yahoo.com
Comparatively, this government, that is purportedly run by the best brains Liberia has to offer, has dramatically failed to set the rules of engagement on public officials who are tainted by corrupt dealings—audits of institutions have unearthed the misdeeds of a lot of close associate of the president—though they remained shielded from prosecution and incarceration by the presidency, history will be unkind with them. What I think is being done here is, using the dismissals of few junior officials to justify bureaucratic housecleaning in government. Can this help in any way?
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Potential Conflict looms Liberia but Government is Passive in Response.
Apr 23, 2009
Mohammed Swaray
Monrovia, Liberia
The Simple Reality of National Development Series 18

Experience has shown that bulk of the problems on the African continent is either caused by historical claims to land ownership, religious discriminations, tribal wars or marginalization of some group of people in society. These are evident in the apathy reign in South Africa, the tribal struggle among the Hutus and Tutsi in Rwanda, the tribal conflict between the Hausa, Yoruba and Ibo in Nigeria and the religious-political fracas in Algeria. Again, no one can quantify the level of devastation as a result of claim to land between the Israelis and the Palestinians. These factors have only brought to mankind death, destruction, hatred and suffering.
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Do we really have peace in Liberia?
Apr 22, 2009
J. Kerkula Foeday
A rejoinder to the Unity Party General Secretary

If peace in Liberia means just the cessation or end of war, then thank God Almighty we have peace in Liberia. If peace in Liberia means the creation or provision of opportunities for few Liberians in government and/or few with relations in government to enjoy while the majority languishes in poverty, then thank God Almighty we have peace in Liberia. If peace is the election of a government that pays each of its ministers and top officials a minimum of 1.5 million dollars per annum, then thank God Almighty we have peace in Liberia. If peace in Liberia means a few can afford to buy a bag of rice to sustain their families nutritionally while the majority cannot afford because of the high price of rice, then thank God Almighty we have peace in Liberia.
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ILO celebrates 90th anniversary
Apr 22, 2009
Press Release
Monrovia, April 22, 2009…The International Labour Organization (ILO) office in Liberia in collaboration with the National Tripartite Committee (NTC) of the Liberian labour sector and the Ministry of Labour has begun a week long activities to mark the 90th anniversary celebration of the ILO.

The theme for this year celebration is “Social Dialogue and Decent Work for a Fair Globalization and the impact of the global financial crisis on Liberia”.
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Liberia: Commerce Ministry inspects business climate in rural Liberia; assured friendly business environment
Apr 22, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
Deputy Commerce Minister Dr. Frederick Norkeh

The Deputy Minister of Commerce and Industry Dr. Frederick B. Norkeh, at the head of a high power Ministry of Commerce delegation visited Bong, Nimba Grand Gedeh and Lofa Counties over the weekend to acquaint themselves with business activities in those areas.

The delegation among other things accessed the staffing regime, working environment and collaborative efforts among inspecting stakeholders.

Other areas of concern accessed include, evaluating the present business procedures at the various Port of entries with the hope of improving the business climax in the entire Country where businessmen will see the procedures as friendly.

At the Mande Korma border near Sierra Leone, Dr. Norkeh commended their Liberian counterparts for the smooth and collaborative efforts that will enhance Commerce and Trade between the two sisterly countries.

In a related development, Dr, Norkeh assured the Ministry of Commerce and Industry employees and other Inspecting Agencies of the National Government commitment to provide basic logistics in the presence of computing priorities and merger financial resources at the exposure of the National Government.







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UNITY IN DIVERSITY
Apr 22, 2009
Press Release
The Embassy of the Republic of Liberia in Washington, D. C. will on the 25th of July 2009 host its Independence Day Cultural Extravaganza with the theme “Unity in Diversity” at the Chancery, 5201 16th Street, NW, Washington, D.C.

The focus of the festivities will be to showcase the rich cultural diversity of Liberia through its fifteen counties. Each county will be allotted space for a booth on the grounds of the Chancery to display the best of its heritage through works of art, food, music, industry and other items unique to that county.
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Commentry: The Recent Political Marriage
Apr 22, 2009
Saliho Donzo
Merger may anchors to the resolutions of enormous political differences, which I think may be good for them ,and the civilian populace as well, because in Africa the diversity of radical politics and policies had often lead Africa slowly but surely to civil unrest( taking Zimbabwe, Kenya , Somalia, Niger, Guinea Bissau, Madagascar etc as examples of recent realities), which no Liberian may want to witness again, for that , I am sure !
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Liberia's Finance Ministry Gives Flower to Departing IMF Official
Apr 21, 2009
J.Cholo Brooks
globalnewsn2003@yahoo.com
Mobile:+2316461010
The outgoing Country Representative of the International Monetary Fund says Liberia has made great progress in its financial management sector.

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Loyal Opposition and Social Change in Liberia: A Historical Perspective
Apr 21, 2009
Syrulwa Somah, PhD
Speech Delivered at The “1st Inaugural Ceremonies of the United Bassa (Liberia) Organization in the Americas-Maryland, April 18, 2009

History doesn’t exist in a vacuum. History is an experience and a tapestry that is waving and unfolding right now before our very eyes. Each one of us at this historical junction is a part of the eking, weaving visible threads of history in the fabric of our community and in the pattern of our lives. So as we shape our history, history will in turn shape us. That is to say that no one, no organization, no nation can, effectuate any meaningful change and national development in society in the absence of historical roots.
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Liberia: Ministry of Labour refutes media reports as Minister Woods leaves for Abuja to attend employment summit
Apr 21, 2009
Michael Kpayili
mkpayili@yahoo.com
Labour Minister Samuel Kofi Woods
The Ministry of Labour has refuted a back page news story in the Friday, April 17, 2009 edition of the Monrovia Post Newspaper captioned “Alleged Fraud at Labour Ministry, As Minister Woods takes leave”.

The paper according to the Labour Ministry release revealed that the general allowances intended for the general staff at the Ministry have not been distributed properly amongst workers of the entity.

The Ministry of Labour wishes to bring to the attention of the publisher of the Monrovia Post that the general allowances are for hard working staff who work additional hours above the normal civil Service required eight hours and not for all employees.

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Liberia: Bong County Legislative Caucus cautioned the Prosecuting arm of Government
Apr 20, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Cell: 002316-426528
mkpayili@yahoo.com
Deputy House Speaker Togba MulbahTwo months after the arrest and incarceration of twenty-three citizens of Bong County over an alleged unruly behaviors which led to the burning of the Police Station in Gbarnga, a Bong County Lawmaker is calling on the immediate trial or release of the detainees. Deputy Speaker Togba Mulbah said the Bong County Legislative caucus attention has drawn to the perpetual incarceration of the twenty-three alleged Law breakers without scheduling them to appear before the court for trial.

He said the perpetual incarceration of his citizens without trial squarely violates their constitutional rights which are prohibited by law. The deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives further recommended two options in keeping with the desire to protect their citizens. The first option according to Representative Mulbah is to release those accused and detained since their detention has exceeded beyond the seven-two hours for court appearance or provide room for speedy court trail. He said the random arrest of youths in his county without legal redress portrays an infringement of their fundamental rights as enshrined in the constitution of Liberia.

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Liberia: Compensate the destroyers; an examples of lasting conflict in Liberia; deterrence versus anti-deterrence
Apr 18, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Former rebel general in action
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf recent reward and subsequent distribution of Five thousands and Seven thousand five hundred United States dollars to former rebel generals deserves an uphill questions judging from the actions of the recipients of said tax payers money. I say tax payers because the money paid to the so-called ex-rebel generals will be reflected in the annual budgetary reports.
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Liberia: Compensate the destroyers; an examples of lasting conflict in Liberia; deterrence versus anti-deterrence
Apr 18, 2009
Michael Kpayili
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf recent reward and subsequent distribution of Five thousands and Seven thousand five hundred United States dollars to former rebel generals deserves an uphill questions judging from the actions of the recipients of said tax payers money. I say tax payers because the money paid to the so-called ex-rebel generals will be reflected in the annual budgetary reports.
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Investment, Poverty Reduction Strategy VS National Development
Apr 9, 2009
Swaray Sheikh M.A. Swaray
Simple Reality of National Reality Series 17

In 2007, the author of Simple Reality of National Development outlined the many impetuses Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has to offer to the process of national development. It was observed 2008 that there was not a proper coordinated beneficial CSR scheme that may support the poverty reduction strategy process, and yet, transcended to 2009. It is important to understand that in an emerging economy of our kind, needs specific innovative business approaches that align the synergy between commercial and social values.
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Liberia: LEAP decentralizes its operations to three counties
Apr 9, 2009
Michael Kpayili

The Liberia Employment Action Program (LEAP) of the Ministry of Labour has extended its programme to three counties (Gbarpolu, Grand Kru and Margibi) outside Monrovia respectively. According to a Labour Ministry release, the exercise is expected to provide over eight hundred short term employment opportunities mainly youth in these counties.
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Another Perspective on Liberia
Apr 8, 2009
Heidi Baumgartner
Student
Hunter College High School

The closest previous contact I had with hardship in Liberia was through my mother’s stories of growing up in impoverished Communist Poland after World War II. Her descriptions of the abject conditions she had to endure as a child were vivid in my mind as I thought about what I would find life to be like in this part of the world that was new to me, which was also still emerging from terrible civil conflict. But how similar could modern Liberia be to an Eastern European country fifty years ago?
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Liberia: FAWUL President Natee confirms cordial working relation with Firestone Management
Apr 7, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The President of the Firestone Agriculture Workers Union of Liberia (FAWUL) has termed as cordial current working relationship between it and the Management of the Firestone Rubber Plantation of Liberia. Mr. Austin Natee said since the intervention of former Labour Minister Samuel Kofi Woods, normal working activities had since resumed at the Plantation.
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Liberty Party defied NEC ; expelled four executives
Apr 6, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The former Standard Bearer of the Opposition Liberty Party has graded the Unity Party led government as the worst corrupt government since the formation of multi-party democracy in Liberia. Cllr. Charles Brumskine said the Liberian government headed by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has wasted lot of government funds which is currently being diverted into individual pocket at the disadvantage of the greater population. He named the lack of prosecution in the audit reports indicting several government officials, the inability to provide jobs for destitute Liberians yearning for jobs and the hike in the prices of basic commodities on the Liberian market.
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Liberia: Labour Minister Woods goes to Public Works Ministry as Minister
Apr 6, 2009
Michael Kpayili
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has dismissed three junior Ministers and made several reshuffle in government. According to Liberia's Information Minister Dr. Lawrence Bropleh, those dismissed in government are deputy Public Works Ministers for administration and technical services, Roger Smith and Togba Nagana and Assistant Commerce Minister for administration, Aletha Brown.
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I-HELP Liberia/Hunter College High School deserve commendation as Science teachers await the second return of Science delegation to Liberia
Apr 5, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The desire for science education in Liberia is overwhelming but the materials available to do laboratory works are inadequate and if possible not available. Many science students in Liberia go beyond extra miles for the love of the profession with several students at the University of Liberia driving miles to take advantage of the minimum facilities at the State own University outside Monrovia.





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This Fateful Month in Liberia
Apr 5, 2009
Thomas Toteh

Let the Lord bestow lasting peace and rest to our brothers and sisters, fathers, mothers, all beloved ones, and babies who went to their early graves from 1979 to 2003. I hope every Liberian will have a moment of silence in this April; a month when our nightmare started.

It is my aspiration that we, as Liberians will use this time to reflect on our past and look forward to a better future of a unified nation and people. I pray that God will forgive our land and us by removing hatred from our hearts and replacing it with love and forgiveness.
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Nigeria to Deploy Over 100 Volunteers
Apr 2, 2009
MOFA Press

(Monrovia, Thursday, April 2, 2009): The Government of the Republic Liberia and the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria have signed a Technical and Manpower Assistance Agreement, aimed at deploying over one hundred Nigerian Volunteers in various professional fields to effectively participate in the on-going efforts by the Liberian Government to accelerate the socio-economic development of the country.
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Conmany Wesseh Gets New Appointment
Apr 2, 2009
MOFA Press
(MONROVIA, APRIL 2, 2009): The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces that Her Excellency President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has appointed Ambassador Conmany B. Wesseh as Liberia’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the European Union (EU). Ambassador Wesseh has accepted the offer.
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Fluidity of Liberian Intellectualism
Apr 2, 2009
Nat Galarea Gbessagee
Broadly speaking, any act of critical thinking is an intellectual activity. A tailor taking the measurement of a customer to make a shirt, and a mason estimating how many bags of cement to mix with sand and water to form a concrete are both engaged in critical thinking or intellectual activity. But Marxist social theorist Antonio Gramsci, writing about intellectuals and hegemony in the Prison Notebooks, indicates that not all persons who engage in critical thinking function as intellectuals in society.
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Liberia: UP, LAP, LUP enter into merger ahead of 2011 Elections as NEC halts Liberty Party convention
Apr 2, 2009
Michael Kpayili
In a bid to strengthen political base ahead of the 2011 general and presidential elections in Liberia, three political parties have entered into a merger to better position themselves for success in the pending elections which many political analyst have termed as test to true democracy in Liberia. The Unity Party of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the Liberia Action Party of Cllr. Varney Sherman and the Liberia Unification Party of Isaac Manneh signed an agreement of merger yesterday to form a common front in the 2011 elections.
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LTA Chairman transfer to Monrovia central Prison for one month
Apr 1, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The Chairman of the Liberia Telecommunication Authority has been sent to the Monrovia Central Prison after spending one night at the Liberia National Police headquarters in Monrovia. LTA Chairman Albert Bropleh was found guilty for perjury after allegedly lying on the House of Representatives for receiving the amount of Fifty two thousand United States Dollars as lobbying fees. The House took the decision to incarcerate the LTA Chairman for one month after he (Bropleh) later asked for mercy before the Honorable House which indicates guilty of misstatement against the august body.
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Liberia: 2011 General and Presidential Elections threaten as Lawmakers delay the passage of Threshold bill
Mar 31, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Unwarranted tensions surrounding the passage of the Population threshold bill continue to build up at the National Legislature over the delay by some lawmakers to accept the passage of the bill. The delay in passing the bill will create constitutional crisis ahead of the 2011 general and presidential elections which by constitutional provision sets an agenda for the upcoming elections.
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MOL/FAWUL clashed in friendly Sporting activities in Harbel over the weekend
Mar 30, 2009
Michael Kpayili

The Social and Athletic Department of the Ministry of Labour on Saturday, March 28 engaged the combine teams of the Firestone Agriculture Workers Union of Liberia (FAWUL) and the Management of the Firestone Rubber Plantation in series of sporting activities geared towards fostering social dialogue, peace and harmony between and among the various institutions.
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Liberia Renaissance Foundation contributes US00.00 to the Jesus Christ’s Children Ministry International
Mar 29, 2009
Liberia Renaissance Foundation Press

Washington, D.C. March 24, 2009: Liberia Renaissance Foundation, Inc, has contributed US $ 1000.00 to the Jesus Christ’s Children Ministry International (JECCMI), of White Plains, Liberia towards paying teachers at the JECCMI School.
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Planning and Economic Affairs Minister Konneh Visits Latin and Central America to Promote Development & Economic Partnership with Liberia
Mar 29, 2009
MOPEA Press
(MONROVIA-March 26, 2009): The Minister of Planning and Economic Affairs Honorable Amana Konneh, at the invitation of the Brenthurst Foundation, is visiting Latin & Central America this week along with key policymakers and private sector leaders from across Africa. The principal purpose of the trip is to engage key policymakers in that region on economic cooperation and to learn about the efforts of governments in the countries he is visiting on their poverty reduction initiatives from the initial stage of conceptualization through project planning to project execution. The visit affords access to a useful international network of business and government leaders.



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Liberia: LTA completes GSM license standardization with LoneStar Communication Company; improves Government revenue
Mar 28, 2009
Michael Kpayili
After long period of discussions over licensing standardization with existing GSM service providers in Liberia, the Liberia Telecommunications Authority has finally completed agreement with LoneStar Communication Company (LoneStar Cell), leading to the company committing to immediately depositing into GOL account five million United States Dollars.
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Liberia: Inter-Ministerial Committee visits Guthrie amidst stalemate at the Plantation; submits reports Friday
Mar 28, 2009
Michael Kpayili

In a bid to institute calm and safety at the Guthrie Rubber Plantation amidst growing industrial unrest at the entity, the inter-Ministerial Committee established by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to investigate crisis at the Plantation has engaged all parties into the conflict.
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Liberia: Senator Cletus Wotorson elected new President Pro-tempore of the Liberian senate
Mar 28, 2009
Michael Kpayili
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Malnutrition will kill 74,000 children in Liberia by 2015 if…-Nutrition adviser warns
Mar 28, 2009
Thomas Toteh

It is not clear what group of people must make sacrifices for the good of a nation. On the other hand, is it a particular segment of the society that must make sacrifice while others live in luxury? The sacrifice for a nation is demanded of the precious jewels. They are starving as the way of making their sacrifices for the economy to improve. Unfortunately, their sacrifices could mean a bleak future for Liberia. The bleak future could be a misery for the progenies of those who impose on them sacrifices they do not have to make as children.
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Liberia: Minister Konneh Highlights the Importance of Governance and Rule of Law to Economic Recovery in Liberia
Mar 25, 2009
MOPEA Press

(MONROVIA-March 25, 2009): The Minister of Planning & Economic Affairs, Amara M. Konneh, was among a number of development ministers from fragile states discussing the improved results in conflict and fragile situations towards a coherent, coordinated, complementary (3C) approach across security, diplomacy, aid and finance.
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Liberia: House of Senate turns hot with verbal insults as senators prepare to vote for new Pro-temp tomorrow
Mar 25, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Tension erupted at the House of Senate yesterday when two Senators of the ruling Unity Party traded verbal clashes at each other basically for the legality of the pending elections of President Pro-tempore of the Liberians Senate and the Chair of statutory committees at the senate.
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Quardu-Gboni Honors Minister Kaamara
Mar 25, 2009
Swaray Sheikh M.A. Swaray
The Association of Quardu-Gboni based in Monrovia has honored Minister Abu Kamara for what they termed as his numerous services to the people of Liberia and the Mandingo community in particular.

The honoring program comes in the wake of the recent appointment of Minister Kamara by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as Minister Counselor for Press and Public Affairs at the Liberia’s permanent Mission in New York.

Speaking at the program, Chairman of the Quardu- Gboni Association Varfee Konneh said Minister Kamara was “ a man of the people who has always participated in community activities when ever called upon.
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TB and HIV co-infection crisis a bigger threat
Mar 25, 2009
PlusNews
JOHANNESBURG, 24 March 2009 (PLUSNEWS) - One in four tuberculosis (TB) deaths in the world is HIV-related, twice as many as previously thought, according to a new report by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
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Liberia Inducts a new President for the University of Liberia
Mar 23, 2009
The Liberian Times

MONROVIA-March 23, 2009: Dr. Emmet Dennis, the 13th President of Liberia's highest institution of learning, the University of Liberia, has been inaugurated at a colorful ceremony held March 23 on the main campus of the University, with President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf highlighting the significant role of the University in national development.
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What is the level of safety in Liberia to accommodate Liberians under TPS; an unthinkable ideology
Mar 23, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The Minister of Information, Cultural affairs and Tourism Dr. Lawrence Bropleh announced to the public the extension of the Temporary Protective Status (TPS) for over three thousands six hundred Liberians living in the United States of America for another twelve months. The TPS was previously extended during the regime of former U.S. President George Bush for eighteen months after numerous appeals from the President of Liberia and other international and local Liberian related organizations.
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Former Bomi County Lawmaker condemns Guthrie shooting incident; calls for swift investigation
Mar 23, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The former Representative of Bomi County has condemned the recent shooting incident at the Guthrie Rubber Plantation which left four persons wounded and several properties damaged. Hon. Sando Johnson urged the Government of Liberia to act swiftly in bringing the culprits to justice.
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Guinea and Cote d’Ivoire are security threats to Liberia-Ms. Lřj warned
Mar 23, 2009
Thomas Kai Toteh
According to a UN News Centre, Ms. Lřj warned, “Without regular and stable jobs, more Liberians, especially the younger generation, could be tempted by the easy money associated with illegal economic activities or potentially by those wanting to recruit for subversive activities once again.”
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Birds Of The Same Feather Congregate At The Same Proximity!
Mar 22, 2009
Saliho A.Donzo
Student (Economics)
Kingdom Of Morocco
I strongly belief that organization also means to put in order what is or what has been in disorder.

For about a decade plus, our Nation I think has been undergoing a social ,political and as well as an economics disorder. So the ushering in to office or the taking of the gavel of presidency by the First Female Head Of States, appears to be the beginning of orderliness to many Liberians at home and also in the diaspora; but today the situation seems to have taken a different dimension; which gets me pondering over the question of TRUST!
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Water Water Everywhere, But Not A Drop To Drink
Mar 22, 2009
Shobha Shukla
Water constitutes about three fourths of the earth’s surface, but only less than one percent of it can be used by its inhabitants. Most of it is salt water oceans (about 97 %) and 2 % of it is contained in glaciers. With every country seeking to satisfy its ever increasing water needs from shrinking and limited water resources, there could be a future of conflict. As the UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon remarked recently that water scarcity is the potential fuel for wars and conflict. But cooperation, not conflict should guide us in our quest for a solution to this crisis.
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Safe Drinking Water for All
Mar 22, 2009
Musa V. Sheriff
Vancouver, Canada
My support for the UN Millennium Development Goals in Canada

The problem of safe drinking water is turning into a global conflict. It needs attention. As the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki Moon, stated “A shortage of water resources could trigger into conflicts in the future,” and furthermore, “Population growth will make the problem worse.
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Privatising water is denying people a human right: UN President
Mar 20, 2009
Bobby Ramakant,
Citizen News Service (CNS)
Questions raised on the legitimacy of Corporate-controlled World Water Forum

The President of the United Nations General Assembly has told delegates at the 5th World Water Forum (WWF) in Istanbul, Turkey, that, "those who are committed to the privatization of water, making it a commodity like oil, are denying people a human right as basic as the air we breathe."
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USAID-IITA project aims to introduce cassava-based recipe for improved nutrition and health of vulnerable groups
Mar 20, 2009
IITA Press Release
Scientists at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture are working on cassava-based recipes that will be used in improving the nutrition and health of vulnerable groups (women, children under 5, and pregnant women), thanks to a .3 million United States Agency for International Development project that is seeking to unleash the power of cassava in Africa (UPoCA).
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UN Envoy briefs Security Council on progress in Liberia, syas challenges remain in security and rule of law institutions
Mar 20, 2009
UNMIL Press
New York-Monrovia - The Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) for Liberia, Ms. Ellen Margrethe Løj, has described Liberia’s security situation as relatively stable, but still characterized by underlying fragility and needing to be monitored closely. She stated that small skirmishes or disputes often develop into serious mob violence with the population taking justice into their own hands – to a large extent, a consequence of the limited public trust in the national security agencies and the rule of law institutions. The SRSG made these remarks today when she briefed the UN Security Council on the 18th Progress Report of the Secretary-General on the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL).
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Liberia: New Political frontline at the Liberian Senate, Nimba and Grand Gedeh Senators open talks
Mar 19, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Statement after the resignation of Grand Gedeh County Senator Isaac Nyenabo as President Pro-tempore of the Liberian Senate by Nimba County Senator Prince Johnson is dangerous to the protection and survival of peace and reconciliation citizens of Nimba and Grand Gedeh Counties are yearning for.
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An Outstanding Liberian Diplomat Is Dead
Mar 19, 2009
MOFA Press
(MONROVIA, THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2009): One of Liberia’s Outstanding Career and Seasoned Diplomats, Ambassador David Thomas is dead. He was 92. The former Liberian diplomat died Wednesday, March 18, 2009 in Virginia, the United States of America.
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Madam President, save my mom from forces of corruption.
Mar 19, 2009
Mabium Donzo Sirleaf
A success for you in Liberia today, shall represent the success of every Liberian woman in terms of leadership. We the women of Liberia have a moral and personal stake in your administrative operations, and this is why we pray for you to succeed. I want you to succeed more than any Liberian President before you. The more people are able to have access to their lawful property without the constant harassment and threats from public officials, who are driven by the financial influence of self-centered subjects, like Rocky Ahmar, the better it would be for social and human capital to flourish. Therefore, your qualifications are too precious for such destructive ideology to be associated with it; you need to initiate some form of restraint on it.
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THE DR. HARRY F. MONIBA FOUNDATION IS OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED
Mar 18, 2009
HARRY F. MONIBA FOUNDATION
WITH THE GOAL OF WORKING WITH LIBERIANS TO ACHIEVE SUCCESS IN EDUCATION, IN THE WORKPLACE & IN LIFE, THE DR. HARRY F. MONIBA FOUNDATION IS OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED

Washington, D.C., March 16, 2009 -- The family and friends of the late Dr. Harry F. Moniba, the former Vice President of Liberia, officially announce the launching of a 501 (C) (3) foundation in his honor. With its mission as a U.S. nonprofit public benefit charity to promote Dr. Moniba's legacies of nonviolence and public service integrity, the foundation’s aim is to provide educational opportunities that make a difference in the lives of deserving youth in postwar Liberia. The foundation will strive to bring about several programs, one of which is to provide college scholarships to graduating high school seniors around Liberia that will cover the student’s tuition and book requirements
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An Appeal To President Obama- Please extend DED For Liberians
Mar 18, 2009
Abdulah K. Dunbar
Former Deputy Chief of Mission
Embassy of the Republic of Liberia
Mr. President, I would like to add my voice to the thousands of appeals from Liberians in and out of the United States to kindly use your good offices to grant General Amnesty which would be a laudable gesture to the people of Liberia. Your timely intervention in granting General Amnesty would put a final end to the continuous renewal of the Temporary Protective Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforcement Departure (DED) to the thousands of Liberians currently residing in the United States.

Although Liberia is moving forward on the path of recovery, our nation’s wounds are still visible. The mass removal of thousands of Liberians from the United States after eighteen months under removal of Deferred Enforcement Departure (DED), will create a humanitarian crisis. The propensity is especially prevalent as our entire basic housing infrastructure, schools, and health facilities are not fully rebuilt after the damage they incurred during the fourteen years of civil war.
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Review of post war government human rights records
Mar 18, 2009
Thomas Kai Toteh
The Administration of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is blessed with dozens of former human rights advocates, yet Police brutalities, arbitrary arrests, secret detentions, and physical attacks against journalists and human rights advocates continue to go unsolved. Kofi Woods, Dew Mason, H. Boima Fanbulleh, Jr., Amos Sawyer, Togbah-Nah Tipoteh, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, etc, used to be very outspoken during Tolbert, Taylor, and Doe’s Regimes, against every bit of human rights abuses-police brutality is no exception.
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Liberia: Senator Nyenabo resigns as President Pro-tempore at the Liberian senate following months of resistance
Mar 17, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Following months of intense internal wrangling at the Liberian senate over the position of the President Pro-tempore of the Liberian senate, Grand Gedeh County Senator occupying the position has resigned. Senator Isaac Nyenabo officially filed in a resignation this afternoon for what he termed as “peace within the upper House”.
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Contact Group On Guinea Advances Plans
Mar 17, 2009
MOFA Press
(Monrovia, Tuesday, March 17, 2009) The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Olubanke King-Akerele, upon her return from the 2nd Session of the International Contact Group on Guinea (ICG-G) has expressed satisfaction with the discussion of the ICG-G in advancing plans towards restoration of civilian rule.
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Liberia: Minister to Speak at 3C Conference in Geneva
Mar 17, 2009
MOPEA Press
(MONROVIA-March 16, 2009): The Minister of Planning & Economic Affairs, Amara M. Konneh, is among a number of development ministers from fragile states discussing the improved results in conflict and fragile situations towards a coherent, coordinated, complementary (3C) approach across security, diplomacy, aid and finance.
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Gedeh Citizens meet to advise Pro-temp Nyenabo
Mar 17, 2009
Michael Kpayili
In a bid to settle the growing conflict at the Liberian senate, citizens of Grand Gedeh County are expected to converge for a special meeting today, March 16, 2009 to find a break through ahead of Tuesday special session at the Liberian senate.
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Liberia: Liberia supports AU decision despite calls for ICC arrest order on President Bashir of Sudan
Mar 16, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism has given an overwhelming support to the decision of the African Union to suspend the indictment and arrest proceeding against the Sudanese President Omar Al- Bashir for one year against the United Nations decision to institute the arrest.
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The realization of LIMANY donated books is visibly seen and noticed in Liberian Schools
Mar 11, 2009
Michael Kpayili

The Liberian Mandingo Association in New York (LIMANY) and the I HELP Liberia project have been targeting several institutions and organizations for the past years with numerous donations been made in and out of Monrovia. The Booker Washington Institution, J.F.K Medical Center, the University of Liberia, Muslim Congress, Salafiya Islamic School, J.W. Pearson High School in Ganta, Faith Academy High School, The Youth Academy in Ganta, Kpein Public High School in Nimba County, Churches, Mosques and so on, have benefited from the glorious humanitarian assistance of the LIMANY family and the I-HELP Liberia Project.
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Liberia Premier hospital - JFK Getting Back In Business
Mar 11, 2009
LEM Press

MONROVIA - March 11, 2008): Efforts to restore the John F. Kennedy Medical Center to its pre-war status have received a major boost with the dedication on Wednesday of the west wing of the hospital. The dedication followed major renovation funded by the Gloag Foundation of Scottish philanthropist Ann Gloag.
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Women’s Colloquium concludes with renewed calls for action on peace and security
Mar 10, 2009
UNMIL Press

Monrovia, Liberia – More than 900 women leaders from all walks of life, around the world, gathered in Monrovia during the past four days for the International Colloquium, “Women’s Empowerment, Leadership Development, International Peace and Security”, which was co-convened by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia and President Tarja Halonen of Finland.
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Liberia: Acarius Gray says no to his recruitment to the ruling Unity Party
Mar 9, 2009
Michael Kpayili
As the ruling Unity party intensify campaign ahead of the 2011 general and presidential elections, several key figures of the opposition political parties have been targeted for recruitment into the party with the Congress for democratic Change and the Liberty Party been highlighted.
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Liberia: Mahdei Principal lauds LIMANY family for continuous assistance in its recovery drive
Mar 6, 2009
Michael Kpayili

The Principal of the Mahdei Memorial Institute in Jacob Town is calling on philanthropic organizations in Liberia to decentralize their concentrations to other learning institutions in the country. Mr. Joseph Wright said educational related supporting organizations usually limit their support to mission and government schools thereby leaving out younger growing institutions vulnerable to assistance.
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PRS Monitoring Reaches Grand Gedeh: Planning & Economic Affairs Minister, UNMIL Deputy Chief Meet County Officials and Citizens
Mar 6, 2009
MOPEA Press
Monrovia, March 5, 2009 - Planning and Economics Affairs Minister Amara M. Konneh and the Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General to Liberia (DSRSG) Mr. Jordan Ryan, Thursday launched the Grand Gedeh County Development Steering Committee (CDSC) the Superintendent Christopher Bailey, line ministry representatives, representatives of donors and NGOs, and the people of Grand Gedeh County in Zwedru to discuss the level of improvements being made thus far in the implementation of the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) and the Grand Gedeh County Development Agenda (CDA), two documents designed by the people of Liberia to help reduce poverty in Liberia.
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The Ministry of Labor halts recruitment of Liberians for foreign employment in Iraq.
Mar 5, 2009
MOL Press
March 5, 2009…Monrovia- On March 4th, 2009, The Ministry of Labor placed an immediate halt to all activities relevant to the recruitment of Liberians for foreign employment in Iraq.

The Ministry’s action comes in the wake of a citation served and a conference held with the Manager of C & J International Corporation concerning the recruitment of Liberians for employment in Iraq.March 5, 2009…Monrovia- On March 4th, 2009, The Ministry of Labor placed an immediate halt to all activities relevant to the recruitment of Liberians for foreign employment in Iraq.

The Ministry’s action comes in the wake of a citation served and a conference held with the Manager of C & J International Corporation concerning the recruitment of Liberians for employment in Iraq.
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Change in Mind and Change in Attitude-service to a nation or service to lips?
Mohammed Swaray
Management Analyst
swaraymas@lonestarcell.com
The Simple Reality of National Development (Series 16)

Perhaps one of the overused initiatives in the cabinet of this dispensation is the outspoken and eloquence weekly talk shows “Change in Mind and Change in Attitude”, of which the Information Minister, Dr. Bropleh is the proposer in Liberia. Apparently, the minister is one of my favorite Ministers. Despite that, I am obliged to question the sustainability of this valuable program “Change in Mind and Change in Attitude”.
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Liberia: U. S. Embassy disassociates itself to military recruitment in Iraq
Mar 5, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Days after the rejection of recruitment of Liberians for military employment by the Ministry of Labor, the united States Embassy near Monrovia has disassociated itself with the involvement of any form of military recruitment in Liberia.
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Planning Ministry Takes Development to Locals, Bomi and Grand Cape Mount, Brainstorm for Poverty Reduction
Mar 4, 2009
MOPEA Press Release

Monrovia, March 4, 2009 - The Ministry of Planning and Economics Affairs in performing its responsibility to monitor and track accurate data on the scrupulous implementation of the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) – a document seeking to find decent standard of living for Liberians within three years has begun the process of making the local population involved in the development process, Tuesday holding separate town hall meetings with the people of Bomi and Grand Cape Mount Counties.
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Liberia: MOL launches HIV/AIDS Workplace policy in Monrovia; calls for the respect of people living with AIDS virus
Mar 4, 2009
Michael Kpayili

The Ministry of Labour in collaboration with the National AIDS Commission of Liberia has launched an HIV/AIDS Workplace policy at the Ministry of Labour with a call for the respect of people affected with Aids and the protection of decent working environment.
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Liberia: For financial improprieties, President Sirleaf freezes all LTA accounts, reshuffle is certain at the entity
Mar 4, 2009
Michael Kpayili
In the wake of financial irregularities and internal conflict at the Liberia Telecommunications Authority, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has ordered freeze with immediate effect all accounts of the entity pending full-scale investigation into various allegations of corruption and financial improprieties.
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Understanding Ourselves and History: A Call to National Unity and Collective Development in Liberia
Mar 4, 2009
Joseph Tomoonh-Garlodeyh Gbaba, Sr., Ed. D.
Founder and Executive Director
Dehkontee Artists Theatre, Inc. (DATI)
There could not have been a more moving theme for a Liberian national conference during this critical period in our nation’s history than the one selected for the 2009 LIHIDE 5th Jubilee Conference: “Understanding Ourselves and Our History: A Call to National Unity and Collective Development in Liberia.” Through this theme, we may be able to examine and discuss the history, migration patterns, interethnic cooperation, linguistic tongues, and social, political, and legal institutions of the various ethnic groups of Liberia. We may also be able to address national issues we were unable to talk freely about in the past, with hopes of resolving them and moving in a more positive direction in the near future. Therefore, I am humbled to accept the responsibility as Chair of the 2009 LIHEDE 5th Jubilee Conference.
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Liberia: Move or be remove, majority bloc threatens Pro-temp Nyenabo again
Mar 2, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Activities at the Liberian Senate are currently at a standstill with scores of Senators mounting sufficient pressure to ensure the removal of President Pro-Temp of the Liberian Senate, Grand Gedeh County Senator Isaac Nyenabo.

Senators of over five counties leading a fresh campaign have vowed that Nyenabo will not preside as Senate Pro-temp over the Liberian senate beyond March 3.
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Liberia: Major streets within Monrovia areas to be reconstructed soon
Mar 2, 2009
Michael Kpayili

World Bank pumped in 16 Million Dollars in it implementation
Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has launched the reconstruction of several major streets and roads in the Monrovia areas. The Sixteen million United States Dollars World Bank project is expected to repave major streets in Central Monrovia and the Caldwell junction to St. Paul bridge road.
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TIME IS NOW TO ABOLISH THE DEATH PENALTY IN THE MANO RIVER UNION BASIN
Mar 2, 2009
Emmanuel Abalo
The Mano River sub-region in West Africa has, inarguably, for the last 25 years witnessed a stepped up visitation of the culture of death and wanton violence - from coup d'etats, outright insurgencies and imposition of the death penalty by governments.

In December 2007 the UN General Assembly adopted its first resolution "Moratorium on the use of the death penalty" (62/149), reaffirming the UN’s commitment towards abolition of the death penalty. That resolution was adopted by 104 votes in favor, 54 against and 29 abstentions.
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International Women’s Colloquium Comes To Liberia
Mar 1, 2009
LEM Press
(MONROVIA-March 1, 2009): Ahead of the International Women’s Colloquium March 7 & 8, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, has called on Liberians and all those residing in the country’s borders to come out and give a warm welcome to the more than four-hundred international guests who will be visiting the country for the conference.
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The Palava Hut: Liberia and the Three-Legged-Stool
Mar 1, 2009
Ali D. Kaba
Whenever I visit the various Liberian websites (online journals and forums) or read a newspaper; discussion on Liberia seems to be dominated by fragmented and pessimistic views. Certainly, there are plenty of dreadful events in the country and you can find all sorts of "proofs – unemployment, corruption, crimes, and so on –” to make your case. The truth is, the dilemmas in Liberia – as much as in most of Africa – are enormous.
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Liberia: Dirty market sites and unclean cook shops encourage climb in cholera cases in Liberia
Feb 27, 2009
Michael Kpayili

One may wonder about the cause of an abrupt cholera outbreak in some quarters in Monrovia upon visit at the Cholera unit at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital in Monrovia. At the cholera unit at the hospital, scores of patients are brought on a hourly basis via ambulances and private cars seeking quick medication. Although significant portion of the patients are treated by the hospital unit, many fall prey to the sickness due to their late arrival at the hospital.
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Liberia: Nathaniel Williams beats Conmany Wesseh in River Gee Senatorial by election
Feb 27, 2009
Michael Kpayili
After months of campaign in the River Gee County Senatorial by-election, Liberia Destiny Party candidate Nathaniel Williams has defeated his opponent Mr. Conmany B. Wesseh of the ruling Unity Party. Although the official result of the River Gee by-election is slated for Friday, February 27, results coming in from the National Elections Commission clearly gives Mr. Williams the victory.
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THE LTA NEEDS INTERNAL ORDER
Feb 26, 2009
Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei
pericle925@yahoo.com / www.ibrahimnyei.blogspot.com
CRITICAL ISSUES OF NATIONAL CONCERN X
The Liberia Telecommunication Authority was created by an Act of the Legislature to regulate telecommunications and frequency bands in the country. The LTA is part of the general public sector reform process aimed at ensuring efficiency in the delivery of services nation wide. Like many public commissions, members are appointed with a Chair to preside over its meetings and break ice when there are tied votes. Little did many know that the frequency zone is a major source of revenue in this country, but its effective regulation to maximize gains for the country was realized with the formation of the LTA, and the migration of moguls in the communication business into the country. In less than two years of its operations, its first chairman was hooked in a dubious deal with the West African Telecommunications which exposed its revenue generation capacity to many ordinary Liberians. The major problem observed was the balloon-infliction of the position of chairmanship which the first Chairman used in his attempt to dub his colleagues and the Liberian people. Little did he know that even a rubber balloon when improperly or over filled with air can explode and become irrelevant, particularly when the pressure exceeds its capacity. But this confusion and its resultant effect with the chairmanship issue of the LTA has not taught much lessons to those who are there now, as another inferno has begun to sink the regulating Authority into a crisis born out of an apparent lack of internal regulatory framework.
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Trick Or Treat, A Nation In Administrative Turmoil
Feb 26, 2009
Sam Mohammed Kromah
We went to war to in defense of this democracy, Madam Sirleaf, Dr. Amos Sawyer, Albert Port, Ambassador Henry Fahnbulleh, just to name a few, all went to prison in pursuit of this democracy, students from the University of Liberia stood before live bullets and were lethally wounded, some lost limps some died in pursuit of this democracy. Now that we have it, we must defend it and protect it with all we have. We should not and must not follow the OLD ORDER to destroy our investment. It is disappointing to see some of the characters that are appointed in critical areas. Our laboratories and firewalls (counties, cities, ministries and agencies) are congested and contaminated with unprepared, unpatriotic, irresponsible social-economic-political bandits and gangsters. We could realistically remain aloof if the lives of our people and the future of our country were not sliding towards an abyss of violence due to constitutional violations, joblessness, hopelessness, corruption and unfair distribution of opportunity and wealth.
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My Promise
Feb 26, 2009
Musa V. Sheriff
Vancouver, Canada
What will be the essence of the past if we can not learn from it to fix the future? What promises will we give the younger generation after committing atrocities? What role will we play in building our broken nation that we helped to destroy? What role will we play after breeding animosities, dislikes and mistrust, to rebuild trust and love among our people? What role will we play in resolving the land disputes? What role will we play in building hopes for the children of Liberia, after making them hopeless? Just think about these for now…
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Liberia: I-HELP/LIMANY Science delegation earmarks testing Laboratory for BWI, visits Ministry of Commerce
Feb 24, 2009
Michael Kpayili

I-HELP/LIMANY Science delegation meets Commerce Minister of Liberia

In a bid to improve and standardize the quality of products on the Liberians market, the Ministry of Commerce has disclosed a long and medium range plan in establishing a product testing laboratory in the country. Giving some detail explanation on the Ministry's stand on the importation of quality and reliable products/goods on the market, Commerce Minister Miata Beysolow said her Ministry has engaged in some minimum testing of both consumable and non-consumable goods which have yielded some maximum benefits.

Minister Beysolow made the assertion when a visiting delegation from the I-HELP LIBERIA and LIMANY paid a brief visit at her office. The visit of the United States Science delegation was geared towards acquainting authorities at the Ministry of Commerce with some modern but fast testing materials.
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Ministry Of Labour Wins Two Cases Involving The Consolidated Groups Of Companies And Devi Enterprises
Feb 24, 2009
MOL Press
Monrovia, February 23, 2009… The National Labour court has ruled in favor of the Ministry of Labour in two cases involving the Consolidated Groups of Companies and Devi Enterprises.

In 2008 the Ministry of Labour forwarded three institutions to the National Labour Court for failure to pay fines imposed for violations of the Labour Practices Laws of Liberia. The Ministry petitioned the court for enforcement of administrative fines.
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Liberia: Liberian Science Teachers benefit from a one week workshop as visiting science delegation introduce the Vernier technology in practical terms; receives several donation at the workshop
Feb 24, 2009
Michael Kpayili

The I-Help Liberia project in collaboration with the Liberian Mandingo Association in New York (LIMANY) have commenced a week long workshop for science teachers in Liberia. The workshop under the theme: “Enhancing Liberian Science Curriculum through Technology” is aimed at training forty(40) Liberian science teachers per session who will then instruct other science teachers.
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Liberia: President Sirleaf quest for reconciliation remains questionable if she refuses to reconcile with other Liberians
Feb 24, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The recent appearance of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to explain her involvement or participation in Liberia's tainted history has sparked serious debate around street corners and public places over her support to the defunct National Patriotic Front of Liberia.
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Liberia: “Human Meat taste like ordinary meat”, NPFL Commander testifies at the TRC
Feb 12, 2009
Michael Kpayili
A former frontline commander of the defunct National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL) has confirmed the eating of human meat during the operations of gorilla activities in Liberia. Joseph Massa alias “Zig Zag Massa” revealed at the TRC hearings that during the fall of Gbarnga in 1994, former Liberian President then rebel commander of the defunct NPFL, Charles Taylor ordered order forty (40) key commandos of the NPFL to eat human meat as sacrifice for the retake of Gbarnga.
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Liberia: NPP,LP and CDC criticize speech delivered by President Sirleaf before the National Legislature
Feb 10, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Three Opposition Political Parties in Liberia have criticized President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf recent address to the National Legislature citing several self-praises against the actual realities on the ground.

In a joint communiqué read on behalf of Liberty Party, National Patriotic Party and the Congress for Democratic Change, an executive of the National Patriotic Party, Lewis Brown said contrary to the existing realities on the ground, the Liberian Leader redirect her speech to self glory disregarding the plight of ordinary Liberians.
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Liberia: Newly appointed Monrovia City Mayor turns tough, commences immediate implementation of City Ordinance
Feb 9, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Barely seven two hours after President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf appointed Mary Broh as City Mayor of Monrovia, several makeshift structures around the Waterside market were seen demolished and street peddlers warned over the danger awaiting them.

Madam Mary Broh who has been very successful at various government institutions where she worked was appointed City Mayor of Monrovia by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf after touring major streets in Monrovia.
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Liberia: MOL/BIN to launch inspection of work permit soon
Feb 9, 2009
Michael Kpayili

The Ministry of Labour has disclosed a vigorous plan to weed out individuals working within the confines of Liberia without legitimate documents. According to Labour Minister Samuel Kofi Woods, the alien work permit task force will work in collaboration with the Bureau of Immigration and naturalization with the aim of standardizing and enforcing the implementation of the Labour Sector Reform.
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Kofi Woods: "We Can Do Better & We Must Do Better"
Feb 8, 2009
MOL Press

This place, these walls, the corridors, the palaver hut, gave me the foundational elements that inform my conduct, my allegiances, and my interventions and give rise to my abiding faith in the People of Liberia, that we can do better and we must do better.

So here we are today, once and now foot soldier of this nation. This place, this audience remains the collective conscious of our country. This is the place our country meets and we all seem or in the least appear to be equal.
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BRAIN DRAIN A PHENOMENON IN LIBERIA.
Feb 8, 2009
Author:
Brain Drain is cause primarily by political and social economic problems, by the instability of government and other institutions to design and implement adequate policy to train and retain human resources….

It is in this light that we will like to highlight two forms that Brain Drain has taken in Liberia : one is External Brain Drain , which is primarily cause by unreasonable low wages paid to Liberian professionals. The dilemma is that we paid thousand of dollars to foreign expatriate working in out country annually, while Liberian professionals working in Liberian are paid considerably less than similar qualified expatriates.
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Making Coup D’état History to Forge a New Independent Movement in Africa
Feb 8, 2009
Syrulwa Somah
We must ripen our consciousness and spark in Africa a surge of pride to become curmudgeons, the proverbial hard headed analysts and remove the “feeding tube” that nourishes coup d’états. We must land a fatal blow at imperialism in Africa to address one of its deadest woes that have produced instability, poverty, rogue-nations, foreign occupations, underdevelopment, corruption, bloodbath, brain-migration, de-humanization, deforestation, and exploitation. Hence, it is no longer sufficient to denounce the coup leaders as mere game-changers. Coup plotters’ actions and deeds make them murderers and criminals who must no longer be seen by one pair of eyes, heard by one pair of ears, fashioned by one set of hands.
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resident Sirleaf makes new appointments, Monrovia gets new mayor
Feb 7, 2009
LEM Press
(MONROVIA-Feb. 6, 2009): President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has made several appointments in Government, subject to confirmation by the Liberian Senate, where applicable.

Those appointed are: Madam Mary Broh, Mayor-Monrovia City Corporation; and Madam Laetitia Reeves, Mayor-Paynesville City Corporation.
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Liberia: Slipway residents threatened street protest after Senator Roland Kaine release
Feb 6, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Barely twenty-four hours after Margibi County Senator Roland Kaine and six others were set free by juror of Criminal Court –C-, residents of Slipway community have expressed disappointment in the verdict and threatened to stage a street demonstration in protest of the verdict.
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Friday Declares Int’l Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation
Feb 5, 2009
MOFA Press
(MONROVIA, FEBRUARY 5, 2009): The President of Liberia, Her Excellency Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has issued a proclamation, declaring Friday, February 6, 2009 as an “International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation” to be observed through the country as a Working Holiday.

President Johnson-Sirleaf has directed that all relevant Institutions and the General Public to collaborate with the Ministry of Gender and Development and the Inter-African Committee (IAC) in organizing meaningful, and appropriate, programs to commemorate the Day.
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Liberia: SUP honors Archbishop Francis, Woods, Morlu and others for service to the State and Humanity
Feb 5, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Several prominent personalities of the Liberian society and veterans of the Student Unification Party of the University of Liberia have been honored for their valuable services to the State, humanity and the Student Unification Party (SUP).
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Ministry of Labour hosts ILO Workshop In Liberia
Feb 4, 2009
MOL Press

Monrovia, February 4, 2009…Deputy Labour Minister for Planning and Human Resource Development Jackson N. Wonde says Labour administrators in Liberia need training in labour administration and other fields to help them accurately manage the labour sector.
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The Simple Reality of National Development (Series 15)-Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the Sheikh Kafumba Konneh Factor
Feb 3, 2009
Sheikh M.A. Swaray
swaraymas@gmail.com
It is about seven months since The Simple Reality of National Development in series has been silent on issues affecting the growth and development of Liberia. Despite enormous calls from readers for the resurgence of this meaningful public enlightenment process, we still had to maintain our silence for some deliberate reasons. Our profound apology to the many readers and we are sure of being back for a long while.
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Liberia: Ex-LURD Generals challenge Rambo to identify the graves of children buried alive
Feb 3, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Former LURD Generals have sharply reacted to recent testimonies made by their colleague in arms, Rambo before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings in Monrovia.
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Liberia: Is TRC a waste of time, money and capacity?
Feb 2, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The trend and direction in which activities at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is taking provides uncountable questions than answers. The intent of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission according to framers of the Comprehensive Peace Accord in Ghana is to identify and document causes that constitute reasons to the bad history of Liberia dating back from 1979.
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Liberia: Justice sector to prioritize prosecution and corrections, among other reforms
Feb 2, 2009
UNMIL Press
Accra/Monrovia - UN Deputy Envoy, Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu has urged rule of law actors to strengthen collaboration in order to “function better, together” as they move to the next critical stage of finalizing a strategic development plan for the Ministry of Justice. Ms. Mensa-Bonsu was speaking at the close of a five-day Conference, on 30 January, which saw participants embark on a road map that constitutes a range of reforms to be implemented by the Ministry of Justice over the next three to five years. The Conference identified some key “strategic thrusts” to take the reform of the justice sector forward: among them, effective prosecution; and reforming corrections and rehabilitation.
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Airborne Toxic Chemicals to fight Armyworms in Liberia: A Danger to the Environment
Feb 1, 2009
Morris T. Koffa
koffamkoffa@yahoo.com
240-417-2545
The Africa Environmental Watch (AEW), Inc. wishes to express profound concerns regarding the destruction caused to crops in several counties in Liberia by the African Armyworms invasion and the serious public health dilemma it posses to the environment. AEW and its affiliate organization, the Liberia Environmental Watch (LEW) have been closely following the unfolding events with concerns and deep empathy as it relates to the potential environmental dangers that the government recommended resolution of spraying toxic chemicals will pose to the environment.
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Foreign Minister Attends AU Ordinary Session…As Heads of State Summit Opens Today
Feb 1, 2009
MOFA Press
(Monrovia, January 30, 2009): The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency Olubanke King-Akerele, is in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, to attend the 14th Ordinary Session of the African Union while President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf on Sunday departed the country for Addis Ababa to attend the 12th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government.
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UN Envoy stresses need for Liberia National Police deployment in counties
Jan 30, 2009
UNMIL Press

SRSG Lřj inspects Nigerian FPU officers on parade (Photo: C. Herwig/UNMIL)
Gbarnga, Liberia – “The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) will continue to support the Liberia National Police (LNP) to enable them cope with post-conflict challenges of combating violent crimes and unrest,” UN Envoy in Liberia, Ellen Margrethe Lřj reaffirmed as she decorated 120 Nigerian police officers with United Nations peacekeeping medals in the central city of Gbarnga.
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Non-Profit Advocates for Women Farmers at Major International Food Security Conference
Jan 30, 2009
The Hunger Project
New York, New York (January 28, 2009)-Since 2006, the number of undernourished people in the world has risen from 852 million to 963 million, due primarily to 2008's world food price crisis. In an effort to "design a road map" to reverse this alarming trend and achieve global food security, the Government of Spain and the United Nations hosted the "High Level Meeting on Food Security for All" on January 26-27 in Madrid. The Hunger Project, a non-profit organization which works with grassroots people in the developing world to create their own, sustainable strategies for ending their own hunger, participated in this meeting along with governments, the private sector and civil society from more than 125 countries.
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THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY MUST SUPPORT GUINEA: AN URGENT APPEAL
Jan 30, 2009
SIERRA LEONE-PDL Press Lease
This is an urgent appeal to regional groupings and the wider international community in the context of deliberate attempts by detractors to distort facts and truth about the situation in Guinea; and to downplay on threats by criminals to destabilise the peace and stability the people of Guinea presently under the charismatic National Council for Democracy and Development (CNDD), led by H.E. President Moussa Dadis Camara.
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Liberian legislature must be given time to review US $ 2.6 billion Chinese contract; Government should disclose contract and usage of US $ 40 million up-front payment
Jan 30, 2009
Press Release
A new US $ 2.6 billion dollar mining agreement could give a major boost to Liberia’s post-conflict reconstruction, but must be subject to genuine legislative scrutiny, say Publish What You Pay Liberia (1) Green Advocates (2) and Global Witness (3).

The Mineral Development Agreement signed on 21 January 2009 by the Liberian government and China Union Investment Company paves the way for the largest ever foreign investment in Liberia and the rehabilitation of the Bong iron ore mine. However, very little information has been publicly disclosed about the content of the contract and the revenues it will return to Liberia over its 25 year duration.
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Liberia: Nimba Rep. Dunah Describes House’s Leadership Composition Unconstitutional
Jan 30, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Nimba County Electoral District #3, Representative, Worlea Saywah Dunah, has described the current composition of the House’s Leadership as �unconstitutional’ and does not reflect the democratic institution as is done out of electoral process.
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Upholding The Merit System: Hypocrisy Or Lip-service
Jan 28, 2009
J. Gabriel Nyenka, Sr.
analyticalgn@yahoo.com
231 (5) 610-778
Considering the depth to which the nation’s human resource capacity was interred during the 14 years of civil upheaval and fratricidal carnage, the need for capacity building is ever more compelling than any period in Liberia’s history. At the peak of the “slaughter house” catastrophe, thousands of Liberians perished while several thousands more fled the inferno, among them, most of the country’s educated leaving behind a vast desert land of lack and need.
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Liberia: UN Deputy Envoy urges rule of law actors to take the lead in justice sector reform in Liberia
Jan 28, 2009
UNMIL Press
Accra/Monrovia -UN Deputy Envoy, Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu has urged Liberia’s rule of law actors to “claim their place in history by being in the driving seat of strengthening the rule of law and making a difference to the country’s post-war reconstruction efforts.” Ms. Mensa-Bonsu was speaking at the opening of a 5-day Strategic Development Planning Conference on 26 January in Accra, Ghana, organized with the aim of ‘drawing up an overarching roadmap’ for the Ministry of Justice over the next 3 to 5 years. The conference also seeks to refine the Ministry’s priorities and to reinforce the direction, continuity and effective leadership needed for the department.
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LIBERIA: No Roads to Farms and Markets
Jan 27, 2009
Folebole F. Kromah
It effects on agriculture, people and vehicles. Motor vehicles are the predominant means of transportation in Liberia. How good is our farm to market roads? Well, weather good or bad our roads must be improved if agricultural activities must go on. Farmers and traders must be able to move their produce around the country, without problem.

The fact that the country is facing extraordinary economic difficulties does not negate the fact that sound economic decision can not be taken. Yes it can. For instance, prior to the rebel invasion a lot of our Liberian citizens were very much entrenched in agricultural activities. At that time a good number of our population were employed in the informal sector of our Liberian economy.
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Liberia: Agriculture Ministry trashed armyworms presence in Careysburg; recommends aerial spraying to eradicate further infestation
Jan 26, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The Ministry of Agriculture has described as untrue public outcries that the invading caterpillar alias armyworms have reached Careysburg city, three kilometers east of Liberia’s capital Monrovia.

Agriculture Minister Chris Toe made this clarification over the weekend when he presented the first report of the invading armyworms in central Liberia to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
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Liberia: “Job Creation is the major challenge of the Liberian Government”, says Ambassador Greenfield
Jan 24, 2009
Michael Kpayili

United States Ambassador accredited to Liberia says job creation still remain the major challenge of the Liberian government and called on institutions responsible to double up their strategies in attracting investments in Liberia.

Madam Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the plight of jobless people parading the streets of Monrovia and by extension Liberia requires a speedy approach in responding to the desire of Liberians wanting to work. She said the desire to work is visibly seen on the faces of Liberians and as such, a holistic approach is necessary.
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Open Letter to the Liberian Mandingo Community of Australia:
Jan 24, 2009
Musa V. Sheriff
Vancouver, Canada
It was with real contentment and gratification that I learned of your progress in the formation, and building of a Liberian Mandingo Federation in Australia.
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President Sirleaf challenges Liberia National Bar Association
Jan 24, 2009
LEM Press

(MONROVIA-Jan. 24, 2009): Members of the Liberian National Bar Association have been challenged to practice their profession in a manner that brings dignity to the profession, promote and protect the integrity of judicial proceedings and increase the confidence of the poorest of the country in the legal system. The assurance that the courts of Liberia provide justice for all without fear or sale, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf noted, is the biggest testimony to the quality of the rule of law. According to an Executive Mansion release, the President was delivering the keynote address Friday at the installation of officers of the Liberian National Bar Association.
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LIBERIA: Three strikes - Female, HIV-positive and unemployed
Jan 22, 2009
IRIN
MONROVIA, 22 January 2009 (IRIN) - In Liberia unemployed women who are HIV-positive face three hurdles to job security: a tough post-war economy, gender discrimination and demands at home aggravated by HIV, say social service providers and some HIV-positive women.
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Liberia: Conmany Wesseh Remains Ambassador to UN
Jan 22, 2009
MOFA Press
(MONROVIA, JANUARY 22, 2009): The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified that at no time was Liberia’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Conmany B. Wesseh rejected at the UN as is being speculated in Monrovia.
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President Sirleaf signs more than 2.6billion USD Concession Agreements
Jan 22, 2009
LEM Press

(MONROVIA-Jan. 21, 2009): Government’s effort to attract more foreign investment to the country, has received a major boost with the signing of two major concession agreements. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Wednesday signed a Mineral Development Agreement reached between the Government of Liberia and China Union Mining Company, Ltd., for the exploration of Bong Mines. An agreement between Government and Buchanan Renewable (Monrovia) Power Inc., to supply power to Monrovia and its environs has also been signed by the President.
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President Sirleaf meets senior officials of Grand Gedeh
Jan 22, 2009
LEM Press
(MONROVIA - January 21, 2009): A meeting between President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and senior officials of Grand Gedeh has taken place in Monrovia. Wednesday’s meeting an Executive Mansion release says, was convened at the request of senior representatives of the county as part of continuing efforts towards strengthening ties between the peoples of Grand Gedeh and Nimba counties.
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Global health community commits over $ 630 million in aggressive push for polio eradication
Jan 22, 2009
Rotary International
Rotary International, Gates Foundation, United Kingdom, and Germany pledge critically needed funds and urge donor and endemic country governments to help end crippling childhood disease

SAN DIEGO, Calif., U.S.A. (Jan. 21, 2009) -- Rotary International, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the British and German governments today committed more than $ 630 million in new funds to fight polio, a crippling and sometimes fatal disease that still paralyzes children in parts of Africa and Asia and threatens children everywhere. In addition to pledging needed funds, leaders urged additional donors and leaders of countries where polio still exists to join them in aggressive push for eradication.
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Liberia: Ministry of Labour presents draft Labour code to Liberia Labour Congress
Jan 21, 2009
Michael Kpayili

The Ministry of Labour has presented a draft copy of the Labour code to the Liberia Labour Congress for review. The draft code according to Labour Minister Samuel Kofi Woods is aimed at revisiting and modernizing the Labour code which encompasses the Labour laws of Liberia.
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Liberia National Police graduate record number of women in revamped force
Jan 21, 2009
UNMIL Press

Female police officer at swearing in ceremony {Photo: C.Herwig - UNMIL]

Monrovia, Liberia – The United Nations Deputy Envoy has hailed Class 33’s record number of 104 women police officers as a demonstration of the progress made since March 2005 when the first batch of the new Liberia National Police (LNP) completed training. Ms. Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu was speaking at a graduation ceremony for 150 recruits held on 17 January which saw the LNP increase its current strength to 3,800, exceeding the UN initial target of 3,500. LNP female representation has grown exponentially and stands at 449 officers, or 12.6 percent of the current LNP strength.
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President Johnson-Sirleaf Congratulates New U.S. President
Jan 20, 2009
MOFA Press
(MONROVIA, TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2009): The President of the Republic of Liberia, Her Excellency Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, has sent a Congratulatory Message to His Excellency Barack Obama on the occasion marking his Inauguration as 44th President of the United States of America.
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Liberia: Bong County Senator Taylor welcomes the reinstatement of Superintendent Jackson
Jan 20, 2009
Michael Kpayili

Bong County Senior Senator Jewel Howard Taylor has welcomed the reinstatement of Bong County Superintendent Rennie Jackson and called on a collective approach in enhancing development in the county.
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Liberia: Harvard Team Concludes Liberia’s Growth Strategy Mission to Liberia
Jan 19, 2009
MPEA Press

(L-R) Jordan Ryan (UNDP); Minister Amara Konneh, Dr. Ricardo Hausmann, Matt Andrews, and Felipe Campate.

Monrovia, Liberia: January 17, 2008 – A team of Harvard economists today concluded a week-long mission to Liberia working with the Ministry of Planning & Economic Affairs to develop a scope for a growth strategy for Liberia. The Minister of Planning & Economic Affairs, Honorable Amara Konneh, on Tuesday welcomed the three member team from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government to assist the Government of Liberia (GOL), through the Ministry of Planning & Economic Affairs (MPEA), and explore ways to further Liberia’s development agenda – the Poverty Reduction Strategy.
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Liberia Hopeful of Stronger Ties With New U.S. Administration
Jan 19, 2009
MOFA Press
Monrovia, January 19, 2009, Monday: The Foreign Minister of Liberia, Her Excellency Olubanke King-Akerele, says the Government of Liberia does not foresee any significant change in relations between Liberia and the United States under the new U.S. Administration.
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UNESCO Director Presents Letter of Credence
Jan 19, 2009
MOFA Press
Monrovia, January 19, 2009, Monday: The Regional Director of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Culture Organization (UNESCO), Her Excellency Madam Elizabeth Moundo, has presented her Letter of Credence to Her Excellency, Mrs. Olubanke King-Akerele.
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Liberia: TRC Commissioners divided over document at the National Legislature
Jan 19, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Commissioners of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission are divided over preliminary document presented to the National Legislature pending the compilation of the full document in June 2009.

Commissioner Dada Dolopei, Gerald Coleman, Pearl Brown Bull and Kafumaba Konneh revealed this information days after three Commissioners of the TRC presented the first portion f the TRC document to the National Legislature.
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Liberia: Two Former Ninmba County officials express confident in the reconciliation process in Nimba County
Jan 18, 2009
Michael Kpayili
A former lawmaker of Nimba County says the ability to change one’s mind and behavior toward the promotion of transformation in the Liberian society is achievable if Liberians will decide good against evil.

Hon. John T. Yorlay recalled several misconceptions and misinformation that led to the deaths of prominent citizens of Nimba County . Mr. Yorlay who represented Nimba County in the National Transitional Government of Liberia said although the fifteen years old civil war has taken Liberians miles from development, there is a still sufficient chance to rebuild both the human and infrastructural developments of the country.
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President Sirleaf to personally intervetion in the Nimba land disputes is applauded
Jan 17, 2009
Abdulah K. Dunbar
(Monrovia, January 15, 2009) – A prominent son of Nimba County, Mr. Abdulah K. Dunbar, is commending President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf for holding meetings with senior officials of Nimba including leading members of the Mandingo, Mano and Gio ethnic groups aimed at discussing the land disputes, and development initiatives among others in the county.

The meetings followed several appeals made by Mr. Dunbar for President Sirleaf to personally intervene in the Nimba land disputes in a bid to bring amicable solutions to the problems. Mr. Dunbar’s appeals were warranted by reports of renewed tensions over the disputed lands.
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Liberia: Government suffers setback in murder case again; Hans and Mydea Williams release from jail
Jan 17, 2009
Michael Kpayili
After months of legal battle over arguments surrounding the death of Angel Togba, criminal Court –A- at the temple of Justice has admitted two accused murder suspects to bail.

Defendants Hans Williams and Mydea Williams were arrested and charged with murder in connection with the brutal death of their foster child, Angel Togba whose body was discovered hanging in the bathroom of the two suspects.
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Liberia: "Transformation is a gradual incremental process" Minister Bropleh as UP celebrates three years in office
Jan 17, 2009
Michael Kpayili
In an attempt to overwhelmingly and overzealously praise Liberia’s President and government three years in office, a Propagandist of the Public Information department of government has outlined several achievements made by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

Here are excerpts from Information Minister Lawrence Bropleh’s assertion: “The total transformation and reformation of government policies is a gradual incremental process”, “I also want to believe that hardship will be in heaven”.
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US Ambassador Visits the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs, Commends Ministry on Ownership of its Institution-Building Initiative
Jan 14, 2009
MOPEA Press
Minister Konneh (L), Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield (C) hold a candid discussion at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs.

Monrovia, January 14, 2009—US Ambassador accredited to Liberia, Her Excellency Linda Thomas-Greenfield, during a courtesy call to the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs (MPEA) on Wednesday, stressed the need for government agencies to follow the example of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs by taking ownership of their institutional building process.
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On the President Sirleaf’s Appearance at the TRC
Jan 14, 2009
Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei
pericle925@yahoo.com / www.ibrahimnyei.blogspot.com
we have heard the testimonies of key actors, including the leaders of the NPFL, INPFL, ULIMO-K, ULIMO-J, MODEL, LURD, LPC, and other smaller groups that were duped as �defend forces’ for tribal or geographical settings. Individuals associated with the People’s redemption Council and the mass citizen-driven revolutionary groups of PAL and MOJA have also appeared and vivid accounts of their experiences during the internecine political decadence our country went though were delivered publicly.

At this critical and terminal point of public hearings in the work of the Commission, the attention of this series has been drawn to a very simple issue – the appearance of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf - that have turned to be controversial due to misinterpretation, misinformation, sycophancy, and the traditional Liberian style of favor-buying from the power-that- be.
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Possible Outcome of the King Sao Bosso Lecture Series Between Liberians and African Americans in Southwest Philadelphia
Jan 14, 2009
Ali Sylla
The King Sao Bosso Lecture Series under the auspices of the Liberian Mandingo Association of Pennsylvania held a coexistence dialogue between Liberians and African Americans in Southwest Philadelphia on January 10, 2009, and the aim was to contribute knowledge and Mutual Understanding of the Liberian Mandingoes and the community. Also analyze and explore key aspects of, and relationships between, various kinds of misconceptions and misperception of Africans {Liberians} living in Southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Liberia: President Sirleaf meets Nimbains about unsettled land disputes in Nimba County Liberia: President Sirleaf meets Nimbains about unsettled land disputes in Nimba County
Jan 14, 2009
LEM Press

The meeting called at the invitation of the President, was intended to discuss, among other issues, development initiatives in Nimba and the land disputes. Two years ago, the President established a Commission to handle land disputes and other burning issues in the county and make recommendations about resolutions.
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Liberia: An injured family member reacts to Taylor's family claim
Jan 14, 2009
Michael Kpayili
Barely twenty-four hours after the official position statement of Taylor’s family over the ninety-seven years prison sentence of Charles Taylor jr, alias “Chucky” in the United States, a brother of a victim of Chucky’s action has sharply reacted to Taylor’s family position and termed it as devilish.

Mr. Robert S. Cooper said he wished other ex-combatants who were involved in torturing peaceful civilians could be given similar trial like that of Chucky in the United States.
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Liberia: Senator Prince Y. Johnson vows to resist any arrest if included in war crime indictment
Jan 12, 2009
Michael Kpayili

The former head of the defunct rebel fiction, the Independent National Patriotic Front of Liberia (INPFL) has vowed to resist any attempt to arrest him for war crime and crime against humanity.

Nimba County Senator Prince Johnson said he has unearthed a secret document prepared by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission linking him and several other former rebel generals to wide-range of atrocities committed during the days of rebel activities in Liberia.
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What is The Liberian Diaspora Advisory Board?
Jan 11, 2009
Clarence Moniba
Understanding that Liberians in the United States have an incredible potential to assist in resolving some of the most pressing challenges currently facing Liberia, Liberian Ambassador to the U.S., Nathaniel Barnes, is looking to fully engage the Diaspora in helping to achieve the goals outlined in the Government of Liberia’s Poverty Reduction Strategy. To do this, the Liberian Embassy in Washington, D.C. is creating the Liberian Diaspora Advisory Board which will be made up of Liberians and non-Liberians in the following three categories:
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Liberia : Liberian President Sirleaf Calls for Practical and Pragmatic Solutions To Global Economic Crisis
Jan 10, 2009
LEM Press
Paris, France-Jan. 10, 2009 – An international conference on the global economic crisis, has ended in the French capital, Paris, with a call by Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, urging financial institutions and the world’s leading economies to focus on finding practical and pragmatic solutions to the economic challenges facing the world community.

The debate, President Johnson Sirleaf cautioned, should not be framed around extreme forms of ideology, more dangerous for a return to closed markets or markets heavily controlled by the state.
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Liberian Behavioral Health Services In Action In Philadelphia
Jan 10, 2009
Daniel Gayou
Close the Gap, Dare to Care

In an effort to ease the growing tension among African immigrants in the City of Philadelphia, a local community-based Non-profit organization has been formed. The Liberian Behavioral Health Services was established out passion to deliver professional mental health, substance abuse and HIV/AIDS services to African immigrants, refugees and asylees residing in the City of Philadelphia and its surroundings.
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Liberia: Student group threatens demonstration if second autopsy is not reported in court
Jan 9, 2009
Michael Kpayili
As investigation in the death of little Angel Madea Togba progress, the National High School Student Union of Liberia (NAHISSU) has observed with keen disappointment the delay of the second autopsy report of little Angel Togba which cost the government of Liberia has underwritten.
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Liberia: Liberians in the U.S. Hosts Post Inaugural Ball In Washington DC For Obama
Jan 9, 2009
LIFO Press
Washington, DC January 9 – Hundreds of Liberian nationals in the U.S. are expected to be joined by U.S. dignitaries and diplomats on January 24th near Washington DC in a “Post Inaugural Ball” celebrating the oath of office of the first African-American president of the United States.

The event which is scheduled to be held at the Camelot in the Washington DC suburb of Upper Marlboro, is sponsored by the “Liberians For Obama” (LIFO)
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Liberia: Cllr. Tubman refutes media reports of his alliance with CDC
Jan 8, 2009
Michael Kpayili
A defeated Presidential Candidtate in the 2005 Presidential and general elections in Liberia has refuted media speculations that he has finalized a merger with the Congress for Democratic Change.

Cllr. Winston Tubman said no discussion has taken place between he and executives of the CDC about he (Tubman) serving as Flag Bearer and George Weah serving as his running mate in the 2011 Presidential election.
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Liberia: Dunn Commission Report Is In The President's Hand
Jan 7, 2009
LEM Press

Professor Elwood Dunn reports to President Sirleaf

MONROVIA-January 7, 2009: The Commission set up three months ago by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to investigation an alleged email scandal has submitted its report to the President.
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Liberia: Commerce Ministry shut down business houses for selling sub-standard goods
Jan 7, 2009
Michael Kpayili
The Director of Standards, Mr. Mohamed M. Turay

In a bid to arrest the increase wave of sub-standard products on the Liberian market, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has launched a vigorous campaign aimed at discouraging the sales of expired goods on the market. The Ministry of Commerce through the Division of Standards conducted a random verification exercise of few business centers in around Monrovia and established faults in the transactions of sub-standards goods on the Liberian market.

During the exercise, several business houses were found to be selling cement below the actual 50kg weight which contravened and undermined standards established by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
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GNN Boss Cholo Brooks to Attend Journalism Summit in New York, USA
Jan 6, 2009
GNN News
Mr. J. Cholo Brooks, Head of GNN

The Committee of Concerned Journalists (CCJ) based in Washington DC, the United States of America has invited the head of Global News Network to attend its annual Summit and Dinner scheduled on January 13th, 2009.

According to a dispatch, "CCJ is extending a special invitation to all our members to join us at our first annual "Journalism Summit and Dinner" in New York City on January 13th at 6:30 p.m. at The Harvard Club of New York City located at 27 West 44th Street.

Our guest panel includes noted journalists Tom Brokaw, Christiane Amanpour and Nina Totenberg", the dispatch concluded. Meanwhile, Mr. Brooks has graciously accepted the invitation of this world media body.
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UNMIL hands over newly-refurbished Muslim school in northern Lofa County
Jan 6, 2009
UNMIL Press

Newly-rehabilitated Kolahun District Muslim Association Community School

Kolahun, Liberia – The UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) has handed over a newly-refurbished nine classroom community school in northern Lofa County’s Kolahun District for use by the community people. The Kolahun District Muslim Association Community School, destroyed during the civil crisis, was rehabilitated through UNMIL Quick Impact Projects programme.
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President Johnson-Sirleaf Congratulates Ghanaian President-elect
Jan 6, 2009
MOFA Press
Monrovia, Tuesday, January 6, 2009: The President of the Republic of Liberia, Her Excellency Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, has sent a Congratulatory Message to the President-elect of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency John Atta-Mills on the occasion marking his election as president of that West African State.
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Guinea Junta Plans Elections by Year-End, French Official Says
Jan 5, 2009
Alpha Camara
Jan. 5 (Bloomberg) -- Guinea’s military junta, which seized power last month, plans to hold elections by the end of 2009, said Alain Joyandet, France’s secretary of state for cooperation.

Joyandet traveled to the capital, Conakry, on Jan. 3 and held talks with Moussa Dadis Camara, the coup leader, as well as representatives of civil society and other political parties, Joyandet told reporters yesterday in the city.
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A Need for a Mental Revolution for Corruption Control in the New Liberia
Jan 3, 2009
Syrulwa Somah, Ph.D.
We dare not speak its name, but we must take up the ministry of Ezekiel and warn Liberia that corruption kills our souls, our people in the thousands. It robs our people of their future; it weakens our nation’s economy, as well as cheats us of our needed prosperity. It fosters ignorance, mis-education and poverty and poisons our democracy. Understandably, democracy does not survive where, proverbially, “corruption begets grandchildren”. We must fight demon of corruption.
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Liberia: NPA Managing Director Tubman reveals plans for public/private partnership at the Freeport of Monrovia
Jan 2, 2009
Michael Kpayili

In an attempt to improve productivity at the Freeport of Monrovia, the Managing Director of the National Port Authority has announced a plan to engage into a public/private partnership at major departments at the entity.
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LIHEDE 5th Anniversary Jubilee Confab
Jan 2, 2009
LIHEDE
The LIHEDE 2009 Jubilee, scheduled to be held in Greensboro, North Carolina in August 2009, will be held under the theme: “Understanding Ourselves and Our History: A Call to Unity & Collective Development in Liberia,” and it will look at the history, migration patterns, interethnic cooperation, linguistic tongues, and social, political, and legal institutions of the various ethnic groups of Liberia.
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Prez. Sirleaf Extends Holiday Greetings - Visits Former Transitional Chairman Bryant
Jan 1, 2009
LEM Press

MONROVIA-Dec. 31, 2008: President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has visited the residence of the former Chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia, Mr. Gyude Bryant in Monrovia. An Executive Mansion release says Wednesday’s visit, coming on the eve of the New Year, was part of the President’s goodwill gestures marking the holidays.
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A Change We Can All Believe In
Dec 31, 2008
Phamolie Morris Kromah
Philadelphia, PA Prfectmanager@aol.com
I knew she was going to take Liberia out of the repulsiveness of corruption and mendaciousness into a more innovative and modern state. I knew she was a mother before she was a politician and as such would be able to nurture and at the same time show tough love when need be.
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Liberia: Dock Workers President Grace Tee Kpaan named corruption as major impediment to nation building; challenges co workers
Dec 31, 2008
Michael Kpayili

The President of the Dock Workers Union of Liberia (DOWUL) of the National Port of Liberia says the major fight for the improvement of the Gateway to the nation economy is the earnest stands against corruption at the Freeport of Liberia.
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Prez. Sirleaf Holds Talks with Senior members of New Military Leadership in Neighbouring Guinea
Dec 30, 2008
LEM Press

MONROVIA-Dec. 30, 2008: A meeting has taken place in Monrovia between President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and a senior official of the new military leadership in neighboring Guinea, the 2nd Vice President General Mamadou Bah Camara.
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Liberia: BOMYA President acknowledges the brilliant examples of Muslim Youth in Ganta
Dec 30, 2008
Michael Kpayili
The Acting President of the Bong County Muslim Youth Association (BOMYA) has lauded the leadership and the entire membership of the Ganta Muslim Youth for Peace and Development for initiating and reawakening the spirit of peace and reconciliation through an elaborate program held in December.

In an exclusive interview with this media, Mr. Alieu V. Sheriff said in order to foster lasting peace among citizens of post conflict Liberia, an open initiative with the participations of all Liberians must be instituted on a monthly basis as means of forgetting the past and embracing the future.
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A New Year’s Day Message
Dec 30, 2008
Ambassador M. Nathaniel Barnes
Republic Of Liberia
As we reflect on and give thanks for the past, let us focus, not only on resolutions to improve our personal lives, but on our beloved Liberia as well. Whatever adversity our nation has faced over the years, as we continue to heal in unity, we must not forget our compatriots both here in the United States and back home that may be less fortunate than ourselves. Let us be grateful for a peaceful Liberia, and mindful that we must never again allow our country to be consumed with war, self hatred and deprivation.

Looking ahead, I trust that 2009 will be a very good year for the people of Liberia. I hope 2009 will bring continued bilateral ventures with the United States that will help to ensure our government’s promise in establishing lasting peace and prosperity for all Liberians.
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THE DILEMMA OF DEALING WITH THE MILITARY JUNTA IN GUINEA
Dec 30, 2008
Emmanuel Abalo
As the saying goes, "the reality is that there are two parties in Africa - the political and the military" . And so it has come to fruition and no surprise that the military has again forcibly taken the reins of state power with the declaration by Captain Moussa Dadis Camara that he is President of the Republic of Guinea following the death of longtime strongman General Lansana Conte over a week ago.

The coup d'etat has met with strong international condemnation and booting of Guinea from the continental grouping known as the African Union (AU) until democratic governance is restored although how an illegitimate government in Zimbabwe is not comparable to that in Guinea is incomprehensible..
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Year End Message to My Fellow Countrymen, Comrades, Well-Wishers and Audience
Dec 30, 2008
Ibrahim Al-Bakri Nyei
pericle925@yahoo.com / www.ibrahimnyei.blogspot.com
The year 2008 has gone and shall never return to meet us where it met us when we, mostly in our youths celebrated with lullabies and sent up praises to our Creator asking for longevity. At this time, our concern must not focus on request for longevity in life. What we must pray for considering the political climate and situation, which conventionally is at a disadvantage, is good governance, the product of which shall provide opportunities for longevity.

The year 2008 was a great challenge to lead campaigners for democracy and social justice in Africa. In our country, we saw the locust of corruption, due to the lack of security for public integrity, consuming the fabrics of good governance thereby depriving the masses of our people from better social services and ideal living standards.
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Liberia: "Wait and see" attitudes exhibited by MRU in Guinea problem is irresponsible in nature
Dec 29, 2008
Michael Kpayili
It is yet unclear to determine the outcome of the official position of the Mano River Union (MRU) concerning recent development filtering from the Republic of Guinea. The death of former President Lasana Conteh and the subsequent military take over by enlisted men of the Guinean army led by Captain Musa Kamara have created uncertainty over the existence of the Mano River Union and its ability to issue definite position over activities that seems to cripple and undermine democracy in its fullest.
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Is the Environment Relevant in Liberia?-A Protest Letter to FrontPageAfrica
Dec 27, 2008
AEW Press
The Africa Environment Watch (AEW), Inc., an umbrella organization of Liberia Environmental Watch, is gratified by the effort of FrontPageAfrica (FPA) to annually share with the Liberian people “scorecards” or government officials performance evaluation exercises to inform the public on how our government is managing our national affairs. AEW views FPA initiatives of “scoring” our officials job performances as a positive development.

However, AEW is equally concerned that the 2008 “Scorecard” or Report entitled “Liberian Government Three Years Later: Who Made It: The Grades Are In” didn’t include the “scorecard” for the Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia (EPA),
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Portable heater sparks fire that kills seven in Philadelphia
Dec 27, 2008
Larry King, Marcia Gelbart and Carolyn Davis
Inquirer Staff Writers
The fire erupted in a basement social room of a three-story duplex at 6418 Elmwood Ave. where a group of adults was watching the Bourne Ultimatum, a spy thriller, while the children slept on the floor, said one of the adults who escaped, Harris Murphy, 35, a Liberian immigrant.
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Guinea's coup leader pledges fight against corruption
Dec 27, 2008
Xinhua
ABIDJAN, Dec. 27 (Xinhua) -- Guinea's coup leader and self-proclaimed president Moussa Dadis Camara vowed Saturday to tackle corruption and renegotiate mining contracts when he addressed a public meeting, according to agencies' reports.
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Philadelphia fire kills 7 Liberians
Dec 27, 2008
CNN
(CNN) -- Seven people, including a toddler, died when fire roared through a three-story home in southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Friday night, fire officials said.

Six of the victims -- three adults, a teen and two children -- were found in the townhome's basement, huddled together, Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers said.

A 2-year-old boy who was pulled from the burning house by firefighters was later pronounced dead at Children's Hospital, Ayers said.

Eleven people, all of Liberian nationality, lived in the basement of the home, he said. Two were rescued by firefighters and two escaped on their own, Ayers said.

There were no stairs from the basement to the upper level and there was only one door leading out, he said.

Early clues suggest a kerosene heater may have started the blaze, but the fire marshal has not officially determined a cause, Ayers said.
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Liberia: Pending AIDS, Malaria and TB Forum attract several quarters in Liberia
Dec 27, 2008
Michael Kpayili
In a bid to tackle the increase wave of three major pandemics in the country, the government of Liberia in collaboration with its partners is expected to host a national forum for Malaria, AIDs and TB in Liberia.
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Liberian President Johnson Sirleaf Joins Other African leaders at Funeral for President Conte
Dec 26, 2008
LEM Press

MONROVIA-December 26, 2008: President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was among sub-regional and other African leaders attending the state funeral of the late Guinean President Lansana Conte on December 26, 2008 in Conakry. An Executive Mansion release says the Liberian President extended sympathy to the bereaved family and the people of Guinea as she, along with other leaders, paid tribute and viewed the remains as a mark of respect to the late Guinean leader. Thousands of Guineans and other sympathizers crammed the People’s Palace in Conakry to pay their last respects to their late leader. Leaders of member countries of the Mano River Union were all in attendance.

In a statement early this week, the Liberian leader described the death of President Conte as a great loss not only to the people of Guinea but also to Liberia, given the strong cultural ties as well as the pivotal role played by General Conte in restoring peace and stability to Liberia.

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Corruption: A De Facto Way of Life in Liberia
Dec 24, 2008
Moses D. Sandy
Liberia, the West African country, which is roughly the size of the State of Tennessee in the United States of America (USA), is more than 161 years old. Liberia is one of Africa’s oldest independent nations. The tiny West African state gained its sovereignty on July 26, 1847; and has a population of 3.3 million people with a literacy rate of approximately 58 persent

Liberia, despite its longevity, is one of the world’s least developed and impoverished nations. Eighty percent of Liberians live below the poverty line; and the unemployment rate in the country is put at 85 percent.
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Liberian Gov’t Extends Heartfelt Condolences to Guinea
Dec 23, 2008
MOF Press
(Monrovia, December 23, 2008): The Government of the Republic of Liberia has received with uttermost shock and great sadness the passing away of his Excellency General Lasana Conte, President of the Republic of Guinea, which sad event occurred on Monday December 22, 2008, after a period of illness.

On the mournful occasion, the Government and People of Liberia have extended to the brotherly people of Guinea heartfelt condolences for the irreparable loss sustained.
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STATEMENT ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE SPOKESPERSON FOR THE SECRETARY-GENERAL : ON THE DEATH OF PRESIDENT LANSANA CONTÉ OF GUINEA
Dec 23, 2008
News
The Secretary-General has learned of the death of the President of the Republic of Guinea, General Lansana Conté. He wishes to extend his sincere condolences and respect to the family of the late President and to the Government and people of Guinea as a whole.
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Guinea's army dissolves the government and suspends the constitution following the death of President Lansana Conte.
Dec 23, 2008
BBC
Guinea's army has announced that it has dissolved the country's government and suspended the constitution, hours after the death of President Lansana Conte.

In a state radio statement, Capt Moussa Dadis Camara said a "consultative council" of civilian and military leaders would be set up in their place.

State institutions were "incapable of resolving the crises which have been confronting the country", he said.
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Liberia: Catholic Apostolic Administrator Karnlay reconfirms his stand for the establishment of a war crime court for Liberia
Dec 22, 2008
Michael Kpayili
The Apostolic Administrator of the Catholic Church in Liberia has maintained his stand for the establishment of a war-crime court in Liberia. Father Andrew karnlay said the establishment of a war-crime court for Liberia will break the culture of impunities despite contrasting views among Liberians on the matters.
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Press freedom in Liberia’s fragile democracy
Dec 21, 2008
Aloysius Tarte Togba
The strength and importance of media in a democracy is well recognized. However, whose interest is sacrificed when freedom of the press is misused by journalists? Is it the interest of journalists, as individuals or the interest of the people who they pledged to serve?

Journalist should be caution to take a hard line against letting agitation and propaganda persuade them from the true meaning of the very freedom they stand to uphold.
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Liberia: Absorb Information Minister Bropleh assertion with keen understanding in solving rape cases
Dec 19, 2008
Michael Kpayili
Liberia’s Information Minister Dr. Lawrence Bropleh’s assertion concerning an alternative understanding of rape has been viewed with mix-reaction from observers linking the Information Minister to an attempt of supporting prostitution in Liberia. After soberly reflecting on the actuality and practical understanding of Rev. Bropleh statement, I developed a broad base understanding from a conceptualized viewpoint.
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Liberia: LEEP/MOL launch major cleaning-up campaign; targets several communities; employed over 1,500 youths
Dec 18, 2008
Michael Kpayili

The Emergency Employment Program (LEEP) and the Ministry of Labour have embarked on short-term employment opportunities for youths around the country. The short-term employment program according to Labour Minister Samuel Kofi Woods is to provide a temporary employment for community based youth organizations basically within the Monrovia areas.
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For Christmas Celebration, I Will Not Paint My House, Let Them Take Me To Court - Sheikh Kafumba Konneh Declares
Dec 18, 2008
Cholo Brooks

Speaking during the interview at his residence, quoting a paragraph in one of Liberia's historical books on why he should not abide by the MCC request

Recent mandate by the Monrovia City Corporation, that all residents of the City of Monrovia to graciously paint their buildings for the celebration of this year’s Christmas Day has been challenged by one of Liberia’s renowned Muslims, Sheikh Kafumba Konneh, saying he will not abide by the mandate of the City Government.
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Investors use Capital Lease Options to Circumvent Liberia Constitutional Law
Dec 17, 2008
Robert Llewellyn Kilby, CPA, CITP
Enforcement of Existing Tax Laws could provide Some Degree of Oversight.

Since returning to Liberia a couple of months ago, I have had several experiences – some encouraging and others upright discouraging. The most glaring and daunting experience I had is related to the plight of the real estate market in Liberia. My assessment is that the real estate market in Liberia is an oligopoly controlled primarily by a hand full of foreign investor. For example, in Monrovia these individuals are charging the NGOs and other International Organizations exorbitant amount of rent making it unaffordable for the average Liberian.
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Who wins the Corruption War?
Dec 16, 2008
Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei
Pericle925@yahoo.com / +2315694498
CRITICAL ISSUES OF NATIONAL CONCERN (VI)

President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf in her inaugural address declared corruption as publc enemy number one, indicating that a fierce battle would be launched against corruption. But President Sirleaf did not indicate where the battle front or the buffer zone will be. Moreover the word corruption has become a political cliché to either destroy opponents or to score political victory. Both are evidence in the ongoing war.
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Statement by Honorable Amara M. Konneh on the Millennium Challenge Corporation’s (MCC) Threshold Program Eligibility for Liberia
Dec 15, 2008
News
We are here today to proudly announce that Liberia has qualified for a Threshold Program of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) of the United States. The MCC evaluates country performance by looking at 17 indicator areas in three categories – 1) Ruling Justly, 2) Investing in People, and 3) Encouraging Economic Freedom.

The Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) is a new US Government foreign assistance program open only to an exclusive club of reformed-minded nations that include African countries such as Rwanda, Tanzania and Ghana, and provides grants to poor countries that demonstrate their commitment to good governance, investing in their people, and promoting economic freedom.
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Liberia and Timor-Leste named eligible for MCC’s threshold program
Dec 15, 2008
News
Washington, D.C. — The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Board of Directors selected Colombia , Indonesia , and Zambia as new countries eligible for large-scale grant funding under the U.S. Government’s innovative foreign assistance program to reduce poverty through economic growth.

In addition, Liberia was selected as eligible for MCC’s threshold program which provides smaller grants to help reform-minded governments improve their performance on the policy indicators necessary for participation in the compact program.
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Liberia: "Segregation is preventing Liberia from getting on the road to peace and development", Hon. Zawolo Zuagele outlines
Dec 15, 2008
Michael Kpayili
A former lawmaker of Nimba County says segregation is preventing Liberia from getting on the road to peace and development. Speaking on the topic: “Liberia will not get on the road to peace and development until Liberians live above segregation”, Hon. Zuagele outlined the following conceptual analysis as the basis for understanding the exchanges between and among the entire citizenry of Nimba County.

He said peace is the desire condition of justice and whatever the name justice must meet the test of logic and wisdom.
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Liberia: Newly Refurbished Medical Center for Fireston Workers
Dec 14, 2008
LEM Press

MONROVIA-Dec. 13, 2008: The newly refurbished Firestone Medical Center in Harbel, Margibi County, has been formally dedicated. The facilities were opened Friday by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf at ceremonies marking the occasion.
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In Response to Ambassador Winston Tubman: Not Blames, Constructive suggestions.
Dec 14, 2008
Abdoulaye W. Dukulé and Emmanuel Dolo
Last week, former UN Ambassador and NDPL 2005 presidential candidate Counselor Winston Tubman added his voice to the chorus, calling on President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to take measures to curb corruption. Counselor Tubman used the airwaves and the Liberian web community to communicate his views. He started off by saying that he acted in response to calls by a cross section of the citizenry who wanted him to address the issue.

Counselor Tubman, more than any Liberian of his generation, knows much about corruption in Liberia.
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Liberia: Muslim Youth group President Jabateh outlines activities for the reunion day celebration in Ganta
Dec 12, 2008
Michael Kpayili
As celebration for the reunion and togetherness of Moslem Youth in Ganta gears up, the President for the Moslem Youth for Peace and Development is calling on Moslems and non-Moslems to join hands together in turning aside their bitter past for the good of their environment. Speaking to cross-section of reporters in Ganta ahead of the pending reunion celebration, Mr.Korkesi Jabateh urged all inhabitants of Ganta to reawaken their conscience and embrace forgiveness for the good of their community.

The program according to Mr. Jabateh will commence with a special prays for lasting peace and reconciliation among the entire citizenry of Ganta at the Ganta Central Mosque.
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As Corruption Eats up Liberia, Liberians Question Ellen Led Government’s Sincerity
Dec 12, 2008
J. Cholo Brooks
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf during the election that brought her to power

Corruption is said to have overweight the Liberian Government, and waiting to take over the country after government’s failure to track it down over the past two years of its continuation.

Every sector of the country is now engulf with this anti developmental bug which is been backed by individuals appointed to serve and protect the interest of their country; a nation they professes to love so much.

This situation is been discussed in every street corners and entertainment centers in Monrovia, even in the urban and rural areas of the country with people wondering as to why, despite promises made by Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf during her inauguration as President of Liberia, with a stated commitment to giving high priority to anti-corruption efforts in this troubled and “Don’t care nation” – Liberia.
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AFRICA: Tell us more - Children call for sex education
Dec 11, 2008
IRIN
DAKAR, 11 December 2008 (IRIN) - Children in sub-Saharan Africa want to know more about sex and how to protect themselves from HIV, but taboos surrounding children's sexuality can mean life-saving information is kept from them, according to an international NGO.
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LIBERIA: Drug abuse on the rise
Dec 11, 2008
IRIN
MONROVIA, 10 December 2008 (IRIN) - "I have been a drug addict since the military hostilities started in Liberia," said ex-combatant Ophelia, now 36, who fought with a rebel group during the country's 1989-2003 war.
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Mano River Union Leaders Adopt Measures to Consolidate Peace in sub-region
Dec 11, 2008
LEM Press

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone-December 11, 2008: The Chairperson of the Mano River Union sub-regional grouping, Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, has expressed satisfaction that there is a very good relationship among leaders of the sub-region and a strong commitment to collaborate for economic cooperation and integration. The President said that although challenges are the same in each of the member countries, measures are being formulated to address those challenges. It will take some time, the Liberian leader noted, emphasizing the need to work with international partners to achieve the objectives of the Union.
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Liberia:A Good example of Senator John McCain to African Politicians and Leaders
Dec 11, 2008
Michael Kpayili
The victory of U.S President elect Barrack Obama has been graced with high jubilation and pride around Liberia judging from its historical and political nature. Many have doubt over the outcome of the election result prior to the actual polling day. The reasons were mixed with many raising the ideology of stereotype as regards to race while others viewed the U.S. election result as an armed twisting result.
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Liberia: Muslims in Ganta Joyously Observed Tabaskes - News In Pictures
Dec 9, 2008
GNN News

On Monday, Liberian Moslems joined other Moslems around the world to celebrate Tabaskes an annual event where sacrificing are made on this day.
Moslems in Ganta, Nimba County were no exception to the celebration of this great day, hundreds of them gathered at the Ganta Central Mosque to pray for Allah’s richly blessings on Liberia.
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Former Commissioner Jabateh, Others Celebrate "Tabaskes" Colorfully, Killed Cows As Citizens Reconciled
Dec 8, 2008
Cholo Brooks

The annual celebration of “Abraham Day” or Tabaskes was today colorfully celebrated in Ganta by Ganta former Commissioner Vamala Jabateh and others after going through a traditional Islamic prays at the Ganta Central mosque.
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Liberia: UNICCO's President Keita donates generator to Muslim Community in Ganta
Dec 8, 2008
Michael Kpayili
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As Liberian Farmers Display Products At National Fair - Prez. Sirleaf Receives FAO's Ceres Medal Award
Dec 7, 2008
LEM Press
MONROVIA - December 04, 2008: President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is to receive this year’s Food and Agricultural Organization’s (FAO) Ceres Medal Award.

Making the disclosure recently, the Country Representative of the Food and Agricultural Organization in Liberia, Mr. Winfred Hammond, said the award will be presented to the Liberian leader by F.A.O. Director General Jacques Diouf at this year’s National Agricultural Fair to be held in Voinjama, Lofa County on Saturday, December 6, according to the Executive Mansion release.
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Woods: "International solidarity and strategic alliances among trade unions are imperatives in the campaign to counter the impact of globalization"
Dec 7, 2008
MOL News

Minister Woods, Nicole Lee (Executive Director of TransAfrica Forum), Danny Glover (Chair, TransAfrica Forum), Leo Gerard (President, United Steel Workers of America)

Wednesday, December 3, 2008- "International solidarity and strategic alliances among trade unions are imperatives in the campaign to counter the impact of globalization" says Minister of Labor, Samuel Kofi Woods, II.

The Minister of Labor of the Republic of Liberia was speaking at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Washington DC on Wednesday, December 3rd, when he presented this year's Champion of Justice Award to the United Steel Workers of America.
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Liberia: Weak Justice System provoke jailbreak and encourages insecurity
Dec 6, 2008
Michael Kpayili
The Judiciary system in Liberia is considered and rated among the least in the world with an accused persons being detained for over a year without court trial. The Monrovia central Prison, a legal institution built for instituting correction through rehabilitation of convicted criminals is now been used as a withholding cells for both criminals going through sentence and those accused of committed crime and awaiting trail.
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Who is taking care of the children?
Dec 6, 2008
PLUSNEWS
DAKAR, 5 December 2008 - Armed conflicts and political instability in West Africa have left many children vulnerable to HIV infection and suffering from psychological distress, but little attention is paid to their needs.

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Liberian women commit to safeguarding gains achieved through UN funding
Dec 6, 2008
UNMIL Press

Paynesville, Liberia – During a ceremony held to honour the UN Envoy to Liberia, Ellen Margrethe Løj, women beneficiaries of the Community Empowerment Programme (CEP) in the Soul Clinic community in the Monrovia suburb of Paynesville, expressed their commitment to safeguarding the gains made through grants provided by the United Nations family in Liberia.
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Liberia: Ministry of Planning & Economic Affairs Conducts Training on Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation of Poverty Reduction Strategy
Dec 5, 2008
MOPEA Press
www.mopea.gov.lr
Monrovia, Liberia: December 4, 2008 – The Ministry of Planning & Economic Affairs, in preparations for overseeing the implementation of the Poverty Reduction Strategy through a robust monitoring & evaluation process, has conducted a two-week training at the Liberia Institute of Public Administration (LIPA) for all Ministries/Agencies that have deliverables under the four pillars: Consolidating Peace and Security, Revitalizing the Economy, Strengthening Governance and the Rule of Law, and Rehabilitating Infrastructure and delivering Basic Services.
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Sundaygar Dearboy : “I fought For The NPFL”
Dec 5, 2008
Author:
Sundaygar Dearboy, Now One of Liberia's finest musicians
A contradictory Michael Davies alias “Sundaygar Dearboy” has finally admitted to fighting for Charles Taylor’s defunct NPFL but denied accusations of atrocities.

The popular musician who was accused by several witnesses testifying before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Liberia of gross human right violations including murder, rape, torture, arson and looting admitted commanding a band of rebels in the towns of Garduo and Deso in Grand Bassa County but said he was not knowledgeable of any rights abuses committed against civilians.
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Liberia: MOL/ABA signed MOU for the protection of Labour Force in Liberia; designates Labour Solicitor
Dec 5, 2008
Michael Kpayili
The Ministry of Labour and the American Bar Association-Africa Rule of Law Initiative have concluded a Memorandum of Understanding for a technical legal assistance to the Ministry.

The agreement is to establish a framework and the respective obligations of the American Bar Association-Rule of Law Initiative (ABA) and the Ministry of Labour of the Republic of Liberia in connection with the placement of a lawyer to assist the Ministry in the determination of labour disputes in accordance with the labour laws.
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Liberia: LEAP/MOL identify with local communities ahead of Christmas
Dec 5, 2008
Michael Kpayili
The Ministry of Labour through the Liberia Emergency Employment Program and Liberia Employment Action Program (LEEP/LEAP) has initiated a major clean-up campaign within the city of Monrovia.

Speaking Wednesday, December 3, 2008 when he presented working materials to the Randall Street Community the National Coordinator of the LEEP/LEAP, George Saah said, LEEP in collaboration with various communities in central Monrovia had embark on the cleaning of drainage from the Newport Street Community through the Buzzie Quarter.
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President Sirleaf's Statement on Corruption
Dec 4, 2008
LEM Press
Over the past few months, there have been numerous media reports and commentaries on corruption in public service, some constructive and others bordering on perception and the historic suspicion of those in government’s service.

The government welcomes the determination of the media and other well-meaning citizens to join us as true partners in the fight against corruption.

Undoubtedly, our nation has been plagued with long standing plunder and systemic corruption throughout society, both in government and beyond. This is a reality we must face.
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Monrovia: A City Stuffed With Congestion Again, More Buyers, Less Sellers
Dec 3, 2008
J. Cholo Brooks

Down Waterside, Commercial parts of the City of Monrovia

Monrovia, one of Africa’s oldest cities, has swelled again as thousands of Liberians and foreign residents endlessly hustling for their living, while others on the hunt for “Give me my Charismas” continues.
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Liberia: Former Ninmba County lawmaker Yorlay expresses confident in the reconciliation process in Nimba County
Dec 2, 2008
Michael Kpayili
Mr. Yorlay who also served as County Inspector of Nimba acknowledged the desperate need of reconciliation amongst citizens of Nimba in spite of tribal affiliation or religious believes. “Nimba County has an overwhelming challenge to commence the process of reconciliation and forgiveness. I am confident that the progressive development currently ongoing in Nimba County entails simultaneous forgiveness and the trashing out of deep wounds and the settlement of differences”, Hon. Yorlay outlined.

He challenged citizens of the five tribes in Nimba County to invoke the spirit of love, peace and desist any act of violence. Commenting on the land dispute in Ganta, Hon Yorlay called on the elders of Ganta especially those of the five tribes in Nimba County to engage in regular dialoguing and constant meeting where priority of importance will be highlighted and addressed.
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Liberia: A dying need of help at the J.W. Pearson High School in Ganta as students sit on on floor to learn
Dec 1, 2008
Michael Kpayili

The library of the school was the center of attraction during our visit at the institution. Although there are not many books in the library, half of the books in the library were LIMANY/I-HELP Liberia donated books. The library is extremely clean contrary to the uncomfortable condition of classes at the school.
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In Kpein, Nimba County “Poro Society”, Snakes Drives Police Away, Local Commander Appeals for Logistics
Nov 30, 2008
GNN News

The only vehicle for the police in the County is presently down

Police authority in Nimba County says it is finding it very difficult to complete the deployment of its men throughout the county due to resentment from residents of local towns and villages in the county.

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The Plight of Those Living With Leprosy In Ganta
Nov 30, 2008
GNN News

Mr. Fine-Boy and Mr. Brooks during the interview

Fine-Boy Davies is one of the victims of leprosy, he has spent over twenty years at the Ganta Leprosy Rehab Center; he and others considered this center as their permanent home after being forced by this illness, leprosy.
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Monday Is “ World AIDS Day”
Nov 30, 2008
Foreign Ministry
Monrovia, November 29, 2008: Her Excellency Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, President of the Republic of Liberia, has by Proclamation, declared Monday, December 1, 2008 as “ World AIDS Day” to be observed throughout the country as a Working Holiday. The Theme of the day is “ STOP AIDS, KEP THE PROMISE”.
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Liberia: Moslems gear up for activties and outline plans ahead of Abraham's Day in Ganta
Nov 29, 2008
Michael Kpayili

Ahead of the Eld-Il-dha (Tabaski Day) which is widely known as Abraham’s Day, the head of the Moslem Community in Ganta is calling on all Muslims and non-Muslims to demonstrate the spirit of forgiveness in Liberia. Imam Mohammed Kromah said all Muslims must celebrate the day as a fulfillment of the sacrifice of Abraham who obeyed the instruction of Allah. He asked for forgiveness, love and peace among Muslims and non-Muslims in and out of Ganta for the unification and enhancement of their origin (Ganta).
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Nimba Youths Celebrates Abraham´s Day Or ¨Tabaskes¨ In Ganta With Messages of Peace, Unity, Reconciliation
Nov 28, 2008
GNN News

Mr. Kokesi Jabateh, the president of the Ganta Moslem Youths Association For Peace and Reconcilliation, speaking to the GNN in Ganta City, Nimba County today

As elders of Nimba County restlessly strive to resolve the issue of land dispute in the County between the Mandingoes, Gio and Mano, the youths of the Ganta this year have resolved to put behind them those things that always divided them and unite the county as they celebrates this year´s Abrahan Day or Tabaskes in Ganta.
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The National Bureau of Employment gets short term international consultant assistance
Nov 28, 2008
MOL Press release
Monrovia, November 28, 2008..The Ministry of Labour has gained the services of a short term international consultant to assist it develop a strategy for the operation of the National Bureau of Employment. The consultant, Leon Robert Heron, has been contracted by the International Labour Organization (ILO) to assist the Ministry in its restructuring and capacity building efforts, with a particular emphasis on modernizing the country’s employment services.
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Liberia: The profile of Liberia's most progressive city (Ganta) and its stands on reconciliation
Nov 28, 2008
Michael Kpayili

The city center of Ganta
Gompa city commonly known as Ganta is considered one of the progressive cities in Liberia judging from its enormous achievements in instituting policies that is gear toward reconciling inhabitants of the area. It is located in the northern part of Liberia with a distance of 10km from the border of Guinea. It shares common point with the highways linking Monrovia to the political capital of Nimba Count, Sanniquellie.

Ganta pays host to the sixteen tribes of Liberia but prominent amongst these tribes are Mano, Gio and Mandingo. The city is a common point for petty traders who transact consumable and non-consumable commodities.
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Banking Activities In Rural Liberia Progress, ¨No More Money Under the Beds¨Banking Activities In Rural Liberia Progress, ¨No More Money Under the Beds¨
Nov 28, 2008
GNN News

Offices of the Liberia Bank for Development and Investment in Ganta

Two commercial banks currently operating in rural Liberia have greatly brought relief to thousands of residents in that part of the Country, taking their hard earned monies from under their beds and other ¨Unsafe¨ areas to the bank.
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Journalist's camera confiscated by chief justice, later returned to him
Nov 27, 2008
CEMESP/IFEX
On 20 November 2008, the chief justice of Liberia, Johnny Lewis, ordered a camera belonging to a local journalist seized and confiscated after the journalist attempted to take a photograph of Lewis.

Journalist Sando Moore said that Chief Justice Lewis ordered United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) soldiers to seize the journalist's camera while he was attempting to take photographs on the grounds of the Temple of Justice in Monrovia.
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Liberia needs Restorative Dialogue in its Unique Society
Nov 26, 2008
Ali Sylla
This article examines some of the possibilities and what we as Liberians can do to implement humanistic approach to our today’s problems. This paper answers that and presents a broad overview of restorative justice practice during the last 30 years, how it impacted the criminal justice system in America and around the world.
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The Political & Social Survival of the Mandingo People in Present day Liberia
Nov 25, 2008
Jesefu Morris Keita
Project NEGEBOL
Initiative for Sustainable Peace & Development
In Post crisis Liberia
Unraveling the sycophantic and hypocritical nature of the so-called “National Mandingo Caucus of Liberia”, and the danger it poses to the political and social survival of the Mandingo ethnic group in present day Liberia:

The struggle for positive and progressive change can take different dimensions in terms of purpose, intent and cause. For the Mandingoes in Liberia, the battle has been directed at ensuring that the age old issue of political suppression and marginalization is adequately addressed. In addition, the perennial denial from fellow compatriots as it relates to the altruistic acceptance of the average Mandingo as a constituent element of the Liberian population and indigenous mosaic as revealed by all authentic Liberian historical sources is a serious challenge that is yet to be overcome.
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The Condition of Disabled Liberians: My Encounter with the Blinds
Nov 25, 2008
Ibrahim Al-bakri Nyei
2315694498/pericle925@yahoo.com
www.ibrahimnyei.blogspot.com
CRITICAL ISSUE OF NATIONAL CONCERN (V)--While roaming the streets of Monrovia one encounters many things, sometimes strange, mysterious and sometimes very interesting events that seem to be unimaginable. For those with hearts and minds for humanity come across sorrows while others may just move about. During those chores, it sometimes becomes a fortune to meet an old friend or a good friend and, to see entertainers –most of them in search of a bread to take home.

My observation has roughly concluded that three out of every twenty Liberians that roam the streets of Monrovia during the week must have some form of disability, or inability- blindness, physically impaired, mentally impaired and technically incapacitated (lacking in productive skills) - but LISGIS can prove me otherwise.
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Liberia: Report of Tuberculosis threatens the lives of inmates at the Monrovia Central Prison
Nov 25, 2008
Michael Kpayili
Amidst the over crowdedness of inmates at the Monrovia Central Prison, tuberculosis is said to be spreading at a high speed within the prison compound. The reports of infectious diseases at the Monrovia Central Prison were made public by the head of the Center for the Protection of Human Rights in Liberia, Cllr. Dempster Brown who reported a destitute situation of several inmates.
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Liberia: Confusion deepens at the Ministry of Public Works as employees challenge Minister Donzo
Nov 24, 2008
Michael Kpayili
Crisis between employees of the Ministry of Public Works and Minister Lusine Donzo is far from over as tension continues to developed unabated within the Ministry of Public Works. The tussle is basically surrounding an alleged dismissal of employees at the Public Works Ministry and financial issues over misapplication of funds and illegal dismissal of some senior officials at the institution.
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Liberia: Labour Minister Samuel Kofi Woods presents past newspapers to the PUL as source documents
Nov 24, 2008
Michael Kpayili

It came as a surprise when Labour Minister Samuel Kofi Woods provided newspaper dating back from1977 to the Press Union of Liberia to help in identifying sources regarding topics of past nature. It is vividly clear that this modern dispensation interest in buying and reading newspaper is mixed with many complaining of the lack of money.
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In Memory Of Dr. Harry Fumba Moniba Former Vice President Of Liberia
Nov 22, 2008
Mrs. Minita Kollie Moniba
We, the family of the late former Vice President of Liberia, Dr. Harry F. Moniba, are observing a quiet remembrance of him on the fourth anniversary of his passing. His death in a two-car accident on November 24, 2004, in Michigan occurred while he was preparing to again offer his experienced leadership to the Liberian people. He may not have completed his campaign of “Liberia First”, but he had a clear vision and tirelessly articulated it.

In life, Dr. Moniba provided leadership that was selfless, inclusive, and exemplary. He cared about Liberia and had a passion for putting national interest above self. He was unwavering in his commitment to peace and respect for rule of law, a strength and character that many of his supporters admired in the former Vice President.
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The US $ 19 Million Theft AT The Central Bank of Liberia !
Nov 22, 2008
PRO-YOUTHS
Monrovia, November 20, 2008….The Progressive Youth for Accountability & Transparency in Liberia says it attention has been drawn to the corruption saga at the Central Bank of Liberia where it has become glaring beyond all reasonable doubt that there are individuals at the nation’s bank who are out to totally retard the progress of this country as exemplified by the unimaginable theft of the Liberian people money.
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Liberia: PUL issues 48 hours ultimatum to Chief Justice Louis, warns further consequences if..
Nov 21, 2008
Michael Kpayili

“If the Journalist’s camera is not returned and an apology extended in forty-eight (48) hours, the Chief Justice will meet the full consequence of the press which by all indications would be a serious embarrassment for him’, a direct quotation signaled by the President of the Press Union of Liberia.



The President of the Press Union of Liberia, George Barpeh, has issued 48 hours ultimatum to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia for what he termed as an “attack” on Daily Observer journalist during his reportorial duty at the Temple of Justice.
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Yes we can, yes Africa can
Nov 20, 2008
Musa V. Sheriff
Vancouver, Canada
haidaramv@yahoo.com
Enough is enough; it seems that the new generation of Africa is ready and determined to put aside the stupidities of its leaders. If nothing else, the grand celebrations across the continent of Barrack Obama’s victory signal the determination of young people to turn the page on the ill-serving legacies from the ugly past: racism, tribalism, political witch-hunting, corruption, oppression and abuse of human rights – in Africa.
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Liberia: Land dispute leaves one dead and scores wounded in Nimba County
Nov 20, 2008
Michael Kpayili
Report emerging from Nimba County indicates growing tension between the peoples of Donpa Town in Saclepea district and Zoeplay Town in Tappita district which have led to the death of one person with scores wounded.
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Liberia: "Dismantle Liberia and re-conceptualize a real State", Minister Samuel Kofi Woods at TRC
Nov 19, 2008
Michael Kpayili

Labour Minister Samuel Kofi Woods has called for the dismantling of what appears to be a State called “Liberia” to a practical and more realistic value of inheritance. Appearing at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings in Monrovia, the tough spoken Human Rights activist demanded that the Liberian State be dismantled and re-conceptualized,
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LIBERIA: No relief as most Monrovians go without toilets
Nov 19, 2008
IRIN
MONROVIA, 19 November 2008 (IRIN) - With just one in 25 Liberians having access to a toilet, most use the nearest bush or beach, unwittingly committing what the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) calls "the riskiest sanitation practice".
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Flowers For The ‘Progressives’
Nov 19, 2008
Teeko Tozay Yorlay
ttyorlay@yahoo.com
(+231)-(0)6-412-216
....The unfortunate situation here is that our history as a people since the arrival of the freed slaves has not adequately mentioned anything substantive of those who the settlers met on the ground at the time of their arrival. Those that have been said only tell us of the pains and defeat stories of those met here and the victory stories of those that came;
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New University of Liberia President Discusses with Prez. Sirleaf
Nov 18, 2008
EM Press

MONROVIA-Nov. 18, 2008: The newly appointed President of the University of Liberia, Dr. Emmett Dennis has held discussions in Monrovia with the Visitor to the University, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. During Tuesday’s talks, Dr. Dennis thanked the Liberian leader for his preferment as President of the University. The Former Dean of Rutgers University discussed with the President his plans for the revitalization of the University of Liberia to improve the capacity of the institution.
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Liberian Schools Get Modern Facelift As Prez. Sirleaf Vows to Invoke Eminent Domain to Propel Development
Nov 17, 2008
EM Press

MONROVIA-Nov. 17, 2008: President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has inspected and dedicated a number of newly renovated schools under the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS). The President’s tour on Monday covered schools on Bushrod Island, including Marvi Sonii Elementary School, the Boatswain Elementary and Junior High School, the Emmanuel Johnson Junior High School and the D. Twe Memorial High School as well as the Logan Town Central Elementary School, where a newly constructed 10-classroom facility has been erected.
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We have a fundamental duty to care for Liberians, UN Deputy Envoy tells Filipino peacekeepers
Nov 17, 2008
UNMIL Press

Monrovia, Liberia – The Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General (DSRSG) for Rule of Law, Ms. Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu, has commended the UN Mission in Liberia - UNMIL - Filipino military for their significant contributions to Liberia in its recovery efforts and urged them to uphold their duty to care for the Liberian people.
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Liberia: Cultural activities abondoned in Liberia but Information Ministry reacts
Nov 17, 2008
Michael Kpayili

The Director of Training at the Liberia National Cultural Center says since the removal and relocation of the cultural center at Kendeji, dancers and drummers have scattered thereby leaving the entire cultural activities in Liberia abandoned.
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Liberia:FENYSO cautions Nimba caucus, demands committee of professionals to manage county/Mittal Steal funds
Nov 14, 2008
Michael Kpayili
The Federation of Nimba Youth and Student Organizations (FENYSO), an umbrella organization of Nimba Youth and student groupings wishes to express superlative surprise and disappointment over the manner and form in which the authorities of Nimba and the Madam Sirleaf led government have dismally and abysmally failed to develop a clearly laid out plan of how the Arcelor Mittal Steel Fund of 1.5million per each fiscal year for Nimba will be used to impact positively on the lives of the citizenry of Nimba and the county as a whole.
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Establish a Bureau of Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Nov 14, 2008
LIBHS Press Release
A United States based Non-profit organization; the Liberian Behavioral Health Services is calling on the Government of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf to establish a Bureau of Mental Health and Substance Abuse to address the mental health needs of Liberia.
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EDUCATION POSITION IN ISLAM
Nov 14, 2008
Sheikh Mohammed Kenneh
Knowledge and education occupy a great position in Islam. It is by knowledge that one increases one’s rank and wins valuable booty. Therefore, learning and education in all their aspects are a great means for creating a generation that will believe in the concept of its nation and its values. They are also the vehicle of progress for the society as a whole.
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Associate Justice Cllr. Kabina Janeh Urges Trial Judges to Up Hold Integrity of Court
Nov 13, 2008
UNMIL Press

Gbarnga, Bong County, Liberia - The Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, Cllr. Kabina Janeh has urged Judges and Magistrates to ensure the effective control of their courtrooms in the discharge of their duties of dispensing justice. He made the call on behalf of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia, Johnny N. Lewis at a 2-day training of Trial Judges and Magistrates in Gbarnga, Bong County.
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Alleged Serious Misconduct by a Jordanian Formed Police Unit Officer
Nov 13, 2008
UNMIL Statement
The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) has learned with dismay of a case of alleged serious misconduct by a Jordanian Formed Police Unit (FPU) officer which occurred early in the morning of Wednesday 12 November. According to reports, the Jordanian FPU officer allegedly assaulted a Liberia National Police (LNP) officer following an argument.
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Indian female police officers inspire women to join Liberian Police to support rule of law
Nov 13, 2008
unmil press

Monrovia, Liberia – The presence of the all-female Indian Formed Police Unit (FPU) in Liberia has inspired Liberian women to join the Liberia National Police (LNP), Head of the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), Ms. Ellen Margrethe Lřj, said when she awarded UN peacekeeping medals to more than 120 Indian police officers in Monrovia.
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Liberia: Embattle acting Pro-tempore Lassana joined Liberty Party as Senate mourn another death again
Nov 12, 2008
Michael Kpayili
As preparation to the building up of supports of political parties ahead of the 2011 general and presidential elections around the country gears up, a staunch member of the National Democratic Party of Liberia has denounced his membership with the party and joined another opposition political party.
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Custom brokers association, “another disgrace to Liberia
Nov 12, 2008
Sam K.Zinnah
Custom brokers are suppose to be people with ethical, professional, and high moral character but this seems to be the opposite of the Liberian custom brokers association. The Liberian custom brokers association is notoriously known to be intruders into customers, visitors, and private citizen’s properties thus leaving Liberia or the National Port Authority with the ugly image.
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Liberia: Embattle acting Pro-tempore Lassana joined Liberty Party as Senate mourn another death again
Nov 12, 2008
Michael Kpayili
As preparation to the building up of supports of political parties ahead of the 2011 general and presidential elections around the country gears up, a staunch member of the National Democratic Party of Liberia has denounced his membership with the party and joined another opposition political party.
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Liberia: Labor Ministry suspends Bong County Labor Commissioner for sexual assualt allegation
Nov 11, 2008
Michael Kpayili
The Ministry of Labor has announced the suspension of its Labor Commissioner in Bong County for his alleged involvement into sexual assault and molestation with a Nineteen year old girl in the County.
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A call for an Immediate Suspension of Corrupt Government Officials
Nov 11, 2008
PROYOUTHS
Monrovia, November 11, 2008 The Progressive Youth for Accountability and Transparency in Liberia (PROYOUTHS) is again calling on the Government of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to suspend with immediate effect the heads of NASSCORP, LTA and the Ministry of Public Works, pending investigation into persistent allegations of mammoth corruption and mal-administrative practices. “An attempt to remain silent and indecisive in the face of reports of massive corruption at these public institutions is tantamount to silent approval from the Presidency”, the group averred.
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