My wife and I went to the groceries store. As she browsed through the many books that lined the shelves, she realized that the front side of some of the books had been turned to the wall of the shelves. Being curious she turned the books around. The books that were turned around belonged to Barack Obama's...Dreams from My Father. That was a few weeks before November 4, 2008, the day Barack Obama was elected the 44th President of the United States.
The election of the first Black Man to the presidency of the United States of America had me whistle-blowing the entire night of November 4, 2008. I couldn't keep the excitement inside of me. I immediately got on the computer to palm kernel-crack the following piece:
In 2005 I was constantly driving between Silver Spring, Maryland, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Reston, Virginia, following Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf everywhere she went to give support for her run for the presidency of Liberia. Three years later and two weeks before the election of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States and the first black man to hold that position, I went through my own special ritual and meditation, hoping with all my heart that Barack Obama would be the next President of the United States of America.
For one and a half month I decided to let my hair grow. Two weeks before November 4, 2008, the day of the elections in America, I decided to stop eating rice, stop drinking coffee, and desist from drinking soda or soft drink. These personal actions of mine may not be a big deal, but that was my way of sprinkling water from my mouth unto the feet of Barack Obama for good luck, just like my father did to me when I graduated from high school and told him that I was leaving his house to start my own journey into the world.
Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf was elected president of Liberia and my special and personal activities for Barack Obama became meaningful, for he too was elected President of America. The feeling I am feeling is a feeling that is so difficult to explain. It is the same feeling, I think, the people of Israel felt when they heard that one of the sons of Jacob had become a ruler in Egypt. The feeling in my heart is similar to the feeling the people of Israel felt when they were told that one of their own was a prince in the house of Pharaoh and that he had come down to where the Israeli slaves were and had helped to protect one of them.
The feeling I felt on November 4, 2008 and the feeling I continue to experience is similar to what was felt when David killed Goliath or when the city of Jericho fell to the frightened Israelis after crossing the Jordan River on the journey to the promised land. Yes, my people, I feel the same way people felt when it was told that the Redeemer had risen from the dead and that mankind was forever saved.
I don't know why any black man who could vote in America not vote for the first black person who had the best chance to make history. There was a time when I personally became the most prejudiced black man in America. Anything that was said of Barack Obama that had the slightest hint of negativity was considered by me an evil and an unforgivable act. I wonder to myself why would any black man not remember the Emancipation Proclamation, the Selma, Alabama beating of black people; I wonder why any black man would forget the lynching and the injustice meted out to black people for hundreds of years and the notion that blacks were only good as slaves. I wonder why anyone, in his black mind, whether a Republican or a rebel in Africa, would think that America was not ready for a Black President.
For Black people all over the world, the election of Barack Obama as President of the United States of America gives us a special place on the ladder of human events. Millions of black children, especially those in America can now say that they too can become President of this great land.
As I celebrated with my black American workmates and told them how happy I was, they said to me: If you are so happy just imagine how we feel. "We African-Americans have not had a Black President before, but you have had many black Presidents." I dropped my head and replied, yes, right. The people of Africa have had and continue to have Black Presidents, many of whom are tyrants, lack vision and very corrupt.
President Obama will be too occupied with the problems of America. Other problems around the world may not be given the extra attention required of him. But I feel that a few demands from the President of the United States to the leaders of Africa will definitely be in place: The leaders of the Congo, Sudan, Zimbabwe, Guinea, Gambia, Somalia, Equatorial Guinea, Egypt, Uganda, and all those countries whose leaders continue to suppress their people, these leaders need to be invited to the United Nations, shown videos of the horrible conditions of their people, and be told to put in place a time line for democratic change. People in these countries are the ones mentioned in Obama's acceptance speech as being "huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of the world."
Although Liberia was not mentioned above, I definitely know that people in many parts of that country live in abject poverty. They too are huddling around radios in forgotten corners of their own country, and this has been going on for the past 161 years. Their lives have not changed since 1847. Their hopes and dreams continue to be that one day their Obama will come to give them hope, inspiration and to know that their children too can aspire to being the best that they can be.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
President Ellen Johnson_Sirleaf is 70!
The discontent brewing in Liberia is reaching high pitch. President Sirleaf is determined to bring relief and much needed development to that country, but in her midst are people who honestly see things differently. Even though I am discouraged with the pace of good things happening for the masses of the people, I had to wish the President God's speed as she celebrated her 70th birthday.
The President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, just celebrated her 70th birthday. Congratulations, President Sirleaf. You made it. Psalm 90:10: The days of our years are three scores years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be four scores years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off and we fly away. I wonder whether after 27 years of rule and at age 70, I wonder whether the thought ever occurred to President Tubman that the country needed new leadership and that it was time for him to leave that Executive Mansion in one piece.
After 1000 days as President of Liberia, your assessment is that a lot of the deliverables did not come through as expected. The first 500 days were tough. You had to bring into government people you thought you could trust to help you take this thing off the ground. Many of those you brought in are close to you. You expected them to give you advice when necessary; but most of all, you wanted these close friends to see in their minds' eyes a new Liberia, a developed Liberia, an educated Liberia. To your utter amazement, most of your close friends do not see what you see. Your vision for Liberia and its people is far different from their vision and mindset.
Dr Dunn talked about the plant in the pot that was brought from America many, many years ago. That plant, according to the story, never left the pot.The soil and the new environment, the story goes, wasn't rich enough, from the perspective of those who brought the plant. So, the pot was made larger with more American soil so that the tree grew and produced siblings from the roots and seeds that fell into the pot. Those siblings, never transplanted, continue to have enormous influence on the government, most times choking to death the efforts of visionaries and those who care for the welfare of the people and the country.
As I read Psalm 90:10 I felt happy for you, knowing that you had reached a milestone in your journey. Yet, I began to wonder what could you be thinking or planning for the country as you take the next step into the next decade of your journey. I wonder what are the president's plans with regard to changing the mindset of those who continue to stifle progress, encourage corruption, and who prefer to continue living as potted plants in this vast area of land given to us my our forefathers.
Like you said, Three years (1000 days) is a long time for an on-the-job training. Three years is just too long a time for people to steal from government. Anyone who has not been able to deliver after three years should not be given another chance. No company, no matter how battered, will allow its managers to under perform for three year and still have these managers roaming around the plant, bluffing and carrying on. Because of the war the three-month probationary period was extended to 18 months! Wasn't that enough time to for these educated people to demonstrate some type of ability to manage a specific project? The Liberian people have not heard any complaints from these managers or ministers. However, John Morlu did not take long to give his verdict about the unabated corruption in the government. The reception to that verdict was negative throughout the land. Some people even promised to get rid of the poor boy.
The next three years should see bold new steps by you, Madam President, to transform the lives of the people of Liberia. The next three years should see the infusion of a new generation of Liberians participating in the governance of their country. It is indeed time for the old guards to make way for a more energetic and patriotic group of Liberians, ready to move their country forward into the 21st century. Liberians are tired of living in squalor and degradation.
After 161 years, Liberians from all 15 counties want to see and live the difference under an Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf government. They, for the first time in their lives, want to be proud of their country and be able to boast to their neighbors about it. That will be the best legacy that you, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, can leave for your people as you celebrate your 73rd birthday in 2011.
Again, Happy Birthday, Madam President.
The President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, just celebrated her 70th birthday. Congratulations, President Sirleaf. You made it. Psalm 90:10: The days of our years are three scores years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be four scores years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off and we fly away. I wonder whether after 27 years of rule and at age 70, I wonder whether the thought ever occurred to President Tubman that the country needed new leadership and that it was time for him to leave that Executive Mansion in one piece.
After 1000 days as President of Liberia, your assessment is that a lot of the deliverables did not come through as expected. The first 500 days were tough. You had to bring into government people you thought you could trust to help you take this thing off the ground. Many of those you brought in are close to you. You expected them to give you advice when necessary; but most of all, you wanted these close friends to see in their minds' eyes a new Liberia, a developed Liberia, an educated Liberia. To your utter amazement, most of your close friends do not see what you see. Your vision for Liberia and its people is far different from their vision and mindset.
Dr Dunn talked about the plant in the pot that was brought from America many, many years ago. That plant, according to the story, never left the pot.The soil and the new environment, the story goes, wasn't rich enough, from the perspective of those who brought the plant. So, the pot was made larger with more American soil so that the tree grew and produced siblings from the roots and seeds that fell into the pot. Those siblings, never transplanted, continue to have enormous influence on the government, most times choking to death the efforts of visionaries and those who care for the welfare of the people and the country.
As I read Psalm 90:10 I felt happy for you, knowing that you had reached a milestone in your journey. Yet, I began to wonder what could you be thinking or planning for the country as you take the next step into the next decade of your journey. I wonder what are the president's plans with regard to changing the mindset of those who continue to stifle progress, encourage corruption, and who prefer to continue living as potted plants in this vast area of land given to us my our forefathers.
Like you said, Three years (1000 days) is a long time for an on-the-job training. Three years is just too long a time for people to steal from government. Anyone who has not been able to deliver after three years should not be given another chance. No company, no matter how battered, will allow its managers to under perform for three year and still have these managers roaming around the plant, bluffing and carrying on. Because of the war the three-month probationary period was extended to 18 months! Wasn't that enough time to for these educated people to demonstrate some type of ability to manage a specific project? The Liberian people have not heard any complaints from these managers or ministers. However, John Morlu did not take long to give his verdict about the unabated corruption in the government. The reception to that verdict was negative throughout the land. Some people even promised to get rid of the poor boy.
The next three years should see bold new steps by you, Madam President, to transform the lives of the people of Liberia. The next three years should see the infusion of a new generation of Liberians participating in the governance of their country. It is indeed time for the old guards to make way for a more energetic and patriotic group of Liberians, ready to move their country forward into the 21st century. Liberians are tired of living in squalor and degradation.
After 161 years, Liberians from all 15 counties want to see and live the difference under an Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf government. They, for the first time in their lives, want to be proud of their country and be able to boast to their neighbors about it. That will be the best legacy that you, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, can leave for your people as you celebrate your 73rd birthday in 2011.
Again, Happy Birthday, Madam President.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Surviving Under The Same Roof
It has become clear that testimonies given at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission cannot just be about the tragedy of Liberia from 1979 to 2003. Something went terribly wrong 130 plus years before. Some of what happened before 1979 were mentioned by Elwood Dunn. He talked about the potted plant in American soil that was supposed to be transplanted into an African soil by those who left the United States as free slaves in search of freedom in Africa.
That plant was never transplanted, for those who brought the plant felt that they were more classy and more civilized than the "heathens" they met in Africa. Until we can resolve that particular issue of class in Liberia, a feeling of pessimism regarding genuine reconciliation is beginning to take over my impartial mind. I am expressing my feelings below regarding the potted plant:
I read Elwood Dunn's testimony to the TRC and realized that he went deep--far back into Liberia's history. Even though he touched base with happenings in 1979 that brought about the rice riot and its aftermath, he could not have gone forward without mentioning the process that had been put into place long before 1979.
The settlers had been given an American potted plant to be transplanted into the African soil. Settlers were expected to come to Africa and join those they met to form a union beneficial to both groups. Because those from America felt that they were more civilized and more advanced, they refused to effectively be a part of a greater Liberia. They left the potted plant as is...in the American soil.This ingrained self-promotion and self-worth on the part of those who came to Liberia from the United States, tremendously affected the psyche of the majority of the people of Liberia.
After the incident of 1980 and after 14 years of civil war, we still see an air of dominance being perpetrated by those whose forefathers felt that the potted plant of old should remain just as it was intended to be. We see those who were blessed to have been spared the wrath of 1980 sneaking back into the country and doing a series of back door deals and carrying out multiple corrupt activities. These acts do not fare well for the new Liberia that all of us are struggling to establish. There are many of the old order who seem to believe that Liberia should continue to be dominated by those whose forefathers arrived in Africa many years ago. "Do not forget the pioneer's children" seems to reflect a phrase of reality, not mere gossip.
I feel sorry that our country has such a very long way to go when it comes to uniting the people. Besides the reconciliation needed between tribal groups, there is this Herculean task faced by the minority to accept as equals the majority of the people of Liberia. Our brothers and sisters who consider themselves more classy and more civilized and more educated will definitely have to shift the long-held mind set. The mind set of C L Simpson, Sr, former Vice President of Liberia...that mind set that caused him to believe that people with roots in America and other slave-held areas should remain a distinct and separate class from the majority "country" people, can no longer hold water. If such a belief was cast in stone, the 14 years of war shattered everything.
To rewrite the Liberian history so that it reflects everything that must be known, major players in the governance of the country need to go and testify to the TRC. Clarence Simpson, JR, whose father was Vice President and who was adamant about keeping the potted plant in American soil, needs to tell the Liberian people why his father and many others felt they way they felt. Why was it that even after more than 100 years in Liberia, the majority of the people were still considered heathens? Estrada Bernard and Willie Knuckles and Harry Greaves and George Tubman and the Tolberts, all of these people and many others who have embedded themselves in the government and are causing havoc, cannot just sit in Monrovia and act as if they have clean hands and know nothing; these Liberians need to be fair to the God they serve, to the country, to the people of Liberia, and to themselves and help rewrite history for their children and the next generation. They must come out and tell the world and give the Liberian people one reason why they think that they are better than the rest of the people they share the country with, even after more than 161 years of cohabitation.
The people who were considered less intelligent and third class citizens were made to fight amongst themselves in order to make way for the elites to return and exploit the country, just like the good ole days. How many of the 200,000 or more Liberians that died in the civil war were sons and daughters of the settlers? What does the country get back after such an ultimate sacrifice? Is this how we are going to reconcile amongst ourselves to build the country? Is reconciliation only intended for the people of Grand Gedeh and Nimba Counties? Is reconciliation only intended for Alhaji Kromah and the people of Lofa County? Is this reconciliation-thing only intended for the indigenous people?
If we must come together as a people with the same aspiration for a better future for all of us, we the Country people and the Congo people and the Americo-Liberians, all of us must shift our mind set and embrace a common destiny devoid of tendencies bent on keeping us apart and stifling progress in the 21st century. We all must develop the necessary love for country and respect for each other. The truth being told, there is no other way out, if we must survive as one people under the same roof
That plant was never transplanted, for those who brought the plant felt that they were more classy and more civilized than the "heathens" they met in Africa. Until we can resolve that particular issue of class in Liberia, a feeling of pessimism regarding genuine reconciliation is beginning to take over my impartial mind. I am expressing my feelings below regarding the potted plant:
I read Elwood Dunn's testimony to the TRC and realized that he went deep--far back into Liberia's history. Even though he touched base with happenings in 1979 that brought about the rice riot and its aftermath, he could not have gone forward without mentioning the process that had been put into place long before 1979.
The settlers had been given an American potted plant to be transplanted into the African soil. Settlers were expected to come to Africa and join those they met to form a union beneficial to both groups. Because those from America felt that they were more civilized and more advanced, they refused to effectively be a part of a greater Liberia. They left the potted plant as is...in the American soil.This ingrained self-promotion and self-worth on the part of those who came to Liberia from the United States, tremendously affected the psyche of the majority of the people of Liberia.
After the incident of 1980 and after 14 years of civil war, we still see an air of dominance being perpetrated by those whose forefathers felt that the potted plant of old should remain just as it was intended to be. We see those who were blessed to have been spared the wrath of 1980 sneaking back into the country and doing a series of back door deals and carrying out multiple corrupt activities. These acts do not fare well for the new Liberia that all of us are struggling to establish. There are many of the old order who seem to believe that Liberia should continue to be dominated by those whose forefathers arrived in Africa many years ago. "Do not forget the pioneer's children" seems to reflect a phrase of reality, not mere gossip.
I feel sorry that our country has such a very long way to go when it comes to uniting the people. Besides the reconciliation needed between tribal groups, there is this Herculean task faced by the minority to accept as equals the majority of the people of Liberia. Our brothers and sisters who consider themselves more classy and more civilized and more educated will definitely have to shift the long-held mind set. The mind set of C L Simpson, Sr, former Vice President of Liberia...that mind set that caused him to believe that people with roots in America and other slave-held areas should remain a distinct and separate class from the majority "country" people, can no longer hold water. If such a belief was cast in stone, the 14 years of war shattered everything.
To rewrite the Liberian history so that it reflects everything that must be known, major players in the governance of the country need to go and testify to the TRC. Clarence Simpson, JR, whose father was Vice President and who was adamant about keeping the potted plant in American soil, needs to tell the Liberian people why his father and many others felt they way they felt. Why was it that even after more than 100 years in Liberia, the majority of the people were still considered heathens? Estrada Bernard and Willie Knuckles and Harry Greaves and George Tubman and the Tolberts, all of these people and many others who have embedded themselves in the government and are causing havoc, cannot just sit in Monrovia and act as if they have clean hands and know nothing; these Liberians need to be fair to the God they serve, to the country, to the people of Liberia, and to themselves and help rewrite history for their children and the next generation. They must come out and tell the world and give the Liberian people one reason why they think that they are better than the rest of the people they share the country with, even after more than 161 years of cohabitation.
The people who were considered less intelligent and third class citizens were made to fight amongst themselves in order to make way for the elites to return and exploit the country, just like the good ole days. How many of the 200,000 or more Liberians that died in the civil war were sons and daughters of the settlers? What does the country get back after such an ultimate sacrifice? Is this how we are going to reconcile amongst ourselves to build the country? Is reconciliation only intended for the people of Grand Gedeh and Nimba Counties? Is reconciliation only intended for Alhaji Kromah and the people of Lofa County? Is this reconciliation-thing only intended for the indigenous people?
If we must come together as a people with the same aspiration for a better future for all of us, we the Country people and the Congo people and the Americo-Liberians, all of us must shift our mind set and embrace a common destiny devoid of tendencies bent on keeping us apart and stifling progress in the 21st century. We all must develop the necessary love for country and respect for each other. The truth being told, there is no other way out, if we must survive as one people under the same roof
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Nimba And Grand Gedeh Counties Must Lead The Country To Genuine Reconciliation
After Prince Johnson gave his testimonies at the TRC, the brother of President Doe, Jackson Doe and some of the deceased president's family were furious. President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf was quick to bring the two people together to tune down the rhetoric and consider peace and reconciliation. It was a good move by the president. I had to give my support:
Frontpageafrica cannot be commended enough for the good job the online news outlet is doing for Liberia. Since Medina Wesseh came out supporting the president and since Frontpageafrica released her email soliciting help from uncle Willis regarding the importation of cement, I can imagine how many people in the government are now concerned about what they have done and what they have written since the Old Ma appointed them to help her run this government. "I wonder that man got any emails from me," many are wondering to themselves.
The husband of Medina is being sent to the UN to represent his country. Commany Wisseh's wife is sitting right near the president and trying to do the same corrupt stuff her husband fought against. This reminds me of something that another warrior of the "rampant-corruption" era told me when I asked him why the people were still complaining of hardship and about the shortage of certain basic commodities on the Liberian market? "What people are you talking about?" The answer to my question came back to me in the form of a question. I felt terrible, for this guy along with Baccus Matthews and many others, had made us to believe that they knew better and that they would make life better for all Liberians. In the cause of the people the struggle continues, was the battle cry then and is still today. Now we know that "in the cause of the people" is just a devious slogan and a mere rhetoric.
I am happy to hear that the President is trying to bring Jackson Doe, the brother of President Doe, and Prince Johnson to the table of peace. The genuine friendship that existed between Samuel Doe and Thomas Quiwonkpa turned sour when the greed for power took center stage. From rumors and recent testimonies, Thomas Quiwonkpa insisted that his buddy Samuel Doe head the People's Redemption Council on the night of April 12, 1980. The agreement to turn over power to a civilian government after a short period of military rule became a contentious issue. Things began to fall apart from there: Demotions and major transfers began to happen; discontent and the struggle for power muzzled normal behavior. The end result is something the country and people have suffered for greatly.
In August of last year I wrote to say that the people of Grand Gedeh County and the people of Nimba County will have to take the lead in the reconciliation process. The people of these two counties were very good friends before 1980. Tribalism put a wedge between these two groups. Threats to wipe out the other became an ominous battle cry. No one who was in Liberia in the 80s can forget this, no matter how hard one tries to play this down.
The death of Thomas Quiwonkpa devastated the people of Nimba County. Like Elvis, Nimbaians and many others thought Quiwonkpa had escaped, even though his riddled body was boastfully shown on ELTV in Monrovia. As Grand Gedeans celebrated, the people of Nimba County feared for their lives. Where could they go? It was a nightmare. Both counties have suffered much pain; Nimba County has suffered the most because of the misdeeds of those who were supposed to protect the people and country.
If Liberia and her people are to benefit from genuine peace, the people of Grand Gedeh and Nimba Counties, under the guidance of Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and the government of Liberia, must meet in that border town that separates the two counties and come to terms with the reality of today. Nimba County is not a winner neither is Grand Gedeh. As both counties take the lead for the future of their country and people, other counties will follow.
As for the 133 years of bribery and kickbacks and overwhelming inequality that continue to haunt and rob the majority of Liberians of any kind of improvement in their daily lives; as for those who continue to undermine development and demonstrate zero tolerance for patriotism, I can only say, sadly and with hanging head... the struggle continues!
Frontpageafrica cannot be commended enough for the good job the online news outlet is doing for Liberia. Since Medina Wesseh came out supporting the president and since Frontpageafrica released her email soliciting help from uncle Willis regarding the importation of cement, I can imagine how many people in the government are now concerned about what they have done and what they have written since the Old Ma appointed them to help her run this government. "I wonder that man got any emails from me," many are wondering to themselves.
The husband of Medina is being sent to the UN to represent his country. Commany Wisseh's wife is sitting right near the president and trying to do the same corrupt stuff her husband fought against. This reminds me of something that another warrior of the "rampant-corruption" era told me when I asked him why the people were still complaining of hardship and about the shortage of certain basic commodities on the Liberian market? "What people are you talking about?" The answer to my question came back to me in the form of a question. I felt terrible, for this guy along with Baccus Matthews and many others, had made us to believe that they knew better and that they would make life better for all Liberians. In the cause of the people the struggle continues, was the battle cry then and is still today. Now we know that "in the cause of the people" is just a devious slogan and a mere rhetoric.
I am happy to hear that the President is trying to bring Jackson Doe, the brother of President Doe, and Prince Johnson to the table of peace. The genuine friendship that existed between Samuel Doe and Thomas Quiwonkpa turned sour when the greed for power took center stage. From rumors and recent testimonies, Thomas Quiwonkpa insisted that his buddy Samuel Doe head the People's Redemption Council on the night of April 12, 1980. The agreement to turn over power to a civilian government after a short period of military rule became a contentious issue. Things began to fall apart from there: Demotions and major transfers began to happen; discontent and the struggle for power muzzled normal behavior. The end result is something the country and people have suffered for greatly.
In August of last year I wrote to say that the people of Grand Gedeh County and the people of Nimba County will have to take the lead in the reconciliation process. The people of these two counties were very good friends before 1980. Tribalism put a wedge between these two groups. Threats to wipe out the other became an ominous battle cry. No one who was in Liberia in the 80s can forget this, no matter how hard one tries to play this down.
The death of Thomas Quiwonkpa devastated the people of Nimba County. Like Elvis, Nimbaians and many others thought Quiwonkpa had escaped, even though his riddled body was boastfully shown on ELTV in Monrovia. As Grand Gedeans celebrated, the people of Nimba County feared for their lives. Where could they go? It was a nightmare. Both counties have suffered much pain; Nimba County has suffered the most because of the misdeeds of those who were supposed to protect the people and country.
If Liberia and her people are to benefit from genuine peace, the people of Grand Gedeh and Nimba Counties, under the guidance of Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and the government of Liberia, must meet in that border town that separates the two counties and come to terms with the reality of today. Nimba County is not a winner neither is Grand Gedeh. As both counties take the lead for the future of their country and people, other counties will follow.
As for the 133 years of bribery and kickbacks and overwhelming inequality that continue to haunt and rob the majority of Liberians of any kind of improvement in their daily lives; as for those who continue to undermine development and demonstrate zero tolerance for patriotism, I can only say, sadly and with hanging head... the struggle continues!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Getting Rid Of The Unrepentant Ones
Frontpageafrica, the online news medium, published a series of emails written by friends of the President of Liberia. These emails are extremely heart-breaking and show that no matter how many people died because of the evil committed by those who ruled our country of Liberia, there are many alive who find no reason to change for the better of the country. Everything that went wrong continues to go wrong...and there is no end to our nightmare. Read why I am sickened at heart:
"Kesselly father founded our party he is now deceased. He is a little boy from america he is hungry and desperate so trust me. He will do what we say. I think you should start him of with two thousand we don't want him to get greedy yet. The only problem now is the gratuity promisecd. How soon can the funds be put in the account ? Ellen has promised that LISCR will get the deal but only on the basis if the transfer is made to the account. Please advise she is depending on me and I don't have enough preliminary information to give her."
After reading the Exclusive on Frontpageafrica of the many emails from people associated with the president of Liberia, a feeling of sadness and helplessness came over me. The email that said that the president has to pretend to be transparent because it is all a show off, breaks my heart. A lot of questions, like waves of mad ocean water began to splash on my consciousness. I began to wonder what else could be done for Liberia to be free; what else must happen before certain people will stop doing the same thing over and over and over again. What will it take, I continuously wonder, for some people to learn from the mistakes of the past.
The quoted email above is a sad, sad thing to read. The young people of Liberia are bent on changing the way things have been..the way every government of Liberia we can think of has operated; the John Morlus of Liberia want to see change, but the Willis Knuckles of Liberia will never let it happen. Remember how Harry Greaves was very vocal about the mindset of John Morlu when Morlu said that the Ellen government was three times more corrupt than the previous government? How will Liberia ever be developed? When will the 468,000 people of Nimba County ever get to benefit from the Liberia they are part of? When will the 67,000 people of River Gee every get a new court house or paved roads in their county?
What was the purpose of the civil war? What was the purpose of April 12, 1980? What was the purpose of the Accra Peace Accord? Rampant corruption was the battle cry of the 80s. Yet, corrupt practices gained a lot of weight in those ten years that Samuel Doe was the man. The Accra Peace Accord gave war lords and their associates, who did not benefit from twelve years of rule by Charles Taylor, a chance to grab their own before an elected government came into play. In three years, that group of war lords and associates was known as the most corrupt in the history of Liberia.
I am amazed that people who have been disgraced; people who by the grace of God are still alive to tell the story; I am amazed that after 14 years of civil war and 133 years of inequality; I am dumbfounded beyond belief that after all of these great events that are so fresh in the minds of Liberians, that the sons and daughters will forget so easily and continue to do things that 13 Liberians were crucified for in 1980. I thought the ultimate sacrifices of those who died in 1980, in 1990 and the 250,000 or more who perish in 14 years would serve as springboards for progress and love of the country and the balance survivors.
The emails from the PR men and other close associates of the President of Liberia and published by FrontPageAfrica, are all wake-up calls that Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf needs to clean house and disconnect herself from these people. These people who think that the president of Liberia is a showoff, preaching one thing and doing something else; these people who think that the president is also a Trojan horse....these people will bring you down disgracefully, Madam President.
What else can FrontPageAfrica do to help the government of Liberia? What else can the embedded "Anti-corruption Monsters" do to help EJS see the light? The President mandated the people of Liberia to expose corrupt activities and cold-water emails. The people are responding gradually. It's time to act to remove these stooges, evil vampires and bribe-taking individuals who are obviously bent on taking Liberia through another century of poverty and zero development. It is time for something drastic to happen, Madam President; and that something must begin to happen now!
"Kesselly father founded our party he is now deceased. He is a little boy from america he is hungry and desperate so trust me. He will do what we say. I think you should start him of with two thousand we don't want him to get greedy yet. The only problem now is the gratuity promisecd. How soon can the funds be put in the account ? Ellen has promised that LISCR will get the deal but only on the basis if the transfer is made to the account. Please advise she is depending on me and I don't have enough preliminary information to give her."
After reading the Exclusive on Frontpageafrica of the many emails from people associated with the president of Liberia, a feeling of sadness and helplessness came over me. The email that said that the president has to pretend to be transparent because it is all a show off, breaks my heart. A lot of questions, like waves of mad ocean water began to splash on my consciousness. I began to wonder what else could be done for Liberia to be free; what else must happen before certain people will stop doing the same thing over and over and over again. What will it take, I continuously wonder, for some people to learn from the mistakes of the past.
The quoted email above is a sad, sad thing to read. The young people of Liberia are bent on changing the way things have been..the way every government of Liberia we can think of has operated; the John Morlus of Liberia want to see change, but the Willis Knuckles of Liberia will never let it happen. Remember how Harry Greaves was very vocal about the mindset of John Morlu when Morlu said that the Ellen government was three times more corrupt than the previous government? How will Liberia ever be developed? When will the 468,000 people of Nimba County ever get to benefit from the Liberia they are part of? When will the 67,000 people of River Gee every get a new court house or paved roads in their county?
What was the purpose of the civil war? What was the purpose of April 12, 1980? What was the purpose of the Accra Peace Accord? Rampant corruption was the battle cry of the 80s. Yet, corrupt practices gained a lot of weight in those ten years that Samuel Doe was the man. The Accra Peace Accord gave war lords and their associates, who did not benefit from twelve years of rule by Charles Taylor, a chance to grab their own before an elected government came into play. In three years, that group of war lords and associates was known as the most corrupt in the history of Liberia.
I am amazed that people who have been disgraced; people who by the grace of God are still alive to tell the story; I am amazed that after 14 years of civil war and 133 years of inequality; I am dumbfounded beyond belief that after all of these great events that are so fresh in the minds of Liberians, that the sons and daughters will forget so easily and continue to do things that 13 Liberians were crucified for in 1980. I thought the ultimate sacrifices of those who died in 1980, in 1990 and the 250,000 or more who perish in 14 years would serve as springboards for progress and love of the country and the balance survivors.
The emails from the PR men and other close associates of the President of Liberia and published by FrontPageAfrica, are all wake-up calls that Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf needs to clean house and disconnect herself from these people. These people who think that the president of Liberia is a showoff, preaching one thing and doing something else; these people who think that the president is also a Trojan horse....these people will bring you down disgracefully, Madam President.
What else can FrontPageAfrica do to help the government of Liberia? What else can the embedded "Anti-corruption Monsters" do to help EJS see the light? The President mandated the people of Liberia to expose corrupt activities and cold-water emails. The people are responding gradually. It's time to act to remove these stooges, evil vampires and bribe-taking individuals who are obviously bent on taking Liberia through another century of poverty and zero development. It is time for something drastic to happen, Madam President; and that something must begin to happen now!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Eliminating A Political Trojan Horse
Harry Greaves, the untouchable fellow who works as Managing Director of LPRC in Liberia has said and continues say things that are very offensive to many people. A released email by this man is causing a buzz and I could not wait to give some solace to all of us:
“This Sieh man has escalated his rhetoric and is now challenging our future. Despite what he said in conversation yesterday, it is clear that he is a Trojan horse with a mission and I am so mad at all of us because it is so easy to get rid of that country boy.”
Harry A.Greaves, Jr., CPA
Managing Director
Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC
I
t is apparent that getting rid of a "Trojan Horse" is no longer a mission for the many plotters of evil, for it has become clear that many of those who were considered Trojan horses turned out to be nothing but innocent people who wanted freedom and the same opportunities that were set aside for just a privileged few.
Many of us in the Diaspora are waiting for a dream in which God Almighty will assure us that everything is fine and that we can go home to Liberia without fear of the Herods of our day.In Matthews 2:13-15 the Christ child was to return to his own country only after the death of King Herod, the man who was bent on killing the Savior of the world. I am not saying that many of us carry the characteristics of Jesus Christ. I am not saying that we even come close to being Christ like. What I am saying is that Almighty God works in such mysterious ways that the email above from Kwi-man, civilized-man Harry Greaves couldn't have come out without the handiwork of God Himself.
It is just impossible for the Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf government to succeed in Liberia if her views about progress in this worn-torn country is diametrically different from that of her foot soldiers. Corruption, which has been called enemy number one, will not be eliminated as long as these "civilized boys" continue to threaten those who continuously put their feet to the fire.
Talking about a Trojan horse: In computer science and according to Charles Pfleeger, a Trojan horse is a program that overtly does one thing while covertly doing another. A Trojan horse, in other words, is a special type of virus that spreads its infections from computer to computer.
From administration to administration, Harry Greaves has made headlines. If a Managing Director of a major and lucrative entity in the country has so many stooges and head workers embedded in every agency of government, then who is the real Trojan horse? Who is the carrier of this infectious virus that is bent on eliminating those who are trying day and night to expose such overt and covert activities?
Liberia and its President and people cannot wait to hear and read about this political Code Red worm that is bent on keeping us idling in poverty and disgrace. FrontPageAfrica must not relent in exposing and helping to remove the real Trojan horse from the Liberian society.
“This Sieh man has escalated his rhetoric and is now challenging our future. Despite what he said in conversation yesterday, it is clear that he is a Trojan horse with a mission and I am so mad at all of us because it is so easy to get rid of that country boy.”
Harry A.Greaves, Jr., CPA
Managing Director
Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC
I
t is apparent that getting rid of a "Trojan Horse" is no longer a mission for the many plotters of evil, for it has become clear that many of those who were considered Trojan horses turned out to be nothing but innocent people who wanted freedom and the same opportunities that were set aside for just a privileged few.
Many of us in the Diaspora are waiting for a dream in which God Almighty will assure us that everything is fine and that we can go home to Liberia without fear of the Herods of our day.In Matthews 2:13-15 the Christ child was to return to his own country only after the death of King Herod, the man who was bent on killing the Savior of the world. I am not saying that many of us carry the characteristics of Jesus Christ. I am not saying that we even come close to being Christ like. What I am saying is that Almighty God works in such mysterious ways that the email above from Kwi-man, civilized-man Harry Greaves couldn't have come out without the handiwork of God Himself.
It is just impossible for the Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf government to succeed in Liberia if her views about progress in this worn-torn country is diametrically different from that of her foot soldiers. Corruption, which has been called enemy number one, will not be eliminated as long as these "civilized boys" continue to threaten those who continuously put their feet to the fire.
Talking about a Trojan horse: In computer science and according to Charles Pfleeger, a Trojan horse is a program that overtly does one thing while covertly doing another. A Trojan horse, in other words, is a special type of virus that spreads its infections from computer to computer.
From administration to administration, Harry Greaves has made headlines. If a Managing Director of a major and lucrative entity in the country has so many stooges and head workers embedded in every agency of government, then who is the real Trojan horse? Who is the carrier of this infectious virus that is bent on eliminating those who are trying day and night to expose such overt and covert activities?
Liberia and its President and people cannot wait to hear and read about this political Code Red worm that is bent on keeping us idling in poverty and disgrace. FrontPageAfrica must not relent in exposing and helping to remove the real Trojan horse from the Liberian society.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
The Whole Truth And Nothing But The Truth Will Set Us Free
Leaders and distinguished participants in the destruction, one way or the other, of Liberia, are now appearing before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in Monrovia. Some of these people who were known for being vicious and inconsiderate in their actions are now weeping bitterly and prostrating themselves before the Liberian people. Some are genuine in their utterances and some same to be keeping the most heinous secrets in the belly of their consciences.
Personally and for most Liberians, the truth told will help all of us to heal 161 years of inequalities, massive corruption and horrendous crimes against the people of Liberia. My gut began to boil; I had to let out some of the steam:
Even though I left Liberia before the carnage that took away the lives of more than 250,000 of our people and the situation that kept me and thousands of others in exile, even though I have nothing to explain to the TRC, there are butterflies flying around in my stomach. There is a feeling of sorrow and empathy for those who have been asked to come and explain their role in the terrible and horrendous things that happened to our country and people. To those who suffered and went through hell as a result of the unspeakable actions of their own people, the feelings I carry are difficult to explain, especially when I know that perpetrators of these heinous acts are still roaming our neighborhoods and sit in every institution in our society.
Never in the history of Liberia have its citizens seen anything like what they are seeing in this 21st century. Never before have Liberians seen those who once reigned over them become so emotional in testifying to what they did or did not do to bring the nation to where it finds itself today. Liberians worldwide are at a point in history where lying or keeping things secret...things that happened to us that have eventually taken us back hundreds of years..trying assiduously to leave some stones unturned, will not work. And that is why I continue to quote John 8:32 to those who are now facing the people they once gave little or no regard to. That is why it is necessary for the truth and the whole truth to be told to the Liberian people and the world. For it is when the whole and genuine truth is told that the people will feel the need to forgive and forget.
I understand that some of the people on the TRC commission were also deeply involved in the story that's being told. I also understand that Clarence Simpson, Jr and Estrada Bernard, men who once prosecuted Henry Fahnbulleh, his family and others, are now in Monrovia and trying to make ends meet and have not been asked to testify before the TRC. No one should be left out. No one is immune from testifying, especially if you were part of the problem. I don't want to believe that it is true that people of the True Whig Party can sleep in peace in a situation like this. I can't believe that any one connected with 133 years of inequality can sit happily and say that all is well with his or her soul.
Someone called me and asked whether I had read the Fahnbulleh testimony. "Did you see how arrogant that man was?," my friend continued. I told my friend that the Fahnbulleh testimony sounded more genuine and credible to me. I even wondered why Bishop Warner did not mentioned in his testimony what Fahnbulleh talked about. I was even unimpressed with the prostration of Oscar Quiah and the lamentation of Chea Cheapo. I felt that the name of God was called too many times during Mr Cheapo's testimony. I hope that both Quiah and Cheapo said everything that was hidden in the recesses of their being. That will help in the healing process.
As we await the testimonies of the others who participated in this dark history of our country, we as a people must see the complexity and overwhelming nature of our situation and resolve to take actions that will unite us and not further divide us. I know there is no explanation anyone can give for keeping a people down for 133 years. I know there are those who think that the administration of President Samuel Doe was the best thing that ever happened to Liberia. I have heard the argument that 250,000 of our people had to die in order for us to be where we are today. Whatever the argument, the average of the sum total is that all Liberians, no matter what part of the country we are from... we are hurt, we are resentful and we are understandably vengeful. Nevertheless, we must begin to chart the course of how we can move on, capturing the beauty of our diversity and focusing on the progress we can all make together for the good of our country.
Personally and for most Liberians, the truth told will help all of us to heal 161 years of inequalities, massive corruption and horrendous crimes against the people of Liberia. My gut began to boil; I had to let out some of the steam:
Even though I left Liberia before the carnage that took away the lives of more than 250,000 of our people and the situation that kept me and thousands of others in exile, even though I have nothing to explain to the TRC, there are butterflies flying around in my stomach. There is a feeling of sorrow and empathy for those who have been asked to come and explain their role in the terrible and horrendous things that happened to our country and people. To those who suffered and went through hell as a result of the unspeakable actions of their own people, the feelings I carry are difficult to explain, especially when I know that perpetrators of these heinous acts are still roaming our neighborhoods and sit in every institution in our society.
Never in the history of Liberia have its citizens seen anything like what they are seeing in this 21st century. Never before have Liberians seen those who once reigned over them become so emotional in testifying to what they did or did not do to bring the nation to where it finds itself today. Liberians worldwide are at a point in history where lying or keeping things secret...things that happened to us that have eventually taken us back hundreds of years..trying assiduously to leave some stones unturned, will not work. And that is why I continue to quote John 8:32 to those who are now facing the people they once gave little or no regard to. That is why it is necessary for the truth and the whole truth to be told to the Liberian people and the world. For it is when the whole and genuine truth is told that the people will feel the need to forgive and forget.
I understand that some of the people on the TRC commission were also deeply involved in the story that's being told. I also understand that Clarence Simpson, Jr and Estrada Bernard, men who once prosecuted Henry Fahnbulleh, his family and others, are now in Monrovia and trying to make ends meet and have not been asked to testify before the TRC. No one should be left out. No one is immune from testifying, especially if you were part of the problem. I don't want to believe that it is true that people of the True Whig Party can sleep in peace in a situation like this. I can't believe that any one connected with 133 years of inequality can sit happily and say that all is well with his or her soul.
Someone called me and asked whether I had read the Fahnbulleh testimony. "Did you see how arrogant that man was?," my friend continued. I told my friend that the Fahnbulleh testimony sounded more genuine and credible to me. I even wondered why Bishop Warner did not mentioned in his testimony what Fahnbulleh talked about. I was even unimpressed with the prostration of Oscar Quiah and the lamentation of Chea Cheapo. I felt that the name of God was called too many times during Mr Cheapo's testimony. I hope that both Quiah and Cheapo said everything that was hidden in the recesses of their being. That will help in the healing process.
As we await the testimonies of the others who participated in this dark history of our country, we as a people must see the complexity and overwhelming nature of our situation and resolve to take actions that will unite us and not further divide us. I know there is no explanation anyone can give for keeping a people down for 133 years. I know there are those who think that the administration of President Samuel Doe was the best thing that ever happened to Liberia. I have heard the argument that 250,000 of our people had to die in order for us to be where we are today. Whatever the argument, the average of the sum total is that all Liberians, no matter what part of the country we are from... we are hurt, we are resentful and we are understandably vengeful. Nevertheless, we must begin to chart the course of how we can move on, capturing the beauty of our diversity and focusing on the progress we can all make together for the good of our country.
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