MONROVIA, The much-waited passage of the Threshold Bill finally took place at the Senate yesterday with a provision that each county in Liberia will have at least two seats at the National Legislature. The Liberian Senate took the decision Thursday July 2, 2009 following more than six hours in the chamber of the Liberian Senate. The motion for the passage of the controversial Threshold Bill was filed by Bong County Junior Senator Franklin Siakor. It was seconded by other senators.
Gen. Prince Y. Johnson and former President Charles Taylor
MONROVIA, The much-awaited report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) has been released with the Commission recommending the prosecution of several people said to have borne the greatest responsibility for the country's civil war.
‘Tackle Corruption, Immorality from the Root’
Published: 02 July, 2009
Finance Minister Augustine K. Ngafuan has identified the issues of corruption and immoral practices at governmental sectors as one manifestation of the problems of society. According to Minister Ngafuan, several societal organs are also sources of corruption and immoral practices and to remove the problems of immorality and corruption, this societal virus (corruption) must first be rooted out from those organs. He also asked for the removal of the virus from the school system.
Senators lobbying five minutes to voting time Wednesday
Threshold Strangulated Again
Published: 02 July, 2009
MONROVIA, The controversial population Threshold Bill has again suffered another setback at the Liberian Senate with about 14 members of the Senate defeating a vote seeking its passage. The Senate on Wednesday, through its Chairman on Executive, Senator Daniel Nathan of Gbarpolu County, told reporters Tuesday that the Senate would be ready to pass the bill yesterday owing to the fact that its passage was long overdue.
MONROVIA, A nine-day exercise in 'Taking the Wildlife Management Law' to the 15 counties ended on Tuesday, June 30, 2009, with stakeholders expressing their satisfaction with the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) over the draft law. The Wildlife Management Law, which includes the National Wildlife Conservation and Protected Area Management Law, as well as the National Hunting Regulation Law, is aimed at protecting wild animals and trees.
MONROVIA, Marc A. Amblard, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's choice for the post of Police Director, has been setting the records straight about his eligibility and experience to live up to expectations of the Liberian nation for the top and influential security post. Amblard, who yesterday walked into the McDonald Street offices of the Daily Observer, said he is not a stranger, or a novice in the national security terrain, recounting his previous services to the country when he ably served as Deputy Director for administration at the National Security Agency (NSA) from 2006 to 2008.
MONROVIA, A Liberian journalist has stated that youth in the country would have had a better education had a group of Liberian political activists known as the 'Progressives', who challenged the minority rule of the settler class in the 1970s, and the military dictatorship in the 1980s acted otherwise. James S. King blames the Progressives for leading a 'misguided revolutionary campaign and leadership'.
Liberia's 2010 GDP to Rise by 11.2 Percent
Published: 01 July, 2009
Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan
MONROVIA, The African Development Bank (ADB) has concluded a dissemination seminar for two of its flagship annual publications in Monrovia. The publications are African Economic Outlook (AEO) 2008/09 and the African Development Report (ADR) 2008/09. The AEO is an annual publication jointly published by the ADB, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) with the ADB taking the lead.
A view of the Liberian Senate on Tuesday and Sen. Dolo (r)
Senate Holds Special Session on Threshold Today
Published: 01 July, 2009
MONROVIA, The Liberian Senate that had for more than four occasions failed to pass the Threshold Bill will today, July 1, 2009, hold a special session on said Bill as well as the 2009/10 draft fiscal budget currently before the National Legislature. The holding of the special session by the Liberian Senate on the Threshold Bill and the draft 2009/10 budget comes at the back of the Senate's failure on Tuesday, June 23 to conduct a regular session owing to the absence of more than 25 senators from plenary.
Executive in Deadline Budget Transfer
Published: 30 June, 2009
The Executive Branch of Government, through the Ministry of Finance Thursday, June 25, 2009, submitted a deadline budgetary transfer of nearly US$3 million to one ministry and three agencies. The transfer request came only six days to the expiration of the 2008/2009 Fiscal Year, June 30. A communication signed by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and addressed to House Speaker Alex Tyler, requested a transfer of US$600,000 to the Ministry of Education; US$600,000 to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC); US$970,000 for Pension and Severance; and US$645,000 for the National Commission on Disarmament, Demobilization, Resettlement and Reintegration (NCDDRR).
MONROVIA, Maryland County is a county in the southeastern portion of the West African nation of Liberia. One of 15 counties that comprise the first-level of administrative division in the nation, it has two districts. Harper serves as the capital with the area of the county measuring 2,297 square kilometres (887 sq mi). As of the 2008 Census, it had a population of 136,404, making it the seventh most populous county in Liberia. Named after the State of Maryland in the United States, it joined Liberia in 1857. The most populous city in the county is Pleebo with 22,963 residentsThe county is bordered by Grand Kru County to the west and River Gee County to the north. The eastern part of Maryland borders the nation of Côte d'Ivoire, separated by the Cavalla River.
MONROVIA, A Special Presidential Task Force has identified political interference and the lack of capacity as major factors hindering the effective implementation of the County Development Funds (CDFs). In a report submitted recently, the Task Force set up to physically audit county development projects, pointed to several development projects left unfinished after a thorough assessment of 133 projects around the country. Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio said the report had been submitted to the President.
Ellen Halts Zakhem Contract
Published: 30 June, 2009
MONROVIA, The controversial oil contract awarded to a foreign company for the expansion and rehabilitation of Liberia's oil terminal has suffered another setback with President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf halting the deal pending a review of the oil projects.
Minister Ngafuan Addresses Budgetary Issues
Published: 29 June, 2009
On Friday, June 26, 2009, Minister of Finance Augustine K. Ngafuan visited the campus of the University of Liberia (UL) to provide clarification on issues surrounding the national budget process. The Minister stressed that one of the issues surrounding the National Budget is that in Liberia we operate a cash-based balanced budget because of its inherited US$5 billion debt out of which at least US$3.4 billion had been waved.
‘Deposit Bond Fees at Bank, Don't Pocket’
Published: 29 June, 2009
At a just-ended two-day magistrate training workshop in Nimba County, the issue of bond fees was high on the agenda, with appeals to magistrates not to pocket bond fees but deposit them at the bank. Speaking to the Daily Observer in Ganta recently, one of the trainers, Roosevelt Z. Willie, Stipendiary Magistrate at Brewerville Magisterial Court in Montserrado County, said presently in Monrovia they have what is called Montserrado Court bond where the defendant is sent to the bank to deposit the bond fees at the judiciary account and return the receipt to the court.
MONROVIA, The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) president, Peter Quaqua, has sounded a wakeup call to all media owners and the Government to dignify journalists' wages for their labor. Mr. Quaqua recently made the statement in Monrovia during a party held in honor of the Liberia Broadcasting Service (LBS) staff that graduated from the University of Liberia (UL). “Some of our colleagues are working with low salary and that is the underlying factor for some of the ethical transgressions that we have in our profession.
Activist Worried over Delay in Threshold Bill Passage
Published: 29 June, 2009
MONROVIA, As the passage of the population Threshold Bill, that is to serve as a determining factor in the holding of elections in 2011, continues to delay at the National Legislature, human rights activist and Liberia Democratic Institute's Executive Director, Dan Saryee, says the delay has the propensity to plunge the country into political anarchy. The Threshold Bill, after spending a protracted period of time in the Lower House, was sent to the Upper House about a month ago for concurrence but has again been stalled as a result of divergent views of senators on what number of persons should constitute a constituency.
MONROVIA, The Senate Committee on Judiciary on Friday, June 26, 2009, failed to conduct confirmation hearing on Sam Russ, Deputy Minister for Economic Affairs-designate of the Ministry of Justice. The action of the Senate's Committee to abruptly stop the hearing came at the back of questions from two members of the Committee and the 'unacceptable' response from the nominee. The two Senators who posed the questions were Grand Kru County Junior Senator Blamo Nelson and Sinoe County Senior Senator Mabutu Vlah Nyenpan.
Lands and Mines Cracks down on Illegal Miners
Published: 26 June, 2009
MONROVIA, The Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy, through the office of the Assistant Minister for Mines, McCarthy Williams, has taken some stringent measures to tackle illicit miners from further carrying on mining activities in the country. Minister McCarthy, at the head of a four-man team, including two inspectors, Abraham Sillah and Massaley, along with a mining engineer, made their way through the Gola Forest to the district of Kongba in Gbarpolu County.
President of the Senate, VP Boakai and Senate ProTemp Wortoson
MONROVIA, Members of the Liberian Senate on Thursday, June 25, 2009, failed for the third time to pass the Threshold bill into law. The entire floor of the Liberian Senate was on Thursday an arena of drama when several senators were at daggers end with one another on the various figures stated in the bill. Thursday's session saw the senators arguing for more than eight hours in the chambers of the Senate in a bid to arrive at a figure to set a Threshold for the country.
‘Worldwide Shortage of 80,000 Seafarers by 2012’
Published: 24 June, 2009
BMA Commissioner Binyah C. Kesselly
MONROVIA, “About 80,000 seafarers will be needed in the global maritime industry by 2012 and will need to be recruited,” Bureau of Maritime Affairs (BMA) Commissioner, Binyah C. Kesselly, told reporters at a news conference he hosted in Monrovia Tuesday, June 23, 2009.
Liberian Refugees Arrested, Detained in Guinea
Published: 24 June, 2009
N'ZEREKORE, GUINEA, Over an endless leadership crisis in the Guinean town of Konka Refugee Camp in N'zerekore Prefecture of Guinea, eight Liberian refugees have been arrested and detained at the border town of Macenta in Guinea. The Konka Refugee Camp crisis sparked off against the backdrop of the refusal of the Guinean local authorities to accept changes in the refugee leadership as demanded by some of the refugees at the Camp.
'Root out Prosecution in TRC Report'
Published: 24 June, 2009
Farhat: 'TRC is a waste of State resources'
MONROVIA, Opposition politician David Farhat has expressed frustration over the entire process of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in the country, describing it as a waste of the country's resources. Speaking Wednesday, June 24, 2009, in an exclusive interview with the Daily Observer, Mr. Farhat of the opposition Free Democratic party (FDP) said the actions being carried out by the commissioners of the TRC clearly showed that the entire process was full of fraud.
MONROVIA, The Executive Director for the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), a legal advocacy and advisory center, Thomas Doe Nah, has blasted the 52nd National Legislature of the Republic of Liberia for renaging on some of its responsibilities which require passage of bills languishing in committee rooms at Capitol Building.
Tubman, Weah Sign to Merge
Published: 24 June, 2009
MONROVIA, George Weah of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) and Winston Tubman of the Liberian National Union (LINU) have “agreed to collaborate, join resources and efforts to put up a joint challenge” during the next general and presidential elections in 2011. Both men signed a communiqué in Accra, Ghana, on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, and accepted to report the developments to the respective executive committees of their parties.
The Under Secretary-General for peacekeeping, Mr. Alain Le Roy, who last week paid a three-day visit to Liberia, expressed satisfaction over the level of progress made by the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL). Mr. Le Roy made the statement at the close of his visit, just before his departure.
The chairman of Nimba County Development Fund Committee, that is monitoring the use of the US$1.5 million Mittal Steel royalty to the County, Michael Wiles, has disassociated himself from a recent statement by one of the concerned residents of the County on the use of the royalty.
ABA and the Carter Center Provide Continuing Legal Education to New Attorneys
Published: 24 June, 2009
Cllr. M. Wilkins Wright, President of the Liberian National Bar Association, presented Certificates of Completion to 20 new attorneys who completed Advocacy Training sponsored by the American Bar Association (ABA) in cooperation with The Carter Center June 5, 2009.
Grand Gedeh County District #2 Representative, Zoe Emmanuel Pennue, has blamed Ministry of Commerce inspectors for the hike in prices on the Liberian market, especially construction materials, and classified them as collectors and not inspectors. The Representative was speaking during the weekend when he held a press conference at his Capitol Building office in Monrovia.
Maryland County Senator Calls for Nationalism among Future Leaders
Published: 24 June, 2009
Senator Gloria Musu Scott of Maryland County
MONROVIA, Senator Gloria Musu Scott of Maryland County is calling on Liberians, especially university students, to be more nationalistic than ever in their pursuit of higher education. Senator Scott made the remarks Friday, June 19, 2009, at an interactive dialogue session with students from A.M.E. Zion University. She told the students that as citizens and as future leaders, it was important for them to always be reminded of their sacred social responsibilities to their country first and the positions of trust that would be given them to serve.
MONROVIA, The Civil Service Agency (CSA) Director General, C. William Allen, says transparency, accountability and performance remain major challenges for the Unity Party-led Government's vision of public service. “This is an area that remains a challenge for us as Government.” Dr. Allen made the statement yesterday, June 23, 2009 at a press conference held in Monrovia in commemoration of the International Public Service Day.
Some members of the Senate debating the proposed Threshold at Tuesday's session
Senate Rejects Threshold Bill
Published: 24 June, 2009
MONROVIA, Members of the Liberian Senate on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, rejected a report submitted by the Joint Committee of the Senate set up a few weeks ago to examine the Threshold bill submitted by the House of Representatives a few weeks ago for concurrence by the Senate.
FACE TO FACE: Allen Explains Right-sizing Policy
Published: 22 June, 2009
Dr. Allen
The administration of President Sirleaf has spent the last three years in the Executive Mansion. Madam Sirleaf, upon her victory in the 2005 elections, initiated what she called a rightsizing process. The process was intended to identify 'potential' civil servant in various ministries and agencies of government and if possible increase and/or decrease their numbers. This exercise, over the years, has met several criticisms, especially from the opposition, with others complaining that citizens are becoming jobless and left to fend for themselves. Dr. William Allen is the Director General of the Civil Service Agency. Face to Face, in a bid to have a comprehensive explanation of the rightsizing policy, visited the offices of Dr. Allen. The reception was good and cordial. As this columnist was announced by the appropriate authority to Dr. Allen, he was ready for the interview.
MONROVIA, The corps of officials elected at the disputed convention of the Liberty Party (LP) has reacted sharply to statement by a splinter party group dissociating the party from comments made by party leader Charles Brumskine. The statement signed by Jacob J. Smith, as Deputy Secretary-General for Press and Public Affairs, reads: “The National Executive Committee of Liberty Party is taken aback by a front page story carried in the June 22, 2009 edition of the Daily Observer newspaper captioned: Brumskine Left Alone? Party 'Executives' Disassociate Themselves from His Comments.
A formal launching of Movement for Justice in Africa (MOJA) took place Saturday, June 20, 2009, at D. Tweh High School, with a cross-section of Liberians in attendance. The leader of the organization, Dr. Tipoteh, told the gathering that the launch was necessary in the light of country-wide support for MOJA and what it stands for, namely, freeing the poor people of Liberia from the hard times they were facing.
'TRC Conference Is Waste of State Resources’
Published: 22 June, 2009
Senator Johnson: 'TRC is a waste of state resources’
MONROVIA, Nimba County Senior Senator Prince Yormie Johnson says the just-ended Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Conference was 'staged managed' and one intended to plunge the nation into another round of unnecessary chaos, as, according to him, the delegates were 'hand-picked'. The one-week TRC Conference, he added, did not take into consideration delegates who were nominated by leaders of their respective counties, because “the exercise was not intended to reconcile the nation and its people”.
MONROVIA, A group calling itself Executive Committee of the opposition Liberty Party (LP) has strongly disassociated itself from recent comments made by Cllr. Charles Brumskine, former standard bearer of the party during the 2005 general and presidential elections. The Executive Committee, according to a press statement issued in Monrovia June 21, 2009, says it thinks the statement coming from its former national flag bearer is his personal view and not the view of the party as he (Brumskine) wants the public to believe.
Ngafuan Hits Back at Critics
Published: 22 June, 2009
Finance Minister Ngafuan
MONROVIA, The Minister of Finance says the Government, with its cash-based budget, can only give to its ministries and agencies what she is capable of generating. Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan said previous proposals submitted to the Ministry of Finance by various ministries and agencies for inclusion into the 2009-2010 draft national budget amounted to over US$500,000,000. Those submissions, he said, were in line with the plans of the various state entities.
FLY Expresses 'Dismay' over Arrest of 3rd VP, Others in Maryland
Published: 19 June, 2009
FLY prexy, Joseph Jimmy Sankaituah
MONROVIA, The Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY) said it is shock and dismay over the arrest and detention of its 3rd vice president, Aaron Collins and others in Harper City, Maryland County by the Liberian National Police. The Federation, in a release sent to our Youth Column, said its official was arrested by police for allegedly being linked to the June 11, 2009, violent demonstration orchestrated by individuals it described as 'brutal and uncivilized'.
28 'Illegal Health Institutions' Ordered Closed
Published: 19 June, 2009
Dr. Michael P. Slawon
MONROVIA, The Government, through the National Commission on Higher Education (NCHE) at the Ministry of Education (MOE), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MOH/SW), yesterday, June 18, 2009, ordered the closure of over 28 health institutions that are 'illegally' operating across the country.
Today's LPRC's deteriorating terminals and tomorrow's terminals after Zakhem
‘Zakhem Contract is in Liberia's Best Interest’
Published: 19 June, 2009
MONROVIA, The Managing Director of the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC), Harry Greaves, has assured the Liberian people that Zakhem's US$24.8 million contract for the renovation of the over 60-year-old Petroleum Storage Terminals (PSTs) is in their interest. Greaves divulged that the terminals had outlived their usefulness and the concrete foundations on which the existing tanks sit are all in terrible deteriorating conditions and Zakhem is capable of rebuilding the terminals and their foundations.
Archie Williams walking out of House's Chamber with his book in his hands while the Sergeant-at-Arms awaits to escort him out
BIN 'Deputy' Boss Thrown out of Budget Hearing
Published: 18 June, 2009
MONROVIA, The Chamber of the House of Representatives was effectively overwhelmed by noun yesterday Wednesday, June 17, 2009 when the presiding officer of the House budget hearing ordered Deputy Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization(BIN) Commissioner Archie Williams out of the budget hearing. Wednesday's budget hearing brought together the Ministers of Public Works, Agriculture, Justice and the Commissioner of BIN. These ministries and agencies were invited to defend their respective budget allocations submitted by President Ellen Johnson to the National Legislature.
Cllr. Brumskine: 'Unemployment in the country remains at an unacceptable level'
MONROVIA, The political leader of the opposition Liberty Party (LP), Charles Walker Brumskine, has disclosed that the 2009/2010 draft fiscal budget submitted by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf does not address the problems faced by Liberians in the country. Addressing journalists Wednesday at his Benson Street office in Monrovia, Cllr. Brumskine said the President's message this year, like all her previous messages, was more notable, on grounds that it did tell Liberians more than what it said. Cllr. Brumskine stated that President Sirleaf's budget message had failed to address the needs of the Liberian people.
10,000 Slashed off GOL Payroll
Published: 18 June, 2009
Dr. Allen: “The rightsizing policy is working”
MONROVIA, The Director General of the Civil Service Agency (CSA) has revealed that Government is now hosting a total of 34,000 civil servants on its payroll as well as a proposed minimum wages of US$80.00 monthly pending the passage of the budget. Dr. C. William Allen said this was the result of Government's strategy in bringing standards to the nation's civil service. Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Daily Observer yesterday, at his Carey Street offices in Monrovia, Dr. Allen also disclosed that owing to the rightsizing strategy initiated by the Government, the number of employees on its payroll had been reduced from 44,000 to 34,000.
A young educator at the Bassa High School (BHS) has described the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) as a mockery of the Liberian people. He said the PRS in Liberia was only for the rich to get richer and not for the poor. The Vice Principal of the BHS in Buchanan, George Gaybach, made these remarks when he spoke on behalf of the guest speaker for the ceremony, Bassa Junior Senator and Chairman of Bassa Legislative Caucus, Nathaniel K. Innis.
Several commuters, businessmen and women have continued to ask the crucial question: “What is Commerce and Industry Ministry doing to address the uncontrollable hike in transport fares across the nation, despite many warnings from the Liberian Government for the past months?” According to some commuters, commercial drivers, without any regard for Government's warning of serious consequences, such as issuance of tickets and other penalties to violators, continue to exploit the poverty-stricken Liberians.
‘Equal Opportunities Make a Better Nation’
Published: 17 June, 2009
Benoni Urey addressing graduates
MONROVIA, Lone Star Cell Corporation and former Maritime Commisioner, Benoni Urey, says the absence of equal opportunities for all is one root cause of poverty and retrogression facing Liberia and its people. Speaking at the 48th commencement convocation of Cuttington University in Suakoko, Bong County, on June 14, 2009, Mr. Urey said Liberia is a rich country that has more resources, but these have been enjoyed by few persons in the country leaving the majority in an impoverished condition.
‘National Budget: A Filter for Breeding Corruption’
Published: 17 June, 2009
ULSU prexy Williams: ‘This budget is only intended to enrich few’
MONROVIA, The University of Liberia Student Union (ULSU) has characterized the Draft National Budget as a 'filter sold for breeding corruption, which would leave millions of tax payers' hard-earned dollars in the hands of 'economic vampires and vultures'. According to ULSU, the Draft National Budget which is before the Legislature, as it stands, excludes major revenue generating agencies of Government from the budgetary formulation. “This denies Government of capturing revenue from said agencies. We see this as a clever attempt on the part of state bureaucrats to create loopholes in the economy for the enrichment of few,” the Union emphasized in a press statement issued in Monrovia yesterday.
MONROVIA, Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan has admitted as 'Honest Error' the infusion of US$500,000 into the 2009-2010 draft national budget. The Finance Minister gave the admission yesterday before the 52ND National Legislature during the scrutiny of the draft budget for possible approval by the body's plenary, the highest decision making organ of the Legislature.
Use of Nimba Mittal Steel US$1.5M Bounty in Limbo
Published: 15 June, 2009
Ongoing bickering among Nimbaians about the usage of the Arcelor Mittal’s US$1.5 million bounty for the development of Nimba County suggests that projects earmarked could be stalled. In a chat with the Daily Observer at his Monrovia office on Wednesday, June 10, 2009, the Chairman on the Development Fund committee, Michael Wiles, expressed disappointment and frustration at the way and manner discussions on the use of the money had been held.
Public Works Minister Tours Major Bridge Projects
Published: 15 June, 2009
Minister Woods II at Royesville completed bridge
Liberia's new Public Works Minister says he and his technical team's top priority is to connect the nation's 15 county capital cities with accessible road network. Attorney Samuel Kofi Woods II made the statement in Juah Town, Bomi County, when he led a Public Works' technical team on an inspection tour of a US$140,000.00 bridge project in that part of rural Liberia.
Who Goes to CBL as Deputy Governor?
Published: 15 June, 2009
With the weekend disclosure of Madam Ethel Davis, Deputy Executive Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), to resign come Friday, June 19, 2009, from the CBL's second highest portfolio, the names of three professionals among the nation's finest species in the banking and financial sector are fast emerging to fill the expected vacuum.
Prof. Tokpa: 'This Government lacks the political will to rule'
MONROVIA, The founding chairman of the New Deal Movement of Liberia, Professor Alaric Tokpah, has expressed serious disappointment over the manner and form President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is running the country. He said the UP-led government lacked the political will to rule and as such, there was no democracy in the country rather autocracy. Tokpa, who is also lecturer of Political Science at the nation's highest institution of learning, University of Liberia, however, regretted that such autocracy was being backed by the international community.
Pres. Sirleaf welcomes Ms. Clark at her Sinkor residence. Looking in is Dep. Min. of Foreign Affairs, William Bull
UNDP Head Pledges to Assist Liberia's Recovery
Published: 15 June, 2009
MONROVIA, The newly-appointed Administrator of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Madam Helen Clark, Friday, June 12, 2009, ended a two-day visit to Liberia with a pledge to support the country's recovery. Addressing a joint news conference with the Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to climax her visit, Ms. Clark praised the Government and people of Liberia for what she described as an 'extraordinary recovery' after years of conflict. The UNDP top executive expressed satisfaction over the level of progress taking place in Liberia.
Liberia Civil Society Groups Launch Watch Network
Published: 12 June, 2009
Civil societies in Liberia have launched a new watch network called Liberia Civil Society Watch Network. The launch took place Wednesday, June 10, 2009 in Monrovia. The network, according to Atty. Alfred L. Brownell Sr. of Green Advocates, will seek to involve citizen participation in the discussion and monitoring of the national budget. According to him, it is a constitutional right outlined in Article 7 of the Constitution of Liberia that the Government should ensure the maximum flexible participation of all Liberians in the economy.
What's Happening to Light Poles at NPA?
Published: 12 June, 2009
One of Several LEC High Tension Poles on the Truck in Monrovia
MONROVIA, Owing to several public concerns about the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) high tension light polls, about a truck load of the aluminum polls are current stranded at the Free Port of Monrovia. According to well-placed National Port Authority (NPA) sources, the Liberian Government has reportedly placed a halt to the extraction and subsequent exportation of the poles out of the country.
'Strengthen Your Prosecution Arm'
Published: 12 June, 2009
Cllr. Frances Johnson Morris
MONROVIA, The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) Chairperson, Cllr. Frances Johnson Morris, has urged the Executive Branch of Government to strengthen its prosecuting arm to enable the Commission get better results in the corruption cases at the court. “For instance, in recent times, we have seen disappointing results in almost all of the corruption cases,” she disclosed. The LACC chairperson made the statement during an interview, minutes after the opening ceremony of a two-day validation workshop for the Commission opened in Paynesville outside Monrovia.
Winston Tubman Decries Government Clean-up Method
Published: 12 June, 2009
Cllr. Winston Tubman
MONROVIA, The former Standard Bearer of the National Democratic Party of Liberia and former United Nations Special Representative to Somalia, Cllr. Winston Tubman, has strongly criticized the Liberian Government's current clean-up initiative approach. The Liberian politician made the remarks Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at the National Headquarters of the Liberia National Union (LNU) party in Sinkor, where he officially joined the party.
Philip Banks Out, Gongloe Goes to Labor
Published: 12 June, 2009
Cllrs. Banks and Gongloe
MONROVIA, President Ellen Johnson has shipped out several officials from her cabinet, moved others upwards while others have been retained their posts. The late Thursday evening changes affected mainly the Justice System. Cllr. Philip A. Z. Banks, Minister of Justice and Peter Bonner Jallah, Minister of National Security were shipped out. The President also relieved the Director of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Mr. Wolobah G. Zubah, of his post.
Illicit Miners Face GOL Crackdown
Published: 12 June, 2009
MONROVIA, The Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy (LME) has announced plans to carry out a major crackdown on illicit miners in the country. The Ministry made the declaration in Monrovia yesterday, Wednesday, June 10, amidst increasing media reports, indicating widespread illicit mining activities in Grand Cape Mount County and other parts of the country. Speaking in an interview with the Daily Observer at his Capitol Hill offices in Monrovia, Assistant Lands, Mines and Energy Minister, Walter McCarthy, said LME is fully aware that illicit mining activities are being carried out in the country.
MONROVIA, The Joint Committee set up to conduct investigation and public hearings on the Electoral Threshold Bill has concluded its assigned responsibility with a recommendation of 48,000 as Threshold. The latest recommendation had been advanced to the Senate's plenary, the highest decision-making body in the Upper House. The Joint Committee, which comprised the Senate standing committees on Internal Affairs, Governance, and Judiciary, on Thursday, June 11, 2009, submitted the recommendation under the signatures of about 10 senators.
500,000 Pregnant Women Die Yearly in Liberia
Published: 11 June, 2009
Dr. Saye D. Baawo
MONROVIA, The Director of Family Health Division of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MOHSW), Dr. Saye D. Baawo, has disclosed that Liberia has reached the top of the ladder in terms of the country's maternal mortality rate in sub-Saharan Africa. He added that the mortality rate of Liberia is also among the highest in the world. According to the Director, in Liberia, with a population of 3.5million, about 1,400 women die annually while 4,500 newborns die annually as a result of maternal mortality.
500,000 Pregnant Women Die Yearly in Liberia
Published: 11 June, 2009
Dr. Saye D. Baawo
MONROVIA, The Director of Family Health Division of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MOHSW), Dr. Saye D. Baawo, has disclosed that Liberia has reached the top of the ladder in terms of the country's maternal mortality rate in sub-Saharan Africa. He added that the mortality rate of Liberia is also among the highest in the world. According to the Director, in Liberia, with a population of 3.5million, about 1,400 women die annually while 4,500 newborns die annually as a result of maternal mortality.
Nearly 500,000 Pregnant Women Die Yearly Worldwide
Published: 11 June, 2009
Dr. Saye D. Baawo
MONROVIA, The Director of Family Health Division of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MOHSW), Dr. Saye D. Baawo, has disclosed that Liberia has reached the top of the ladder in terms of the country's maternal mortality rate in sub-Saharan Africa. He added that the mortality rate of Liberia is also among the highest in the world. According to the Director, in Liberia, with a population of 3.5million, about 1,400 women die annually while 4,500 newborns die annually as a result of maternal mortality.
LEITI Reports Discrepancies
Published: 10 June, 2009
T. Negbalee Warner Head of LEITI
MONROVIA, The level of discrepancies experienced in the Liberian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (LEITI) first report has prompted the need for a revision in the revenue reporting template. LEITI, in its 2007/2008 fiscal year report, indicated some discrepancies in the reporting templates submitted by various oil, mining, forestry companies as well as the Government Ministry Agencies (GMA).
MONR0VIA, The flag bearer in the 2005 elections for the National Democratic Party of Liberia (NDPL), Cllr. Winston Tubman, who a couple of months ago resigned his post and membership with the former ruling party of late President Samuel Doe, intends to pledge his political allegiance to Liberia National Union (LINU), a party founded by Doe's vice president, Harry Moniba. A statement by the party released Tuesday said Tubman will officially be joining LINU today, Wednesday, June 10, 2009. A formal ceremony is expected to take place at the party's 16th Street headquarters in Sinkor, Monrovia.
'Our Country's Coffer Is Bleeding'
Published: 10 June, 2009
MONROVIA, Civil society organizations under the umbrella of Anti-Corruption Action on Tuesday June 9, 2009, carried on a peaceful march through some principal streets of Monrovia, shouting anti-corruption slogans and asking the President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to prosecute all alleged corrupt officials. The march began on B.W. Harris School campus on Broad Street through Newport Street through Sekou Toure Avenue to the embassies of the United States of America and European Union.
Massive Changes in Gov't Soon
Published: 09 June, 2009
MONROVIA, Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio has confirmed pending massive changes to be effected by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf within the Justice System of the country. Addressing a news conference on Monday, Mr. Badio disclosed that an official announcement would be made later this week by the President as to who goes where or not. There have been speculations in some quarters of the Liberian society concerning the pending changes.
CBL Deputy Governor to Be Axed?
Published: 09 June, 2009
Central Bank of Liberia
MONROVIA, The Board of Governors of Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) are meeting, for the second time, to determine, among other things, what action to be taken against Deputy CBL Governor Ethel Davies for her alleged role in the much-talked-about US$1.1 million fraudulent transfer between the CBL and Ecobank, Presidential Press Secretary Cyrus Badio says.
Civil Society Forms Budget Watch Network
Published: 08 June, 2009
More than 15 Civil Society Organizations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the creation of Liberia Civil Society Budget Watch Network. According to Atty. Alfred Lahai Brownell, Senior Campaigner, Green Advocates and a member of the organizing committee, “For over a century and a half very few Liberians have heard of the country's national budget. This is seen as a pity because the budget contains information vital to every person in the country from the President to the person who lives in the most remote rural area”.
'Quality Output of Justice Personnel Essential for Trust'
Published: 08 June, 2009
Deputy UN Envoy Henrietta Mensa-Bonsu says the conduct and quality of output of personnel working within the justice system is essential for restoring greater public trust and confidence in the system. Ms. Mensa-Bonsu urged all members of the Judiciary, court officials, the Police, the prosecution and defense lawyers - both public and private - to play their part by performing and upholding their responsibilities with transparency and integrity.
A view of mainly Guinean on the streets of Monrovia
Guineans Want Naturalization Door Open to All
Published: 08 June, 2009
MONROVIA, Over 3,000 people mainly Guineans over the weekend took to the streets of Monrovia in a peaceful march in observance of the 34th anniversary of the Economy Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The program was organized by the ECOWAS Civil Society Movement of Liberia (ECOSMIL) and saw the match beginning from Ashmun Street to the Monrovia City Hall in Sinkor. Among the crowd were representatives from the Embassies of Guinea, Nigeria, Sierra Leone and Ivory Coast.
U.S. Breaks Ground for New Embassy Complex
Published: 08 June, 2009
Architectural sketch of new U.S. Embassy
MONROVIA, The United States Government, through its Embassy in Monrovia, has broken ground for a new state-of-the-art Embassy Complex at Greystone Compound. The ground-breaking ceremony, which was held over the weekend in Monrovia, brought together an array of dignitaries from both the private and public sectors of the Liberian society. The new Embassy complex, which is being constructed at the Greystone Compound in Mamba Point, is estimated to cost over US$130 million.
MONROVIA, President Ellen Johnson has called on the United States Government through its Embassy in Monrovia to work together with her administration in ensuring that Liberians, including political heavyweights, who commit fraud and other acts of malpractices in the country, 'will not find a safe haven in the United States'. “We ask you not to give visas to anyone who participates in fraud here and wants to seek refuge in the United States to flee prosecution,” she added.
A former employee of Ecobank-Liberia Limited says recent media reports indicating that he was one of the bank employees arrested along with Ms. Alice Roberts are 'false and misleading'.
President of the Senate V.P Boakai & Senate Pro Tempore Cletus Wrotoson
The 'tango' of Greaves And The Lawmakers
Published: 05 June, 2009
House Speaker Tyler
MONROVIA, The Capitol Building this week witnessed the deterioration of the ongoing brush between Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) Managing Director Harry Greaves and the Lower House. Incessant refusal of Greaves to the House's order to halt a US$25 million dollar contract with a British construction firm, Zakhem International led the LPRC MD to run to the Supreme Court seeking a prohibition order on the lawmakers' demand. But hardly had the ink on the Supreme Court writ dried out when the LPRC MD had a second thought to do away with his legal action.
House Increases Pressure on Greaves
Published: 05 June, 2009
Greaves had withdrawn his lawsuit against the National Legislature
MONROVIA, The 64-member House of Representatives has increased pressure on Liberia Petroleum Refining Company's (LPRC) Managing Director Harry Greaves to halt the US$24.8 million, barely three days after the LPRC's writ of prohibition to the Supreme Court of Liberia against the House leadership. At Thursday's Plenary, House Chief Clerk James Kabba read a letter from the Court withdrawing an earlier stay order issued through the writ of prohibition by Mr. Greaves.
Senate Orders Probe into US$1M Transfer at CBL
Published: 05 June, 2009
CBL Governor Jones and Senate Protemp Wortorson
MONROVIA, The Liberian Senate has ordered with immediate effect investigation into circumstances surrounding the transfer of US$1 million by authorities of both the Central Banks of Liberia (CBL) and the Finance Ministry to a private account at Ecobank in Monrovia. The Liberian Senate took the decision Thursday, June 4, 2009, following a formal communication sent to that body by three senators.
Crisis Looms at Ministry of Health
Published: 05 June, 2009
MONROVIA,Credible report reaching this paper states that there has been an order from Dr. Julie Brown, Director of Human Resources Department of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare requesting all the staff in the Social Welfare Department below the ranks of deputy and assistant minister to resign.
MONROVIA,The Government of Liberia (GOL) through the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs has admitted miserable failure in the implementation of its benchmarks set for the first year relative to its Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS). Addressing a news conference at the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism (MICAT), on Capitol Hill in Monrovia yesterday, the Minister of Planning and Economic Affairs, Amara Konneh startlingly told journalists that at least 20 deliverables representing 18 percent out of 107 deliverables earmarked for the first year of the PRS implementation were achieved.
Liberia Unsafe for US Flier
Published: 04 June, 2009
The Liberian Government announced in Monrovia Wednesday, June 03, 2009, that it had received a communication concerning Delta Airlines' postponement of new service to Liberia and Kenya. According to the communication, the Liberian Government disclosed, Delta had been notified by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) would require more time to approve Delta's planned direct flights to Monrovia, Liberia and Nairobi, Kenya.
President Sirleaf Signs Human Rights Commission into Law
Published: 04 June, 2009
Photo by Adama B. Thompson
MONROVIA, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has signed into law 'An act to amend certain provisions of Articles 6, 8, 9 and 18 of the Independent National Commission on Human Rights Act of 2005'. The signing of the act into law paves the way for the Commission to conform to international standards and best practice.
Government Releases Ministries' Grade Cards
Published: 04 June, 2009
MONROVIA -- The Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs has released performance reports for various government ministries over the implementation of the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) deliverables since the launch of the initiative by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf last year. Making the disclosure to scores of journalists at a news conference on Wednesday, June 3, 2009, Planning Minister Amara Konneh said the release of the report was the first of its kind in the history of Liberia, with an aim of highlighting self-accountability by Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf-led administration.
With the passage of the budget, the PRS is expected to move forward.
US$347M Budget under Scrutiny
Published: 04 June, 2009
MONROVIA -- The much-awaited public hearings of the over US$300 million draft national budget submitted to the National Legislature will begin tomorrow. Those expected before the Legislature at the hearings are John S. Morlu III, Auditor General of Liberia and head of the General Auditing Commission (GAC); Professor Wilson K. Tarperh, Liberia's former representative to the African Development Bank (ADB); Finance Minister Augustine K. Ngafuan; and other leading financial experts.
‘I'm Not Taylor Supporter’
Published: 03 June, 2009
Massa Cousli
MONROVIA, Madam Massa Cousli has clarified that she is no supporter of former President Charles Taylor as has been alleged by callers, who called on a radio talk-show recently. She said people have been linking her to Mr. Taylor and his National Patriotic Party (NPP), which she denied ever being attached to.
Greaves Runs To Supreme Court
Published: 03 June, 2009
LPRC Managing Director, Harry A. Greaves
MONROVIA, Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) Managing Director, Harry A. Greaves, has filed a writ of prohibition at the Supreme Court of Liberia against the leadership and members of the House of Representatives through its Speaker Alex Tyler. In line with the Writ of Prohibition, a copy of which is in the possession of the Daily Observer, Francis S. Korkpor, Associate Justice and presiding in Chambers, has cited the House of Representatives to a conference at the 4th floor of the Temple of Justice, tomorrow, Thursday, June 4, 2009, at about 2:00 p.m.
'Government's Prosecution Team Isn't Weak’
Published: 02 June, 2009
The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) has clarified the perception growing in the minds of many Liberians that the prosecution team of the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) of the Government of Liberia (GOL) is weak. MOJ describes the perception as infallible and untrue, adding that it is not supported by facts.
Members of the House's Standing Committee on Commerce yesterday, June 1, 2009, inspected the Liberia Cement Corporation (CEMENCO) to ascertain the total weight of each of the bags. However, during the inspection exercise, Cemenco management assured the public that its cement bag was 50kg net.
FACE TO FACE: Interview with the Executive Director of Liberia Democratic Institute, Dan Saryee
Published: 02 June, 2009
Dan Saryee
Located on Randall Street, downtown Monrovia, the offices of the Liberia Democratic Institute (LDI) is on the second floor of American Dry Cleaner building. Dan Saryee is the Executive Director of this non-governmental organization with its focus on promoting democracy in Liberia. Reception at this organization was good and friendly. One of the workers of the LDI ushered this columnist into the conference room and Mr. Saryee was available for the interview. He was armed with the brochure of the LDI and dressed in regular Friday attire, something most executives will do on a Friday.
MONROVIA, House Committee on Public Accounts and Expenditure has ordered a freeze on the payment of domestic debts until a comprehensive audit is done to clear the first two payments of suspected fraud. Liberia's domestic debt stands at US$60 million. The House Committee claims fraud has been suspected in the first two payments of domestic debts with some vendors being overpaid while payment to some vendors was allegedly illegitimate.
MONROVIA, Liberia is once again opting for the hosting of another leadership conference known as the 13th session of the Conference of Leaders and Heads of State of Sahel-Saharan States (CENSAD) in 2011, following the successful international women colloquium in Monrovia last March.
Over Death of Fula Motorcyclist:
Published: 01 June, 2009
Bella Diallo
Gee Progressive Alliance (GEPA), a local youth advocacy group in River Gee County, has strongly condemned the action of its County Superintendent, Karku Sampson, as it relates to his role in the reported case of the brutal murder of a member of the Fulani Community. Speaking to the Daily Observer on Capitol Hill in Monrovia, the Director of the GEPA, Philibert Toe, said the people of River Gee especially the youths were very saddened by the death of Abdulai Jalloh Bah who was allegedly murdered May 10, 2009 along the Kanweaken Fish Town Highway in River Gee County.
UPA Consultants Visit Posts and Telecommunications
Published: 01 June, 2009
Minister Sulunteh (left) in handshake with Mr. Adujolu (right), while Mr. Boehm looks on
MONROVIA, Exactly six days after receiving the Universal Postal Union (UPA) Consultant, Guenter Boehm from the Federal Republic of Germany in his office for the second time, the Minister/Postmaster-General of Posts and Telecommunications, Jeremiah C. Sulunteh, has again warmly received and welcomed another UPU Consultant, Kola Aduloju, who arrived in the country from Nigeria, Friday, May 22, 2009 at about 2:30 pm.
The remaining work of the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to complete the auditing of government institutions for fiscal 2006/2007 before becoming current to qualify Liberia for the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) has claimed the attention of some lawmakers in the National Legislature.
Sulunteh on Preparations in Gbarnga for 'July 26'
Published: 29 May, 2009
Sulunteh: ‘We will surely get there’
Liberia's Post Master-General Jeremiah C. Sulunteh says preparations in Gbarnga, Bong County Provincial City, for the hosting of this year's Independence Day celebration, dubbed July 26, is well on course. According to Mr. Sulunteh, though the information on Bong County hosting this year's July 26 was disclosed to the people of the county very late, preparations were 'well on course'.
Labor, BIN Undertake Inspection of Businesses, Industrial Institutions
Published: 29 May, 2009
Acting Labor Minister John F. Josiah
The Ministry of Labor, in collaboration with the Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization (BIN), has embarked on a one-month joint inspection exercise of business entities and industrial establishments within Montserrado County and its environs. Acting Labor Minister John F. Josiah told journalists at a press conference yesterday at the Ministry of Labor on UN Drive, that the exercise is consistent with the statutory mandate of the Ministry of Labour to regulate the labor sector of Liberia and uphold the rule of law in order to dignify the labor community.
MONROVIA, For days, members of both Houses at the National Legislature have expressed concern over the reappearance of a rights law passed by that body on September 19, 2008 and later sent to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for her approval. The reappearance of the law at the Capitol has raised several questions from both senators and representatives expressing disappointment. They asked for an investigation into the reappearance.
MONROVIA, Plenary, which is the highest decision-making body of the House of Representatives, has mandated the Managing Director of the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC), Harry Greaves, to place an immediate halt to the US$24.8 million deal contract entered into with Zakhem International Construction Ltd. Members of that august body took the decision yesterday, May 28, 2009, during the House regular session at Capitol Building.
Who Is Taking Away High Voltage Poles?
Published: 28 May, 2009
The poles are being sent out of the country
Liberia Electricity Corporation's (LEC) high tension aluminum light poles are being uprooted by a mysterious scrap company and shipped out of the country without any official comments from the relevant agencies of the Government. This has been going on for the past several months.
MONROVIA, The Senate Committee on Internal Affairs, Governance and Reconciliation on Wednesday, May 27, 2009 conducted a major public hearing on the much-talked-about Threshold Bill, with several Liberians calling for the reduction in the 40,000 per constituency threshold passed by the House of Representatives last week. The hearing, which lasted for more than eight hours in the chambers of the Liberian Senate, saw three prominent Liberian politicians differing with the figure set by the Lower House describing it as a pervasive sense of injustice to smaller counties.
Dual Currency or Liberian Dollar
Published: 28 May, 2009
US Dollar and Liberian Dollar
MONROVIA, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, commenting on the astronomical hike in the prices of goods and services caused by the unprecedented rise of the US dollars against the Liberian dollar, says Government will soon decide whether it should use only the local currency or the US dollar as its legal tender or maintain both currencies. At present, the exchange rate of the Liberian dollar (L$) to the United States dollar (US$) stands at L$70 to US$1 and L$70.5 to US$1 resulting in the ever rising prices of basic goods and services.
LPRC Board Endorses Zakhem's US$24.8 Contract
Published: 28 May, 2009
LPRC MD, Harry Greaves
MONROVIA, The Board of Directors of the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) has divulged that they approved Zakhem's US$24.8m contract in the interest of the country, but failed to mention if it can be ratified by the Legislature. The Chairman of the LPRC Board, Madam Amelia Ward, in a press conference yesterday asserted that the Board of Directors stands behind the two years of intense evaluation, which qualified Zakhem International Construction Company (ZICC) to win the contract.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a zone that had seen failed states in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast and Guinea Bissau degenerate in bitter civil war in the last decades, has a 'twin evil of drug and human trafficking' hampering the region's development.
Ellen Not Pleased with MOJ
Published: 27 May, 2009
Justice Minister Banks
MONROVIA, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has frowned on 'bureaucratic measures' put in place by the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) in prosecuting government officials implicated in acts of financial indiscipline on account of audit reports released by the General Auditing Commission (GAC). According to the President, these measures or steps set a new phase of investigation which she referred to as 'time consuming' and may not produce the expected outcome.
Brumskine, Kromah Others Face Senate on Threshold Today
Published: 27 May, 2009
MONROVIA, The final deliberation and gathering of opinions on the much talked about Threshold Bill currently before members of the National Legislature will today, Wednesday, May 27, 2009, be concluded by the Liberian Senate with the holding of a major public hearing on the passage of the Bill. The Senate on yesterday instructed its Committee on Internal Affairs, Governance and Reconciliation to conduct a major public hearing aimed at soliciting views from both opinion leaders and civil society organizations in the country so as to put the Senate in a suitable condition in passing the Bill that would be accepted by its citizenry.
In the Twin US$1.1 Million and L$22 Million Syndicate
Published: 27 May, 2009
President Sirleaf: ‘There are weaknesses in our financial system’
MONROVIA, Pointing to a “clear weakness in our system”, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf says several bank and Finance Ministry officials are helping state security forces with their investigation into a twin scandal involving US$1.1 million and L$22 million. She said those officials were allegedly connected to two fraud cases, including one Joseph Kollie at the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) and a whole string of people. They allegedly facilitated the transfer of the amounts at both the CBL and the Finance Ministry and were being investigated to determine the extent of their involvement in the syndicate, she said.
Egyptian Ambassador Presents Credentials
Published: 26 May, 2009
The new Ambassador of Egypt accredited to Liberia, Ahmed Fadel Yakoub, has presented his letters of credence to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. The ceremony was held on Thursday, May 21, 2009 at the Executive Mansion offices at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
This is a continuation of the interview conducted with Mr. Lamini Warity of the LTA. Information given only relate to him at the time he was acting as Chairman of the LTA in May of 2009.
Face to Face: Sir, let's talk a little on the gateway code, the 231 code that the various GSM companies are using, are the companies required to pay for it under the new standardization agreement? Lamini Warity: Oh yes... There was some point in time that we talked lengthily.
LPRC Workers Union Backs Management
Published: 26 May, 2009
LPRC Workers Union boss Yanior at the Jetty Walk Way that is to be constructed by Zakhem
MONROVIA, The Workers Union of Liberia Petroleum Refining Company has thrown its weight behind the current management team, headed by Mr. Harry A. Greaves, Jr., for the cancellation of the Mechanical Engineering Group (MEG) contract with the previous management, headed by Mr. Edwin Snowe. The Union further lend support to the contract with Zakhem International Construction Limited.
Audit Report on NASSCORP Takes New Turn
Published: 26 May, 2009
MONROVIA, The Public Account Committee (PAC) of the House of Representatives has concluded its hearings on the audit report released on the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP) by the General Auditing Commission (GAC), covering the period July 1, 2005 thru June 30, 2009. The PAC report, signed by Rivercess County Representative James Biney as Chairman and Bong County Representative George Mulbah as member, contains what one observer calls 'interesting findings'.
NACIDEF Condemns Brutal Murder of Nyan
Published: 25 May, 2009
MONROVIA, Bill Otis Nyan, Program Manager of National Civic and Development Foundation Inc. (NACIDEF), has been brutally murdered on May 20, 2009 by alleged armed robbers. The murder took place when the robbers attempted to rob the ex-program officer of valuable properties. Reacting to the murder, NACIDEF, in a press release reaching the Daily Observer over the weekend, said their officer's murder together with frequent incidents of armed robber have put in question the security of the people of Liberia and foreigners residing in the country.
LPRC on Zakhem, MEG Contracts
Published: 25 May, 2009
MONROVIA, The management of Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) maintains that its agreement with Zakhem International Construction Company (ZICC), relating to the rehabilitation of LPRC Petroleum Storage Terminal (PST) for U$24.8 million was ratified and that it was done for the good of LPRC and the country in mind. LPRC said it reached the agreement with ZICC for quality work in constructing new terminals and other facilities that outlived their usefulness.
MONROVIA, The Managing Director of Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC), Mr. Harry Greaves, has snubbed members of the Lower House by his outright refusal to adhere to Plenary mandate that he reappear before the body with documents that led to the signing of a US$24.8 million contract agreement with a UK construction group, Zakhem International.
MONROVIA,The grounds of the Capitol was this week seen elated with smiles on the faces of both lawmakers and citizens of the country following the long-awaitedpassage of the Threshold Bill by the House of Representatives.What appears to be a complete setback and unfortunate situation was, however, seen on Thursday, May 21, 2009, when members of the Upper House of Senate failed to concur with the Lower House. The Senate embargoed the Bill, saying it had political undertones and needed more time for careful study.
The Chambers of the Liberian Senate Photo by S. Binda
Senate Embargoes Threshold Bill
Published: 22 May, 2009
MONROVIA, Members of the Liberian Senate on Thursday May 21, 2009, failed to concur with the Lower House on the passage of the Threshold set at 40,000 by the House of Representatives on Tuesday this week.It all started when Bong County Junior Senator Franklin Siakor pleaded with plenary to suspend their rule and concur with the Lower House in passing the bill since, according to him, the passage was long overdue and that the delay in holding onto such the bill would create political crisis come 2011.
Bettie Outlines Effects of Global Recession on Liberia
Published: 21 May, 2009
Theophilus Bettie
MONROVIA,Theophilus Totee Bettie, a lecturer at the University of Liberia (UL), has outlined the ripple effects of the “Global Economic Nosedive” on the Liberian economy. Addressing the Wuo Garbi Tappia Lecture series yesterday on the Capitol Hill main campus of the UL in Monrovia, Mr. Betties said, “We now live in a time of extraordinary global economic challenge and uncertainty.” “What began in August of 2007 as a financial crisis in the developed world has degenerated into a global economic meltdown,” he added.
Security Council Maintains Travel Ban
Published: 21 May, 2009
MONROVIA,United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr. Susan Rice, says the UN Security Council maintains its sanction on certain individuals who the Council continues to believe pose a risk to Liberia and regional peace and security through their actions. Addressing members of the press in Monrovia at a brief session on Wednesday, May 20, 2009, Dr. Rice emphatically stated that the Council's travel ban and assets freeze remained in force.
Fraud at Finance Ministry: L$22M "Unaccounted For"
Published: 20 May, 2009
Finance Minister A.K. Ngafuan
MONROVIA -- In the face of numerous financial frauds at both the Ministry of Finance (MOF) and the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), authorities at the MOF have disclosed that 3,054 checks amounting to L$22,205,695.57 are 'unaccounted for'.
Security Council Delegation in Town
Published: 20 May, 2009
Dr. Susan Rice
MONROVIA, A 10-man United Nations Security Council delegation headed by United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr. Susan Rice, is in the country for a thorough assessment of the country peace process and return to democracy.
Threshold Bill Finally Passed by Lower House
Published: 20 May, 2009
House Speaker Alex Tyler
MONROVIA,After several months of heated debate over the controversial Threshold Bill, members of the House of Representatives have passed the Bill at a population of 40,000. The House reached the decision yesterday, May 19, 2009 during its regular session at Capitol Building. Grand Bassa County Rep. and Chairman on the House Standing Committee on Elections and Inauguration, Gabriel Smith, presented his Committee's report to plenary after several consultations with experts, civil society groups, lawyers and individuals who have vast experience on electoral process.
UN Security Council Delegation Arrives Today
Published: 19 May, 2009
A high-powered delegation of the United Nations Security Council will today, May 19, 2009, pay a two-day visit to Liberia. Headed by United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Mrs. Susan Rice, the delegation will consist of 10 permanent representatives of member states of the Security Council, five deputy permanent representatives or senior officers of the other five member states on the Security Council.
Suspended LTA Chairman Faces Probe
Published: 19 May, 2009
Suspended LTA Chairman Albert Bropleh
MONROVIA,Out of all the commissioners of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) who have complied with President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's request to resign their posts, suspended LTA Chairman Albert Bropleh will submit himself for investigation based on recent audit reports.
PRS Reporting Manual Launched
Published: 18 May, 2009
The Liberia Media Center (LMC) with support from Trust Africa and Humanity United, on Friday, May 15, 2009 launched the Reporting Manual and the maiden Report on Assessing Coverage of the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) and Information Flow at Monrovia City Hall, to serve as a guide to journalists reporting the PRS. The Manual was launched under a LMC one-year project titled, Strengthened Media for Poverty Reduction and Democratic Governance, which is aimed at conducting media training on reporting corruption, the budget and the PRS process.
Central Bank Reacts to Alleged Capital Flight
Published: 18 May, 2009
CBL Governor Mills Jones
The misinformation provided by Mr. Milton Teahjay during his participation on the Truth Breakfast Show and the assertions made by the New Democratic newspaper and The Chronicle that massive capital flight is taking place in Liberia have once again made it necessary to sound the caution that complex financial issues do not lend themselves to loose commentaries. Mr. Teahjay's comments leave no doubt as to his limitations when it comes to matters of economics and financial transactions.
Deputy Minister for Revenue at the Ministry of Finance, Elfreda Stewart Tamba and Senate Chambers
Massive Disciplinary Action at Capitol
Published: 15 May, 2009
Capitol Building
The National Legislature this week was an interesting venue with disciplinary actions taken against two senior government officials in the persons of Deputy Minister for Revenue at the Ministry of Finance, Elfrieda Stewart Tamba, and Senate Pro-Temp Cletus Wortorson.
Two Cents Levy on Petroleum Proposed
Published: 15 May, 2009
Rep. Gbenimah B. Slopadoe
MONROVIA,A two cents levy on each gallon of petroleum product (gasoline and fuel) consumed in Liberia has been proposed as guarantee to fulfill a rebirth of the National Economic Empowerment Trust Fund (NEETF) bill to support farmers and producers. The levy, according to Grand Kru County District #1 Representative Gbenimah Slopadoe, is intended to serve as guarantee instead of loan or grant to enable the family to survive as a prime unit for food production and sustenance for economic growth and development.
'US$450,000 Was Not Misapplied, Unaccounted for at MOE'
Published: 12 May, 2009
Dr. Korto: 'We ensure transparency and accountability here'
MONROVIA, The Minister of Education (MOE), Dr. Joseph D.Z. Korto yesterday, May 11, 2009, dispelled widespread reports that US$450,000 from the Ministry's budget had been misapplied or embezzled by authorities there. At a press conference yesterday, at the Ministry's Broad Street offices in Monrovia, Dr. Korto emphasized that there were 'no embezzlement, nor misapplication of any money at the MOE, but rather adherence to transparency and accountability as the Ministry has nothing in its closet to hide.'
Rocky Hill Survey Begins Amidst Protest
Published: 11 May, 2009
The much-awaited survey of Rocky Hill Community in Central Monrovia began Saturday with the estimated 50,000 residents of the area declaring no cooperation with Government's team of surveyors who had been dispatched to the area. In the early morning hours Saturday, scores of uniformed officers of the Liberia National Police (LNP) were deplored at, and paraded Rocky Hill as the community residents including men, women and the youth peacefully gathered to await the surveyors.
FLY Wants Threshold Bill Passed by National Legislature
Published: 08 May, 2009
Sankaituah: 'History will judge you...'
MONROVIA, The Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY) is calling on the members of the National Legislature to speedily pass the Threshold Bill that is before that august body. The passage of this bill has raised serious concerns among local and international partners of this Government. The latest being the Embassy U.S which called on the House to pass the Bill.
Delay in the People's Work at Capitol
Published: 08 May, 2009
A partial view of the House chambers on Thursday at 11:00 am
MONROVIA,For too long Liberia has been at a crossroad in both national and international politics. This time around, the point of impasse between the people and their representatives is on national issues, particularly the modus operandi in selecting their representation and other matters of national concern. The peak of the controversy has led the Echo to retrospect activities of the Legislature over the past four months.
LISGIS Releases Final Census Report Today
Published: 08 May, 2009
MONROVIA,The Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Service (LISGIS) will today Friday 8, 2009, officially announce the final results of the 2008 National Population and Housing census. Joey T. Kennedy, Census Advocacy Officer of LISGIS, told journalists yesterday that the final results of the census would be followed by an analysis of the data which would bring together subject matter specialists within Liberia and abroad.
Minister Banks, Cephas on US$508,000 Issue
Published: 08 May, 2009
Justice Minister Cllr. Philip A. Z. Banks
MONROVIA,The Justice Minister, Cllr. Philip A.Z. Banks, has reacted on media reports linking him to unilaterally ordering the use of over US$508,000, which had been seized from a Nigerian in September, 2006. In an interview with the Daily Observer yesterday, Thursday, May 7, 2009, Minister Banks disclosed that in 2006, Liberia Security Forces at Roberts International Airport (RIA) received a tip-off that a Nigerian, a wanted drug trafficker and money launderer, was making his way into the country via RIA.
Rep Zoe Pennue as captured in Tuesday's Legislative Session and a portrait provided by Pennue himself
'My Eyes Were Just Closed'
Published: 07 May, 2009
MONROVIA,Grand Gedeh County District #2 Representative Zoe Emmanuel Pennue has clarified reports in the Daily Observer Candid Camera column published on Wednesday, May 06, 2009, that he was sleeping during Tuesday's session of the House of Representatives.
LACC Calls for Partnership with PUL to Fight Corruption
Published: 06 May, 2009
The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) has called for partnership and collaboration between the Commission and the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) in advocating the passage of a number of bills aimed at enhancing the fight against corruption. This was contained in a press release from LACC reaching this paper yesterday.
CSOs to Set up Budget Watch Network
Published: 06 May, 2009
MONROVIA,More than 15 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) met over the weekend and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the creation of Liberia Civil Society Budget Watch Network. This was contained in a press release reaching this paper yesterday.
LISGIS Uncertain about Final Census Report Date
Published: 06 May, 2009
LISGIS Edward Liberty
MONROVIA,The House of Representatives last Friday, May 1, 2009, in a forum organized by Liberia Democratic Institute (LDI) under the theme, Confronting the Challenges of Democratic Consolidation: Obstacles and Opportunities for Electoral Threshold Bill, promised that the Threshold Bill would be passed as soon as the Executive presented to them the final report on the 2008 population census.
Senators seen leaving the chambers of the Liberian Senate
Senate in Disarray over Forest Contracts
Published: 06 May, 2009
MONROVIA,The chambers of the Liberian Senate were Tuesday, April 5, 2009, politically and emotionally charged with several lawmakers expressing their personal views on the manner and form the agenda of the Senate was crafted for discussion. When the 29th day sitting, 4th session of the Legislature was called to order, the agenda was read in which several issues were placed to be discussed by members of the Liberian Senate including the report from the committee on Agriculture, Energy and Environment.
Legislature Petitioned to Make May 1 National Holiday
Published: 05 May, 2009
(R-l) Acting LLC Boss Madam Manning presenting petition to outgoing Labor Minister Atty Woods
The umbrella organization of workers in Liberia, the Liberia Labor Congress (LLC) on Friday, May 1, 2009 petitioned the House of Representatives to enact into law May 1 as national holiday, to be dubbed Labor Day, in observance of the World Labor Day all over the world.
Threshold Bill Splits Lawmakers
Published: 05 May, 2009
President Pro Temp, Cletus Wotorson and House Speaker, Alex Tyler
MONROVIA,Grand Kru County Junior Senator Blamo Nelson has differed greatly with Maryland County Representative Bhofal Chambers on calls that the Threshold Bill be suspended for the next 10 years. Speaking Monday, May 4, 2009, during the occasion of World Press Freedom Day hosted by the Press Union of Liberia, (PUL) in Monrovia, both lawmakers expressed contrasting views on the passage of the Bill.
For Acquitting Byrant, Others:
Published: 04 May, 2009
The National Executive Committee of the Liberia Action Party (LAP) welcomes with great satisfaction and exhilaration the verdict of the Petty Jury of the First Judicial Circuit Court, Criminal Assizes “C” acquitting C. Gyude Bryant, Chairman of the erstwhile National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL) and former LAP Chairman of the crime of economic sabotage.
Bryant, Others' Acquittal Disappoints Ellen
Published: 04 May, 2009
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
MONROVIA,President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf issued a statement Saturday, May 2, 2009 in reaction to a jury acquittal of former officials charged with corruption, stating “the Executive Mansion is deeply disappointed” by the decision reached by the jury to drop charges against the former officials. The President's reaction was contained in a statement she handed out at the Saturday evening's tête-à-tête with editors and media managers at her Ministry of Foreign Affairs offices.
President of the Senate Vice President Joseph Boakia (L) and Senate Pro- Tempore Senator Cletus Wortoson holding talk during the decisions on Tuesday
Lawmakers Adamant on Holding Threshold Bill
Published: 01 May, 2009
MONROVIA,Following two weeks of Easter break, members at the National legislature on Capitol Hill in Monrovia have returned to duty as usual; looking down major bills. The returned of the Lawmaker to the capitol Building comes at a time where legislators are being faced with huge challenges on deck. One onerous of these is passage of the constitutional mandated Threshold Bill that appears has frozen in the House's committee room.
President of the Senate Vice President Joseph Boakia (L) and Senate Pro- Tempore Senator Cletus Wortoson holding talk during the decisions on Tuesday
Lawmakers Adamant on Holding Threshold Bill
Published: 01 May, 2009
MONROVIA,Following two weeks of Easter break, members at the National legislature on Capitol Hill in Monrovia have returned to duty as usual; looking down major bills. The returned of the Lawmaker to the capitol Building comes at a time where legislators are being faced with huge challenges on deck. One onerous of these is passage of the constitutional mandated Threshold Bill that appears has frozen in the House's committee room.
Donzo Must Account for US$9M
Published: 01 May, 2009
Outgoing Minister Donzo
MONROVIA,A member of the House of Representatives has written a letter of concern to plenary raising suspicion that a US$9 million budgetary appropriation given for procurement of equipment by the Ministry of Public Works might have not been expended. Plenary has therefore summoned former Public Works Minister, Lusine Donzo to account for that money.
Crack in Bong Preparations for Independence Day
Published: 30 April, 2009
GBARNGA, Women in Peace Building Network (WIPNET), Bong County branch, have begun a sit-in action in Gbarnga, Bong County, in protest against the mysterious disappearance of one Madam Gbonotoe McGill and the prolonged detention of the 23 persons who were arrested by police for their alleged involvement in the February 27, 2009 violent demonstration in the city.
USAID Supports NEC Capacity Building Initiative
Published: 29 April, 2009
The National Elections Commission (NEC) will benefit from two separate training programs to be sponsored by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The program will be implemented through Forest Project-Liberia in the areas of boundary delimitation and electoral management. This was disclosed in a NEC press release reaching the Daily Observer yesterday.
Tipoteh Sends Congratulations
Published: 29 April, 2009
Dr. Togba-Nah Tipoteh, leader of MOJA
MONROVIA,Dr. Togba-Nah Tipoteh, 2005 presidential candidate, has congratulated the newly elected South African (S.A.) President Jacob Zuma.This congratulation was in a message to President-elect Zuma, sent over the weekend.
LACC, Nigerian Ambassador Hold Interactive Session
Published: 29 April, 2009
MONROVIA,The Nigerian Ambassador to Liberia, H.E. Ebenezer Adigun, on Monday, April 27, 2009, held an interactive session with commissioners and staff of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) to share the experiences and lessons learned by Nigeria in the fight against corruption. This was disclosed in a LACC press release reaching this paper yesterday.
Senate President, V.P. Joseph Boakai and ProTemp Cletus Wotorson
On Threshold Bill:
Published: 29 April, 2009
MONROVIA,Members of the Liberian Senate on Tuesday, April 28, 2009, refused to honor a communication sent to that body by authorities of the United States Embassy in Liberia requesting the passage of the Threshold Bill. The United States Embassy, in the communication, informed the Senate that failure on their part to speedily pass the Threshold Bill would lead to the international community negatively reacting in recognizing the upcoming 2011 elections as well as the winner.
Cape Mount Legislators Protest
Published: 28 April, 2009
Commissioner Quaye (r) clarifying the CFDC representation to Rep. Dabloh
The Cape Mount Legislative Caucus in the 52nd Legislature has condemned the election of the 10-man committee, dubbed the Community Forestry Development Committee (CFDC), in the B & V Timber deal. The Caucus stressed that the proportional representation of the people of Grand Cape Mount County for the two concessional districts was unbalanced and therefore requested county officials to quash the election for the sake of transparency and equality.
Pres. Sirleaf, Mrs. Clinton Meet
Published: 23 April, 2009
Mrs. Clinton and President Sirleaf meet at State House, Washington, D.C.
USA, United States Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton has described as exemplary and extraordinary the leadership of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, saying the Liberian leader has made an enormous contribution to the country's development. Mrs. Clinton emphasized that the Obama administration is committed to the future of Liberia and to President Johnson Sirleaf's continuing leadership.
LEITI Plays Host to International Mission
Published: 21 April, 2009
A high-level joint mission from Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) International Secretariat in Oslo, Norway, and head offices of the World Bank and the African Development Bank arrives in Liberia to meet with Liberia Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (LEITI) and hold talks with LEITI stakeholders and other senior officials of the Liberian Government on how to deepen anD sustain the work of LEITI.
Opposition Politician Hails Ellen
Published: 21 April, 2009
N.H.A D.M.D Stanley Kparkillen
MONROVIA,An opposition politician of the former ruling National Patriotic Party of Liberia (NPP) has hailed President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for the enormous efforts she continues to make toward the growth and development of Liberia despite huge challenges facing her Government and the country.
Norwegian Delegation Visits Liberia
Published: 21 April, 2009
MONROVIA,The Government of Liberia is pleased to welcome a delegation from Norway which is visiting Liberia, 21-24 April, in order to discuss possibilities for Liberia to benefit from the Norwegian Forestry Initiative. This is a multi-million dollar investment fund created by the oil-rich state to assist forest-rich countries like Liberia in the fight against global warming by conserving their forests.
Lawmakers under Pressure
Published: 21 April, 2009
MONROVIA, Citizens of four counties, namely, Grand Gedeh, Maryland, River Gee and Grand Kru have signed a resolution calling on the National Legislature to pass into law four elections-related bills that are tied up in the first branch of government. The four southeastern counties made the call at a two-day regional consultative meeting held in Fish Town, River Gee County in April 17-18, 2009.
Liberty Party Ends Youth Training Workshop
Published: 21 April, 2009
The opposition Liberty Party (LP) has ended a second in a series of training workshops for the youth of the party in Monrovia. The training program which took place at the party's headquarters on Old Road lasted from April 11 to 18, 2009. It was aimed at making sure that the youth of the party become more assertive in the party's affairs.
Labour Minister Leaves for Abuja
Published: 21 April, 2009
Minister of Labour Atty. Samuel Kofi Woods
MONROVIA,The Minister of Labour Atty. Samuel Kofi Woods, II ahead of a tripartite delegation (Government, Worker and Employer Organizations) leaves the country today, Tuesday, April 21, 2009 to attend the first Nigerian Employment Summit in Abuja, Nigeria.
NPA Managing Director George Tubman being interviewed by the press
MONROVIA,Tension erupted over late last week at the National Port Authority (NPA) when port workers staged a 'go-slow' action in demand of overtime wages and other benefits. By 8:00 a.m. Friday, April 17, 2009, the situation developed into full-blown strike that paralyzed that day's normal work at the NPA as the workers rejected the port management's call to return to work; management promised the workers that their demand would be addressed.
Anti-Corruption Commission Code under Review
Published: 20 April, 2009
MONROVIA,In an effort to collaborate on the fight against corruption, the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) on Friday, April 17, 2009, held a meeting to review the internal policy instruments of the Commission, and to receive civil society's inputs into the instruments.
For Too Long We Have Gone Western
Published: 15 April, 2009
VP Boakai
MONROVIA,Vice President Joseph N.Boakai says the goal of the Unity Party-led Government is to leave the country better than they met it, so that others coming after them will build on it. The Government, he said, was, therefore, supportive of any effort to provide education for the citizenry about what it (government) is doing.
MONROVIA,The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) is struggling out of what appears to be a non-committal for funds. The Commission said it has been given only less than ten percent of its proposed budget to operate. LACC chairperson, Counselor Frances Johnson-Morris, told a packed news conference Monday that out of a proposed US$3.8 million budget, only US$300,000 has been provided.
John Lloyd (in tie), Dr. Ajavon-Cox and Mike Mueller
Bill to Be Introduced in US Congress for Granting Liberians Green Cards
Published: 14 April, 2009
USA,A bill is soon to be introduced in the United States Congress for Liberians to be granted green cards in the USA. John Lloyd, a Liberian who is an official in the government of the District of Columbia, Washington, D.C., made this revelation to the Daily Observer at the weekend. Mr. Lloyd, who worked for the Daily Observer in the late 1980s before departing for the USA for further studies, is the Commissioner for African Affairs in the Washington, D.C. Government.
Commerce Minister Gets Tough With Cement Hoarders
Published: 14 April, 2009
Commerce Minister Beysolow
MONROVIA,The Government of Liberia (GOL) has issued strong warning to cement distributors across the country to immediately desist from hoarding the commodity. The government issued the warning last Thursday, April 9, 2009 through the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Miata Beysolow.
Ellen Is Making Progress
Published: 09 April, 2009
Jefferson Elliott, president of the Civil Servants Association of Liberia, had acknowledged what he called gains made by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf since her ascendancy to state power. Addressing hundreds of gold and diamond miners yesterday in Monrovia, Mr. Elliot named improvement of road networks in Monrovia and other parts of the country and regular payment of salaries to civil servants as some of the laudable achievements of President Sirleaf.
Finance Warns Delinquent Tax Payers
Published: 09 April, 2009
Finance Minister Ngafuan
The Ministry of Finance has warned that it will take a more robust approach in bringing to book those invading payment of taxes to the Liberian Government, thereby denying millions of people much needed social and constitutional benefits. According to a Finance Ministry Release issued in Monrovia, yesterday, Wednesday, April 8 2009, Assistant Justice Minister and Senior Tax Prosecutor, Cllr. Aaron Kparkillen made the disclosure Tuesday April 7, 2009 at the official opening of Tax Court for Montserrado County at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia.
Tomorrow, Fast and Prayer Day, Is a National Holiday
Published: 09 April, 2009
Tomorrow, April 10, is Fast and Prayer Day and is to be observed throughout the Republic as a National Holiday. A Proclamation by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf orders that “all public offices, business houses and market places are to remain closed on this day.” According to the Proclamation, the Day is to be observed “as a Day of supplication, Prayer, fasting and Meditation that the Blessings of God's Creation and of our Fathers may rest upon the high and noble duty which is laid upon Us, to the end that our efforts as a People may be crowned with great achievements to the common cause of the Nation, the State and Humanity.”
Poverty, Illiteracy Are Recipes to Child Trafficking
Published: 08 April, 2009
IOM Consultant Eric Peasa Lecturing on the ills of trafficking
MONROVIA,An international consultant has attributed the rising rate of human trafficking in Liberia and other African countries to ignorance, illiteracy and poverty on the continent. Consultant Eric Peasa of the International Organization of Migration (IOM), is of the view that human trafficking, which concerns the recruitment, transportation, harboring, or receipt of people, mainly children, under the pretext of adoption is being perpetuated in Liberia. He strongly called for reversing the situation in the best interest of Africa and its people.
Quest for Ellen's Birthday Celebration Before Senate
Published: 08 April, 2009
MONROVIA,A proposal seeking the celebration, as a national holiday, of the birthday of Liberia and Africa's first elected female President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, has been submitted to the leadership of the Upper House of the National Legislature.
Cross section of GCAP-Liberia Members on the grounds of the capitol Building presenting their petition
Lawmakers Face Pressure to Increase Health Allotment
Published: 08 April, 2009
MONROVIA,A policy advocacy coalition organization comprising more than 37 civil society, human rights, faith based, women and youth organizations, on Tuesday April 7, 2009 presented a three-page Petition to the National Legislature. The petitioners, under the umbrella of Global Call to Action Against Poverty-Liberia (GCAP-Liberia) are seeking domestication of the Abuja 2001 Declaration by the august assembly.
NAYMOTE Intensifies Democracy, Governance Sensitization
Published: 07 April, 2009
The National Youth Movement for Transparent Elections-Partners for Democratic Development has intensified its Democracy and Governance Education campaign in five schools in Monrovia. The initiative on April 2-3, 2009 targeted over 200 students from the Monrovia College, A. M. Zion Academy, Newport Junior High, Calvary Baptist and Soltiamon Christian High schools. Four facilitators from NAYMOTE lectured students about Democracy, Good Governance, Leadership and Volunteerism. This initiative is designed to promote young people's political interests, motivate engagement in political process thereby steering them away from potential political conflict and focusing their energy into constructively engaging their political leaders through letter writing, phone calls, visitations to influence public policy making for the common good and volunteering for community service.
Expert Appraises Features of Corruption Investigators
Published: 07 April, 2009
MONROVIA,Citing "vigilance in the watch for corruption" as one of the impeccable qualities for a high profile corruption investigator, a veteran United States fraud detective, has outlined other traits and attribute for those desirous of becoming Corruption Investigators.
Mittal Steel to Layoff Over 1,000 Employees
Published: 07 April, 2009
S. Kofi Woods and Lakshmi Mittal
MONROVIA,Global steel giant, Arcelor Mittal has announced in Monrovia that it plans to scale down on its current work force, and would retain 1,200 of nearly 3,000 Liberian jobs, while 80 percent of its large expatriate staff sill be made redundant. Mittal offered Liberia's greatest beacon for hope in the country's recovery drive after it signed a US$1 billion concession to take over mines in Yekepa, Nimba County. Within a few months, the company raised the investment by 50 percnt to US$1.5 billion.
GAC, GEC, EYG Trade Claims
Published: 07 April, 2009
MONROVIA,The General Auditing Commission (GAC), the George Edward Consulting, a local consultancy firm, and an international auditing firm, Ernest & Young, have been trading claims and counter-claims over a probable partnership between the Liberian Consultants and the international firm. Over the weekend the Daily Observer obtained documents reportedly written to the GAC by Ernest & Young claiming that George Edward Consulting had never been its partner.
Lamini Warritay Is New LTA Chair
Published: 06 April, 2009
Lamini A. Warritay
MONROVIA,President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has appointed Lamini A. Warritay as Acting Chairman of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA). He succeeds Albert Bropleh, whom the President last week suspended for time indefinite, following the passing of a vote of no confidence in him by the House of Representatives. The House also accused Bropleh of perjury and of corruptly using public money for his own personal use. The House also committed him to jail for a period of one month, but following appeals by some Legislators, reduced the prison time to three days.
LP Charles Brumskine and Wife (M) as well as Mrs.Doe of CDC and other guests at the convention
Isaac Jackson, Others Expelled from LP
Published: 06 April, 2009
MONROVIA,The Opposition Liberty Party (LP) of Cllr. Charles Walker Brumskine has ended its national convention in Monrovia with a joint resolution expelling several individuals from the Party. The convention also elected other LP stalwarts to steer the affairs of the party up to 2011. Those expelled from the LP include Sampson Dolo, former vice chairman for research; Isaac Jackson, former political officer; Nathaniel Toe, secretary general; and Stanley Toe, former Youth Wing chairman. According to the resolution, the expulsion of the four former LP officials was based on their failure and continuous refusal to abide by the LP constitution.
ELLEN'S AX FINALLY FALLS
Published: 06 April, 2009
Pres. Sirleaf
MONROVIA -- Amidst widespread reports of corruption in her government, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf over the weekend dismissed a number of key GOL officials. She also transferred other various other agencies of government. The Sirleaf government also forwarded to court four of its former officials for prosecution on charges of theft. The latest action of the President, comes barely few days after another senior Minister, Dr. Christopher Toe, tendered in his resignation as Minister of Agriculture. Information Minister Laurence Bropleh who announced the president's action at a crowded weekend news conference, gave no reason for Toe's resignation.
Major Changes in Government in Two Days
Published: 03 April, 2009
Minister Laurence K. Bropleh, with Deputy Minister Gabriel I.H. Williams, Public Affairs
Dr. Laurence K. Bropleh, Liberia's Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT), has confirmed widespread speculations in the media of a major shake up in the Liberian Government. Speaking at the MICAT regular weekly press briefing yesterday, Minister Bropleh pointed out that the official and formal details of the much talked about changes in the Liberian Government would be announced within the next two days. But he gave no hint as to who would be affected by the shake-up.
UP, LAP, LUP Merger to Shift Power at the Capitol
Published: 03 April, 2009
Sen. Nathan
MONROVIA,New alliances are being formed on Capitol Hill as a result of the latest merger of the Liberia Action Party (LAP), the Liberia Unification Party (LUP) and the ruling Unity Party (UP). At least three other political parties, Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), the largest in the Lower House, Liberty Party (LP) and the former ruling party of indicted former President Charles Taylor, the National Patriotic Party (NPP) have not only forged a common front but opted for a balance of power that would see Speaker Alex Tyler of the LAP, now a part of the ruling coalition, out. As for the Liberian Senate nothing much was seen this week except with the holding of its leadership elections and the ratification of two major agreement signed by the government of Liberia and two companies.
Speaker Tyler Under Fire
Published: 03 April, 2009
House Speaker Alex Tyler
MONROVIA,House Speaker Alex Tyler seems to be under fire from his colleagues in the House of Representatives on Capitol Hill, Monrovia. The latest attack on Speaker Tyler, who is a member of the Liberia Action Party (LAP), of stems from fear on the part of some members of the House that the Legislature is moving toward a one-party establishment, since the newly elected President pro Tempore of the Senate, too, is a member of L AP.
Senate Ratifies US$2.6B Agreement
Published: 02 April, 2009
Senate Protemp Wortorson
MONROVIA,The Liberian Senate has finally ratified the China Union US$2.6 Billion Agreement, which now clears the way for the Chinese to begin operating the Bong Range in Lower Bong County. In another major development in the 52nd Legislature, the 30 Senators also ratified the agreement between the Government and Buchanan Renewable Energy (BRE). The Senate reached the decisions on Wednesday April 1, 2009, following more than three hours in an executive session. Wednesday's decision in the Senate follows the House of Representatives' decision ratifying both agreements a fortnight ago.
Ahead of 2011 General Elections
Published: 02 April, 2009
MONROVIA,The Ruling Unity Party, the Liberia Action Party, and the Liberia Unification Party yesterday signed an Article of Merger at the Monrovia City Hall. The signing ceremony marks the first major merger in the body politic of Liberia following the 2005 General and presidential elections that ushered into office the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf-led administration in 2006. The ceremony was well attended by members of other political parties, members of the diplomatic corps, members of the National Legislature and other dignitaries from the civil society organizations.
Green Advocates, SDI Blemed for 'Hardship'
Published: 01 April, 2009
BUCHANAN, Hundreds of citizens of Grand Bassa and Rivercess counties seeking jobs with the forestry and timber sector staged a peaceful march in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County to protest civil society advocacy for compliance to due diligenence in the timber industry. The group presented a resolution to two environment advocacy organizations, Sustainable Development Institute (SDI) and Green Advocate. Through their resolution, they informed the SDI and Green Advocate about their plight as jobless people and the need for them to be employed in the forest sector.
L.T.A. Chairman escorted to jail by the Sergeant -at-arms
House Jails Albert Bropleh
Published: 01 April, 2009
MONROVIA,The Chairman of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), Albert Bropleh, has been sent to jail in the Monrovia Central Prison by the House of Representatives for one month, for perjury and for tarnishing the reputation of the Lower House. He is to forfeit his immunities and salary for lying that he bribed the lawmakers to defeat the Broadcast Communications Bill. Mr. Bropleh got into trouble with the lawmakers when the Audit Report, conducted by the General Auditing Commission (GAC), revealed that he withdrew money to the tone of US$52,000 for alleged legislative education and enlightenment.
