The Federation of Lofa Associations in the Americas (FLAA) deems it a distinguished honor and privilege to congratulate President-elect, Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and Vice President-elect, Joseph N. Boakai, on the occasion of their election as the 23rd President and Vice President of the Republic of Liberia.

The FLAA views your election as a victory for the Liberian people and the beginning of new hope and prosperity for Liberians, as we face the daunting task of post war reconstruction. The pronouncement of you as the winner of the November 8th elections is a demonstration of the fact that the citizens of Liberia have spoken, and their voices are reverberating throughout the world. Liberia has always been known for making history; and by electing you, Madam President, we have once again enunciated the dreams of our forefathers to the world that Liberia believes in equality of the sexes and the principles of human dignity. Your victory as the first female president of Liberia and on the continent of Africa was long won when Liberia saw the need to involve the talent of every Liberian, irrespective of gender. We are proud that this goal has been realized, not just by electing a female, but by making a decisive choice during a very critical election. FLAA salutes Liberia for electing a strong, hard working and intelligent leader like you, who will take this nation forward.

Now that the electoral process is over, the stage is now set to work. The FLAA sees your election as a victory for justice and a victory for the many victims of torture and mayhem that characterized the civil war. Liberians went through a lot in the struggle for Democracy to the extent that more than 200,000 lives were lost. We are of the sacred conviction that the blood of the lost lives is crying out loud in the wilderness for justice.

Your Excellency, our position for justice is by no means an attempt to dampen the costly process for achieving democracy. We are of the strong view that the cost of exercising justice is even more profound. We find solace in your demonstration of hope during your long quest for social justice, and are therefore not deterred by the process or the cost, but look forward to the results. FLAA expects a process of justice that will not weaken the deterrence posture of Liberia. Rewarding former warlords, their subjects and a repeat of sectarian administration, has the propensity to dampen the process of reconciliation and erode any hope for justice in postwar Liberia. Calling on Liberians to turn the other cheek repeatedly is injustice and is not helpful for a people who have endured what Liberians have gone through. Furthermore, FLAA believes that given the level of destruction of Liberia's infrastructure, an approach to a new beginning and hope would be the holding of a National Conference, by all Liberians. FLAA believes that a National Conference would serve as the voice for all Liberians, including those in the Diaspora who could not participate in the elections.

Your Excellency, FLAA congratulates you and prays that you will find the right team to work with as you serve our nation at a time when almost every need is an urgent demand. Be assured of the maximum cooperation from us as we all struggle to rebuild our country.

Signed:

Mr. Francis K. Zazay

National Chairman

Federation of Lofa Associations in the Americas

Approved: _________________________

Mr. Daniel Solee

Acting Chairman

Board of Directors

Mr. Vickson Korlewala

Secretary General

Mrs. Agatha Momoh-Johnson

National Vice Chairman

Mr. Samuel Tarnue

National Treasurer

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