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INSIDE THIS EDITION

EDITORIAL
Protecting Liberias Forests: Harrison Karnweas Pledge
See Pg. 4

Nelson Mandela
www.liberianobserver.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2013

PRICE: LD 40

COMMENTARY
Africas Promise
See Pg. 4

Dies
Minutes after news of the passing away of former South African president Nelson Rohlala Mandela, tributes and speeches started streaming in. United States President Barack Obama was one of the first global leaders to speak out following the news that the countrys first black president had passed away. Speaking from the White House on Thursday morning, Obama said he was one of the countless millions around the world who was influenced by Mandela.

-South African President Jacob Zuma Announces to the World

See story on Pg.18

LOCAL NEWS
L$43M Marijuana Arrested
See Pg. 3

LIB LIFE
Claiming the Crown
See Pgs. 9-12

The World Mourns Mandelas Passing Ecobank Giant

president, Nelson Mandela

Global leaders sent through their condolences after the passing of South Africas first black

BUSINESS
Govt Poise to Resolve Challenges in Banking Sector
See Pg. 17

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Barack Obama Obama met with Mandelas family earlier this year when he visited South Africa. But he did not meet with the ailing leader, who was hospitalised throughout the US presidents visit. Obama told the media that had been inspired by Mandela, who spent most of his life struggling against apartheid. My very first political action it was a protest against apartheid, Obama said. Nelson mandela lived for an ideal and he made it real. He achieved more than could be expected from any man. He no longer belongs to us, he belongs to the ages. Obama said that Madiba transformed South Africa and moved all of us.

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SPORTS
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See Pg. 19

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DAILY OBSERVER Thursday,Friday, December 05, 2013 December 6, 2013

Pope Francis Sets up Vatican Child Sex Abuse Committee

World News

Pope Francis has said dealing with sex abuse is vital for the Churchs credibility.
(BBC) - Pope Francis is to set up a Vatican committee to fight sexual abuse of children in the Catholic Church and offer help to victims. The announcement, by the archbishop of Boston, follows a meeting between the Pope and his eight cardinal advisers. It comes days after the Vatican refused a UN request for information on alleged abuse by priests, nuns or monks. One of the main Italian associations of clerical abuse survivors has said it has little trust in the Vatican. Pope Francis has said dealing with sex abuse is vital for the Churchs credibility. Earlier this week the Pope expressed his compassion for the many victims of sex abuse by priests around the world. Cardinal Sean OMalley, the archbishop of Boston, said the proposed panel of experts could provide codes of conduct for clergymen, guidelines for Church officials and better checks for would-be priests. Up until now there has been so much focus on the judicial parts of this but the pastoral part is very, very important. The Holy Father is concerned about that, he said. We feel that having the advantage of a commission of experts who will be able to study these issues and bring concrete recommendations for the Holy Father and the Holy See will be very important. He added that the move was in line with the approach of the former Pope, Benedict XVI, who referred to the filth in the Catholic Church. Pope Benedict was, however, accused of failing to do enough to address the problem. The Commission will keep the Pope informed about programmes in place for the protection of children, will formulate suggestions for new initiatives, the Vatican said in a statement. The archdiocese of Boston was the centre of a child sexual abuse scandal involving Catholic priests in the US in 2002. It ultimately led to the resignation of the archbishop at the time. The Catholic Church has faced a raft of allegations of child sex abuse by priests around the world and criticism over inadequate responses by bishops.

(BBC) - More than 100 people are confirmed dead in fierce fighting on Thursday in the capital of the Central African Republic (CAR), Bangui, UN officials say. The city was attacked, reportedly by militias loyal to Francois Bozize, who was ousted as president by rebels in March, plunging the country into chaos. The UN Security Council has now voted to allow French troops to join an African peacekeeping force in the CAR. The violence has raised fears of mass killings along sectarian lines. French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius told the BFMTV news channel that the French deployment would total around 1,200, with 600 troops already in place. The UK military says it is discussing limited logistical support for the French mission in the CAR but will not send combat troops. About 250 French troops were sent out onto the streets of Bangui when the violence began on Thursday. The Security Council resolution also imposed an arms embargo and asked the UN to prepare for a possible peacekeeping mission of its own. The fighting started at around 06:00 local time. We could hear heavy machine-gun fire and the distant boom of mortars. At times, the sound of automatic gunfire sent people running for cover at our hotel. Pickup trucks full of Seleka fighters - predominantly Muslim - raced past. Later several French military vehicles drove into the city from their base at the airport. African forces have also been on the streets. The staff at the hotel - who have already lived through months of violent anarchy expressed deep anxiety about the fate of civilians in the city,

CAR Fighting: 100 Dead in Bangui as UN Votes for French Force

Page 2

Foreign Briefs

Yemen
(BBC) - A series of attacks at Yemens defence ministry have left at least 52 dead and some 162 hurt, officials say. A suicide car bomb blew up at the gates of the complex in Sanaas Bab al-Yaman district, at the entrance to the old city, and a gunbattle followed at a hospital inside. At least two foreign medical staff are among the dead, medical sources say. Yemeni security forces are fighting regional rebels and al-Qaeda, while combating lawlessness and army splits.

Libya

Dozens of wounded civilians waited for treatment in Banguis main hospital

trapped in a conflict that has triggered bloody confrontations between Christian and Muslim communities. Bodies, of men and women, have been seen on the streets this morning. For several hours, the gun battles appeared to spread across much of Bangui. It is believed that forces loyal to CARs ousted President Francois Bozize launched multiple attacks from the north. The timing is highly significant. With French forces poised to intervene in the coming days under an imminent new UN mandate, this looks like an attempt to change the balance of military and political power on the ground. For now, it appears that forces linked to the Seleka alliance remain in control. But the situation is clearly fluid and unstable, and there are deep concerns about more inter-communal violence across the country. One hundred people are confirmed killed, Amy Martin from the UN in Bangui told the BBC. A government curfew came into effect at 18:00 (17:00 GMT) but sporadic gunfire could still be heard, Ms Martin said. The BBCs Andrew Harding, in Bangui, reported seeing many people lying wounded in the halls of a hospital. Our correspondent says the violence in the CAR is increasingly pitting Christians against Muslims. Michel Djotodia, who ousted Mr Bozize, installed himself as the first Muslim leader in the Christian-majority country. The mainly Muslim Seleka rebel coalition which brought him to power has been accused of atrocities against Christians. Christian communities have now set up so-called antibalaka self-defence forces, most of them loyal to Mr Bozize. Balaka means machete in the local Sango and Mandja languages. The Selekas have been officially disbanded and some of them integrated into the army, but correspondents say it is often not clear who is in charge, even in the capital. A Seleka general told the BBC there were 54 bodies lying in a mosque in Bangui. BBC journalists saw another 20 to 30 bodies lying in the streets outside. CAR Prime Minister Nicholas Tiangaye, in Paris for a FrancoAfrican summit, called for the immediate deployment of French troops. He blamed Thursdays violence on the anti-balaka militias.

Britain Urges EU to Change Free Migration Rules

rules work. She added: First, for future accession treaties, we must be able to slow full access to each others labour markets until we can be sure it will not lead to mass migration. Second, looking ahead, we must seize the opportunity presented by the prime ministers plan to reform the EU and address the problems caused by free movement. It is right that the national governments of the EU reform the way free movement rules work. Mrs May is also expected to propose requiring new member states to reach a certain level of income or economic output per head before full access to free movement rights is allowed. Welfare systems The debate is taking place in advance of the lifting of transitional controls on Romanians and Bulgarians from 1 January there will be no restrictions on them working anywhere in the EU. BBC Europe correspondent Chris Morris, in Brussels, said there was sympathy for Britains demand that abuse of welfare

The UN special representative in the CAR, Babacar Gaye, told the BBC there was a danger of mass killings in Bangui if nothing was done to stop the violence. Today something very worrisome happened because a group... attacked the town. We dont know the size, but what we know is that within ex-Seleka [rebels], casualties have been observed including commanding officers and we know that downtown, unfortunately, targeted violence is ongoing, so we are in a very bad situation, Mr Gaye said. Our correspondent says Bangui is quieter than it was when the fighting began on Thursday morning, with only the occasional burst of gunfire. He says the attack looks like an attempt to change the balance of power before the French intervene but for now, Seleka forces remain in control. An existing peacekeeping force about 2,500 strong, the International Support Mission in Central Africa (Misca), is already in place. It is now under a 12-month UN mandate and will rise to some 3,600 African soldiers, in addition to the 1,200 from French forces.

(BBC) - An American teacher has been shot dead in Libyas eastern city of Benghazi, local officials say. Ronnie Smith, who is reported to be from Texas, taught chemistry at the international school in the city. The 33-year-old was gunned down earlier on Thursday as he was jogging in the Fweihat district, a popular residential area in the city. There was no immediate statement from the US embassy in Libya. No group has said it carried out the attack.

(BBC) - The authorities in the central Argentine province of Cordoba say they will meet demands by police officers for a substantial pay rise. The offer follows a night of looting in the provincial capital by residents who took advantage of the police going on strike to demand higher wages. More than a thousand shops were ransacked and one man was killed.

Argentina

The British home secretary will raise the issue at a meeting of EU ministers
(BBC) - Britain wants to change the rules governing the free movement of people across the EU, Home Secretary Theresa May will tell European ministers. Mrs May will speak in Brussels, ahead of the lifting of movement controls on Bulgarians and Romanians. She says free access to labour markets must not be allowed to lead to mass migration. However, some countries have already vowed to defend what they regard as a fundamental EU principle. EU justice and home affairs ministers will meet in Brussels on Thursday. Arriving for the talks, the EUs Justice Commissioner Viviane Reding said our EU rules are good and they are here to stay - member states need to apply them to tackle abuse. Dont blame the Commission or EU rules for national choices and national regulatory systems... If we start negotiating freedoms we will end up with having none, she told reporters. Mrs May argues that problems caused by free movement must be addressed and the rules should be changed. In a statement she questioned why national governments should not be be allowed to impose a cap on numbers if European immigration reached certain thresholds. She said she planned to make clear at the Brussels meeting that I believe we need to change the way free movement

systems should not be permitted - because other countries shared the same concern. But there was little support at a political level for a fundamental reassessment of the idea of free movement, our correspondent added. One diplomat from an eastern European member state said no one would accept some countries being treated as second class EU citizens because a free market in goods and services also has to be a free market for labour. Mr Cameron has suggested that citizens from other EU countries would not be able to claim out-of-work benefits for the first three months in the UK and would not be able to extend claims beyond six months if they had no genuine prospect of work. Laszlo Andor, a European commissioner, angered Mr Cameron by commenting that the UK was at risk of becoming a nasty country if it curbed benefits and sought to limit freedom of movement by EU nationals.

(BBC) - Indias Supreme Court has said that it will take no further action against a retired judge accused of sexual misconduct by one of his interns. The court concluded that there was prima facie evidence of unwelcome sexual conduct by AK Ganguly. But it said that it would drop legal action against him because he had retired. Mr Ganguly has strongly denied a law graduates allegation that she was sexually assaulted by him.

India

(BBC) - Dangerous radioactive medical material taken when a lorry was stolen in Mexico has been found, local officials say. The material - cobalt-60 was removed from a protective casing and then abandoned nearby. The thieves may have been exposed to life-threatening radiation levels, but there is no health risk for local residents, the officials say.

Mexico

(BBC) - Up to 30,000 Eritreans have been abducted since 2007 and taken to Egypts Sinai to suffer torture and ransom demands, new research says. The study, presented to the European parliament, says Eritrean and Sudanese security officers are colluding with the kidnap gangs. At least $600m (366m) has been extorted from families in ransom payments, it says.

Eritrea

L$43M Marijuana Arrested

As DEA Holds 5 Suspects

Tuesday, November 5,06, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Friday, December 2013 Friday, December 6, 2013
The Government also issued a harsh warning against the illegal drug trade and its subsequent consumption in the country; it offered rewards to anyone who exposes those that are involved in the sale of narcotics. This drug business is really spoiling our society. We need to get rid of drug activities, including arresting and prosecuting those who are involved in the sale of drugs to our children, Minister Brown said. Were offering 15% to anyone whos willing to give us information on drug activities, including those who are selling drugs to our children and spoiling them in the society. 15% of the total value of any drug seized will be presented

Page 3 4 Page

By Gloria T. Tamba

he Drugs Enforcement Agency (DEA) has seized a consignment of marijuana valued at 43 million Liberian dollars (over 60,000 US$), Information Minister Lewis G. Brown disclosed. Minister Brown, speaking at the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism regular press briefing, Thursday, December 5, stated in an effort to reduce drugs in Liberia, the DEA recently arrested

Liberians Trained in Heavy Duty Equipment

five persons in possession of a huge quantity of raw marijuana at the Ganta Checkpoint in Nimba. In continuation of Governments major crackdown on the illegal drug trade in Liberia, officers of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) on November 25, arrested a huge consignment of marijuana at the Ganta Checkpoint in Nimba County, he stated. His announcement follows a major crackdown on illegal drug market recently announced by the Liberian Gov-

ernment. According to DEA officials, the items that were seized weighed up to 447 kilograms, and they were being transported in 20 double bags, the Information Minister said. Mohammed Sessay, Harris Mulbah and Teresa Sieway are amongst the five suspected drug peddlers, and the culprits are said to be with the DEA awaiting charge by the Liberian Government. The consignment of the seized marijuana, Minister Brown disclosed, was nabbed by officers of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) on

25 November at about 4:00 a.m., local time. He said the unlawful substances were being carried on board a vehicle marked with license plate TP 1626. He classified the impounded drug substances as homegrown, produced in Yao-Nyalay Town, Nimba County, and referred to the substance as dangerous to the Liberian society. The overall value of the drugs, Minister Brown disclosed, is put at over 43 million Liberian dollars or over US$60,000 (Sixty Thousand United States Dollars).

By Ishmael F. Menkor

ArcelorMittal Observes Volunteer Week

to anyone who exposes drug activities to the police he added. He used the medium to call on all Liberians to desist from special made (Marijuana)Goat soups, Ataye, egg nuts etc. describing them as dangerous to the health of the people. Minister Brown warned those involved with drugs to put an end to it immediately because the Government is prepared to prosecute those caught with narcotics. If anyone thinks the Government is joking with this drug issue, he or she must rethink now because this government will do everything to restrict this act in our society, he cautioned.

en Liberians on Friday, November 22, completed a twoweek training in the operation and maintenance of heavy duty equipment, under the auspices of UNMIL Bangladeshi Engineering Battalion 19 in Ganta, Nimba County. The training, which began on the 11th November, was held in collaboration with the Government of Liberia with support from Swedish International Development Aids/ SIDA under the Liberia Swedish Feeder Roads Project. The total Liberians from Bong, Lofa and Nimba were trained in the operation and maintenance of motor roller, grader and dozer. At the certificate awarding ceremony held in Ganta on the 22nd November, the Contingent Commander of BANENGR 19, Lt. Col Anwar said, many development activities are being undertaken by government and nongovernmental organizations to restore the

The Trainees backed the UNMIL BANENGR 19 pose for Photo

war ravaged infrastructure of the country. He added, The shortage of skilled manpower in this field is felt by all concerned over the last few years and the building of the capacity of local youths is one of the prime focuses of the Civil Military Coordination activities undertaken by the UNMIL forces. Lt Col Anwar added that since their arrival in Liberia five months ago, they are exploring the field of work, which can contribute to the development of the local community and the nation at large. The UNMIL BANENGR 19 took over from the BANENGR 17 in June this year for a period of one year. The UNMIL Bangladeshi Engineering Battalion plays a multipurpose role in their duties including the maintenance of road, dismantling and explosion of unexploded bomb and among others. Last year, the BANENGR 17 trained two batches of Liberians in similar training in enhancing their skills in the redevelopment of Liberia. Govasco Miller thanked the Bangladeshi for impacting them with skills that are really rewarding to their lives and their profession.

The ArcelorMittal Banner at the Market Site in Bomi County

Rural Farmers Enjoy Access to Finance to Improve Micro Agribusiness

By Judoemue Mohmoh Kollie
According to the release, LEAD is a recipient of a grant from The United States African Development Foundation (USADF), which is an independent U.S. Federal Government agency established to support African-designed and African-driven solutions that address grassroots economic and social problems in conflict and post-conflict communities. In addition, LEAD has also received support from the Central Bank of Liberias Loan Extension and Accountability Facility (LEAF), the release further disclosed. The release states that Liberian farmers often face barriers in accessing credit because they have inadequate or no business records and lack collateral for loans. Banks often see farmers as a risky investment because of the misconception that non-repayment is common, and farmers frequently lack the knowledge of how to manage and use loans appropriately in Liberia. According to the release, FED stepped in to fill this financing gap for their vegetable growing farming groups and beneficiaries. FED first assisted the groups by guiding them on setting up proper financial record keeping systems and helping them open business bank accounts with Ecobank. With the proper business records system in place, and accounts opened, the farmers turned to LEAD for loans with six-month terms and a 16% interest rate over six months. If small businesses find it difficult to access financial services, rural farmers are at even greater disadvantage. USAID FED has built the capacity of organized farm groups to access loans. These types of financial services are critical in jumpstarting and growing micro and small sized agribusiness in Liberia, explains Agnes Luz, USAID FED Chief of

press release, from the United States Aid for International Development/Food and Enterprise Development(USAID/FED) has disclosed that, at least seven farming groups representing hundreds of individual farmers from Montserrado, Margibi, and Nimba counties have received loans ranging from $180,000 LD ($2200 USD) to $500,000 LD to improve agribusiness in the country. The program is being carried out through USAID/ FED in collaboration with the Liberian Entrepreneurial & Asset Development (LEAD) microfinance institution, and is meant to open doors for rural Liberian farmers to access $1,630,000 Liberian Dollars (approximately $20,375 USD) in loans, the release said.

Party. In Liberia today, we cannot only provide financial services to large businesses. These types of partnerships help us focus on building micro-enterprises, which comprise the bulk of businesses in the rural areas, says Allen Gweh, National Director of LEAD. In our experience, farmers have shown strong repayment rates and we fully trust their ability to carry out their loan responsibilities. Mr. Gweh added. The agricultural sector is vital to Liberias development and recovery after 14 years of conflict that decimated a then thriving farming industry. Liberia imports two thirds of the food needed to feed its population. Liberia is extremely vulnerable to inflation, high food prices and instability due to this dependence of food imports. The USAID FED Program for Liberia aims to reduce hunger and promote food se-

5-7. The volunteer week is being celebrated in the three counties the company presently has its operations, including Grand Bassa, Nimba, and Montserrado Counties. The company began its volunteer week in Dowen Town, Bomi County, by rehabilitating the market hall in the town. ArcelorMittals Communications Specialist, Mrs. Arissa Bright, said they were carrying on the voluntary works as a part of their companys social cooperate responsibility to the curity for Liberians through increased agricultural productivity and profitability in rice, cassava, vegetable and goat value chains. It is being implemented in six counties: Bong, Nimba, Lofa, Grand Bassa, Margibi and Montserrado. The United States as the largest donor and closest ally is supporting the Liberian priorities to build sustainable local capacity, make a difference in peoples lives, and move towards a shared vision of self-sufficiency and prosperity. USAID/FED Program for Liberia is Africas largest project under President Barack Obamas Feed the Future Initiative, which promotes a move away from subsistence and increasing food security by working with public and private bodies, including the

By: Conscience N. Tequah

rcelorMittal has begun its Volunteer Week, running from December

communities. We will use these three days to render volunteer services, because we all know it is hard to work without pay. This process is necessary because it serves as preparation to perform any kind of volunteer service, she said. Before they began their work Dowen Town Chief Jermon Gray, said her community appreciated ArcelorMittals kind gesture. She said that the community would continue to keep the market hall clean. You people have now given us the responsibility to take care of the market hall, and we will always do this because it is for our own good, Madam Gray stated. Government of Liberia, the private sector, local NGOs and other key stakeholders, the release concluded. Photo Captions: FED vegetable farmers from the United Farmers Association in Montserrado County were awarded 250.000 LD to finance the expansion of several peri-urban agriculture businesses. FED vegetable farmer and head of Menlehkyee Farmers Group, Mary Flomo, accepts a loan on behalf of the members of the group in Neemgbein, Nimba county. Each farmer belongs to a community of farmers accustomed to working together, which ensures accountability and results in higher success with the repayment of loans.

Tuesday, 5, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Friday, December 06, 2013 Friday,November December 6, 2013

Page 4

Published by Liberian Observer Corporation P.O. Box 1858, Monrovia

Liberias First Independent Daily 0886812888, 0886472772 www.liberianobserver.com

Yes...I have heard all Of that. But no timbe Goes out of Liberia wi r th a legal certification! We have just signed The VPA. Thank you!

Protecting Liberias Forests: Harrison Karnweas Pledge

The government of Liberia and the European Union on Tuesday signed a Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) aimed at ensuring that every piece of Liberian timber entering the European market has first been fully paid for and legally certificated. Through the VPA Liberia receives six million Euros donated by the EU to help the country properly manage, protect and profit from, its forest resources; and not the country only. The agreement ensures that the local communities, too, from which the timber is harvested, benefits through revenues, community support and sustainable forestry exploitation. Mr. Karnwea stressed that reforestation is to be prioritized. To this end, he told the audience that witnessed the VPA signing, including United States Ambassador Debora Malac, that 30 percent of all Liberias forests have been set aside for conservation purposes. This means that they will not be touched for any reason, but maintained as forest reserves and tourist sites. Funds provided from the VPA will also be used to support the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and several civil society organizations (CSOs) involved in forestry management and protection. These include Vosioda, Green Advocates, the Foundation for Community Initiatives (FCI) and Save My Future Foundation (SMFF). It is both encouraging and heartwarming that these concrete steps are being taken, with the collaboration and support of the EU, to fix, at long last, the problems of mismanagement, corruption and outright theft that have for many years plagued Liberias timber industry. It all turned from bad to worse with the institution of the nefarious Private Use Permits (PUPs) through which millions of acres of our forests were cut down, with neither the Liberian government nor the local communities getting anything out of these illicit and thievish transactions. Unfortunately, we know of no individual, company or institution that was prosecuted as a result. So companies and the corrupt Liberian officials and citizens behind the PUPs got away scot free. We take seriously Acting FDA Managing Director Karnweas pledge that from hence forth, Liberian forests will be properly, legally and profitably managed; and that the full 30 percent of all our forests will be effectively and securely RESERVED. Mr. Karnwea and others on Tuesdays panel gave another important hint: those certain foreign forestry experts could be engaged to come and plant new forest trees in Liberia as part of the reforestation initiative. This would be a great development that, prudently managed, could ensure perpetual sustainability of Liberias timber industry. We wonder whether the EU could help us get the Scandinavians interested in joining us in the development of pulp farms, whereby Liberia could begin producing newsprint for local use and export, especially to West African newspapers and other periodicals. We join the Liberian government and people in sincerely thanking the European Union for this rescue initiative to protect our forests. We hope that the Liberian government will be faithful to the Agreement and do nothing to frustrate it; nor will the interest of the country will be compromised by either party. We hope that similar agreements could be forthcoming from other major Liberian timber importers, such as China, India and other Far Eastern nations, and North and South American countries.

By Elizabeth Littlefield, President and CEO of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation

Africas Promise

OBSERVER CARTOON WITH A. Leslie Lumeh E-mail: leslie@leslielumeh.com www.leslielumeh.com

A generation ago, many nations across sub-Saharan Africa had to promote their markets to global investors largely on the basis of promise, the bright future over the horizon. Today, the case could not be more different. Tangible, compelling, and vivid proof of progress is everywhere at hand. The rate of economic growth during the past decade has been roughly double the rates of the 1980s and 90s, cheering investors. Africas economy once rose and fell in tandem with natural resource prices. Now, most growth comes from sectors such as transportation, manufacturing, telecommunications, wholesale, and retail. While this is long-overdue good news, any African will tell you the news could easily be much better. Even as Africa rises each year faster than its neighbors, more than half of Africanssome 600 million peoplestill live without a basic element of the modern global economy, reliable electricity. The number is hard to conceive. Imagine the productivity loss from a one-day blackout for every nation of Western Europe plus Japan and South Korea. The population of those nations combined roughly equals the number of Africans who live without power throughout the year. How can Africa fully compete when countless factories and computers go dark during rolling blackouts? How can it compete in an era of nonstop, 24/7 communication when millions go home to candles or lanterns? Education is stunted. Healthcare suffers. Africas power deficit is so pervasive that it shaves an estimated 2% from the continents GDP each year. President Obamas Power Africa initiative, announced this June, steps up to this challenge, and it does so in a new, innovative way. Rather than attempting to amass and direct donor money from development agencies and foreign countries, the main objective of Power Africa is to harness and catalyze private investment for electrification.

Elizabeth Littlefield
He believes Africas power shortfall can best be solved through the rapid, relentless innovation and cost-conscious refinements encouraged by market discipline. Rather than focusing exclusively on mega-projects, Power Africa will foster a diversity of projects: mini-grid, off-grid, conventional fuels, and renewables, as well as efficiency-enhancing projects in transmission and distribution. The aim is to double access to electrical power across sub-Saharan Africa. The model is to leverage every $1 of public funds into at least $2 of private capitalprovided investors are willing to meet minimum environmental and social standards, and operate with sound corporate governance. This is an exceptional opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors to take a leadership role in addressing Africas problems at the intersection of economic growth, social progress, and environmental sustainability. This public-private financing approach is viable. My agency, the U.S. governments Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), has been making it work in Africa for four decades. Over the past decade alone, OPIC has supported over $1 billion in power projects across Africa. Currently, we have more than $4 billion in investments here, and it has been one of the fastest growing segments of our portfolio in recent years. In Togo, for example, we provided loans and political insurance to a public-private, tri-fuel power plant that tripled energy production in the nation and helped reduce blackouts that were crippling to businesses and homes. Just weeks ago, OPIC approved $185 million for a solar park that will power into the South African grid. In addition to increasing electrical capacity, it will create good local jobs. The manufacturer and supplier of the solar modules for the park is majority-owned by South Africans. As the sole development finance agency of the United States, we are capable of providing financing, guarantees, political risk insurance, and support for private equity investment funds. The key difference between OPIC and a private investor, however, is that we only participate in a project if it will generate jobs, improve lives or help communities. We also have a mandate to foster solid business practices and the highest standards of transparency. Accountability is essential. OPIC does not merely hope that such benefits will be generated by our projects. We track results. We evaluate effectiveness. We constantly learn from our experience in projects large and small. One of my primary goals in Liberia this week is to listen. We want to hear investment ideas of all typeslarge or small, high-tech or low-tech. We seek disciplined partners who can combine their unique knowledge of local markets with a passion for commercial excellence and making an impact on peoples lives. At OPIC, we believe that true partnerships of shared purpose, returns and impact do more than fulfill our promise to investors. They fulfill Africas promise to future generations.

Tuesday, November 5, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Friday, December 06, 2013 Letter Friday, December 6, 2013

MOE, Please Address the Plight of ILO Embarks on Capacity Building Programs for CBOs 78-Yr-Old Teacher Varfley

Page5 4 Page

Mr. Editor: Admittedly, I reside next to the Ministry of Education (MoE), situated at the corner of Tubman Boulevard and 3rd Street and have observed with great joy and satisfaction that the tension between the MoE and a number of teachers employed at government schools around the country has subsided considerably. Most of these teachers spend the day at the front yard and porch of my residence filling up Personnel Listing forms and other documents intended to regularize their status as teachers to enable them receive their salaries and other benefits due them however, Many of the teachers are complaining that the process is slow and are requesting the MoE to speed it up. A particular case worth mentioning is that of Old man Moses Varfley, a teacher of the John K. Varfley Public School situated in Kingsville Number Seven (7), Montserrado County. This elderly man, approximately 78 years old, sadly asserts that he has not received his salaries and other benefits for close to 3 months now. I do not know why the MoE has refused to give me my salaries the old man who was close to shedding tears lamentingly informed me. Dismayingly, this elderly classroom teacher has been sleeping outdoor at the front yard of my residence for almost one week; he is currently suffering from stoke, and goes throughout the day at the front gate of the MoE making futile attempts to solve his problems on empty stomach. In view of the foregoing, I have written to humbly appeal to the Honorable Minister of Education and her co-workers to urgently address the plights of this elderly teacher, Mr. Moses Varfley, who is barely able to talk or walk. Noteworthily, besides the urgency of disbursing his 3-month salaries, this elderly teacher needs immediate medical care, and must be carried to a senior citizens home if any- so as to be adequately catered to. I am deeply wounded at heart to see such ill-treatment being meted on this old teacher who has contributed immensely to the education sector of Liberia for a number of years. It is hoped that the MoE and the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will promptly address the acute problems encountered by Old man Moses Varfley. Thanks a million for the space granted. Jahbulleh C. Dempster 3rd Street, Saye Town, Sinkor

Partial view of participants

By David A. Yates

Wonderful Service from EPS Receptionists

Mr. Editor: Kindly grant me space in your widely read newspaper to commend the receptionists and members of the Executive Protection Services (EPS) for the generosity and courtesy exhibited toward visitors at the Executive Mansion: The serene atmosphere created by these disciplined employees at the Executive Mansion reminds us of the days of former President William R. Tolbert when all visitors felt at home upon entering the Executive Mansion. I was prompted to commend these highly professional Executive Mansion employees due to the visit I made there on the morning of Wednesday, November 4, 2013. With my folder containing a letter of complaint against the Ministry of Commerce written to her Excellency Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, I passed the checkpoint of the EPS feeling a bit nervous. To my greatest surprise, no security intercepted me. I breathed a sigh of relief. I then proceeded at the front entrance of the Mansion and came into the view of a well-dressed female receptionist. I mistakenly entered the security metal detector and decided to state the reason of my visit when I was immediately corrected by a soft and refined voice. Sir, would you pleased proceed at the front of my desk. I apologized, re-entered the metal detector and exhibited the Presidents letter to this receptionist. I was then directed to proceed into the building to a man seated behind a desk at the right. Upon my arrival at the desk of this EPS employee known as Mr. Abraham G. Kpannah, my letter to President Sirleaf was received with utmost courtesy. Later, I walked majestically out of the Executive Mansion premises feeding hopeful that my letter of complaint to President Sirleaf will not be swept under the carpet. Jahbulleh C. Dempster 3rd Street, Saye Town, Sinkor

he International Labor Organization (ILO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Works, has embarked on a major capacity building program to provide training for small-scale contractors of the Ministry of Public Works and Community Based Organizations (CBOs). The training is intended to build their capacity and establish community maintenance groups knowledgeable in the use of labor-based methods for routine and recurrent maintenance in south-eastern Liberia. It is also an attempt to provide them with hands-on training for better empowerment in their areas for selfsustainability. Target beneficiaries are drawn from three of the southsuch as road rehabilitations, renovation of private schools, provision of scholarships and job opportunities in both government and private sectors. The delegation through its spokesman Napoleon Gbeegar, highlighted some of the Senators major contributions as the modernization of the Gorblee Central High School with the construction of 10 flush toilets and restrooms; improvement of the health delivery system with the current construction of a six-bedroom clinic in Feetuah District #3 B, and the contribution of US$1,500.00 for the purchase of communication equipment for citizens of Wee Statutory District and beyond. In order to reduce poverty in their district, the citizens

eastern counties of Liberia. These counties are Grand Kru, Maryland, and River Gee, where the ILO and the Ministry of Public Works are currently engaged in intensive labor based projects. According to the ILO National Project Coordinator of the Labour based Public Works Project, Mr. Jemell A. Kiazolu, the African Development Bank is funding the current project. He made the statements Thursday, December 05, at the main compound of the Ministry of Labour in Monrovia, where the workshop is ongoing. He stressed that currently, the ILO in collaboration with its partner the Ministry of Public Works, is carrying out an all-round maintenance work on the 130 kilometers FishTown Harper Highway; the 75 kilometers Pleebo to Barrecalled that Pro Temp Findley provided LD$100,000.00 to the Liberia Marketing Association of Gorblee District women to strengthen their micro-financecapacity. Accompanied by 11 organizational members, the delegation made plain their level of support for the Senator and pledged to render services whenever the need arose, especially during the October 14, 2014 Special Senatorial Election. Appearing overwhelmed by what he described as a highpower delegation, Sen. Findley thanked them for reposing their confidence in him in supporting the efforts over the past nine years. He told them that his second term manifesto will be all about education and

clayville road; the Harper to Cavalla Kablaken 22 kilometers road, and Custom Point 16 kilometer feeder road in southeastern Liberia. He said that there are 47 Community Based Organizations Managerial Teams, which include a nine-man management team as part of the capacity building exercise for the private sector and local contractors. He maintained that out of the total eighteen participants at the current workshop five of the participants are females, this was done to ensure gender equity and balance. Some have been awarded pilot contracts in Maryland County to construct some culverts. He said that most of their work has been road side brushing and the maintenance of crossroad drainages and repairs. how to empower citizens of the county. He said that those who are going about criticizing him must be honest and tell the people what they have or have not done for the county. Senator Findley said that the impressive turnout at the Capitol Building is a clear indication of what is obtaining on the ground in Grand Bassa. Besides fulfilling his 2005 campaign platform that included the construction of the Grand Bassa Community College, Sen. Findley disclosed that work on his private farm is progressing and that over 500 citizens from the county stand to benefit from the employment opportunity it offers. In another development, the former Chairman of Liberty Party Israel Akinsanya, has declared that he will be a candidate at his partys convention to nominate a candidate for the ensuing October 14, 2014 Special Election. He is expected to go against other Liberty Party members like Representatives Jeh Byron Browne and Gabriel Smith, who went independent in the last election. Mr. Akinsanya recalled that Liberty Party had won in all elections where Senator Findley was either a candidate or an opposing supporter, and the same thing will happen during the Special Senatorial elec-

Residents of District #3 Troop to Findley

-As Israel Akinsanya Joins Senatorial Race
the various districts are now trooping to his camp with a promise to carry him for the second term. On Wednesday, dozens of residents of District #3 composed of various social and developmental groups calling

By J. Burgess Carter

he common Liberian adage: through crab, crawfish drinks water, seems to be changing the fortunes the second term Senatorial bid for Grand Bassa County Senior Senator Gbehzohngar Milton Findley. Senator Findley who is also Pro Tempore of the Liberian Senator, had over a number of weeks been bashed by the opposition and its legions of supporters. Legislative kinsmen had criticized him for failing to live up to Grand Bassa citizens expectations that many saw as a slap in the face of rural dwellers. But recent happenings indicate that the wind of political favor seems to be fanning Sen. Findley; rural dwellers from

themselves Friends of Gbehzohngar (FOG) stormed the Capitol Building to present a three-page statement. The statement expressed gratitude and appreciation for Senator Findleys numerous contributions to their district

Sen. Findley receives traditional bowl of kola nuts, rice and a raw egg from a delegate from District #3, while at right, the delegations spokesman reads a statement

DAILY OBSERVER

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DAILY OBSERVER

Friday December 6, 2013

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he public is informed that Mr. Ishmael F. Menkor lost his journalistic passport and LBDI Bank book at Red- light on 3rd December 2013. Anyone coming across said documents should contact cell numbers +23188640665 or drop them at the Daily Observer Office on McDonald Street for a handsome reward.

MISSING PASSPORT

FARMERS PARDISE SATURDAY KIDS CAMPS

starts December 7 (9 am to 5 pm) Wulki Farms Careysburg. Kids ages 5-13 enjoy horseback riding, golf, tennis, karate, swimming, complimentary meal and snacks. Monthly and daily rates, 1st 50 Dec passes are $20 off. Bus pick up/drop off available (addl fee). Private golf and horse back riding lessons avail. Call 077-016-9670 or 0886-512-222

he Manning, Crusoe, Clarke, Sackor, Broderick, Massaquoi and Holmes families announce with deep regrets the death of Mrs. Marie Elaine Manning Crusoe, wife of the late Lt. Col. Thomas A.G. Crusoe. This mournful event occurred on Sunday, November 17, 2013 in Johns Creek, Georgia. She is survived by her children: Jestina Baby-girl CrusoeJackson, Predimental Claudia Precious Crusoe-Massaquoi, Henry Decruse Crusoe, Thelma Teta Crusoe-Holmes, Wilhelmina Mangie Crusoe, Patricia Crusoe, Alice Mamie Crusoe- Beh and Alfred Vormon (Joanne), brother: Dr. Charles A. Clarke (Amy), sisters: Mrs. Janet Sherman, Mrs. Frances Farrah (Aloysius), Mrs. Leona Freeman (Harvey), grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and a host of other relatives and friends in the United States of America, Liberia and around the world. Funeral and burial services are being planned for the weekend of December 14, 2013 in Suwanee, Georgia, USA.

Death Announcement

Commerce Auctions 1,350 Bags of Smuggled Rice

MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS

Office of the Superintendent Grand Bassa County Development Fund City of Buchanan, Grand Bassa County

Confiscated rice at the warehouse of Ganta Customs

By Ishmael F. Menkor The Ministry of Commerce and Industry ,about the middle of last month, auctioned around 1,350 bags of 25kg smuggled-rice at the Ganta Main Port of Entry. John Kouh, the Regional Inspector of Commerce who gave the instructions for the sale, told reporters that this huge quantity of rice was arrested on board a truck bearing Liberia plate marked BT: 515 on the 13th of November, while en route to Guinea. He explained that under the regulations of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry,no rice, gasoline, or diesel is allowed to leave the country because presently Liberia is not producing these

NATIONAL COMPETITIVE BIDDING (NCB) INVITATION FOR BID (IFB) FOR THE PURCHASE OF A BRAND NEW VEHICLE IFB NO. GBC/NCB/100/01/2012/2013
he Grand Bassa County Administration has received funding from Arcelor Mittal/The National Government of Liberia through the County Social Development fund and intends to use portion of the fund towards the purchase of one new vehicle to facilitate the smooth implementation of projects in the County.

The County therefore invites SEALED bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the supply of one new vehicle as indicated below:

Bidding will be conducted through the NATIONAL COMPETITIVE BIDDING PROCEDURES as specified in th PUBLIC PROCUREMENT CONCESSION ACTS (PPCA) and approved by the PUBLIC PROCUREMENT COMMISSION. QUALIFICATION/REQUIREMENT INCLUDES: PAST PERFORMANCE INCLUDING THE NAME OF AT LEAST 2 CLIENTS, CURRENT BUSINESS REGISTRATION CURRENT TAX CLEARANCE SOCIAL SECURITY TAX CLEARANCE GUARANTEE SCHEDULE OF DELIVERY Bid security of 2% of quoted bid price by bidder in absolute value drawn on a reputable bank in Liberia Availability of spare parts Vehicle maintenance workshop is an added advantage Interested bidders may obtain additional information and bid documents from the Procurement Unit in the Office of the Assistant Superintendent for Development Buchanan City, Grand Bassa County Starting from December 6, 2013 (Monday to Friday) 9:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. Daily for a Non-refundable fee of US$100.00(One Hundred United States Dollars) Sealed bid must be delivered to the Procurement Unit of the Procurement Committee on the 3rd day of January 2014 at the hour of 2:00 P.M. and bids will be opened the same day in the presence of bidders or their representatives. All late bids will be returned unopened. No alternative bids or electronic bids will be accepted. THE ADDRESSED REFERRED TO ABOVE IS: The Procurement Unit Project Management Committee (PMC) Office of the Assistant Superintendent for Development Grand Bassa County

commodities to allow them to and was present during the be exported. auction; he was not willing to The India-produced speak to the press. There had been everal parboiled rice is packaged in purple bags and it is believed reports of smuggling of rice to be in the market in local through the Ganta Main Port stores in Liberia for L$975 to in mini trucks, pickups on 1001 in some areas. many occasions but those It was sold at an auction at involved in these acts were the cost of L$700 per bag and never brought to bookthe amount generated from -- something, citizens feel, the sale is expected to be that raises questions about deposited in Nimba County the security deployed at the account as the goods were border. They only arrested this rice arrested in Nimba, according being auctioned as a coverto the Commerce Inspector. A few months ago, the up, said a Liberian who was Commerce Ministry auctioned standing nearby. about 340 bags of 25kg rice in Everyday cars pass through Yekapa arrested from some this border with rice and they Guinean traders who were are not arrested; then why should they have bothered this smuggling it. The smuggler, named other car, he asked? Morris Conneh, a Guinean, was arrested for smuggling

Citizens taking advantage of the auction

DAILY OBSERVER

Friday December 6, 2013

Page 7

Request for Expression of Interest for National Policy Analyst Consultant to Assist the National Civil Society Council of Liberia (NCSCL) in its Policy Formulation
Background information: The National Civil Society Council of Liberia and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems invite eligible national consultants to express their intent to provide these services. Interested persons are requested to submit curriculum vitae, a letter of application, and sample of past professional work performed as evidence in developing and analyzing policy documents. Date: December 4th, 2013 Duty Station: NCSCL Secretariat Office Duration: 2 Months Term of Reference: Duties & Responsibilities: Review the existing policies, program strategies and institutional arrangement and effectiveness to address NCSCL challenges in the area of coordination Conduct consultative forums with relevant government ministries and agencies as well as the CSOs regarding the contents and relevance of policy documents and strategies to overcome challenges to implement same. Conduct a validation conference that will include targeted CSOs communities from the 15 counties, ministries and agencies as well as international partners and donors to approve a consolidated version of the CSOs Policy framework that will include all sectors of CSOs. Work closely with IFES, GC, MoPEA, National Legislature and the NCSCL for cabinet approval, editing and subsequent printing of policy documents. Prepare and submit to the NCSCL Secretariat for inputs or comments a detailed draft report on findings to be presented at a validation conference Prepare and submit to the NCSCL Secretariat a final report Qualifications: A graduate degree in social science or discipline equivalent to 5 to 10 years of experience of policy development Extensive experience in research, addressing policy and challenges, providing technical advice and publication Must be computer literate Facilitation skills is an added advantage Excellent skills in report writing and negotiation. The selection criteria shall be in line with the regulations and procedures of USAID through IFES. You may visit the following website for the application requirements at www.ncscliberia. org Interested persons are to submit their letter of intent along with CVs and evidence of work experience on or before the 17th of December 2013 to: Mr. Florim Purova Country Director, International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) Wrotto Town, Sinkor, Monrovia, Liberia or Email: ncscljobs @gmail .com Only short listed persons will be called for interview.

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

onsistent with the Finance Ministers pronouncement during his last Press Conference on the Liberian Economy on Tuesday, November 19, 2013, that the transactional time for processing of vouchers that do not have compliance issues, the Ministry of Finance is pleased to inform all ministries, agencies and their customers that problem-free vouchers at the Ministry of Finance take at most three working days (72 hours) to be fully processed. Therefore, any ministry, agency or customer who has met all of the compliance requirements (consistent with PPCC Law, PFM Law & Regulations, etc) but is encountering difficulties including demand for 10% from Ministry of Finance employee(s) for bribery or any other delay can forward his/her

MINISTRY OF FINANCE DECEMBER 02, 2013

COMPLAINTS TO THESE PUBLIC-AVAILABLE VOUCHER TRACKING HOTLINES: 0888-303030 or 0888-404040

Therefore, all customers are encouraged to report any MoF employee(s) they see engaged in corrupt practices with evidence. In this light, every employee of the Ministry of Finance is hereby requested to take note. Signed: _____________________________ Administration, Ministry of Finance

LAND COMMISSION
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

he Land Commission in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy and other members of the Screening Committee established by the President, Her Excellency, Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for vetting of Public Land Sale Deeds has prepared the following schedule for conducting vetting exercises in favor of the Temple of Justice.

All adjoining parties and the below listed individuals concerned are advised to observe the schedule and be present with their deeds and other supporting documents.

# Beneficiary Area Date Acreage 1 Brewerville Magisterial Court Brewerville December 12, 2013 2 lots 2 Toe Town Magisterial Court Toe Town, Bhai December 7, 2013 4 acr3es Administrative District, Grand Gedeh County 3 Seventh Judicial Circuit Court Bolayville, Grand December 9, 2013 4 acres Gedeh County
All inquiries concerning time of arrival to meet the Vetting Team at the venue should be directed to: Mrs. Veronica M. Nimene-Tarley Administrative Assistant Office of the Vice Chairman 0886-528868 SIGNED: LAND COMMISSION

DAILY OBSERVER

Friday December 6, 2013

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Board of Tax Appeals

Invitation for Bids for the procurement of Prints & Publications IFB NO. BOTA/RFQ/001/2013-14
1. The Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) received budgetary allotment form the National Budget 2013/2014 Fiscal Year and intends to apply part of it towards the procurement of Print & Publications. 2. The Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified Bidders for the Print & Publications for the Fiscal year of 2013/2014 3. Bidding will be conducted through the Request for Quotation (RFQ) as enshrined in the approved and restated PPCA of 2010. 4. Specification & Quantity

Republic of Liberia

Invitation for Bids for the procurement of Vehicles Insurance IFB NO. BOTA/RFQ/002/2013-14
1. The Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) received budgetary allotment form the National Budget 2013/2014 Fiscal Year and intends to apply part of it towards the procurement of vehicles Insurance. 2. The Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified Bidders for the Insurance of Vehicles for the Fiscal year of 2013/2014 3. Bidding will be conducted through the Request for Quotation (RFQ) as enshrined in the approved and restated PPCA of 2010. 4. Specification & Quantity

Description

**Detailed specification is in the schedule of requirements & Technical Specification within the bidding document 5. Invitation to Bid is opened to all those eligible suppliers who are/ have: a. Current Business Registration (Liberia Business Registry) b. Current Tax Clearance (Ministry of Liberia); c. Ability to per-finance for at least four (4) Weeks; d. Availability of supplies at all times; e. Past performance records of at least (3) previous and current customers f. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be obtained from the Procurement Unit of the Board of Tax Appeals by interested Bidders upon a payment of a non-refundable fee of Seventy-five United States Dollars (USD$75.00) beginning November 27, 2013 from 9:00am to 4:30pm daily Monday to Friday. g. All Bids must be accompanied by a Bid security of (USD$600.00) from a reputable bank in Liberia for this contract package. h. Sealed Bids must be delivered to the address below on or before 12:00 noon on December 11, 2013. Late Bids will be rejected and returned to bidders unopened. Bids will be opened in the presence of Bidders who choose to attend or their representatives at 12:00 noon, December 11, 2013, 1st Floor, Kings Bldg. Corner of Broad & Gurley Streets, in the Board of Tax Appeals conference room. Bids shall be valid for a period of 2 weeks after the deadline of Bids submission. i. The Address referred is: Procurement Unit Procurement Section, Board of Tax Appeals Kings Bldg. Corner of Broad & Gurley Streets P.O. Box 1320, Monrovia, Liberia Office phone: +231 0776 839 573

Call cards, Bill Board, flyers

Quantity

Assorted

**Detailed specification is in the schedule of requirements & Technical Specification within the bidding document 5. Invitation to Bid is opened to all those eligible suppliers who are/ have: a. Current Business Registration (Liberia Business Registry) b. Current Tax Clearance (Ministry of Finance); c. Past performance records of all previous and current customers d. Reinsurance e. Clearance from Central Bank f. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be obtained from the Procurement Unit of the Board of Tax Appeals by interested Bidders upon a payment of a non-refundable fee of Seventy-five United States Dollars (USD$75.00) beginning November 27, 2013 from 9:00am to 4:30pm daily Monday to Friday. g. All bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security of (USD$600.00) from a reputable bank in Liberia for this contract package. h. Sealed Bids must be delivered to the address below on or before 1:00pm on December 11, 2013. Late Bids will be rejected and returned to bidders unopened. Bids will be opened in the presence of Bidders who choose to attend or their representatives at 1:00pm, December 11, 2013, 1st floor, Kings Bldg. Corner of Broad & Gurley Streets, in the Board of Tax Appeals conference room. Bids shall be valid for a period of 2 weeks after the deadline of Bids submission. i. The Address referred is: Procurement Unit Procurement Section, Board of Tax Appeals Kings Bldg. Corner of Broad & Gurley Streets P.O. Box 1320, Monrovia, Liberia Office phone: +231 0776 839 573

Description SUV SEDAN

Quantity 3 1

Entertainment

LIBLife
Arts Style Travel Entertainment

DAILY OBSERVER Thursday,Friday, December 05, 2013 December 6, 2013

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Claiming History & Us the Crown

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Elijah Johnson, Great Liberian Pioneer

Co.Z takes on fellow rappers in his attack track

Short Story: Recipe for Love

Page 11

Hip-Co Festival Targets 20,000 Fans

Page 12

DSP Launches Video with a Promise

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DAILY OBSERVER Friday, December 06, 2013 Friday, December 6, 2013

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Elijah Johnson, Great Liberian Pioneer

diggers to architects and civil and structural engineers, was one of only four Ministers of the Tolbert government who were never arrested in 1980. Public Works employees ran to his house on the morning of the coup to protect him. Elijah Johnsons leadership legacy continued with Martinus Johnson, also a great grandson, who became Liberias Ambassador to Egypt. A great great granddaughter, Ruby Johnson, was a fashion model in the 1970s who adorned West African magazine covers. She now serves as a Commissioner on the Human Rights Commission of Liberia. The Johnson people seemed to have had a special fondness for Marylanders. Elijah Johnsons great granddaughter, Danielette Johnson, married Mr. Tucker of Cape Palmas and their son, Gabriel Johnson Tucker, married another Marylander, Wilhelmina Coocoo Tubman, daughter of President W.V.S. Tubman. The Woods sisters of Edina, Grand Bassa County, are also descendants of Elijah Johnson because their mother was an Elijah Johnson descendant. One of her grand daughters, Hesta, married Goda Baker, a Marylander of the Grebo ethnic group; while Hestas older sister, Elizabeth, married Hebert Brewer of the Brewer family of Cape Palmas. But that was not all. Hestas eldest sister Maria was wedded to Mitch Brownell, another prominent Marylander; and so was Hestas daughter, also named Hesta (the magazine publisher), who married a Pearson from Cape Palmas. One of Ruby Johnsons relatives has written a history of Elijah Johnson which we hope to share with our readers in the near future. Elijah Johnson also links us today with Liberias current President, Ellen Jonson-Sirleaf. How and why? Kenneth Y. Best, in his book, Albert Porte, record that Ellens grandfather, Mr. Jah Maley, was a gifted linguist who fluently spoke several Liberian languages. This is typical of the Deys and Golas, from whom Jah Maley hailed. As a result of his linguistic talents, Mr. Maley became the principal interpreter of President Hilary Richard Wright Johnson (18841892). President Johnson took Ellens grandfather, Mr. Jah Maley, everywhere he went. So the grandfather, Mr. Maley, decided to adopt the name Johnson as his surname. That is how Ellens father Carney, son of Jah Maley Johnson, became Carney Johnson.

lijah Johnson was one of the earliest leaders of the colonists, having arrived here on January 7, 1822 aboard the ship Elizabeth. It was the ship that brought the first group of colonist from the United States to found a home in Africa, their Motherland. He is noted for being the author of two historic statements. After the Sierra Leone people and the British colonial government had refused the colonists from America settlement at Shebro Island, Elijah Johnson led the colonists from there to Providence Island near Cape Mesurado. The general area they later named Monrovia. At the time, many on the ship Elizabeth urged the group return to the USA. But Elijah Johnson responded with these historic, inspiring words For two long years I have sought a home. Here I have found one, and here will I remain. His other historic statement came when the British, in a subtle attempt to colonize Liberia during the tribal uprising against the settlers, offered to put up their flag in a bid to scare off the colonists tribal opponents. But Elijah Johnson, who was then Acting Agent of the American Colonization

Mr. Elijah Johnson with his wife

Society, defiantly told the British: We want no flagstaff put up here that will cost us more to take down than to whip the natives. By that one remark, Liberia was saved from colonization and remains till this day the only African territory that was never colonized. Elijah Johnson attained a great legacy as a leader. He was one of the delegates to the Constitutional Convention that started in January, 1847 and ended with the establishment of the Republic of Liberia on July 26 that year. He was therefore, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. His legacy of leadership has continued down through the generations. His son, Hilary Richard Wright Johnson, became president of Liberia in 1884. Hilary was a charismatic leader. He was nominated by both the Republican Party, founded by J. J. Roberts, Liberia first President, and the True Whig Party, of which E. J. Roye became the first standard bearer, later elected President. After his election as President (1884), Hilary Richard Wright Johnson chose his cabinet from both the Republican and True Whig Parties. And that spelled the end of the Republican Party. Elijah Johnsons great great grandson, Gabriel Johnson Tucker, became one of Liberias great Secretaries of Public Works and was probably the most popular member of the Tolbert government. When the coup took place in 1980, Tucker, who managed men and women from ditch

Culture:

Putting Africa in Your Home

f we ask the question, Is Africa in your home? you might respond, Come on, Shabuta. My home, itself, is in Liberia, West Africa!. And you would be correct, but are you willing to undergo the background check? Invite us to your home and well check to see

(From Shabuta Cultural Arts shabutaso@gmail. com (with special thanks to Lindiwe Khumalo Yaseah)

if we can find Africa anywhere there. Lets see what we might encounter: We enter your yard and see a nice rectangular house sitting there. And as we enter the house, we find heavy curtains or draperies flowing from ceiling to floor covering the windows. The generator is turned on so the decorator lamps can give us some light and we are invited to sit on a fat, overstuffed sofa. Beautifully framed photographs of the family grace the walls and a

huge mirror is over the mantel imported from America. Tables and chairs modeled after old European styles complete the dcor. We now ask, Where is Africa in your home? Before your anger rises weve got to quickly admit that most of our Liberian homes do not fit the above description.

And were proud to say weve visited some homes here in Liberia where the answer would be a resounding, Yes! Africa is everywhere in my home! Take, for example, the humble palava hut. Some people have designed beautiful palava huts for their yards. The very roundness is symbolic of African family togetherness. Inside the circle,

energy flows unbroken. Its one of the reasons conflicts are successfully resolved there. As soon as you enter the compound and see the palava hut, you relax your way into the African ambiance. Inside the home is where our local artists works can make your home shine become a stunning show piece or just a comforting space for your spirit. Our traditional furniture makers include some formidable artists producing works of skill and beauty. We can have original art pieces as furnishings in our home while preserving our art heritage. Well also be supporting our cultural artists and making a cultural artistic statement. An excellent way to have Africa in Your Home is to dedicate some of that wall space and table-top space to

Liberian artists works as many of us do. Even your loved ones could benefit from a holiday or special gift that puts African in their homes! Do your own background check. Make sure you have Africa in your home, office, and business.

DAILY OBSERVER Friday, December 06, 2013 Friday, December 6, 2013

Short Story:
By Edward Boakai

Page 11

Recipe for Love

feeding its cubs, the old man said, and instructed her to do so in a jiffy! With that instruction though, the young beautiful lady left in quest of the requirement, as eagerly as she came, just to be loved by her handsome husband, who also happened to be a notable hunter within the entire clan! She traveled from forest to forest for a protracted period of time until one day, she was fortunate to encounter a lioness which happened to be breastfeeding its cubs. Once she now knew where the young breast-feeding lioness was, the infatuated young beautiful woman returned home that lucky day and decided to devise means by which to obtain the fresh breast milk from the breast-feeding lioness. Once home, she did not sleep at ease that night, devising her plan to obtain the fresh breast milk from the untamed lioness, as wild as this specie of animal

nce, there was a certain beautiful young woman who was so desperate to be loved by her handsome husband that she became confused and did not know what to do! For all that, her husband would not pay her the much-needed attention she craved for from him all the while they had been cohabiting as husband and wife for last couple of years! Whether or not the reason her husband was treating her this way was attributed to her behavior in the home, was best known to her. Every attempt she made over the years in enticing her dear husband to love her proved futile. She therefore resolved to contact a certain famous juju man within their clan to assist her in having her handsome husband to love her more than ever before!

She therefore embarked on her journey to see the powerful medicine man within her Clan one bright, early morning. Once there, she narrated her ordeal to the medicine man: I am here to see you, she said having greeted the weary old man, hoary with age. And what can I do for you, my young lady? The old man asked. My husband does not love me as much as I crave. She told the old man, bluntly. And so? The old man asked on a lazy note. I want you to make medicine

for me so that my husband can love me, she told the old man. Are you sure that your husband does not really love you at all? asked the old medicine man on a rather curious note. Yes; from all sincerity, she told the old man. Okay then, the old man sighed. Are you brave and courageous enough? the old man asked her, trying to test her resolve. Yes, indeed I am, she proclaimed. Since that is the case, go and bring the fresh breast milk of a lioness which is still breast-

(mammal) has come to be! Howbeit, the young beautiful woman soon came to have another thought! Her husband was a noted hunter; and lions in general are carnivorous animals, which feed on the flesh and blood of other animals. Wow! She would use fresh meat to entice the lioness and its cubs, tame it and do away with its fresh breast milk without it least suspecting! By that, the young woman fell sound asleep that night and did not awake, save for the frisky cock which crowed that while announcing the advent of another day. By and by, the desirous young woman finally succeeded in obtaining the fresh breast milk from the young breastfeeding lioness by meticulously applying the clever method which she derived that night, and took it to the juju man as was instructed Once at the old medicine mans place, she said here it is, handling the fresh milk to the old man. Wow! The old man cried out of disbelief. Indeed, you are a brave and courageous woman! He told The echoes of ceiling and standing fans hummed along, and across from the defense table, the prosecutor hung on his chair in an expectant atmosphere. Prosecutor James Sorys eyes moved directly after the dramatic effect that Jason Does action had occasioned, and for maximum effect, Judge Farkollie leaned close to her bench and placed her hands on its surface. The witness meanwhile cleared his throat, and said, I was aware of what Ms. Beauty wanted to do but it did not occur to me that her going would be so sudden. The lawyer thought about his reaction and squared his shoulder at the witness. He said, So, you are aware of the whereabouts of Ms. Beauty? The witness response was slow, and the lawyer saw the opening he had been waiting for. By the witness own admission, he was aware of the young womans impending trip, and it could be possible due to her relationship or being a mistress of someone in the diplomat community. Securing a visitors visa would not be difficult. Another tempting motive was the prevailing economic disadvantage in the country that was responsible for the increase in the jobless population that had affected recent graduates from the various universities. But did it mean that the young woman was dead, or she had been killed as her parents, the media and some witnesses circumstantially claimed at the preliminary trial? When the lawyer directed his attention from the defendant to the witness, he said, Which country did she tell you she was traveling to, Mr. Kulu? The witness composure changed suddenly at the question, and the lawyer continued: Evidently, the defendant did not aid, or encourage, and neither did he push the young woman to either disappear or otherwise as you testified, did he? The direct question came as a surprise to the witness. He

her. Now that you were able to obtain the breast milk of a lioness; He paused for a while. What is more? He vaguely asked. You may go and do the same to your husband; and he will definitely come to love you more than ever before. The old medicine man told her, convinced that if she could pet a wild animal as a lioness and obtain its breast milk, she could pet her husband the same way for him to love her instead of making medicine. Before she could leave, the old man said: Remember this, my young woman. He sighed. The best recipe for love is affection or care and genuine concern, all the same, he advised her. By that, the young woman left for home. Once home, she immediately proceeded to heed the old mans advice and soon came to know with contentment that the best recipe for love is affection. For, her dear husband who hardly paid attention to her in the past, could no longer afford to do without her anymore! THE END grimaced, and his shoulder sagged. He lowered his head, and found it embarrassing to lift it to meet the tormenting eyes of the lawyer. The witness atrocious expression of uncertainty was evident as he continued to struggle mentally to reassert himself over the gnawing defeat. Judge Farkollie, from her corner threw her chest back and folded her hands. Perhaps she was getting the direction the cross-examination was heading to. Counselor Jason Doe was enjoying the torture. From the beginning of the case, he never believed that the young womans disappearance bothered on any criminal enterprise, and the witness admission had brought that out. It was a case in which the defendant was being used as a scapegoat, a whipping boy and for an unusual reason to be branded a criminal and possibly convicted to deny him the benefit that his relationship with the young beauty had wrought. The only probable cause of the whereabouts of the young woman was that she might have gone abroad. But how come her parents did not know it? Jason Doe saw it as the missing link in solving the current case. The lawyer was about to spring another surprise when the echo of a womans shoes ran through the silent courtroom. The lawyer turned around and met the eyes of a young woman dressed in black slacks, with a matching blouse. She was in her mid thirties. Dark goggles occupied her face. A bailiff moved in quickly and walked the woman directly to Judge Farkollie and held a brief interaction with the judge, who turned to the lawyers and smiled. Suddenly, the defendant erupted with a sigh, as she shouted, Deborah, Deborah, and he rushed towards the woman. Deborahs mother, whose eyes had followed the woman after she walked across the court, also ran to her, Oh Darling where have you been? Jason Doe smiled.

The Case of the Diplomats Mistress (2)

Criminal Lawyer Jason Doe Solves:

By Omari Jackson

he court reconvened exactly at 2.p.m. and there was a feeling of triumph in the atmosphere, as Judge Dorothy Farkollie reclined behind the bench, lifted her chin, and said, Counselor Doe, you may recall the witness to the stand. I recall William Kulu to the stand, Doe said. William Kulu ambled his way to the witness stand as spectators eyes curiously followed him. Deborah Beautys parents sat at their usual place, with tears in their eyes. Moving towards the stand, Jason Doe said, Have you had any occasion to discuss issues with Samson Solo? Yes sir. What are some of the issues, Mr. Kulu? Prosecutor James Sory was on his feet, Objected to as incompetent, irrelevant and immaterial. Not proper crossexamination. Judge Farkollie said, Will counsel clarify his line of cross-examination? Jason Doe turned swiftly to the judge and said, Your Honor, there is an important fact that is central to the current case which is the level of the relationship between the witness and the defendant. There is also a missing link about the motive for the accusation against my client, as far as his relationship with the alleged missing woman is concerned. Judge Farkollie gave the lawyers response some careful thought and then turning to the prosecutor, said, It is well for counsel to understand the level of the relationship which seems to be the basis of the witness contact with the defendant and therefore I am not going to

overrule it. The prosecutor nodded and returned to his seat, as the judge said, you may continue with your cross-examination. Jason Doe repeated his question. Well, the witness said, the important issue involved Deborah Beauty. Have you been jealous of their relationship? The witness smiled, and said, a little sometimes. What is the basis or why being jealous, Mr. Kulu? He was fortunate to have her as a friend. What exactly do you mean when you said, and I quote He was fortunate to have her as a friend? Many times they walked together and it was too unfortunate for me, and fortunate for him. Did that give you some ideas, and if yes, what type of ideas? James Sory was on his feet again, This is a leading question Your Honor, and I think counsel is exploiting an unfair ground. The judge lowered her glasses and stared at the prosecutor and then remarked, Sustained. Jason Doe smiled and rephrased his question. Mr. Kulu, he said, do you have any reason to hate Samson Solo? No. But you hated his luck with Deborah Beauty? The witness shifted in the stand, Well, sometimes I wish I had the opportunity he had, thats all. The lawyer frowned at his reply, and squaring his shoulders, grimaced and said, You ever entertained the thought that Samson Solo might do Deborah Beauty any harm? No. And so you never have the cause to worry about the woman being in danger as far as she was

with Mr. Solo? No. So, as far as you are concerned, the lawyer stressed, the couple as friends wanted the relationship, though platonic, to remain as far it could hold? Yes, the witness said, and that was the envious part. So, the lawyer said, you began to show an envious spirit against the couple? No, the witness said, I just wanted to protect her. Did she need you to do that? She was a woman and she needed it. But there was no need for any protection, was there? The witness hesitated and changed his position behind the stand, and said, As a friend I thought Judge Farkollie retorted, The witness should be able to speak about what he saw and not what he thought. Jason Doe grinned. Thank you Your Honor, he said, and turning to the witness, asked, was any protection necessary for Ms. Deborah Beauty, as far as you were concerned? There was something like that. Like how, Mr. Kulu? Deborah was moving too fast. She was just twenty one and she was blessed with a wonderful friend who was interested to send her away.

Ok, the lawyer said, so it is possible that Ms. Deborah might have had an opportunity to travel abroad? Yes. How did you know that, Mr. Kulu? I was in a meeting with them and later when I met Solomon, he confided in me that Ms. Beauty was planning a trip abroad. So, the lawyer said, you got the news about her impending trip? Yes. And at the same time you testified that her disappearance is some kind of criminal enterprise which the defendant is guilty of? The lawyer indicated with his right hand, and lifted his face so that the spectators could follow his move. The question startled the witness and he threw his head back to gaze into the eyes of the lawyer. The lawyers eyes grew enormous, and the witness swept his head away from him. The momentary action engaged the courts attention. The courtroom remained silent thereafter as all heads turned toward the witness. The defendant, oblivious of the trend of the case, sat pensively, his glowing but shocking eyes directly toward the witness who seemed to be providing the circumstantial evidence to seal his doom.

DAILY OBSERVER Thursday,Friday, December 05, 2013 December 6, 2013

Hip-Co Festival Targets 20,000 Fans

Entertainment

Claiming the Crown

Co.Z takes on fellow rappers in his attack track
By Yewa Sandy

Page 12

2012 HIP-CO FESTIVAL: Nasseman, Takun J and David Mell marching onto the Slipway mini-stadium

By Makanfi Kamara

t is official and real! Dec. 7-8 is now declared a Hip-Co Day in Liberia! This declaration was done by one of our very own hip-co legend, Takun J and his fellow hip-co artists. Dating back, last year, when Takun J lunched his My Way album, according to the artist, rather than doing the regular traditional lunching, he and his manager Nora Rahimian decided to do something different; and that was to highlight Hip-Co and Liberian talents to the Liberia and the world. So without wasting any time, they hosted the first HipCo festival, coinciding with the launching of his album. Within those two days, thirty Liberian musicians, mainly Hip-Co artists, participated including Djs and amazingly, according to Nora, approximately over 17,000 people came to show love for Liberian music and their favorite musicians. And so now because of the massive turn-out and success they least expected, they have decided to make it an annual event. This years festival is staged on Saturday, December 7 at Slipway Sports Pitch and Sunday, December 8 at Bernards Beach. The Saturday show is free, to ensure that the festival is accessible to all Liberians, while the Sunday show will be affordably priced to help cover festival costs, the organizers say. Speaking to Lib-Life, Nora said, We are expecting over 20,000 people over the 2 days. Because we feel that it is important to use the festivals platform to address relevant issues in Liberia, we are partnering with the European Union this year to provide workshops for artists regarding human rights with an emphasis on ending violence against women. Gender-based violence is an

issue particularly important to Anti-Rape Ambassador Takun J. Other partners include Novafone, Lib Radio, and The Accountability Lab. The festival is said to be a non-profit event, comprising basically Hip-Co artists coming together under one umbrella all in the name of unity and promoting Liberian music. Meanwhile, thirty artists are anticipated to perform, namely, F.A., Nasseman, Pitty the Best, Soul Fresh, Marvelous (the Bassa Rapper), Sweetz, Killer Lu, Noye-Z, Benevolence, Den-G and others, with Takun J headlining. According to his manager Nora, the festival has been Takun Js idea from the very beginning. This years festival expenditure is estimated at least $20,000 but, as she terms it, were still struggling to make it due to disappointments from some prospective sponsors. In as much as theres a lot of excitement, there is also a little bit of commotion going on over the manner in which the festival is being planned and organized, as far as compensation for artists. Some artists expressed their disappointment of being left out in terms of planning of the event. Speaking to Lib-Life is Marvelous aka The Bassa rapper, who expressed his grievance stating, To be frank, Im really not too excited about the whole event inasmuch as I will be performing on that day. I feel that if this is a Hip-Co event, all Hip-Co artists should have been one hundred percent involvement and not just Takun J put to the front of it all. As a matter of fact, were all having a meeting at Takun Js house cause some of us are concerned about how we are going to get paid cause we are

ongs where people make arrogant comments towards other people are almost exclusively found in the mainstream Hip-Hop culture. And while Liberia shares a similar form of HipHop music called Hip-Co, one of its artist has fearlessly added his own Diss (arrogant statement) track to claim the title as king of Liberian rap music. Outside of Hip-Hop, Diss tracks tend to deal with more personal issues. On some real [stuff], they scared to put me on their shows because they know Ill murder them on stage at they own show, Co.Z commented recently. Diss tracks are thought (by those unfamiliar with HipHop culture) to be serious disrespect against rappers. But those with understanding of the culture know it is meant to increase ratings, popularity and promotion of the artists. The game needed a wake up aware of the sponsorship he frustratingly added. Meanwhile Takun J could not be reached for his response concerning these allegations but his Manager Nora, cleared the air and made it explicit that, as a matter of fact, from the very beginning, most of these artists did not even want to be a part of the event from the initial stage. I think theres been a lot of misunderstanding, envy and mistrust and I dont understand why these people did not come up with this idea in the first place. Further adding, You know Im very straight forward and I dont [play]. From the very beginning, the ball was in every bodys court but there were some artists that even said they did not want to be a part of it until they saw how packed the venues were; then they started begging me to perform. And so this year, we decided Takun and me that since nobody was willing to help, we were going to take the lead and weve been working with some artists that were interested like Soul Fresh, Pochano, J D Donzo and many others. But it all ends on a good note, as Nora called to confirmed that the meeting ended well and there was now an understanding amongst everybody and all the artists were once again willing to work together all in the name of Hip-Co. All in all, we are anticipating, the atmosphere will be that of a celebratory one, Nora said.

call. We need to let people know whats hot and whats not, Co.Z said. Liberty Entertainments prodigy Co.Z recently dropped a vicious yet controversial new track called King of Liberia where hes dissing rappers and calling out the names of those whom he clearly sees as un-talented. This track is for every person that calls themselves an MC, lyricist, and rapper, Co.Z added. In the song, Co.Z spits his

DSP Launches Video with a Promise

lyrics in a comedic manner but with the clear intent of getting his point across. Luckay Buckay ego made him blind\ so instead of chasing mark he chase after MORALE, the track echoed. Meanwhile, not many rappers have commented on Co.Zs diss track, which is probably the first of its kind, but the track itself has sparked up hundreds of facebook, twitter and other social website comments, both positive and

negative. How your name killer Lou and you be singing on the beat? asked Co.Z in the track. Killa Lou, who heard himself being mentioned in the song, brushed off the track as being merely showbiz: Co.Z is just looking for Rep and popularity, he assured nonchalantly. Is Liberia ready for such tracks with personal attacks?

By Yewa Sandy

fro RnB, dancehall, and soul star, DSP, has announced the release of his official Promise video, on Liberian TV and Facebook. The video was filmed and produced in Liberia, written and produced by DSP, directed and edited by HD Dumamis. The clip is to be followed by an official contract DSP would be signing with the largest African music distributor for mobile content, SPINLET, this week. DSP comments about the idea behind the video: Promises music has a sentimental vibe; its a love song about making

a promise and then trying to keep it. The lyrics in the track are an aphrodisiac. He further added that Promise is under the spotlight and people are saying that it is the best video to come out of Liberia. The instrumental was done professionally and mastered in the United States by an engineer who once did work for Whitney Houston, he explained, thats why it has such good quality. DSPs hails from a musical background, and the hit maker shows what hes really made of in a video that tells a story of a man who has been left broken-hearted by a cheating girlfriend that now flaunts her

new man. In the video, DSP made the promise of loving her despite her flaws, and tragically, in the video, a car hits him after trying to appeal to his girlfriend, who is seen crying for him not to die after being hit. Dweh Sidi Papay (DSP) is an inspiring artist that has kept guarded and has been focused on writing his lyrics to get his game right. To know DSP, he can be identified through his composition. I write my lyrics so people can understand what I want to express, stated the mature music maker. According to the new star, he takes his time in writing his music, which he feels, adds on to its perfection. I spend a lot of time and hard work into writing my lyrics which makes my music mature. Im also scarce; it makes people want to find you. People take music to be fun, but we need to do our best to make it as important as it is uptown, he said. Presently the face of Lonestar, DSP has developed a home studio where he will get the opportunity to focus on his music. Im doing my best to see how far I can take my music out there, thats my focus, he said.

DAILY OBSERVER

Friday December 6, 2013

Page 8

Board of Tax Appeals

Invitation for Bids for the procurement of Prints & Publications IFB NO. BOTA/RFQ/001/2013-14
1. The Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) received budgetary allotment form the National Budget 2013/2014 Fiscal Year and intends to apply part of it towards the procurement of Print & Publications. 2. The Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified Bidders for the Print & Publications for the Fiscal year of 2013/2014 3. Bidding will be conducted through the Request for Quotation (RFQ) as enshrined in the approved and restated PPCA of 2010. 4. Specification & Quantity

Republic of Liberia

Invitation for Bids for the procurement of Vehicles Insurance IFB NO. BOTA/RFQ/002/2013-14
1. The Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) received budgetary allotment form the National Budget 2013/2014 Fiscal Year and intends to apply part of it towards the procurement of vehicles Insurance. 2. The Board of Tax Appeals (BOTA) now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified Bidders for the Insurance of Vehicles for the Fiscal year of 2013/2014 3. Bidding will be conducted through the Request for Quotation (RFQ) as enshrined in the approved and restated PPCA of 2010. 4. Specification & Quantity

Description

**Detailed specification is in the schedule of requirements & Technical Specification within the bidding document 5. Invitation to Bid is opened to all those eligible suppliers who are/ have: a. Current Business Registration (Liberia Business Registry) b. Current Tax Clearance (Ministry of Liberia); c. Ability to per-finance for at least four (4) Weeks; d. Availability of supplies at all times; e. Past performance records of at least (3) previous and current customers f. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be obtained from the Procurement Unit of the Board of Tax Appeals by interested Bidders upon a payment of a non-refundable fee of Seventy-five United States Dollars (USD$75.00) beginning November 27, 2013 from 9:00am to 4:30pm daily Monday to Friday. g. All Bids must be accompanied by a Bid security of (USD$600.00) from a reputable bank in Liberia for this contract package. h. Sealed Bids must be delivered to the address below on or before 12:00 noon on December 11, 2013. Late Bids will be rejected and returned to bidders unopened. Bids will be opened in the presence of Bidders who choose to attend or their representatives at 12:00 noon, December 11, 2013, 1st Floor, Kings Bldg. Corner of Broad & Gurley Streets, in the Board of Tax Appeals conference room. Bids shall be valid for a period of 2 weeks after the deadline of Bids submission. i. The Address referred is: Procurement Unit Procurement Section, Board of Tax Appeals Kings Bldg. Corner of Broad & Gurley Streets P.O. Box 1320, Monrovia, Liberia Office phone: +231 0776 839 573

Call cards, Bill Board, flyers

Quantity

Assorted

**Detailed specification is in the schedule of requirements & Technical Specification within the bidding document 5. Invitation to Bid is opened to all those eligible suppliers who are/ have: a. Current Business Registration (Liberia Business Registry) b. Current Tax Clearance (Ministry of Finance); c. Past performance records of all previous and current customers d. Reinsurance e. Clearance from Central Bank f. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be obtained from the Procurement Unit of the Board of Tax Appeals by interested Bidders upon a payment of a non-refundable fee of Seventy-five United States Dollars (USD$75.00) beginning November 27, 2013 from 9:00am to 4:30pm daily Monday to Friday. g. All bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security of (USD$600.00) from a reputable bank in Liberia for this contract package. h. Sealed Bids must be delivered to the address below on or before 1:00pm on December 11, 2013. Late Bids will be rejected and returned to bidders unopened. Bids will be opened in the presence of Bidders who choose to attend or their representatives at 1:00pm, December 11, 2013, 1st floor, Kings Bldg. Corner of Broad & Gurley Streets, in the Board of Tax Appeals conference room. Bids shall be valid for a period of 2 weeks after the deadline of Bids submission. i. The Address referred is: Procurement Unit Procurement Section, Board of Tax Appeals Kings Bldg. Corner of Broad & Gurley Streets P.O. Box 1320, Monrovia, Liberia Office phone: +231 0776 839 573

Description SUV SEDAN

Quantity 3 1

DAILY OBSERVER

Friday December 6, 2013

Page14 6

Vacancy Announcement
MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE PURPOSE: The Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Liberia is responsible for the development of the agriculture sector. It does so by ensuring that an effective organizational structure is out in place and is manned by staff capable of planning, coordinating, implementing, monitoring and evaluating agricultural development programs periodically. It also ensures that its staff and the farmers are trained to cope with the challenges of the agricultural activities. The ministry is seeking qualified candidate to fill the position of Public Relations Specialist. Position Title: Public Relations Specialist Unit: Department of Administration Immediate Supervisor: Minister of Agriculture Immediate Subordinates: Communication Division Staff SUMMARY OF POSITION: The Communication Specialist is responsible to implement an overall communications strategy for the MoA, bridging gap between stakeholders and the ministry. He/she is the Spokesperson for the Ministry. He/She conveys the policies and interests of the Ministry to the public through various modes of media. It is the responsibility of the Public Relations Specialist to promote the products and services of the Ministry of Agriculture which will help create a positive image of the Ministry thereby strengthening its credibility. OBJECTIVE OF POSITION: To manage communications between the MoA and stakeholders; through collaboration with agriculture staff, the public and stakeholders; Ensure that the MoA mandates are widely understood, both by government officials across the public sectors and agencies, and by the citizens of the Country, in order to maintain continued political and popular support for government efforts to address food insecurity and food production. Assess perceived communications needs within or pertaining to the MoA. This will entail meeting with the Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Department heads and key stakeholders working in collaboration with the MoA. Establish communication channels extending to country, district, and community levels with which individuals and civil society organizations in Liberia, express opinions and be informed on food security and nutrition priorities and programming. Implement the strategy for Moa communications focusing on: Producing a monthly newsletter and weekly radio or television program in Monrovia and on rural media stations; Under directives, organize public events related to agriculture and food security and nutrition; Assist in designing and maintaining of the Moa website focusing on: Content preparation as well as provide materials to be uploaded to the website and other news agencies regarding activities of the MoA; As directed, represent the Ministry of Agriculture at agriculture related forums/debates and contribute to technical interactions and discussions on the same. Submit daily, weekly or monthly report on the activities carried out, results achieved, constraints encountered and if they were resolved (how?), if not, (why?) and make recommendations accordingly; Perform other duties as requested by the Minister or through his/her designee. Convey the policies and interests of the organization to the public; Promote the people, services and solutions of the Ministry of Agriculture Create a favorable public image of the Ministry Promote the reputation of the Ministry QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS-MIX AND COMPETENCIES EDUCATION: A minimum of BSc Degree in Public Relations or other related discipline from a recognized University or Institution. EXPERIENCE: At least ten (10) years post-qualification experience in Public Relations and Communications. Five (5) years experiences in Liberia will be an advantage. COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS: Excellent communication skills both orally and written-Able to communicate effectively and sensitively with staff at all levels, farmers and stakeholders. Excellent interpersonal, analytical and organizational skills. An effective leader and team player Good IT skills Excellent presentations skills Ability to plan effectively Ability to work during periods of crisis Ability to take initiatives and be creative Ability to write and produce presentations and press releases TERMS OF APPOINTMENT: The position shall be for a period of one year and shall be renewable based on satisfactory performance. There shall be a 90-days probation period. Upon the approval of the MoA personnel listing 2014/2015, the incumbent shall be placed onto the MoA Governments payroll. SUBMISSION: Applications, along with curriculum vitae, copies of relevant supporting documents, and names of two references, must be in sealed envelopes and addresses to the Office of the Human Resource Division, Somalia Drive (Old LPRC Road) Gardnersville, Liberia. Closing date for receipt of applications is December 16, 2013. Male and female candidates are encouraged to apply. Only shortlisted candidates will be considered.

November 26, 2013 REELIN (Liberia) Inc. wishes to inform its many debtors and suppliers of its decision to cease operations in Liberia on November 30, 2013. As a consequence of the above, all vendors/creditors are required to submit a statement of REELINs account with them by or before December 15, 2013, attaching all supporting invoices and other relevant documentations. All of REELINs Debtors are also required to contact our Bushrod Island office on or before December 25, 2013 to make full settlement of their obligations or make full arrangement for the settlement thereof. All customers/businesses/organizations with vehicle at our premises are requested to proceed to our main offices on Bushrod Island to finalize arrangements in order to take delivery of vehicles on or before December 15, 2013. Existing and potentials customers desirous of continuing with the services REELIN has been rendering, are hereby informed that a new company, CICA Motors Liberia Inc. will be rendering the same services at the same premises effective December 1, 2013. Please feel free to transfer your business to this company if you so desire, as the workforce of REELIN (Liberia) will become the employees of CICA Motors Liberia Incorporated effective December 1, 2013. Please note that a small office space will be made available and remained open at Reelins Bushrod Island location for the purpose of handling the outstanding Receivable and Payable Accounts. Please contact the following telephone numbers should you need further clarification. 0777-887-000 0777-887-444 0777-887-500 Thank you very much for your patronage over the years. Regards.

Tuesday, 5, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Friday, December 06, 2013 Friday,November December 6, 2013

In Place of Work, Maritime to Abandon 1,986 Workers on the Beach

To play Blae
By Omari Jackson

his time around, it is 1,986 manual workers of the Liberia Maritime Authoritys (LMA) beaches and waterways project that are angry. At a meeting of heads of the communities involved in the Maritime Authoritys Beach and Waterways Project Thursday, December 6, at the New Kru Town beach, they spoke of their fears, anguish and disappointment when informed by LMA of a lack of funds, which means the end of the project. The project is part of the Poverty Reduction Strategy by the Government of Liberia. With the end of the civilcrisis, the provision of jobs for the youthful population has been a priority, the government said during the launching of the George Weah-led peace

initiative. But much more needs to be done to ensure that the roadmap to peace is sustained, the Daily Observer heard from a manual laborer, yesterday. Participating communities in the beaches and waterways project are Mamba Point, Fish Market, New Kru Town, West Point and there are also sub-groups involved with the project that brings the number of manual workers to a grand total of 1,985.

The least amount paid to a manual worker is U$60.00, according to Mr. George A. Young of the New Kru Town group, and the LMA owes them for the last three months. As tempers flared up yesterday, many expressed their frustration over what they said is the abrupt end of their income. The end of the project means that the beaches would no longer be patrolled and may likely revert (go back to) being used

as toilet sites---one of the factors that led to the establishment of the project. The workers told the Daily Observer that many of the workers are indebted to each other, in a form of Susu, from which monthly deductions are made that taking turns, would eventually benefit one workmate after the other, with lump-sums. With the abrupt end of our work, a distraught worker said, I will not be able to

get my total deductions from those who have already benefitted from the Susu. They told the Daily Observer that officials of the Liberia Maritime Authority, LMA, last week, invited 17 members from the various communities to its headquarters in Sinkor. At that meeting, we were told that due to financial difficulties the project is ending, another worker said. At the end of the meeting Thursday, community leaders said: We decided to wait until Monday and then march to the offices of the LMA to appeal for the continuation of our jobs.

Beach workers pose for a shot yesterday; at right is CONTROLs Archie Sarnor

Troublemakers Wont Rivercess Disregarded in Oil Discussions Citizens Alarm Go Scot-Free

-President Sirleaf Warns
By William Q. Harmon
order which had been imposed in connection with an ongoing court proceeding. The Liberian leader emphasized that building a free, prosperous, just, open, secure and democratic society will not happen simply because Liberians want it to; rather, it will happen if Liberians respect the laws, preserve the peace, respect the rights of others, and recommit to continue working together to make it happen. It means that as we grow in our exercise of our right and freedom to disagree and to express our disagreements, we must use the law---applying it equally and fairly---to settle those disagreements, the Liberian leader urged her compatriots. Being law-abiding, even when we disagree with one another, is the only way to secure our society. We can no longer use violence, or threaten to use violence, to express dissatisfactions or settle grievances, she made it plain. She pointed out that in rebuilding a shattered society, Liberians must not confuse the freedom they now enjoy, with lawlessness; she urged them to avoid this trend. Being free is not an excuse to be lawless, because freedom is protected by the law. No society can be free and, at the same time, be lawless, she restated. President Sirleaf reminded Liberians that from expressing disagreements to making claims, and from advocating for an issue to drawing attention to a cause, when they become lawless, they actually take away freedoms and deny rights. She repeated that government will continue to protect the rights of citizens to dem-

At the meeting was the chairman of the Coalition for the Transformation of Liberia, Archie Sarnor, assured the workers that they were engaging the government to make sure that the project continues. Sarnor told the workers that his groups negotiations with the government could lead to an increase in their pay. How, he did not say. Present at the meeting were Mamba Point-Fish Market chairman Edwin G. B. Kanneh, ELWAs G. Matthew Greaves and New Kru Towns George A. young. When contacted late yesterday, a spokesman of the LMA said they have listened to what the workers had had to say and are still discussing the matter with the LMA management. No decision has been reached as yet The LMA has, meanwhile, asked the workers to give them until next Tuesday, December 10, when the LMA will meet with them to further discuss the matter---or announce a final decision, maybe.

Page 4 Page 15

e will not allow anyone or group to violate the law or undermine our peace without consequences, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf warned people (troublemakers) who want to use and often do---use violence as a means of solving problems. President Sirleaf reiterated that for Liberia to become a free, prosperous, just, open, secure and democratic society, all Liberians must continue to strengthen the peace in the country. She warned that government can neither accept nor permit troublemakers to turn to activities that threaten the collective peace in the country, in the name of expressing disagreement. The Liberian leader stressed the importance of what she termed a national goal in which all Liberians may experience true equality and the full values of citizenship. In such a society, differences in tribe, age, gender, religious and political associations will not limit what each Liberian, including children, can become. President Sirleaf added that it is only in a peaceful society that all Liberians can share in all of the opportunities that the State has to offer, and benefit from the natural resources they own together. According to the office of the President, President Sirleaf made this strong statement when she addressed the Nation on the growing wave of indiscipline permeating the society. The Presidents speech also dealt with the lifting of a gag

T T

By Keith Morris

he National Association of Rivercess Professionals (NARP) has expressed dismay over the exclusion of eminent citizens in the ongoing nationwide Draft Oil Law Consultation. At a news conference yesterday in Monrovia, NARP described the exclusion of prominent citizens of the

county from these discussions as neglect by the House of Representatives that must be corrected immediately. According to the chairman of the organization Mr. M. Blonkanjay Jackson, soliciting the inputs of the ordinary people in the county in the absence of stake-holders contributions and inputs remain meaningless to the survivability of the county in general. While we laud the attempt

by the lawmakers, we have concerns over the exclusion of Rivercess; for example, Dr. Gayeway McCintosh, Christopher Neyor, Othello Gongar and others in society. The professional association expressed additional dissatisfaction that prominent people or stakeholders were not included in the decision making process of the county. But a Grand Gedeh county lawmaker protested outside interference into the workings of lawmakers of the county, noting that stakeholders should

Metropolitan Plaza Hotel Hooked in US$88,200 Debt

By Abednego Davis
he management of Metropolitan Plaza Hotel was, by the Commercial Court at the Temple of Justice, found liable on Tuesday, December 3, for the amount of US$88,200, owed the Global Bank Liberia Ltd. Giving the courts ruling, Judge Chan-chan A. Paegar declared It is the ruling of this court that the defendant is adjudged liable to the plaintiff (Global Bank) for an undisputed portion of the debt in the sum of US$88,200 together with the 12% contracted interest rate agreed to by the parties. The lawsuit stemmed from an Action of Debt by Attachonstrate and protest. Peaceful demonstrations and protests are forms of free expression which we have vowed to uphold. But, she warned: What we cannot accept, and cannot permit, is to resort to means which threaten our collective peace, to express a disagreement. President Sirleaf added, Where you are aware of the rules to resolve an issue, and you ignore them, you will be ment case, originally brought by Philips Olujabi, managing director of Global Bank Liberia that stands to earn up to US$99,000 plus interest at the rate of 12% as per their agreement and statutory interest of 6% annually. They also prayed that the court ruled in their favor, because, according to them, the Hotel management conceded owing the bank, so there were no factual issues remaining to be tried by the court. They further urged the court to rule the case to trial to determine the variance of US$9,800. The defendant, on the other hand, contended that even though they were indebted to the plaintiff, it claimed that the debt amounted to US$88,200, held fully responsible and be made to answer to the law for the consequences of your unlawful action. In free and democratic societies, claiming a privilege or advocating a position is not a writ to violate the rights of others, or to be lawless. We cannot be a peaceful society and, at the same time, be a lawless society. We cannot be a democratic society and, at the same time, use violence to instead of US$99,000. Following the claim and counter claim over the US$9,800 interest, Judge Paegar ruled that there are issues both of law and facts that need to be passed upon to establish the obligation of the defendant with respect to US$9,800 claimed by the plaintiff and denied by the defendant. He went on to rule that for by applying both the contracted interest rate and statutory, this court determines that it will be setting aside contractual agreement of the parties to the unjust advantage of the defendant. He added, This Court rules the matter to trial as to the US$9,800, so that a determination will be made after regular trial. Citing Section 11.3 of the solve problems. And we cannot be a society in which we demand privileges, and yet violate the fundamental rights of others. She noted that fundamental duty of any democratic government is to protect the rights of its citizens. Government exists to protect us from each other. And we will do just that! President Sirleaf sternly emphasized. Concluding, the Liberian

have the opportunity to participate in the development of local businesses and operations of Rivercess activities. Mr. Jackson who is also a Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Education vowed to protect the image of Liberians in the rural institution in the wake of changes in the leadership of the county. The NARP condemns the eternal conflict between the countys legislature and other appointed officials members of the party and beyond. Civil procedure law of Liberia, Judge Paegar said it provides that the court may upon application grant summary judgment for a part of the relief sought or in its entirety when there is no issue as to any material fact and where the party seeking judgment is entitled to it as a matter of law. He went on to declare that in the instant case, it is clear that as to US$88,200 of the amount by the plaintiff, there is no dispute; as the defendant himself had conceded and admitted to his obligation to the bank with respect to that amount. The clerk of this court is ordered to prepare a cost and same be taxed by the lawyer of the parties. He is also directed to order the sheriff to forthwith enforce in consistence with law. It is so order, Judge Paegar declared. leader said, If anybody has something to say, we are always willing to listen. If any citizen feels bad about something, we are always willing to work with you to find a solution. But make no mistake: we will not allow anyone or group to violate the law or undermine our peace without consequences. It is really that simple.

Tuesday, November 5,06, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Friday, December 2013 Friday, December 6, 2013

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THE ADVENT AND THE NECESSITY OF BEING PREPARED FOR OPPORTUNITIES (PART ONE): DEFINITIONS AND GENERAL BACKGROUND

CIVILIZATION-AL-ISLAMIC PER SPECTIVE BUILDING AN IDEAL MUSLIM SOCIETY (PART TWENTY EIGHT)
By Sheikh Kafumba F. Konneh
All praise belongs to Allah; and may His peace and blessings be upon His Prophet, his household, his companions and all those who rightly follow their foot-steps. Ameen!
n our last discourse we commented on the bulk of verses 27-29 of chapter twenty. Today, we shall, by Allahs will, address ourselves to the enjoinment appertains to eating from the sacrifice you made in commemoration of Ibrahims Day, as well as sharing with your relatives, neighbours. Al-Islam as religion of liberality, generosity and humanitarian, the Scripture also enjoins sharing the said sacrifice meat with the indigent and the needy (particularly those) who are in need of alms. All these ritual activities mentioned in these verses are to be carried out during the ten days of DhulHijjah. The Prophet (SAW) is to have said that: There are no days that are greater before Allah or in which deeds are more beloved to Him (Allah) than these ten days, so increase you Tahalil (a ritual utterance of the formula of la ilah illa llah There is no god but Allah; Takbir (praising Allah with laudation, extolment, exaltation, glorification and exclamation; and Tahmid (commendable praising and encomiums) during these days. Also within these ten days, there are few memorable holy days. Such as Arafat which ritual activity is usually held on the ninth day of Dhul-Hajjah at Mount Arafat and of An-Nahr the day of sacrifice which is usually held on the tenth day of the said month. Mount Arafat is where the alpha parent (Adam and Hawwah/Eve met after falling apart from heaven. There all the pilgrims assemble to listen to annual sermon in commemoration of Prophet (AS) attempt to sacrifice his son. After carrying out of all these rituals, a pilgrim is urged that before departure, he/ she should: again go round the ancient Sacrosanct House in procession. This latter enjoinment is regard as a way of bearing fareware to the Holy House of Kaba. By the same trend the Scripture enjoins the pilgrims thus: And when you have concluded your religious devotions and pilgrimage has had all its rites, then praise Allah and extol His glorious attributes as you customarily praise your forefathers in pagan times, but Allahs praises and glorious attributes should be extolled from ones heart and inmost being with the deepest mental feeling. Nonetheless, among people are those whose thoughts are those whose thoughts are set upon the mundane things of this world; they invoke Allah to bestow upon them the comforts of life to minister to their enjoyment and content, and in consequence never shall such-like persons have a share in the Hereafter. There are also others whose thoughts are set upon both, this world and the worldto-come: they invoke Allah to bestow upon them His prevenient and efficacious grace here and His efficacious grace Hereafter nd to save their bodies and minds from the suffering inflicted by the Fire. Such-like persons shall be apportioned the reward they merit for their deeds. Allah is swift indeed in putting the law in execution (2:200-202). Al-Islam also sets aside number of months and days for devotional thoughts, religious and spiritual rites. Explaining the rationale behind the creation of calendar, months and days, the Scripture tells us that: The calendar introduced by Allah at the point of time at which He created the universe the heavens and the earth determines the month as the space of time from one new moon to the next, which corresponds to the period of one complete revolution of the moon in reference to a point, fixed or movable, and divides the year accordingly into twelve revolutions or months, four of which are sacred and exclusively appropriated to some special purpose which is emblematic of this right and commendable religion. Therefore, do not wrong yourselves during this period of time nor discredit yourselves by word or thought (9:36). The four of the twelve months refers to in the just quoted AlQuranic verse are known and called within Al-Islamic terminology as: Dhul al Qadah, Dhul al Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab. The 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhul Hajj are considered as spiritual celebrative days after the performance of pilgrimage. In this regard, the Scripture says thus: And exercise your minds in the devotional thought and in the spoken discourse of the meditative character on certain numbered (three) days which follow the conclusion of pilgrimage when Satans figure is pelted with stones in the valley of Mina. Optional as this is, you incur no blame if you should leave Makka (Mecca) two days earlier or two days or two days later than the due date if deep in your hearts you venerate Allah and entertain the profound reverence dutiful to Him and you faithfully realize that to Him (Allah) shall you be thronged (2:203). This verse spells out that Al-Islamic calendar, months of the year and days of the week are all ordained by Allah-the Almighty; and that there is no idolatry term or language associated with any. What a spiritual virtue! Recoursing to the main theme, it is worth mentioning that Prophet Ibrahim/Abraham (AS) used to remind himself of the response Allah gives to his inquiry as to whether his assignation as Imam/ Religious leader of the world; and the Lord said that: My assignation is not designate to the wrongheaded who are wrongful of actions. So, every aspect of his act was calculated toward realization of the end objective of his mission, including winning the pleasure of Allah-thereby absorbing his progeny (particularly those who are unmitigatedly) devout (Divine Services) with prayful minds and expressive of prayer. Perhaps it was against this background that Prophet Muhammad (SAW) enlists ten additional ritual acts and activities which Allah assigns to Prophet Ibrahim/Abraham (AS). They are referred to in Al-Islamic parlance as Taharah (purity, ablution). They are also called as: Fitrah (meaning: instinct, natural constitution). Five of the ten can be found on the head and the remaining five are on the body. In aggregate they are: (1) trimming the mustache; (2) growing the beard; (3) using Siwak; (4) rinsing the mouth; (5) inhaling and then exhaling water (in ablution). These are the five can be found on the head. The remaining five are: (6 trimming the nails; (7) shaving the public hairs; (8) circumcision (this is mandatory for male and an act of honour for female; and of course, it is one time in ones life); (9) plucking hairs under the arm; and (10) washing the private parts with water after answering the call of nature. Another testing Prophet Ibrahim/Abraham (AS) underwent and he implemented were abandoning his disbelieving people when Allah commanded him to do so, disputing with Nimrod (king of Babylon) about Allah. The Scripture tells us this story thus: Have you not seen (O Muhammad) into the discourse which was held by the one who argued with Ibrahim/Abraham against Allah, the Creator, just because he was in a position of power over the kingdom which was conferred on him by Allah. Ibrahim/Abraham said: Allah, my Creator, is He Who gives life and determines the moment of death. The man said: So do I, I grant life and occasion death. Then Ibrahim/Abraham said: Allah causes the sun to rise in the east, do then cause it to rise from the west. And there was the presumptuous infidel thrown into confusion and defeat, and Allah does not guide to His path of rectitude the wrong-headed who are wrongful of actions (2:258). Another testing were: being patient when he was thrown in the fire (although this was extremely traumatic), migrating from his homeland when Allah commanded him to do so, patience with the monetary and material demand of hosting guests by Allahs command, and Allahs order for him to slaughter his son. All these and many others indicate the inscrutable testing of Allah. A servant of Allah, or man of God in the Liberian theological parlance, is bound to withstand, abide by, and exercise! May Allah guide us to this direction. Ameen!

N THE NAME OF ALLAH, THE MOST COMPASSIONATE, THE MOST MERCIFUL

The Rev. James B. Sellee, Rector of St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Camp Johnson Road, Monrovia

or many Churches last Sunday (December 1, 2013) began the season of Advent, the start of a new Church or liturgical year. In this sense Advent Sunday is the New Year Day of the Church. It is a period of four Sundays before Christmas and therefore a time of preparation for Christmas. Thus we propose a short series which will explore, a little bit, the concept and necessity of preparation and readiness for the opportunities of life. The series will be treated as follows. The first will provide a background to the series by explaining what Advent is all about and what it means to prepare and be ready for something. In the second article the focus will be on the necessity of preparations. The third article will delve into how to prepare for the demands of life. And, the fourth and final article will center on the benefits of being prepared and ready to face and make the most of any opportunities and difficulties that come ones way. Advent is the first of seven seasons of the Church year. The other seasons are: Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, Ascension (only from Thursday to Sunday), Pentecost, and Trinity. The word Advent literally means coming and in the secular sense it can mean the coming into being of something like the advent of the printing press. In the Christian

context it refers to the coming of Jesus Christ into the world as its Savior and Gods most precious gift to mankind. Advent is a season of preparation for Christmas which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. During the first Advent God sent his messenger (prophet) John to prepare the way for Jesus. Before the birth of John there was no prophecy in Israel for four hundred years! What this meant was that there was no direct representative of God to give Gods perspective on the issues of the time, to warn and to guide the religious and political life of the people of Israel. The people of God (the Hebrews) sorely missed this important guidance from God and yearned for a prophet of their time. So the coming of John on the scene was a welcome relief. And John indeed had a message for them. His message was a call for individual and national renewal and the preparation needed to be ready to be directed and led by God Almighty Himself in all the vicissitudes and changes of life. Hence, Advent is about preparing our hearts and minds and homes to receive Gods supreme gift, Jesus Christ and to strive to live the way he desires. The best way to prepare for this important gift and event is repentance which means the change of heart, mind and conduct. This in turn means getting rid of evil in its myriad forms and holding fast to what is good. In other words, not to be overcome and ruled by evil but rather to overcome

evil with good by thinking and doing those things that build up self, the family, community and the wider society. Christians extend this preparation for Advent not only for the first coming of Jesus at the first Advent but to his second coming as well when he will come as Judge of the world. The message of Advent is that believers should prepare, be continuously preparing and ready at all times since they do not know when their Master will come or call them home. The particular emphasis of the series is on preparation. What then does it mean to prepare for someone or something important? The Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary defines the word to prepare as the art of making someone or something ready to be used or to do something. It means to make yourself ready to do something or for something you expect to happen. Now there is a slight difference between preparation and readiness. To be ready is not always the same as to be prepared. Readiness has a lot to do with willingness and availability to do something. Many Liberians are ready to vie for the presidency or be a senator but how many of them are prepared for what it takes to occupy those positions? For certain significant things in life one must be both ready and prepared to undertake them. To be prepared is to have skills, experience, character, and willingness of course to do what is required. The next article will show how.

Found at all major supermarkets in downtown Monrovia

DAILY OBSERVER Friday, December 06, 2013 Friday, December 6, 2013

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Govt Poised to Resolve Challenges in Banking Sector

By David A. Yates

he executive secretary of the Liberia Banker Association (LBA), Milton Weeks has said that the Liberian Government is aware and committed to resolving the remaining challenges facing the banking and financial services industry of the country. Mr. Weeks said the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) reform program, aims, amongst several things, at promoting

the developing of a stable, sound and market-based financial system. Giving a brief background on the ongoing LBA symposium in Monrovia, held yesterday at the headquarters of the Liberia Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Weeks said that one of the key components of the reform is the establishment of a creditunion reference-bureau to improve the credit-culture in Liberia. The symposium is in commemoration of the Liberia Bankers Week

and is being held under the theme: Ensuring Stability of Liberias Financial Sector through Credit-Culture Enhancement. A credit reference bureau service is a clearing house for credit history information and promotes the ability of leading institution to share both positive and negative data about their borrowing customers. This development, the LBA Executive Secretary said will address one of the key structural problems that the

banking sector has faced for a long time. He furthered: It is therefore important for commercial banks in Liberia to continue playing an effective role and stimulate economic activity by providing well-structured financial products and services, especially those aimed at boosting growth in key sectors such as mining, energy, tourism, manufacturing and agriculture. Also speaking, the president of the Liberian Bank for development and Investment,

(LBDI) John B.S. Davis III, said that access to finance is critical to the improvement and development of the private sector, which by extension will positively affect the Liberia economy. He said that as Bankers, they believe that as the country (Liberia) rises from strengthto-strength they must dialogue to work with all stake-holders to make finance accessible to the public. And so, it is in our judiciary responsibility to ensure that the bankers will look at opportunity, challenges and prospects so that the creditculture will be promoted and sustain integrity in the banking sector, he said. Meanwhile, two panel discussions were held at the As part of the Power Africa initiative that U.S. President Obama announced in July, OPIC will commit up to $1.5 billion in financing and insurance to energy projects in sub-Saharan Africa. Power Africa partner countries like Liberia have set ambitious goals in electric power generation and are making the utility and energy sector reforms to pave the way for investment and growth. In support of President Obamas Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), the OPIC delegation will meet with Booker Washington Institute students to visit the Liberia Center for Biomass Energy. The delegation will also visit the OPIC-backed Broad Cove Eco-homes project, which is building affordable, sustainable housing just outside of Monrovia. OPICs history and projects in Liberia show how private capital can be a force for good, supporting business and job creation and advancing development that helps to improve the lives of ordinary citizens, Littlefield said. In Liberia, OPIC has committed $346.9 million in finance and insurance to 27 projects over the past four decades.

symposium, under captions: Building a Credit-Culture: Challenges and Solutions, and Credit-Culture---Other Stakeholders perspectives. The first panel discussion was addressed by the director of the Research Service Department at the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), Mr. Musa Kamara and the managing director of Afriland First Bank, Mr. Hamadou Bayo. The second panel discussants were the president of the Liberia Business Association (LIBA), Mr. D. Maxwell Kemayah and president of the Liberia Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Francis Dennis. About OPIC OPIC is the U.S. Governments development finance institution. It mobilizes private capital to help solve critical development challenges and in doing so, advances U.S. foreign policy. Because OPIC works with the U.S. private sector, it helps U.S. businesses gain footholds in emerging markets catalyzing revenues, jobs and growth opportunities both at home and abroad. OPIC achieves its mission by providing investors with financing, guarantees, political risk insurance, and support for private equity investment funds. Established as an agency of the U.S. Government in 1971, OPIC operates on a selfsustaining basis at no net cost to American taxpayers. OPIC services are available for new and expanding business enterprises in more than 150 countries worldwide. To date, OPIC has supported more than $200 billion of investment in over 4,000 projects, generated an estimated $75 billion in U.S. exports and supported more than 277,000 American jobs. Visit www.opic.gov for more information.

and

U.S. Overseas Private Investment Corporation President and CEO Elizabeth L. Littlefield Visits Liberia
.S. Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) President Elizabeth L. CEO, this week, December 6-7,to discuss ways the U.S. can continue to support private sector investment in the country. As the U.S. governments development finance institution, OPICs portfolio in Sub-Saharan Africa is nearly $4 billion across a range of industries including power and renewable energy,housing

Littlefield, is visitingLiberia

Multi TV Launches Operations in Liberia

and construction, tourism, agriculture and food security, and financial services. OPIC is also playing a key role in the U.S. Power Africa initiative, aimed at doubling access to electricity on the continent. Littlefield is traveling with a delegation that is meeting with Liberian government officials, U.S. and Liberian business leaders, and Liberian students. The delegation will also tour projects that OPIC has supported that have advanced development and economic growth and created jobs. It is a pleasure to get back to Africa and see firsthand, all the growth that continues to take place, said Littlefield. OPIC is committed to helping African countries attract private-sector investment that can help transform the vast promise of this continent into reality. In her discussions with political and business leaders, Littlefield hopes to learn more about Liberias investment climate and the opportunities for U.S. investors to partner with local businesses. OPIC is interested in supporting investors in a variety of sectors, including energy, agriculture, and access to credit---all critical to longterm economic growth.

Ghanaian-based television, Multi TV, Thursday, December 5, launched its full operations in Liberia with promises of offering partnership and full cooperation in the country. Multi TV is Ghanas first truly nationwide free-toair multi-channel digital Television service and has been in existence since 1995. According to Multi TVs International Business head, they operate a TV channel, a radio channel and an online platform, which are active in many parts of the world. Mr. Ato Sarpong added that

By Alvin Worzi

Multi TV is an entity that is into telling the African story, and maintained that Our African story must continue with respect to our culture. He stated that through their chain of network in Liberia, they have created employment opportunity for about 3000 Liberians. Additionally, Multi TV enhances economic value for advertisers and creates an enabling media platform for television, and working to create compelling information and entertainment, he added. Youth and Sports Minister Lenn Eugene Nagbe, who served as the chief launcher , said the Ministry of Youth and Sports was currently training

200 young people in Multi TVs equipments installation. He said it was important to teach young people how to fish, and called on private institutions to collaborate with the government in helping to reduce the unemployment of youth in the country. Nagbe described the coming of the organization as an opportunity for the unemployed sector of the country, adding that the government is committed to the creation of job. According to him, 70 percent of Liberias population is youth and creating employment opportunity for them was critical to the society.

DAILY OBSERVER Friday, December 6, 2013

outh African President Jacob Zuma has announced to the world, the dreadful news of the death of South Africas first black President and antiapartheid icon Nelson Mandela. Mr. Mandela, 95, who once carried a Liberian passport

Nelson Mandela

Page 18
spite being imprisoned for 27 years. He had rarely been seen in public since officially retiring in 2004. What made Nelson Mandela great was precisely what made him human. We saw in him what we seek in ourselves, Mr. Zuma said. Fellow South Africans, Nelson Mandela brought us together and it is together that we will bid him farewell, Zuma added. Earlier, the BBCs Mike Wooldridge, outside Mr. Mandelas home in the Johannesburg suburb of Houghton, said there appeared to have been an unusually large family gathering. Among those attending was family elder Bantu Holomisa, Since he was released from hospital, the South African presidency repeatedly described Mr. Mandelas condition as critical but stable.

during his countrys apartheid era, led South Africas transition from white-minority rule in the 1990s, after 27 years in prison. He had been receiving intense home-based medical care for a lung infection after three months in hospital. In a statement on South African national TV, President Zuma said Mr. Mandela had

South African President Jacob Zuma African president Jacob Zuma on the countrys state television. Fellow south Africans our beloved Nelson Mandela, the founding president of our democratic nation has died. He passed on peacefully in the company of his family around 20:50 on the December 5, 2013 Our nation has lost his greatest son. Our people have lost a father. Although we knew that this day would come, nothing can diminish our sense of a profound and enduring loss, Zuma told the nation. Zuma also remembered the friends comrades and colleagues who fought alongside Madiba, as he was affectionately known amongst his admirers. Our thoughts and prayers are with him are with the Mandela, he said.

World Mourns

departed and was at peace. Mr. Mandela was born in 1918 in the Eastern Cape and joined the African National Congress in 1943 and was charged with high treasons in 1956 but after a four-year trial, the charges were dropped. He was again re-arrested and convicted of incitement and sentenced to five years in 1962. But the bomb shell fell in 1964 when he was charged with sabotage and sentenced to life. After 27 years in prison, he

was freed from prison in 1990 and won the Nobel Peace Prize and was elected South Africas first black president in 1994. Five years later, Mr. Mandela stepped down as leader. In 2001, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and retired from public life in 2004. Our nation has lost its greatest son, Mr. Zuma said. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate was one of the worlds most revered statesmen after preaching reconciliation de-

Former US President Bill Clinton: I will never forget my friend Madiba.

Michael Moore (Film Director, Farenheight 911): I was convinced Nelson Mandela would NEVER get out of prison. When he did, and became President, I decided right then anything was possible. Yaya Toure A hero is someone who has given his life for something bigger than oneself...The world lost a hero, Africa lost a father... RIP Mandela Steven Pienaar Still cant believe it MADIBA is gone UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Mandela was a giant for justice whose selfless struggle for human dignity, equality and freedom inspired many people around the world. No one did more in our time to advance the values and aspirations of the United Nations, he told reporters soon after Mandelas death was announced Thursday. Nelson Mandela showed what is possible for our world, and within each one of us, if we believe a dream and work together for justice and humanity, Ban said. Let us continue each day to be inspired by Nelson Mandelas lifelong example to keep working for a better and more just world. The UN Security Council interrupted a meeting on the tribunals for former Yugoslavia and Rwanda and stood for a minute in silent tribute to Mandela. Pel Let us all continue his legacy with purpose and passion. Cristiano Ronaldo Thankful Madiba for your legacy and your example. Youll always stay with us. Actress/Comedian Whoopi Goldberg: I want 2give the world a hug I was told Mandeba just passed. Nelson Mandela R.I.P. Time for a well earned sleep. Condolences to his family. Joseph S Blatter My respects to an extraordinary person, probably one of the greatest humanists of our time: Nelson Mandela. Gerard Piqu 2010WorldCup is in my heart.As other incredible things,it would never happened without@NelsonMandela Thanks Madiba. Emmanuel Adebayor Nelson Mandela the most amazing,inspirational leader of all time.Leaving a legacy which will be around 4centuries. RIP Vincent Kompany RIP Nelson Mandela. No words to describe the goodness you have brought to this world. Sad to see you go. Inspirational, my only ever hero. Sebastien Bassong I will always love you madiba! You were one my heros RIP #legend #neverbeforgotten South African Actress Charlize Theron: My thoughts and love go out to the Mandela family. Rest in Peace Madiba. You will be missed, but your impact on this world will live forever. Asamoah Gyan It was an honour to meet you. May your soul rest in PEACE! #RIP Andr Ayew One of the greatest man in the world and the greatest in our continent!!:( RIP Nelson MANDELA. MADIBA

David Cameron A great light has gone out in the world. Nelson Mandela was a hero of our time. Ive asked for the flag at No10 to be flown at half mast. Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper: All of Canada mourns with the family of Nelson Mandela and the citizens of South Africa. The world has lost one of its great moral leaders.

Music Producer/Entrepreneur Russel Simmons: Nelson Mandela was an angel walking on this earth. You were one the greatest teachers this world has ever known. We love you and we miss you.

Tuesday, November 5, 6, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Thursday, December 05, 2013 Friday, December 2013

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Fo r ad qu ve ick rt ise bu in sine th ss is re sp su ac lts e ,

Verdier Urges Ex-basketballers To Group and Rescue the Game

Read more sports articles on the Daily Observer website @ www.liberianobserver.com/sports

-As NOCAL Resurfaces As Major Sponsor Again

Superintendents Warn Against Exclusion in CM Planning

By Leroy M. Sonpon, III

iberias former international basketball player, James Verdier, who had his sting in the 2nd and 3rd division basketball leagues in Nigeria, with the Lagos YMCA, has called on all former basketball players to purposely group to rescue basketball. The semi-professional basketball player, in an interview yesterday, said the static development at the Broad Streets basketball court, and the poor running of the league indicate that former basketball players must get involve to improve on the game. He named some of the former players as Sam Wullue, Philipbert Brown, Boye Khofar, Danny Goe, Jake Kabakollie, Kollie Tamba, amongst others. The Sports Commission, on Broad Street, was a center of basketball activities, as far back as the 1960s.The cement floor, bathrooms, players and

Former Basketball MVP turned Anti-Corruption Boss, James Verdier

referees rooms need urgent remain renovation. The game needs to be rescued, there is no much progress and there is a need for former basketball players to come together and salvage the game, Cllr. Verdier said. He added: The game is dy-

iberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) has announced that the LPRC Oilers basketball matches in the FIBA Africa Club Championships will be shown live on SuperSport from Dec. 1121. Not only are they the first Liberian basketball team to be featured on SuperSport, it has also been confirmed that ArcelorMittal-Liberia has agreed to provide support to the team for its upcoming trip to Tunisia to compete in the tournament. ArcelorMitta-Liberia, the first committed sponsor, recognizes the historical significance of this accomplishment for basketball in Liberia and the lasting impact on the LPRC Oilers basketball team and Liberian youths. Not since the Great Ball Players of 1981 has any Liberian basketball team qualified to compete in the FIBA Africa Championship. This years tournament take place in Tunis, Tunisia featuring teams from surrounding African countries, all of whom who are competing to be declared champions. The inclusion of the Oilers gives momentum and sets a platform upon

Oilers Make International Debut on SuperSport December 11

ing, the facility is static and the leadership needs to do more. Cllr. Verdier played briefly for NPA Pythons in 1984 and moved to Island Lords of Bushrod Island, and inarguably inspired the team to the 2nd division championship where he was crowned the Most Valuable Player. The three-pointer later joined Mighty Barrolle basketball team and subsequently became the skipper from 19861989. Verdier also captained the University of Liberia basketball team and was crowned MVP in the basketball edition of the UL-Cuttington University Colleges games in 1986. Currently, he is the Acting Executive Director of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC). If confirmed, he will serve for five years. Meanwhile, Cllr. Verdier called for the amendment of the LBFs Constitution which limits presidents to vote. He argued that former basketball players also need to vote.

ounty superintendents have warned Ministries of Youth and Sports and Internal Affairs against their exclusion from the planning of the National County Meet. The superintendents made the disclosure last Wednesday during a one-day workshop for referees, statisticians, medics, and monitors. They said most of the spending for the games rest on their shoulders through the County or Social Development Funds. They argued that the US$20,000 allotted for a county for the five disciplines, as preparation fees is small, because the fund is also intended

(l-r) Superintendents Samuel Brown, Florence Brandy, Nathaniel Toe and Christiana Dagadu
for transportation and players stipends. Grand Bassa Superintendent Etweda A. Cooper said their inclusion could help lobby for the increment of the County Meet allotment in the National Budget, instead of the US$500,000. Montserrado County Superintendents Florence F. Brandy said the de-regionalization of the County Meets Group have an unhelpful effect on the counties because of high cost of transportation and preparation fees. For the sake of peace and unity, we will accept whatever plans we have, but let us use this medium to urge the

Liberia basketball giants,s Oilers

which to build the comeback for basketball in Liberia. To lead the publicity efforts and maximize exposure for the Oilers, LPRC has retained the services of Liberia Sports Management Company (LISMACO). Together, LISMACO and the Oilers Sports Association (OSA) will garner public support for the team through a series of public relations events such as exhibition matches and a concert featuring top Liberian artists TanTan, Deng and Too Sweet just to name a few. On December 4th and 7th at 4pm at Sports Commission fans are invited to attend the free matches between LPRC Oilers and the LISMACO All Stars. With the partnership and support of LPRC, ArcelorMittal Liberia, Oilers Sports Association and LISMACO, the LPRC Oilers Basketball team is on the road to Tunis to represent Liberia on an international level.

lexander Saybwe Sayon, who is described as a sprightly midfielder, is said to provide the engine for Thrissur St. Thomas Colleges 3-0 win at the Kozhikode District Sports Council Stadium in India in their opening match of GOAL 2014. While it was Sayons and his compatriot Sadjuma Bahs maiden college level match in Kerala, the 20-year-old is hopeful of the tournament becoming a stepping stone to a full-fledged football career in India. Sayon has enjoyed a good time on the field so far, having captained the Under-20 national team, nicknamed the Lone Stars. He also led his Liberian Premier League side Invincible Eleven in competitions of such grandeur as the CAF Confederation Cup in 2009. But it is the lack of finance that forced him to come to India in search of education and the possibility of professional football here. He has his eyes set firmly on I-League clubs. In Liberia, we have strong teams. But, there is no money

Lone Liberian Star Proves Might in India

ministry to include us in the planning process, because we would be of help, Mr. Samuel F. Brown, the Superintendent of Bomi, said. Earlier, Sports Minister Eugene Lenn Nagbe thanked the superintendents as well as Counties sports coordinators for their presence and preparation. The former sprinter and striker said the tournament is to commemorate the countrys 10 years of undisturbed peace. For his part, Deputy Sports Minister Dionysius Sebwe admonished counties authorities to engage their respective lawmakers as well as prominent citizens to support them. Meanwhile, the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) has been declared the Gold or Major Sponsor of the National County Meet, while the Lonestar Communication Corporation is the silver sponsor. The sponsorship of the 2012/13 County Meet by NOCAL sparked debate with the Ministry announcing that she only received about US$11,000 out of the US$500,000 speculated deal. The ministry divorced itself from the administrative and financial reports of NOCALs sponsorship, even though, the Youth and Sports Ministry too is yet to make her report.

for the players, Alexander said. Koyilandi: Born in the capital city of Monrovia, he began his career with Barrack Young Controllers FC as a youth player in the fourth tier. An impressive stint as a defensive midfielder helped him rise through the ranks before making the switch to top division club Roots FC. Hit by poverty and civil unrest, football is the only escape route for the youngsters in Liberia, much like other parts of Africa. Alexander was offered trials with a Belgian club, but unfortunately for him, he didnt have the money to fly out to Europe. So, when a scholarship to study in India came

calling, he gladly accepted the offer. Thats when I decided to study and qualify myself for a job first. At the same time, I will do my best on the field and if any I-League club is interested, I will be more than happy to play for them, he said. Now, he and Bah are firstyear Economics students at St Thomas, Thrissur. I am happy that our team won the first match and to have played a part in the victory, he said, having set up Bah for the opening goal of the game against St Josephs College, Devagiri. In the North Zone quarterfinals, the duo will be seen in action on Wednesday, against MES College, Mambad. Source New India Express.

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What Did Dr. Owl Say?

Mandela, the Cotton Tree, has fallen. May we all follow his Christ-like example of humility and forgiveness.

PUL Opens Book of Condolence for Musue Haddad

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-KYB Describes Her as A Jewel in Liberian Journalism

By Joaquin Sendolo
business and later married Nyema Bonna, who bore Musue and her siblings. Mrs. Haddad-Johnson disclosed that the late Musue was born on December 17, 1968, in Konia. She schooled at the Lutheran Training Institute (LTI) in Salayea, Lofa County. She and her siblings later moved to Zorzor where they all attended the Zorzor Lutheran School. She furthered that Musue went back to Konia and enrolled at the Gabo Public School where she completed 9th grade and then moved to Monrovia. In Monrovia, Musue attended William V. S. Tubman High School and completed in 1987. After attaining her diploma, Musue entered the University of Liberia. She fled from the Liberian civil crisis and went to Ghana where she enrolled at the Ghana Institute of Journalism, paving the way for her journalism career. According to the deceaseds sister, Musue was very time conscious, and was forceful in ensuring that whatever she or another person under her instruction did was done fast and promptly. Singing and organizing of children were parts of Musues hobby, and after organizing she would have something to write about because of her passion for Journalism, Mrs. Haddad-Johnson noted. Musue went on to travel to the United States on a scholarship and obtained her Masters Degree in International Relations. Musue, according to her sister, began her PhD in the United States, but left it behind to come back to Liberia after the war, so that her son Michael, then seven, could get to know his family and country better. Although Mrs. HaddadJohnson is not a journalist, she recalled that Musue was straightforward in her writing style and used to sort out issues in her writing to teach people. Musue is reported to have received the Nelson Mandela Award while in Ghana, and both a Journalist of the Year and Human Rights award while in the United States. Some of the late Musue Haddads works show that she served as a photojournalist and staff writer at The News Newspaper and also worked with the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA). Her final occupation was that of a lecturer at the University of Liberia in the Mass Communications Department. Her sister would not confirm

he Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has formally opened a book of condolence for fallen Liberian journalist Musue Haddad. The Unions president, Peter Quaqua and veteran Liberian journalist and Publisher of the Daily Observer Kenneth Y. Best, were among the first to sign the book. Mr. Best described her in his tribute as a jewel in Liberian journalism. The book was opened Thursday, December 5, at the PULs headquarters on Clay Street, Monrovia. One of the deceaseds surviving sisters, Mrs. Ruth HaddadJohnson, gave a brief synopsis to this paper about her late sisters life. Mrs. Johnson said Musue was a single child born after a set of triplets and before a set of twins among the children of Mr. Wadia Haddad and her mother, Madam Nyema Bonna. Mr. Haddad--- who was affectionately known as BeardBeard by those closed to him--came to Liberia from Lebanon in 1958 and moved to Konia, Lofa County. He established a

Mr. Best (left) and PULs President Quaqua (right) both signing book of condolence for the late Musue Haddad.

KYB described Musue as a Jewel in Liberian Journalism

what was responsible for her death, but unconfirmed sources say she suffered from Breast Cancer. Recalling Musues role in the family, Mrs. Ruth HaddadJohnson expressed that her deceased sister was the backbone of the family as their father is no longer alive. She was concerned about every family member, ensuring that any member who would like to move upward economically or academically achieved that goal through her aid, Musues sister declared proudly. Expressing her grief, Mrs. Haddad-Johnson indicated that the family would remember Musue for the role she played by making the impossible

possible for us. She noted that while Musue was alive, she would attend to the plights of her loved ones whenever the need arose, and now that she is no longer with them, they are going to miss her supportive arms. The funeral service for the late Musue Haddad will take place at the St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Paynesville on December 7, at 10:30 a.m. The burial will follow at the Bassa Town Cemetery in the Soul Clinic Community in Paynesville.

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