TOP STORIES

CORRUPTION LIBERIAS PROBLEM

United States Ambassador to Liberia Deborah Malac Alarms

News Extra

pg 10

Health News

DEADLOCK
NO END TO HEALTH CRISIS AS SENATE-LED NEGOTIATION HIT SNAG

pg 10

CENTRAL BANK OF LIBERIA

MARKET BUYING AND SELLING RATES LIBERIAN DOLLARS PER US DOLLAR

FrontPage
www.frontpageafricaonline.com
VOL 8 NO.539 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2014

BUYING THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2014 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2014 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2014 L$80.00/US$1 L$80.00/US$1 L$80.00/US$1

SELLING L$81.00/US$1 L$81.00/US$1 L$81.00/US$1

These are indicative rates based on results of daily surveys of the foreign exchange market in Monrovia and its environs. The rates are collected from the Forex Bureaux and the commercials banks. The rates are not set by the Central Bank of Liberia.
Source: Research, Policy and Planning Department, Central Bank Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia

PRICE L$40

That because of Defendants blatant abuse of their offices and violation of the several provisions of the National Forestry Reform Law (NFRL)(2006) and the Community Rights Law(2009), the Private Prosecutrix(FDA),yea the Government of Liberia has suffered a loss in revenue of over US$6,000,000 (United States Dollars Six Million ) which would have been generated from land rental

PUP INDICTMENTS
Corruption Watch pg. 6

WOGBEH, OTHERS HELD FOR ECONOMIC SABOTAGE AND CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY

EDITOTIAL See PG 2 & 3

EDITORIAL

Page 2 | Frontpage

Friday, February 21, 2014

HEN SENATOR Clarice Jah was recently heard on a secretly-recorded conversation with the fugitive former head of the Liberia Airport Authority explaining how members of the Senate operate under the cloak of darkness to turn the other way in a bid to keep Liberia vulnerable to acts of corruption, the revelation, exposed what many already knew, that Liberians are right to have lost faith in their elected lawmakers because lawmakers have all failed their constituents and the Republic through their lack of leadership, political will and massive involvement in widespread corruption, conflict of interest and every imaginable crime against the very people who elected them into office. SENATOR JAH is heard on the recording stating that President Sirleafs intervention at one time helped her to receive a US$5,000 gratuity from Central Bank Governor Jones for her (Jahs) role in helping to get the Governor confirmed by the Liberian Senate. SAID SENATOR JAH: Sometimes we just need to tie the knots here and there, because like I say, everything now is politicsEverything in Liberia. Everything that politics, everything. The last time, the President called. You know when the Governor went for confirmation. He had all this problem. They was bringing, oh the man want run for President in time to come, blah blah blah. Oh, they cant give the man the position. So I stood for the Governor, I went around and talked to those who were in control; they listened to me. The President called me, she say, you think the Governor will get confirmed? I say Ma, I dont want to tell you yes right away, but let me do small work, by then I had gotten all of the political aspects, you know.Finally when we got to the last person, Robert Sirleaf, you know that man there, when the man see people, he proud, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. I called him, I said go talk to this person, the president called me He got confirmed. This day, I was at the Presidents office, when I look, he came. The President say, she turned around, Senator Jah, I say yes Madam President. How much this man contributed towards your campaign? Just like that. She embarrassed him, until he gave me some kind of $5000.00 USD. SENATOR JAH is also heard saying that fake independent investigation committees are sometimes established by the President for the sake of making things appear the right way in the eyes of the public. WHILE WE in no way condone anyone secretly recording another person without permission, the revelations on the recording is shedding light on how lawmakers connive under darkness to deceive their constituents and the people of Liberia. THIS WAS CLEARLY evident Thursday when the Senators, Liberians have now labeled, The Cold Water Bunch, took a 360-Turn in confirming Angelique Weeks, the embattled head of the Liberia Airport Authority (LTA), less than seven days after the same body rejected Weeks. IT DID NOT occur to the senators, the magnitude of what is at stake here. That the head of a government entity surviving on tax payers money could take it upon itself and commit to the Republic, a lease agreement in the tone of almost two million dollars in the absence of oversight, no accountability, no adherence to the Public Procurement Concessions Commission Act and no transparency whatsoever. THAT A GOVERNMENT entity would take it upon itself to publicly declare that the PPCC, which was sanctioned by the international community in the aftermath of the civil war, to provide oversight responsibility to regulate and monitor all forms of public procurement and concession practices in Liberia is not relevant in making such decision that will see the payment of huge sum of money from state resources. AT ISSUE is a lease agreement signed with a Chinese Landlord for which the LTA had committed the government of Liberia to pay US$1.1 million over a three-year period. In the lease agreement, the LTA agreed to pay US$385,000.00 (Three Hundred Eighty Five Thousand United States Dollars) per year, with a three-year upfront payment to a Chinese Landlord totaling US$1,155,000.00 (ONE MILLION, ONE HUNDRED FIFTY FIVE THOUSAND UNITED STATES DOLLARS). In fact, further investigation

If Liberians do not wise up soon enough to the trickery of those they elected to serve their interests and the treachery of those appointed by the powers of the day, Africas oldest republic may never wise up soon enough for its own good and could soon plunge back into war and resurrect a painful chapter in its ugly history of war, chaos and confusion.
by FrontPageAfrica uncovered that the LTA entered into a separate contract to cover cosmetics and maintenance of the building for the duration of the contract. ALL THIS AGAINST the advice of both the PPCC and the Ministry of Justice which raised concerns about the deal and even recommended that that LTA explores several options including the possibility of purchasing a piece of land to construct its own building from scratch or refurbish an existing government property. THE LTA IGNORED and moved into the building even though the president had ordered the companys account frozen. MORE IMPORTANTLY, Weeks and her communications consultant Jarsea Burphy publicly stated that there was nothing wrong with what they did in agreeing to spend US$1.1 million of government and taxpayers money on a sub lease of an office space from a Chinese Company. SADLY, THOSE elected to serve the people are only adding insults to injury. SENATOR JOHN BALLOUT (Unity Party, Maryland County) when contacted for inquiry over what lawmakers were thinking in taking a 360-turn to switch their vote from reject to confirm, said they did not have sufficient proof. Ballout went on to even question, Why Not, insinuating that he saw nothing wrong with the 360-turn. IN KEEPING WITH Rule 34 Section 2 of the Senate Standing Rules, a motion for reconsideration is a privileged motion requiring two -thirds vote of the senators present, meaning 360-Turn confirmation of Weeks met the approval of two- thirds of the senators. THE RULE FURTHER states that if the senate refuses to reconsider the question, or if upon reconsideration the senate affirms its first decision, no further motion to reconsider shall be in order, this the senators did not want to have at hand and hastily confirmed Weeks, further empowering her

to continue her tenure at the LTA in the wake of the ongoing lease crisis. WHAT CHANGED OVERNIGHT? Did lawmakers ask the right questions or any questions at all? Did they see anything beyond the naked eye that swayed their votes from the first time? Did lawmakers even take the time to find out which family owns the property the building sits on? HERE ARE THE FACTS: On Nov. 15, 2013, the LTA Wrote the PPCC requesting intent to award, On Nov. 20, the LTA Request was Received by PPCC; two days later on Nov. 22, the PPCC Responded to the LTA asking for more information and suggesting that the LTA considers other options including the renovation of an old government building or securing a land to build its own office from scratch. The LTA was also informed in the same communication that it had not submitted its procurement plan for 2012/13 and 2013/2014 and the need to bring their entity in compliance with the law, a clear violation of Section 40(3) of the PPCC Act. On Nov. 28, eight days later, the LTA received and signed for the PPCC response. The response was received by a staffer named Frannie Powell. CONTRARY TO WHAT WEEKS told Truth FM last Wednesday, Section 31 of the PPCC Act allows up to fourteen days for the commission to act on a request to award a contract. The Commission clearly responded in eight days which debunks the LTAs claim that the commission failed to respond to the LTA within the fourteen days required by law. THE ACT STATES: Except in the case of emergency and with the prior approval of the Commission, the Procurement Committee shall deliver to the Commission a notice of intent to award a contract exceeding the Thresholds as establish by Regulations promulgated by the Commission. No Procuring Entity shall enter into a procurement contract above the Thresholds establish by Regulations promulgated by the Commission unless a minimum of fourteen (14) days have lapsed since the notification of intent to award a contract was delivered to the Commission. The Commission shall cause a notice of intent to award a contract whose contract price exceeds the Thresholds in the Regulation to be published within two (2) business days of receipt of such notice. A Procuring Entity may award a contract whose contract price is less than the Thresholds in the Regulation without notice to the Commission and passage of a minimum of fourteen (14) days as provided in this subsection (1). (2) If the Commission takes no action within fourteen (14) days after it receives a notification of intent to enter into a contract for contracts in excess of the Thresholds establish by Regulations promulgated by the Commission, the Procuring Entity may proceed with the award of the contract and the finalization of the procurement. If the Commission objects to the proposed award within

Friday, February 21, 2014

Frontpage

Page 3

said fourteen (14) day period, it shall return the notice to the Procuring Entity with the reasons for rejection. No award may be made until the Procuring Entity takes steps to bring the proposed procurement into compliance with this Act. SECTION 40(3) requires that every procuring entity must submit a procurement plan for approval. How do you bid when your procurement plan was not submitted. Law was violated before they even begun. They should not have done anything without submitting their procurement plan for approval. WERE LAWMAKERS unaware that the LTA had not as of last Fiscal Year 2012/2013 and Fiscal Year 2013/2014, submitted its procurement plan for approval in keeping with Section 40 of the PPCA. The PPCA clearly states that prior to approval of procurement plans must be obtained from the PPCC before any contracts can be awarded for Fiscal Year 2013/2014. The LTAs defiance has been deemed a gross contravention of the PPCA as procurement planning is the beginning from which transparency and accountability of government funds can be ascertained. MORE TROUBLING, is the fact that these very lawmakers turned down a request from Senator Frederick Cherue (Unity Party, River Gee) who was looking to put forward a motion to Plenary that Weeks nomination be placed on hold and the nominations of Yuan and Benson approved. The proposal was rejected by the rest of the senators who insisted that Weeks be rejected, a Senator who preferred anonymity because the session was not open to the public told FPA last week. SENATOR CHERUE reportedly bowed to pressure and withdrew his motion. Senator Armah Jallah(Gbarpolu County, National Party of Liberia, NPFL,) made motion for both Yuan and Benson to be confirmed and Weeks to be rejected. IN THE END, Nine Senators voted in favor of rejection of Weeks and for Yuan and Benson, one Senator voted against rejection and one abstained. Two sitting members on the committee on Post and Telecommunications did not vote. IT IS SAD THAT more than three decades after a military takeover ended decades of Americo-Liberian rule with the execution of thirteen officials of the Tolbert government, elected and appointed officials continue to take Liberians for a ride and for fools with one bad decision after the next and nothing to show. TODAY, Liberians are still struggling to make ends meet while those they elected to serve lavish themselves in wealth. THE ELECTED OFFICIALS are backing the plunder of state by supporting individuals like Weeks who amid poverty and striking health workers in demand of salaries and incentives is willing to pay such huge sum of money to

lease a private building. HEALTH WORKERS ARE fighting in vain for a simple US$20 increment while Weeks and a few employees at the LTA want to leave a US$385,000 per annum building with the backing of the senators who were elected by their people to protect their interest. THE SAME SENATE performed dismally during the confirmation of Robert Kilby who was given the mammoth task of replacing John Morlu as Auditor General of Liberia. EVEN WITH KILBY who was tipped to take over an integrity institution lying on his credentials, the senate after rejecting Kilby for the first time, like they did in the case of Weeks, changed their decision overnight and confirmed Kilby in the first 4 G passage of the post-war legislature.

LIBERIAS MOST STRATEGIC and most relied upon international partner, the United States of America made perhaps its most direct but aptly-timed observation on Thursday through its ambassador, Deborah Malac, termed corruption as a serious problem that needs to be addressed so as to ease the difficulties Liberians are faced with in affording ends meal. Said Malack: Corruption remains a serious problem in Liberia. It undermines transparency, accountability, and peoples confidence in government
KILBY DID NOT only destroy the reputation of the GAC both locally and internationally but extended his incompetence to signing personal contracts with Government agencies including the General Services Agency in violation of the same PPCC law which Weeks has also violated. THE SENATE TRUSTED Auditor General was disgracefully dismissed and the rest is history but it seems the senators have not learnt from their mistakes to right the wrongs in the interest of their people. NOT LOST in the Kilby debacle was the fact that several

Senators who were pushing for Kilby to keep his job, had relatives employed by the GAC, clear case of conflict of interest. THIS IS A TRAVESTY OF JUSTICE. IF LIBERIANS do not wise up soon enough to the trickery of those they elected to serve and the sneakiness of those appointed by the powers of the day, Liberia may soon plunge back into war and resurrect a painful chapter in its ugly history of war, chaos and confusion. LIBERIAS MOST STRATEGIC and most relied upon international partner, the United States of America made perhaps its most direct but aptly-timed observation on Thursday through its ambassador, Deborah Malac, termed corruption as a serious problem that needs to be addressed so as to ease the difficulties Liberians are faced with in affording ends meal. Said Malack: Corruption remains a serious problem in Liberia. It undermines transparency, accountability, and peoples confidence in government institutions. MALAC CONTINUED: It [corruption] also adds unnecessary costs to products and services that are already difficult for many Liberians to afford. President Sirleaf, in recent statement declared corruption to be public enemy number one. WHERE WE disagree with the Ambassador is when she says that the U.S. is working with the Liberian government and other international partners to Liberia in addressing the problem of corruption. WHAT THE US government has failed to do is to clearly state its position on how the Government of Liberia is engraining in the fight against corruption, sugar coating and using diplomatic languages in the fight against corruption when the Liberian people are suffering from the aftermath of corruption is not diplomacy. THE US GOVERNMENT must plan and organize an anticorruption workshop for dummies to teach our Senators the essence of leadership and how important it is to walk a fine line when representing the people. ALL THIS coming in the wake of an admission by the former head of the National Oil Company of Liberia that NOCAL made the right decision to bribe the legislature in pursuit of having a legislation passed. WHAT KIND OF nation are we living in? What kind of people would do this to their own people? Break the law in clear day light as if it was the norm? IF LIBERIANS do not wise up soon enough to the trickery of those they elected to serve their interests and the treachery of those appointed by the powers of the day, Africas oldest republic may never wise up soon enough for its own good and could soon plunge back into war and resurrect a painful chapter in its ugly history of war, chaos and confusion.

FrontPage
Commentary

Page 4 | Frontpage

Friday, February 21, 2014

COMMENTARY

LIBERIA NEEDS POLITICAL DECENCY . . . FPA: SOME COMMENTS Bai M. Gbala, Sr., bai_gbala@yahoo.com, Contributing Writer
without any substantive development agenda: they are, somehow, direct and indirect beneficiaries of the Sirleafs administration through various means . . . including seeking Sirleafs blessing for their own regional and international consideration. Indeed, some of our veteran politicians of the 1970s progressives are here, today, in Monrovia, and occupy high-profiled, leadership posts in our government, but mute, while the nation is slowly, but surely drowning in a myriad of solvable/resolvable, but moral, socioeconomic and political decadence. As part of the problem, they (veteran politicians) have adopted the attitude of see nothing, do nothing; ignore the deplorable, slowly but surely deteriorating, socio-economic and political condition of the nation and people; pay no attention to the numerous, reasonable suggestions/recommendations, inviting attention to positive, policy action; regard it as the usual noise in the proverbial fish market that will be drowned out by its own weight. Dont mind the perennial critics, let them talk, talk and talk.

n a Commentary (FrontPageAfricaonline, February 12, 2014), an un-identified reader writes that President Sirleaf is caught between competing interests of her clan (biological, step and adopted children) and the relatives of the True Whig Partys Old Order (of which she was or is a member) on the one hand and the interests of all other Liberians on the other. Balancing these various interests, especially so, when the interests of the Presidents clan and the descendants of the True Whig Partys old order are more individualistic and wrong, has been something that the President has been unable to deal with in ways that benefit Liberia as country.

The reader/writer argues that many of Liberias veteran politicians . . . have been mute and un-willing to guide and assist the President in overcoming these challenges. These veteran politicians are not only capriciously silent to the danger eclipsing Liberias future as a result of the massive theft of the countrys wealth and natural resources without any substantive development agenda: they are, somehow, direct and indirect beneficiaries of the Sirleafs administration through various means . . . including seeking Sirleafs blessing for their own regional To them (veteran politicians), the Liberian, national leadership is, again, and international consideration. the proverbial, fully dressed, worshipped and admired emperor in his imperial robes; although these veteran politicians recognize and now Indeed, managing affairs of state having citizens of different backgrounds that the emperor is, in fact, stark naked, they lack the guts to admit this and competing interests, with ability to balance these, various competing fact to themselves and to others. interests is, in fact, an awesome, difficult task, irrespective of a leaders training and experience. It is for this reason that kings, presidents, Our country is caught in the clutches of many problems that can be prime ministers and corporate leaders hire and surround themselves resolved if we summon the political will, commitment, loyalty and not only with highly-trained and experienced professionals in various patriotism. Let us begin with all-weather roads/highways; for, we disciplines, but also, professionals having patriotism and impeccable cannot build hospitals, clinics and schools in any place unless we can integrity. go to and get there, especially, rural Liberia, where an overwhelming majority of the nations population lives and where the nations known, In the case of our country, Liberia, there were and are several veteran natural resources are located. Then, there is the rapid, population growth politicians, the progressives of the 1970s and others, some members and urbanization (particularly, rural to urban) without production, but of the mother/father of them all, the ACDL activists, advocates, conspicuous consumption without production. Monrovia, our nations dedicated Liberians who wore hand-made, car-tire sandals, condemned, capital, is breaking at its seams due to over-population and congestion. with passion and diligence, the-then prevailing socio-political order, in We need not to go on and on with the devastating impact, because our searching/seeking comprehensive transformation of Liberias social, veteran politicians know all of these problems, but see nothing and cultural, economic and political enterprise. These veteran politicians do nothing. include the nations leading thinkers; social, economic and political philosophers, the critical force, the fulcrum and leaders of Liberias In the light of all of this, the foregoing conditions, the prevailing state of modern, political thought. Yes, some of these veteran politicians, it has the nations economy and its people, it is reasonable to conclude that these been said and reported, were the professors, teachers and intellectuals veteran politicians advisors, state planners, implementers, movers who taught, inspired and provided the intellectual argument for the & shakers and the highly-connected confidants are not only mute, politically-inexperienced, young, but military-trained men of arms who but also that they are living on hefty salary/wage allowances, special undertook the successful, 1980 coup detat. allowances, general allowances, electric generators with all services, foreign and domestic travels. All of this is the efficient/effective work of The Critical Question Corruption, Inc., the Liberian Mafia, developed and led by the Veteran Politicians surrogates - a corps of highly-educated/experienced and The rhetorical question posed by the Reader-Writer, Where are they connected MBAs, LLBs, PhDs, etc., that took control of the corridors (veteran politicians) now? and answered, Many of Liberias veteran of state power and, thus, become the most powerful decision-maker politicians . . . have been mute and un-willing to guide and assist the within the public policy-making matrix. This corps of highly-educated, President in overcoming these challenges. These veteran politicians are sophisticated power brokers is, indeed, recipient/beneficiary of the not only capriciously silent to the danger eclipsing Liberias future as a lawful, salary/wage allowance scheme that finances Corruption, Inc.!! result of the massive theft of the countrys wealth and natural resources

FrontPage
Friday, February 21, 2014

FLY IS FLYING THE WRONG WAY, AS COMMENTS FROM THE INTEREST OF LIBERIAN YOUTH IS ON SALE....

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT OUR STORIES ON THE WORLDWIDE WEB

Send your letters and comments to: editor@frontpageafricaonline.com

YOU WRITE; WE PUBLISH; THEY READ!
numerous strategies I intend to employas moral suasive instrument to awaken supporters. Barrolles symbolism: The Bassalonians TheBassa Tribe is undoubtedly the first frontline of Barrolles support base. The Club,which is Liberias second oldest (founded in the 1950s), symbolizes a huge traditional heritage of footballing society across the country, but this heritage is rapidly crumbling.The Club is an offspring of rich tradition known as Gbehzon of the Bassa Kingdom. The formation is traced to former Bassa Governor Willie Cooper in the 1950s, and later named in honor of renowned Bassalonian, Jimmy Barrolle. Thus, the nickname of Mighty Barrolle, Gbehzon Boys is the indigenous name of Buchanan City (see: Emergence of Barrolle, http://www.uniboa.org/barrollehistory.html). Overtime, the candidness, love and socialreception of the Gbehzon people captured the hearts and admirations of other traditionalists whodirected support to the Club. Eventually, the Club gained resounding prominence that is now fading beyond control. Barrollesextinctionc ouldreflect weakness in managerial ability, especially the indigenous to sustain heritage that fosterstraditional unification and togetherness. So, where are the wrongs? Glimpse ofthe problems Generally, the perennial absence of forward looking strategies threatens the Clubs sustainability. After more than 50 years of existence, the Club cannot boost of any viable or income generating asset to raise fund for its operationalization, to the best of my knowledge.Memberships grew monumentally, but the club did not allow strong inclusivity of members to have stake in its running such as voting and due payments.Ithas always been built around few individuals, especially officials of government for support, instead of strengthening the economic base. Little effort wasemployed to capture the private sector in terms of social contribution and commercialventure that could further add value. Most recently, Barrolle was linked to Celcom in terms of commercial, but the mechanism was not facilitated by other programs such as raising funds from members through mobile transfer. Many may concur with fans whoattribute the team ill-performance on the lackadaisical attitude of the leadership. It is unappealing to understand that players and technical staff do not receive salaries on regular basis. The administrative running of the Club has often shifted from fundamental managerial principles and strategies such as electing officials, publishing budget as well as financial statementsin newspapers and the bank account of the Club to its members. All of these are potentially eroding the confidence to increase support and attract finance. Experience from other clubs Most football clubs, which are centered on tradition/kingdom, are usually strong financially, politically and socially. GorMahia of Kenya is built around the Luo Tribe (2nd largest tribe) and Former prime Minister Railaleads the support; TP Mazembe is located in Katanga region of Lubumbashi, where the Governor offers strong leadership to the Club and its members contribute one (1) USD/ months and; the Luhya tribe in Kenya owns AFC Leopards, which is a forceful competitor to the GorMahia Club; Asante Kototo is the pride of the Asante people and the Asante Kingdom in Ghana; Al Ahly represents the Egyptian National, among others. The clubs of the foregoing people/regionsare never allowed to tumble, because they represent the pride and integrity of their people. We should learn from the situation at these to collate efforts that would restore our pride. So, the traditionalists should rethink with the ultimate view that Mighty Barrolleis the genuine image of the indigenous, especially theBassapeople. Strategies to redeem the Club First, the Bassalonians using any mechanism should play a serious leadership role to rescue the image of Barrolle. Sound financial governance is necessary by publishing the planned budget of the Club in the print and electronic media to restore confidence and attract financial support. Accountability and transparency should be driven by frequently disseminating the club budget and financial statements through leaflets (photocopies), electronic and print media to members. A crusade of each-one brings-one should be launched to getat least three hundredpassionatesupporters that would commit at least 10 USD/per month over 5 months to sign at least 6 big players locally/ internationally to regain promotion. Restructure the memberships into Gold, Silver and Bronze based on the agreed contribution for each category. Ensure that the superintendent of Grand Bassa and a member ofthe Bassa Legislative Caucus are automatic board members to help raise revenue in the county for the Club.Link the memberships to the mobile companies as an alternative to easily generate membership fees of at least 25 cent per month.Limit the presidencyto 1.6 year per term because the job goes without pay and ensure voting of the officials should be based on quota.In the medium to long term, prioritize ownership of the club playing pitch and other fixed assets like land, building, etc in economically viable areas to sustain the Club. To do this, we need a strong secretariat of 5-10 permanent employees, whose function should entail pervasive mobilization, database of members and publicity starting from Monrovia and Buchanan before extending to other parts. Conclusion Administrative lapses emanating from lack of broad vision and alleged transparency continued to exacerbateBarrolles recession. The absence of swift move could imminently result to loss of memorable heritage that is costly. Immediate action to redeem the Clubs image should focus on restoration of memberships confidence, strengthening mobilization, encouraging broad based inclusivity in decision making and instituting transparency and accountability. Any lukewarm endeavor to these approaches could mean a disdainful good-bye to Mighty Barrolle forever and ever.

The Reader's Page

Frontpage

Page 5

FPA ONLINE

The Editor,

GOOD DECISION TO BRIBE? EX-NOCAL BOARD CHAIR ON ALLEGATIONS

SOLOMON VINCENT (signed in using Hotmail) So will the Ministry of Justice indict mr. Urey and the Legislators who took the bribes and vigorously prosecute them for theft of public property, conspiracy and bribery? PHIL GEORGE UMASS LOWELL What kind of rotten government do we have there in Monrovia, folks? How can a government under Ellen's leadership be so corrupt and getting worse by the day! And not a single soul is prosecuted for stealing public funds. Wow! God bless Liberia. While government officials are stealing millions of dollars, we have schools without text books, chairs, and trained teachers. Soldiers and Police are paid peanuts while a small group of corrupt officials are living large. This is a thiefdom, not a real government. This is a shame on Sirleaf because she condones corruption in her government.

DISCRIMINATORY: GONGLOE SLAMS LAWMAKERS ON CBL AMENDMENT

SELTUE R KARWEAYE SR. UPPSALA UNIVERSITY Sound argument. Hope those in the "eat i eat will listen" house will listen JOSEPH WONDERFULPRINCE CONTO WORKS AT THE U.S. ARMY I think these law makers made a big mistake here and it's going to back fire on them in the near future! No one want to see their political leaders working against what may appeared to be in their interest and that's these law makers did! Anyone contesting against those who supported the passage of this bill can use it against them as saying that they did all they could to stop someone who was seeking the interest of the people. The worse part of it all, the law doesn't apply to all other government institutions that handle the resources of the Country..ie, LEC, LPRC, NACOL, MARITME, even the very law makers themselves, including all the ministers in government! NYEMADE WANI AVERAGE JOE AT POWER TO THE PEOPLE Useless senators afraid of their own shadow know they cannot hold a candle to Jones. We should totally scrap this senate. what Liberia needs now is a strong leader like Jones. At least he did not waste our money like these do nothings women chasing greasy senators. BENJAMEN QUAYE UNIVERSITY OF LIBERIA Nyemade, let's debate the constitutionality of the law not the strength of Mr. Jones. Jones is using the country's money for something that is out of his power as CBL governor. In no serious country will you find a Central bank doing the work of a commercial bank. The President should dismiss him, or worse, the Justice Ministry should hold him for misappropriation of government funds. Are you aware that $1.2 million of depositors (commercial bank reserves) money was given to Dee Maxwell Kumayan (sp) under the guise of LBA support to open political operations in the US? Now, while the action by the legislature was wrong-headed, let's face the fact that Jones is a disgrace to the professional practices of central banking - which is to regulate commercial banks, control inflation, and make monetary policies. TERENCE DIXON PROGRAMME ASSISTANT AT UNITED NATIONS WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME The Cllr. is asking, and answering...yes ! That's exactly what the lawmakers will do to those who will make any attempt to used public funds to position themselves politically ! Remember, that this present constitution is under reviewed, looking at some of these very issues it has been violated on uncounted number of occasions, and noting done to those violators. Therefore, the lawmakers will no longer make the laws for all, but will continued to breach the constitution again and again...going after public officials whom they suspect or suspected to be using their offices for political gains...amending the acts that created their institutions, and sanctioning them like they did the CBL Governors !!! Also we the citizens, if for any reasons we don't like the laws that are made, and deem it discriminatory, we have the right under the reviewed constitution to take our case to court. Further, if the governor, or board of governors feels that their rights are being denied by the lawmakers...take the case to court !!! AUGUSTINE TAMBA UNIVERSITY OF LIBERIA, NOBLE CLASS It is quite difficult to fathom why the level playing field bill proposed by rep Binney of Maryland is stilled languishing at the capitol yet they had the audacity to pass a discriminatory bill geared toward barring Dr. Jones from vying for the presidency. i think they are even adding to his popularity; something i know they will not want to do consciously. crazy law makers, they all need to be voted out of that place to bring some sanity to our legislature.

FLY is the Federation of Liberian Youth that was enacted by the National Legislature in the 1970s as a pluralistic broad base institution to regulate and serve as the umbrella body for all youth and student organizations in Liberia. Fly was also empowered by the Liberian Legislature as a non-profitable entity to carry out re-burst advocacy in the interest of the nation's majority population( THE YOUTH), a legacy that the institution has reasonably lived up to until the coming of this current leadership in 2012. This current leadership under one Lebanese-Liberian called Mohammed Nisser,has not just proven to be the worst ever in the history of FLY but has gone about engineering draconian policy aimed at disintegrating FLY as he takes a shameful exit marked by corruption and failure. FLY as an institution under the leadership of Augustus Zayzay,now Assistant Minister for Debt Management and Expenditure at the Ministry of Finance and Prince Korvah Assistant Minister at the Ministry of Labor received 75,000 USD individually as subsidy from the government of Liberia. As limited as those funds were given FLY's scope of operations, the past leadership maintained FLY's prestige and image. Under their respective leaderships, Fly had its own rented and furnished offices on Camp Johnson in Monrovia. But ironically, this leadership that receives 150,000 USD (100% difference) as subsidy, took FLY from its own rented offices to a government office In Paynesville thereby compromising its autonomy as the president maximizes profit for himself. An institution that should be advocating against government and other institutions now resides in a government building, which indicates that FLY is tire of implementing its mandate. Now to make condition worst, the constitution of FLY says, its offices must be in the city of Monrovia. Without any amendment, FLY offices are in Paynesville city outside Monrovia. Since FLY is a non-profitable institution, It has being given duty free by the government of Liberia to strengthen its independence. But counter-positively it is sadden to note that since Nisser came to power, the duty free of FLY has being used to import cars from Japan and containers of American Mattresses for his personal used cars and mattress businesses. In an attempt to market his incompetence and weakness, he appointed some members to the board of FLY without the consent of the entire FLY's executives, an action that contradicts the institution's organic law. However, given these numerous missteps and violations by the president, the South-eastern Youth Conference and the coalition of member organizations of FLY which I am a part of, petitioned an enterprising Young man T. Maxwell Grigspy whose agenda and work in the youth and Student communities have displayed a workable solution aimed at redeeming the damaged image that Nisser has successfully created for FLY. The above mentioned institutions constitute 75% of the total membership of FLY. Now knowing the robust mood that this young man is in to transform our institution and restore its lost image, the leadership has gone into a connivance with the election commission to disqualify him for no constitutional reason. Indeed what is expected of an election commission whose chairman Mr.Kabba, a stooge of Nisser that was impeached as speaker of the Mano-River Youth Parliament last year by a 90% vote of no confidence because of his proven gross incompetence. I know that decision was engineered by the backstagemalfunctioning Mohammed Nisser,the Lebanese imported Merchant who bought his way through as President of FLY. As an executive member of the 206 members organization of the Federation of Liberian Youth, I am quite aware of his maneuvering and bad politics, as such I call on he Mohammed Nisser to instruct his election commission to reverse that weak decision that disqualify 5 of the 21 applicants including Teklo Maxwell Grigsby II for the up-coming elections. Failure to admit these people will lead to a legal action by my instructions. RANDALL MASSAQUOI DOBAYOU II.

The Editor, The loss of another vital social heritage is hunting Liberias renowned football club, Mighty Barrolle. The Club is gradually transitioning from Mighty toIndolent Barrolle, and the situation remains agonizingfor most of those who adore the teamas their domestic happiness and ways of having fun. The demise of Mighty Barrolle could have immense implications such as cultural, unification, youth development and social capital.Thus, the motivation of this piece is to outline few of the problems and offer vital solutions based on Africas experience to awaken the social conscience of supporters before the current situationgoes beyond our limit. As a usual tradition, football affiliation was either skewed towards Mighty Barrolle or Invincible Eleven popularly known as IE. The triumph of ones Club in any given march provided optimum utility of togetherness, jokes and pleasures. It tells you how downhearted the Mighty Barrollesfanatics are today due to the dismal handling oftheirClub. This commentary is the first of my

REDEEM MIGHTY BARROLLE OR LOSE A PRIME UNIFICATION HERITAGE: THE WAYS OUT!

The comments expressed here are those of our online readers and bloggers and do no represent the views of FrontPageAfrica

DISCLAIMER

Rodney D. Sieh, Managing Editor, 0886-738-666; 077-936-138, editor@FrontPageAfricaonline.com; rodney.sieh@FrontPageAfricaonline.com Wade C. L. Williams, News Desk Chief, wade. williams@frontpageafricaonline.com; 0880664793 Francis F.B. Mulbah, Layout Editor; 0886639382 REPORTERS Sports Editor, Danesius Marteh, danesius.marteh@ frontpageafricaonline.com, 0886236528 Henry Karmo, henry.karmo@frontpageafricaonline. com Al-varney Rogers al.rogers@frontpageafricaonline. com, 0886-304498

EDITORIAL TEAM

Sports Reporter, A. Macaulay Sombai,macaulay.sombai@ FrontpageAfricaonline.com, 077217428 COUNTY NEWS TEAM Grand Bassa, Alpha Daffae Senkpeni, 0777432042 Bong County, Selma Lomax, selma.lomax@ frontpageafricaonline.com, 0886-484666 Sinoe County, Leroy N.S Kanmoh, leroy.kanmoh@ frontpageafricaonline.com 0886257528 BUSINESS/ADVERTISING Kadi Coleman Porte, 0886-304-178/ 0777832753, advertise@ frontpageafricaonline.com

M
Monrovia -

Page 6 | Frontpage

onths after the dismissal of the Managing Director of the Forestry development Authority for granting Public Use Permit (PUP) to several logging companies under dubious circumstances, an indictment has been unsealed against Mr. Moses Wogbeh and others for alleged commission of the crimes of Economic Sabotage and Criminal Conspiracy. The indictment comes more than a year after the watchdog group, Global Witness and the environmental watchdogs, Save My Future Foundation and the Sustainable Development Institute unveiled a report which noted that one quarter of Liberian land had been sold to logging companies in just two years, threatening the country with widespread devastation. The report claimed PUPs had been given to private companies without consulting local groups and in some cases using forged documents. "People being defrauded out of their forest rights at this speed and scale is worrying in itself. When you look at who the forests have been given to, it gets even more alarming," said Jonathan Gant, of Global Witness at the time of the reports release. The contracts allow landowners to enter into agreements directly with logging companies, bypassing strict laws on sustainability and size limits. The groups behind the report also claim that land owned on behalf of communities has been given away with little or no consent, prompting suggestions that land deeds had been forged. The report prompted President Ellen JohnsonSirleaf to suspend the Wogbeh and order an investigation. The president also commissioned an independent body to conduct a comprehensive review of the policies and procedures regarding the issuance of PUPs. An audit by the General Auditing Commission (GAC) for the period January 2006 to April 2012 recommended among others, the dismissal Wogbeh and a reprimand the Chairman of the Board of Directors Madam Florence Chenoweth who is also the Minister of Agriculture. The audit was conducted under the Auditor General's statutory mandate as provided for under Section 53.3 of the Executive Law of 1972. The latest indictment adds to several indictments against individuals by the Government of Liberia, some of which date back as

That because of Defendants blatant abuse of their offices and violation of the several provisions of the National Forestry Reform Law (NFRL)(2006) and the Community Rights Law(2009), the Private Prosecutrix(FDA),yea the Government of Liberia has suffered a loss in revenue of over US$6,000,000 (United States Dollars Six Million ) which would have been generated from land rental

PUP INDICTMENTS

WOGBEH, OTHERS HELD FOR ECONOMIC SABOTAGE AND CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY

PAGE RONT

CORRUPTION WATCH

Friday, February 21, 2014

far two years ago currently under prosecution. In the indictment issued through the sixth Judicial Circuit, Criminal Assizes, the Government of Liberia states that the former Managing Director along with seven others did knowingly conspire to defraud the Government of Liberia of revenue, by facilitating the wrongful and illegal issuance of up to Sixty (61) Private Use Permits (PUPs) that authorized commercial loggings operations on nearly 2.5 million hectares of land area of Liberia. The overall loss incurred by the Government of Liberia amounted to over US$ 6 million, the indictment states. That because of Defendants blatant abuse of their offices and violation of the several provisions of the National Forestry Reform Law (NFRL)(2006) and the Community Rights Law(2009), the Private Prosecutrix(FDA),yea the Government of Liberia has suffered a loss in revenue of over US$6,000,000 (United States Dollars Six Million ) which would have been generated from land rental had the Permits been issued under the Community Rights Law, and amounts generated by holders of PUPs under fraudulent and fictitious deeds, thereby defrauding the Private Prosecutrix and the Government and people of Liberia, and knowingly creating the opportunity for PUP holders to defraud the Government and people of Liberia. The Grand Jurors for the County of Montserrado, Republic of Liberia in the indictment accused Moses

Wogbeh and others of knowingly and recklessly conspiring and facilitating the issuance of 56 permit use Permits to several logging companies. That between April 2010 up to and including December 2011, the Co-Defendants Moses Wogbeh, Benedict Sagbeh, John Kantor, Torwan Yantay and Augustine B.M. Johnson knowingly, recklessly, and purposefully conspired and facilitated the issuance of, and caused to be issued, up to Fifty Six (56) Private Use Permits (Licenses),over community deeded forest lands which are indicative of Community Forest Land that by definition are governed and regulated by the Community Rights Law(2009), knowing fully well that Private Use Permits (PUPs) should only be issued to private land owners or their privies, in contravention of Sections 5.6(d) and 18.9(b) of the National Forestry Reform Law (2006), and 2.3(b)of the Community Rights Law(2009),thereby depriving communities of Revenue and the Government of Liberia of land rental which it would have been entitled to had the license been issued under the Community Rights Law(2009), the indictment issued during the February AD 2014 term of court stated. The indictment further stated that in contravention of Section 5.6(d)(v) of the National Forestry Reform Law(NFRL)(2006)which requires that a Private Use Permit (PUP) is issued only if the applicant has complied with all legal requirements

for Environmental Impact Assessments, CoDefendants Moses Wogbeh, John Kantor, Torwan Yantay, Benedict Sagbeh, clothed with the authority of ensuring that all Forest Resources and Private Use Permits are issued consistent with law, and with the authority to issue Private Use Permits, knowingly, recklessly, and purposefully recommended the issuance of, facilitated the issuance of, and did issue or caused to be issued,61 Private Use Permits(PUPs) without the applicants first satisfying the legal requirements for Environmental Impact Assessment in contravention of Sections 5.6(d)(v) and 18.9(b)of the National Forestry Reform Law(2006) . The co- defendants are also accused of ignoring a moratorium by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf placed on the importation of logs out of Liberia. In separate counts of the indictment against the individuals, co-defendants Moses Wogbeh and Jangar Kamara are accuse of disregarding the President Moratorium placed on all PUP activities by instructing the shipment of logs that had been harvested under the illegal PUP from the Port of Buchanan in August 2012. Wogbeh, former Managing of the FDA was particularly indictment according to Count One, 1.10 of the indictment for issuing a total of 61 PUPS in violation of Sections 5.6 and 18.9 (b) (c) of the National Forestry reform Law (2006). Stated the indictment That between April 10, 2010, to December 2011, CoDefendant, Moses Wogbeh

as Managing Director of the Private Prosecutor knowingly, purposefully, and recklessly approved, issued and executed a total of 61 Private Use Permits(PUPs) in violation of Sections 5.6 and 18.9(b)(c) of the National Forestry Reform Law(2006), and Section 2.3(b) of the Community Rights Law(2009)with intent to defraud the Private Prosecutrix, the affected communities, and the Government and people of Liberia and also created an opportunity for the PUP holders to defraud the Government. Both co-defendants Augustine B. M. Johnson and Torwan Yanty were indicted for allegedly generating false and misleading verification reports which were used as a basis for the granting of PUP by the Forestry development Authority between the period April 2010 to December 2011. For co-defendant John Kantor the indictment stated that whilst serving as Technical manager at the FDA, he allegedly purposely, knowingly and recklessly submitted verification reports to the Managing Director and facilitated and caused the issues of PUPs, for areas larger than those contained in the deeds of the applicants, over areas where there were overlap areas and other areas that were designated as proposed protected areas in violation of section 18.9 (b) (c) the National Forestry Reform Law (2006) with intent to defraud and make an opportunity for the PUP holders to defraud the private prosecutor, the affected communities and

the Government and people of Liberia. CoDefendant Cllr. Benedict Sagbeh as InHouse legal Counsel of Private Prosecutrix, as per the indictment knowingly and purposely failed and omitted to render adequate legal advice to the Private Prosecutrix (FDA) in respect laws governing the issuance of Private Use Permits(PUPs), but rather conspired and colluded with other Co-Defendants to cause the issuance of the Private Use Permits (PUPs) in violation of Sections 5.6 and 18.9(b)(c) of the National Forestry Reform Law(2006) with intent to defraud and make an opportunity for the PUP holders to defraud the Private Prosecutor, the affected communities, and the Government and people of Liberia. Wogbeh was suspended after the release of a report from a special presidential committee setup by President Sirleaf to investigate the issuance of Private Use Permit to logging companies. The committee headed by James Dorbor Jallah as Chairman found that some of the PUPs issued by the FDA were not in line with existing laws and regulations. With the indictment of Wogbeh minus action against Agriculture Minister Chenoweth who was cited by the GAC leaves is likely to renew concerns about selective justice and some political observers fear could muddy efforts to indict Wogbeh and other accused officials.

Friday, February 21, 2014

Monrovia-

arely four months after her arrest by state security personnel at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) on November 30, 2013, the Grand Jury of Montserrado County sitting in its November 2013 term of court, has indicted defendant Shirat Nalwadda on charges of unlawful possession, trafficking and distribution of narcotic drug. The Grand Jury for Montserrado County upon oath do hereby find, more probably than not, that the defendant Shirat Nalwadda committed the crime, a felony of the first degree to wit, stated the grand jury indictment. Court record reveal that defendant Shirat a Ugandan, was arrested after state security personnel uncovered 1.2 kilogram of heroine conceived in a black suit case she was traveling with. The value of the drug has been placed at US$30,000.00 equivalent to L$ 24Million. During her arrest, the defendant is reported to have told the security personnel that she was traveling to Liberia for the first time to meet a boy friend only identified as Ekina. She said she did not know the guy, but was told by her girlfriend called Nalutarya Laila in Kampala, Uganda that Ekina would be at the airport to receive her upon arrival. She claimed that the drug was for Ekina but upon her arrival at the RIA and subsequent arrest she could neither give the contact address nor the telephone number of her so-called boyfriend who she claims owned the drug. Upon her arrest on November 30 defendant Nalwadda,

Woman Goes On Trial For Drug Trafficking

Kennedy L. Yangian kennedylyangian@frontpageafricaonline.com 077296781
was arraigned before the Monrovia City Court where she was admitted to bail but later re-arrested at the RIA and detained at the Monrovia Central Prison when she attempted fleeing the country. Defendant Nalwadda who is currently detained at the Monrovia Central Prison made a very brief appearance at the Criminal Court C where she is expected to stand trial. Her trial was suspended for a week when her lawyers from the Public Defense office appealed to the court for a week to study her case and presiding Judge Blamo Dixon granted the appeal. Defendant Shirat Nalwadda is the second foreign national to have been arrested by state security at the RIA in less than a month. On February 2, 2014 a Nigerian Emeka Ekechu carrying 26 tubes of cocaine weight 390 kg buried in his stomach, was arrested and is current detained at the Monrovia Central Prison awaiting prosecution for unlawful possession, trafficking and distribution of narcotic drug.

INDICTED
F
PAGE RONT

LAW&ORDER

Frontpage

Page 7

he Former Administrative Assistant to the office of Superintendent of Bomi County in 2006-2007 Mambu Momo has call on President Ellen JohnsonSirleaf to revisit her recent appointment at the Bomi Community College. I therefore appeal to the President of Liberia, Madam Ellen Johnson- Sirleaf to revisit her appointment for the Bomi Community College, if she so value the education of the young people of Bomi County. Cognizant of her constitutional right to appoint and dismiss, notwithstanding doing it in good faith will serve as a unifying force and also will yield a positive results for the nation, Momo said. Momo said, appointing the same members of the board that have not made any impact will not serve well for the Community College. Individuals who have been impediment to the progress of the college are the same group of people that are recycled on the College Board, Momo said. Since the inception of the Bomi Community College in 2005/2006 under Rev. Korto Brown Board Chairmanship along with some of

"PRESIDENT SIRLEAF MUST REVIST APPIONTMENT AT THE BOMI COMMUNITY COLLEGE"

the same board members, this college could not complete a semester not to talk about a graduation, Momo added. According to Momo, the issue of appointing a new board for the Bomi Community College is long overdue. Momo Furthered: Let it be known that the education sector most especially in Bomi County should not be taken as a culture club, where those hindering the learning progress of our young people continue to masquerade the corridor of leadership in our county. The Former Administrative Assistant said, the appointment of same members of the board is ingratitude to Dr. Samuel Monwell. Today this government is setting a bad precedent for Bomi County by rendering this son of Liberia, Dr. Samuel Monwell with ingratitude thereby honoring those that created these hollows with positions and appointing them to the new board. This will serve as a stigma of ingratitude for the people of Bomi County, if not corrected and will send a bad signal for Bomi County to the rest of the country, Momo added.

PAGE RONT

NEWS EXTRA

Defendant Shirat Nalwadda Leaving Court

Page 8 | Frontpage

Friday, February 21, 2014

REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP FOR EDUCATION BASIC EDUCATION PROJECT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) FOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP FOR EDUCATION BASIC EDUCATION PROJECT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) FOR PROCUREMENT ASSISTANT
REOI No: MOE/GPEP/PA/35/13 IDA GRANT ID: TF097456 3. Introduction The Government of Liberia has received a grant from the International Development Association (IDA) toward the cost of the Global Partnership for Education Basic Education Project and intends to apply part of the proceeds of this grant to payments for the services of a Procurement Assistant for the Global Partnership for Education Basic Education Project of the Ministry of Education (MOE). 4. Background The overall priority of the Government of Liberia (GOL) is to reduce poverty. During the consultations for the development of the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS), education was identified as one of the sectors requiring the highest priority. The Liberia Education Sector Plan (ESP) 2010-2020 is fully aligned with the PRS and served as the basis for the countrys application for a grant from the Global Partnership for Education (formerly Education For All-Fast Track Initiative) Catalytic Fund in 2010. The application was approved and the GPE Grant for Basic Education Project became effective in January 2011. The development objective for the GPE Grant for Basic Education Project is to improve management capacity and accountability at the central and school levels for school construction in rural areas, procurement and distribution of teaching and learning materials, and school based management. The project has one Component and four sub-components Sub-Component 1.1: Strengthened Institutional Management Capacity and Accountability Sub-Component 1.2: School Construction in Rural Areas Sub-Component 1.3: Procurement and Distribution of Teaching and Learning Materials Sub-Component 1.4: School Based Management through School Grants. As the level of project activities increases, the MOE has realized that there is the need to employ an additional hand to ensure that all outstanding procurement activities are carried out by the closing date of the project. 3. Objective(s) of the Assignment The main objective of the Procurement Assistants assignment is to assist the 2 Procurement Specialists of the GPE Project to carry out the daily procurement activities within the Procurement Team so as to ensure efficient, accountable and transparent procurement. 7. Scope of Services and Expected Deliverables The scope of work includes (but is not limited to): Ensure that the conditions of the GPE Grant Agreement are fully complied with at all stages for procurement of goods, works and services under the Project; Assist in procurement of goods, works and services. Prepare drafts of public notices, requests for quotation, bidding documents, contracts for review and approval by the Procurement Specialists. Participate in bid opening sessions, prepare and record draft minutes of the sessions. Assist in preparing draft reports for review by the Procurement Specialists. Regularly update and keep the record of all expressions of interest, bids and proposals and incoming procurement requests. Liaise with relevant user departments in all aspects of the procurement process. Assist the National Procurement Specialist to maintain proper filing system. Is responsible for liaising with the MOEs Procurement Unit on administrative issues relating to procurement. Assist in implementation and administration of procurement procedures and policies. Timeline The consultants services are required for 12 months, with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory performance. 8. The MOE now invites applications from eligible individuals to indicate their interest in providing the required services as described above and to provide information indicating that they are qualified to perform the services, including CVs, description of similar assignments, experience in similar conditions, etc. References will be required of short-listed candidates. 9. The shortlisting criteria will be based on the qualification and experience requirements outlined below.Educational and professional qualifications and experience will include: A High School Graduate. But a Bachelors degree in business administration or economics will be preferred. Minimum 2-3 years experience in procurement or contract management for projects implemented by government and other agencies. High levels of personal initiative, motivation, honesty and integrity, and be prepared to undertake on-the-job training. Exposure to or involvement with the procurement of goods, works and services in projects funded by international lending institutions would also be desirable. Knowledge of the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission Act of Liberia will be an asset. Excellent computer knowledge (MS Office and Internet). Strong interpersonal skills. Fluent in spoken and written English. 9. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to paragraph 1.9 of the World Bank's Guidelines: Selection and Employment of Consultants [under IBRD Loans and IDA Credits & Grants] by World Bank Borrowers January 2011 ("Consultant Guidelines"), setting forth the World Bank's policy on conflict of interest. 10. An Individual Consultant will be selected in accordance with the procedures for selecting Individual Consultants set out in the Consultant Guidelines. 9. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours from 0900 to 1700 hours local time. 11. Applications; clearly marked Procurement Assistant- GPEBEP, must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) by 5PM Local Time, on March 4, 2014. Only short listed candidates will be contacted. 12. The address referred to above is:

REOI No: MOE/GPEP/AA/38/14 IDA GRANT ID: TF097456 1. Introduction The Government of Liberia has received a grant from the International Development Association (IDA) toward the cost of the Global Partnership for Education Basic Education Project and intends to apply part of the proceeds of this grant to payments for the services of aAdministrative Assistant for the Global Partnership for Education Basic Education Project of the Ministry of Education (MOE). 2. Background The overall priority of the Government of Liberia (GOL) is to reduce poverty. During the consultations for the development of the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS), education was identified as one of the sectors requiring the highest priority. The Liberia Education Sector Plan (ESP) 2010-2020 is fully aligned with the PRS and served as the basis for the countrys application for a grant from the Global Partnership for Education (formerly Education For All-Fast Track Initiative) Catalytic Fund in 2010. The application was approved and the GPE Grant for Basic Education Project became effective in January 2011. The development objective for the GPE Grant for Basic Education Project is to improve management capacity and accountability at the central and school levels for school construction in rural areas, procurement and distribution of teaching and learning materials, and school based management. The project has one Component and four sub-components Sub-Component 1.1: Strengthened Institutional Management Capacity and Accountability Sub-Component 1.2: School Construction in Rural Areas Sub-Component 1.3: Procurement and Distribution of Teaching and Learning Materials Sub-Component 1.4: School Based Management through School Grants. 3. Objective(s) of the Assignment The objective of the assignment is to enhance the smooth project operations by contributing to effective administration of the day-to-day activities of the PST. The recruitment of an experienced middle-level Administrative Assistant will also contribute to increasing management capacity within the MOE. 4. Scope of Services and Expected Deliverables The scope of work includes (but is not limited to): A. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Office Management Oversee all aspects of general office coordination as it relates to the PST Secretariat. Maintain office calendar to coordinate workflow and meetings Maintain confidentiality in all aspects of client, staff and PST/Project related information Perform general clerical duties to include, but not limited to, bookkeeping, copying, faxing, mailing and filing. Procure stationery and supplies for the PST with responsibility for requisition, receipt and distribution of the same; Maintain an updated inventory of all office equipment, furnishings and other assets. File and retrieve Project related documents, records and reports; Manage petty cash purchases and receipts.

B. Communications and Meetings 9. Establish/Maintain contacts database for Project/PST 10. Acquire/Collate content for Project bulletin/newsletter and ensure timely distribution 11. Make and arrange meetings and appointments for staff members of the PST and for consultants on project-related assignments; 12. Ensure that filing of all communication is executed on a timely basis; 13. Set up and coordinate meetings and conferences 14. Compile, transcribe and distribute minutes of meetings C. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. Administration and Logistics Coordinate and maintain records for staff, office space, etc. Manage vehicle fleet and drivers Arrange for the repair and maintenance of office equipment. Other duties as assigned by the project coordinator. Coordinate all immigration documents and work permits for consultants. Maintain project bulletin on all project activities. Design realistic travel plan and fuel usage log for all out of town travel. Coordinate all logistic and official programs regarding evaluations and public awareness on implementation.

Timeline The duration of the assignment is one (1) year, with the possibility of extension contingent upon a satisfactory performance evaluation. The Consultant will be on probation fora period of three (3) months from the date of assumption of duty. 5. The MOEnow invites applications from eligible individuals to indicate their interest in providing the required services as described above and to provide information indicating that they are qualified to perform the services, including CVs, description of similar assignments, experience in similar conditions, etc. References will be required of short-listed candidates. 6. The shortlisting criteria will be based on the qualification and experience requirements outlined below.Educational and professional qualifications and experience will include: Experienced administrative professional who is dependable and highly organized with business, maturity, discretion, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude possessing: Bachelors degree Public Administration, Management, and Accounting Minimum of 4 years experience in office management, procedures in an office setting Knowledge of principles and practices of basic office management and organization. Technologically literate with strong computer skills including familiarity with Microsoft Word and Excel and other commonly used software. Access Database skills would be a plus. Good internet skills, including use of e-mail programs and group messaging Good organizational skills and record keeping (attention to detail is critical) Good oral and written communication skills Self-starter who can work independently Skill in establishing priorities and managing workload Ability to follow directions. 7. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to paragraph 1.9 of the World Bank's Guidelines: Selection and Employment of Consultants [under IBRD Loans and IDA Credits & Grants] by World Bank Borrowers January 2011 ("Consultant Guidelines"), setting forth the World Bank's policy on conflict of interest. 8. An Individual Consultant will be selected in accordance with the procedures for selecting Individual Consultants set out in the Consultant Guidelines. 8. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours from 0900 to 1700 hours local time.

9. Applications; clearly marked Administrative Assistant- GPEBEP, must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by mail, or by e-mail) by 5.00PM Local Time, on Tuesday, March 4, 2014. Only short listed candidates will be contacted. 10. The address referred to above is:

The Project Coordinator, Global Partnership for Education Basic Education Project, Ministry of Education, 3rd Street, Sinkor, Tubman Boulevard, Monrovia, Liberia Cell: +231 88 655 0234 Email: baysah.fti.moe@gmail.com, and copied to: fabu.fti.moe@gmail.com, cftumbay@gmail.com, gbasakollie@gmail.com.

The Project Coordinator, Global Partnership for Education Basic Education Project, Ministry of Education, 3rd Street, Sinkor, Tubman Boulevard, Monrovia, Liberia Cell: +231 88 655 0234 Email: baysah.fti.moe@gmail.com, and copied to: fabu.fti.moe@gmail.com, cftumbay@gmail.com, gbasakollie@gmail.com.

A
Monrovia-

Friday, February 21, 2014

52-page book named and styled Where Charles Taylor went wrong has been launched in Monrovia. Written by Liberian journalist Max Willie, the book lays bare the issues and events that culminated into the downfall of former Liberian President now convicted war criminal Charles Taylor. The book, according to Willie, is an insiders story unrehearsed about Taylors overgenerous approached to governance and his twisted perception on international relations that led him into the state he finds himself in today. The book is a representative model which disesteems the intrigues that often characterized the stories of former Liberian President Charles Taylors armed revolt, his presidency and eventual unceremonious exit from power, said Malcolm Joseph of the Center for Media Studies and Peace Building (CEMESP), during the launch of the book in Monrovia on Thursday February 20, 2014. Published in the United States of America on June 28, 2013, Where Charles Taylor went wrong provides the platform for another period to delve

WHERE CHARLES TAYLOR WENT WRONG

LIBERIAN JOURNALIST MAX WILLIES VERSION ON TAYLORS FLAWS AND EXCESSES
into prompt action initiated by some well-known members of the international community to drag Taylor to court in the Hague for war crimes committed in Sierra Leones war while giving the blindeye to the more serious one conducted in Liberia by Taylor. Taylors missteps and failures in Liberia as well as his illadvised role in Sierra Leone were cited as some of the reasons where he went wrong, according to the book. Speaking during the launch of the book former Press Attach to the Liberian Embassy in Washington D.C under Taylor and now owner of Power TV radio station Mr. Aaron Kollie commended Willie for the publication adding that the book will form an interesting reading for national leaders of Liberia.

PAGE RONT

LIFESTLE

Frontpage

Page 9

s news of Jaspers death filtered around late Saturday morning on 25 January 2014, I was at a funeral with two people who knew him very well. My brother Samuel D. Tweah Jr., who and Jasper became standard-bearers of their respective student political parties on the campus of the University of Liberia in the 1990s and Thomas Doe Nah. We were in utter disbelief as many others were upon hearing the news. In 2004, Thomas, Jasper and James Thompson founded the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), now a respected civil society organization in the country and the local chapter for Transparency International (TI). Jasper served as CENTALs first program manager and its second executive director. G. Jasper Cummeh, III, was an influential member of the Liberian civil society community. In 2008, he founded Actions for Genuine Democratic Alternative (AGENDA), an organization committed to promoting transparency, accountability and citizens participation in the countrys governance process, becoming its first Senior Policy Director. He died at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia. He was 43. From the first time I met Jasper, at the University of Liberia, he always worked around the clock-247--during something with extraordinary passion. Jasper recruited me into a literary organization he founded called VISION 2000 and assigned me the lead role as the protagonist in a romantic tragedy he had written. The movie script had more than 1500 pages with several scenes

LAYING AT ST MOSES
A Professional Obituary to Garrett Jasper Cummeh, III
Norris Tweah
the Carter Center training health workers from around the country on how to advocate for increased budgetary support for the mental health program in Liberia. Carolyn Myers Zoduah, who worked with Jasper for the last four years as AENGDAs program manager, remembers her former boss as someone who was quick to see the potential and makes sure that the potential comes out. My work was on gender issues, I no idea on budget, policy analysis, research, or corruption issues and he introduced me to a lot of things, she said. I worked with him for four years; he will always say, Carolyn, you can make it. And he was always good at putting me on the spot but in a positive way. But Jasper did not only put Carolyn on the spot in a positive way. He put others on the spot as well, including the Government. At the International Right to Know Day celebration in Buchanan, Grand Bassa, in September 2013, Jasper spoke on behalf of the coalition of civil society. Jasper thanked the Government for naming information officers but said that was not enough and urged the Government to provide training, equipment and a decent compensation for information officers. He concluded his remarks by reminding the Government that access to information was a fundamental human right , while

PAGE RONT

OBITUARY

set in Liberia, Ghana and Nigeria. The cask met on weekends, usually on Sundays, most times at Adeline Sompons house on Gurley Street. But as the lead actor, I spent hours with Jasper going over my role, reciting and mastering my portion. And thats when I discovered Jasper was a workaholic. And that was before he entered student politics; before SIMSTUDA Coalition and all the drama regarding whether the coalition should continue or each party should contest on its own merit. That was when student politics was student politics, and Jasper was at the epicenter of it all, and he deserves much credit for contributing more

than a fair share to the culture of intellectualism on campus, as well as he blended his voice with others to the shouts and slogans that stimulated student politics. As SIMs chairman, Jasper was visible, relentless and ambitious. He wrote SIM campus press releases; his handwriting was seen on its postersas if that was not enoughhe plastered them on the walls of T-H and FQ himself. That was his nature work and work. And as an academic, Jasper, along with nine freshmen, were placed in a special English section which was taught by Dr Katheleen List, a former US Embassy Political Advisor, after scoring a high mark in English

on the UL Entrance. In 2001, he graduated as a member of the Golden Class with a Bachelors degree in Accounting and was only a course away from earning his LLB in law from the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law. So few hours after it was confirmed that Jasper had died, his body was taken to ST Moses and then friends began calling in disbelief. Whose Body? asked a closed friend. Yes, his body is now lying at ST Moses, I answered. From there on our dear friend became a body lying at ST Moses. On Friday Morning, January 24, the day before he died, Jasper was on the battlefield, during what he knew best, this time at

urging the Government to do more to implement the Freedom of Information Law. Jasper was on point on this one in part because he was one of the people who labored so hard for the passage of the Freedom of Law in Liberia. In 2010, Jasper was among a group of Government and civil society stakeholders who swarmed the Capital Building early one morning to meet and urge lawmakers to pass the FOI law. The same year the law was passed and Liberia became the first country in West Africa to enact a Freedom of Information legislation. Thanks Jasper for your contribution! Though Jasper spoke in a quiet and soft tone with a calm demeanor which carried with it a certain degree of poise, his utterances and comments came at you and were nevertheless powerful, thorough, deep, sometimes long and critical. But once again, as with all mortals of which Jasper was a member, the cold hands of death prematurely deprived us of a fighter, an advocate, a trainer, and a dear friend. He will be forever missed by all of us, especially his wife Peaches Suah Cummeh and his children. His body will be removed today from the ST Moses funeral home and funeral rites will take place at the S. T. Nagbe Methodist Church on 10th Street on Saturday, February 22, 2014. May His Soul Rest in Perfect Peace and Light Perpetual Shine on Him.

Page 10 | Frontpage

PAGE RONT

NO END TO HEALTH CRISIS AS SENATE-LED NEGOTIATION HIT SNAG

DEADLOCK
Henry Karmo (0886522495) henrykarmo47@gmail.com
Health workers in Liberia Sunday February 16 started a go-slow action against the government of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in demand of improved salary and incentives. The health workers began their action 12:00 midnight Sunday and promised to continue if their demands are not met. The workers amongst other things are demanding the resignation of the Countrys health Minister Dr. Gwenigale and the Chief Medical officer Dr. Bernice Dahn and that the government increases their salaries and incentives. To further worsen the crisis 24HRs after the strike action started Dr. Gwenigale called a Press conference and threatened to dismiss health workers who abandon work for a week nothing that any health worker who fails to work by February 21st should consider him or herself dismissed from the Ministry of health and social welfare. The minister also mandated and directors and supervisors to take attendance of all those who are coming to work and those who have chosen to stay away and said, no one will be paid for days they did not work. Information gathered by this paper is that Dr. Gwenigale has already begun dismissing health workers before his own deadline.

HEALTH NEWS

Friday, February 21, 2014

A
Monrovia-

ll efforts by the Senate to have striking health workers return to work has failed, as health workers vowed to continue their strike action despite appeals from the senators. The striking workers at a meeting held in the joint chambers of the Capitol Building with the senate Pro-temp and other members of the august body said, they could not accept to go back to work in the absence of the failure of the Ministry of Health and the Government of Liberia in meeting some of their demands. The workers said, prior to Thursdays meeting with the senate, the striking health workers met with the Senate plenary Wednesday at a special session in a meeting that lasted for hours at which time the workers said they were promised that some of their demands would be met within 24hrs. The workers amongst several things demanded at the Wednesday meeting that the 21 health workers dismissed by the Health Minister Dr. Walter Gwenigale as a result of their strike action be reinstated, incentives owed health workers

for the month of January be paid and salaries and incentives for the month of February also be paid into their various accounts. In separate comments after several secret meetings amongst senators during the meeting, Senators John Ballout of Maryland and Oscar Cooper of Margibi Counties begged the health workers to return to work as the senate intervenes in the matter. The senators alluded to the fact that the legislature has dragged on the issue since the health workers raised it in February of 2013 and promised to give the issue major priority. The workers through their spokesman George Williams, reminded the senators of previous letter written to the President were they asked the president to take action but their communications were later defied by the health workers on the same health matter and expressed fear that if they give in without some of their demands been addressed it could hamper their advocacy and lead to their dismissal. George William said: What do you want us to do senators this matter has been before you for one year and nothing has been

CORRUPTION LIBERIAS PROBLEM

United States Ambassador to Liberia Deborah Malac Alarms
Al-Varney Rogers alrogers2008@gmail.com 0886304498
to afford. President Sirleaf, in recent statement declared corruption to be public enemy number one, Malac continues. According to Malac, the United States government and other international partners are working with the government of Liberia in addressing the problem of corruption. Ambassador Malac applauded the good work of the government, civil society organizations and members of the press to shed light on corruption. The U.S Ambassador urged the legislative and judicial branches to follow the executive by setting a code of conduct and annual asset declaration that are verified. Malac calls on all Liberians to play a role in combating corruption by refusing to pay bribes and also by reporting dishonest authorities who solicit or accept bribes. The U.S Ambassador spoke at program marking the official opening ceremony of the G-16 inter high school Accountability and Transparency Forum organized by the Mano-River Union Youth Parliament Liberia Chapter. Malac said, corruption does not only affect government and the private sector adding that corruption also affects the schools. School administrators and teachers who dont show up for work, but still collect a paycheck? Thats corruption, Malac said. Students who cheat on home work and exams, thats too, is a form of corruption. Youth and Sport Minister Eugene Nagbe said lack of transparency has proven to be the reason for under development of any nation. We [Liberians] suffer more from corruption more than developed countries because we do not have system in place, Nagbe said. The youth and Sports Minister cautioned his colleagues to be transparent in their work so as to rid the public of the perception that government officials are corrupt. A senior student of the Sinkor Assemblies of God Mission School Kelvin Menating said, building integrity clubs in schools will minimize corruption in Liberia. It is important that students get involved in fighting corruption because if we are not taught at this level to be transparent and accountable than Liberia has a problem, Menating said.

PAGE RONT

done to address it; now you are pressuring us to go back to work. Why cant you put pressure on Dr. Gwenigale to write and sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will address this issue? Do you want us to die, we are prepared to go to prison but we cannot revert our decision, we will only go back to work if these demands are met. In response to the health workers position, Senate Pro-Temp Gbehzohngar Findley thanked the workers for the time and promised to do all in the power of the legislature to protect and represent the people of Liberia of which health workers are part.

NEWS EXTRA

Frontpageafrica has gathered that there are currently 2,000 health workers on the GoLs payroll with an outstanding 3,000 volunteers health workers are also demanding to be placed on the payroll. Recently during a visit by President Sirleaf to a local Hatai center in Monrovia the issue was raised and she promised some actions, which have not materialized. What we will do is to make sure that the CSA completes the process and get you on the payroll, she said. Like I told you, I said all of you who want to go on the payroll should go on the payroll, only the incentive system has to be combined with the payroll because you can not get them both because the donors have pulled back. Sources have hinted Frontpageafrica that Dr. Gwenigale has requested that there be no processing of the payroll of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for the month of February. Already, patients across the country are in dire straits as many of the public health institutions have not seen health workers for almost a week.

.S Ambassador Deborah Malac has termed corruption as a serious problem that needs to be addressed in order to ease the difficulties Liberians are faced with in affording ends meal. Corruption remains a serious problem in Liberia. It undermines transparency, accountability, and peoples confidence in government institutions, Ambassador Malac said. The U.S Ambassador said, corruption in Liberia is increasing the cost of products and services that are difficult for many Liberians to afford. It [corruption] also adds unnecessary costs to products and services that are already difficult for many Liberians

According to Menating, if students are accustom to paying bribes for grades adding that it is most likely that they will carry in the larger society. Menating thanked the organizer for the transparency and accountability forum noting that he hopes it will be nation-wide campaign. Lofa County Senator George Tengbeh said, the high school accountability and transparency forum by the MRU Youth Parliament should

be decentralized. We have heard of political prison in Liberia, journalists have gone to jail, you can go to jail for rape but I have not seen one person going to jail for corruption I stand to be corrected, Tengbeh said. The Lofa County Senator said, there are institutions in Liberia that are fighting corruption adding that the problem is lack of political will from the executive to prosecute corrupt officials.

Friday, February 21, 2014

arely a month after farmers, charcoal producers and workers filed a complaint of abuses against Buchanan Renewable, known as BRE, to Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) an Investor to BR, to investigate human rights and environmental abuses by BR, another complaint from some citizens of Sinoe has been filed to the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), an overall body of Palm Oil Worldwide, against Golden Veroleum Liberia (GVL) ongoing operations of land clearing in their towns and villages. Despite the order to cease all operations placed on GVL by RSPO nearly a year ago until issues of human Rights are addressed, the multi Billion Dollar Oil Palm Company operating in Sinoe is allegedly clearing farmland in other parts of Sinoe without meeting the requirement of the concession law. Golden Veroleum (Liberia) Inc., a subsidiary of the Verdant Fund Lp whose major investors include Golden AgriResources Ltd entered in to a concession agreement with the Government of Liberia for the development of oil palm plantation in Sinoe, Grand Kru, Maryland, Rivercess and River Gee Counties in Southeastern Liberia. The signed and ratified concession agreement which was awarded to GVL covers a total of approximately 500,000 acres (220,000 hectares). A Liberian smallholder program is to develop 100,000 acres (40,000 hectares) of oil palm in support of local Liberia oil palm initiatives. GVL has decided to initiate this largescale oil palm plantation by beginning with the cultivation of 33,000 hectares of land in three districts of Sinoe. In a complaint filed dated February 17, 2014, addressed to Mr. Ravin Krishnan, Complaints Coordinator of Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil in Bangsar Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, citizens of Kulu, Shaw, Nyarn and Plahn towns and villages complained that as a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, Golden Veroleum has an obligation to adhere and comply with and implement the RSPO standards and procedures including rights of local communities to their customary land and their right to give or withhold their Free Prior Informed consent that GVL has not met. Potion of the complaints now in the possession of this paper, reads as follows; Mr. Ravin Krishnan, Complaints Coordinator Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil Bangsar Kuala Lumpur Malaysia February 17th, 2014 Mr. Ravin Krishnan we write to formally bring to your attention that Golden

CONCESSION WOES
SINOE CITIZENS COMLAIN GVL AGAIN TO ROUNDTABLE ON SUSTAINABLE PALM OIL
Mae Azango 077296781

PAGE RONT

COUNTY NEWS

Frontpage

Page 11

Veroleum is currently engaged in active land clearing on our customary land without our free prior informed consent as well as violating the RSPO New planting procedures which requires Golden Veroleum to not proceed with any land preparation, any new planting or infrastructure development. Mr. Ravin Krishnan, in instances and occasions where some of our people have made inquiries and requested that Golden Veroleum, consult more directly with us and our local community leaders and obtain our Free Prior Informed Consent prior to proceeding with their land demarcation and clearing operations, Golden Veroleum has used its financial influence with our local Government authorities intimidation, harassments and threat of arrest and detention to forcefully take away our customary lands without our Free Prior Informed consent. In a very specific incidence of threats, intimidation and harassments, GVL influenced the County and District officials to, on 27th 2013, suspend for time indefinite the General town Chief of Lower Kulu Clan, Levi Jarteh essentially because he attended a KUDA (Kulu United Development Association) meeting held on November 8 9, 2013. In December 2013, the County Police Commander summarily arrested and detained a health worker, Abraham Dugbe, essentially because he attended the KUDA meeting of November 8 9, 2013 on the GVL issue. He was released later after thousands of Liberian Dollars had been extorted from him. Similarly on February 10,

2014, GVL and the District and County officials connived and arrested several community leaders who had raised concerns about the manner in which Golden Veroleum was forcefully grabbing their land. The individuals who included the Chairman of KUDA were illegally arrested and detained by the Police, not a single charge was brought against these community leaders and not a single writ of arrest authorized by a judge was presented to them. They made sure these gentlemen stayed away from the area in Police Custody up to February 13, until a GVL-EPA-County-District authorities concocted meeting to vote Yes or No to GVL was done. Those arrested and detained on the orders of GVL are Sampson W. Toby, Chairman of KUDA, Simpson Snoh, and Member of the KUDA Secretariat, and Anthony Julukon and Darlington Flahn, citizens and residents of Kulu. The individuals were seen at a place in Wieh Town, Kulu, where GVL had done clearing. The KUDA Chairman, Snoh and Julukon essentially went to verify claims that GVL had done land clearing in the area. Mr. Ravin Krishnan, we are living under constant fear of threats, harassments, and intimidation and arrest because we have refused permission for Golden Veroleum to take away our customary lands left to us by our ancestors. As a result we live in constant fear and are worried about our safety and security, the letter stated. The citizens further said in their complaint that grabbing their lands without respecting their

customary rights and without the free, prior and informed consent of the customary land owners as represented through representative organizations of their choice (P&C 2.2, 2.3, 7.5 and 7.6). GVL and the County and District officials have used undue influence to make some of their people to sign the MOU. In two separate meetings that Global Witness and SAMFU along with KUDA held in communities in Tarjuowon, the communities, for example, Jacksonville in Kulu and David Town in Shaw, said that they do not want GVL and that the county and district officials have been misinforming and harassing and intimidation and threatening them to give their land to GVL, portion of the letter stated. In response to the complaint, GVL Head of Communications, Mr. Virgil Magee through a communication to journalist said KUDA has welcomed GVLs investment in the Tarjuowon district and endorsement has been received by the Paramount Chief of the Kulu people. Co-operation has, however, been badly impeded by series of press statements, led by a rogue representative of KUDA that have incited conflict within the Kulu communities. Magee added via mobile that GVL does not have the power to order arrest of any citizen neither does GVL have the power to control County authorities to arrest anyone, but on 11 February 2014, it came to the Companys attention that four arrests had been made following an alleged incident of armed intimidation by the representative of KUDA and

three accomplices, stating that GVLs understands that the four men were released on bail. GVL was invited to observe talks set to be held on 12 February 2014 between factions of the Kulu community in Tarjuowon district. Our attendance at the meeting was and is consistent with our commitment to working harmoniously with local communities and protecting the environment. We were made aware of the incident the morning of 11 February 2014, in which two of our security personnel felt threatened by armed individuals. We do and have always respected Liberian laws and Liberian citizens right to peaceful protest, but do not believe that threats, violence or any other form of intimidation is ever warranted. Addressing the situation of forcing citizens to sign a MOU, Mr. Magee communication said; Our original MoU with the people of Tarjuowon included yes votes from the majority of people there, including paramount chiefs, elders, women, youth, etc. The MoU has over 600 signatures showing their support for the employment, development and investment we will bring to the area. During the recent Kulu Conference, again, there was a unanimous vote in favor of GVL investment and those votes came from residents of: Bestnewlue, Jacksonville, Oneway, Unification, Saywon Town, Newtown, Plahn, Nyarn, Tarloue Town, Boe, Plahn, Shaw, Shaw-David, Pluhoh, Monrovia, Greenville, Sonouhn and Pelbeh Town. Answering to Global Witness part in the matter, Magee

admitted that GVL received a message from Global Witness suggesting mistreatment of these individuals while they were in police custody, indicating that they share their concerns and have sought assurances from the authorities but that has not been the case. He added that due to the disagreement within Kulu, Paramount Chief Johnny Brown, formally invited all Kulu citizens from Monrovia, the local area and the diaspora to a National Kulu Conference to decide upon GVL investment in the area. Magee added that Kulu Paramount Chiefs invitation was published by them in several newspapers and aired on radio for several weeks prior to the meeting, and they received a personal invitation from the paramount chiefs representative in Monrovia. The GVL communication person communication furthered disclosed that Invitees included GVL, The Forest Trust, UNMIL Civil Affairs, NGOs and all Kulu factions. Each of these organizations including both Kulu factions received a personal invitation from the paramount chief, in addition to the public announcement in the papers and on radio. The National Kulu Conference was facilitated by the Liberian Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA representatives read aloud position statements from both Kulu factions. GVL attended by invitation of the Kulu paramount chief, but only in an observational role. We did not have any input. Also speaking on the issue, Sinoe County Senator Monbutu Nyenpan said the Legislative Caucus has heard of some concern being raised by some Citizens of Tarjuowon District but Representative Matthew Zarzar of District three where Tarjuowon falls has been spearheading the discussion between the citizens and GVL and would deliver a full briefing to the caucus. Indeed, our people need the development GVL is carrying on in the County and we appreciate the presence of GVL and we also trust that GVL will continue its operations in the County but with international standards and Principles. I also trust and believe that GVL will take into consideration the concerns of the people and communities they will be operating in. Sinoe County needs the GVL investment and from our perspective we will do all we can to ensure that this investment survives in the best interest of the people of Sinoe and the investor, Senator Nyenpan said.

W
Monrovia-

Page 12 | Frontpage

hen the Liberian Constitution was penned in 1986, the drafters enshrined in it the inalienable right of the citizens to form or belong to trade union for the protection of their interests. They could not have imagined that a time would come when Liberia would be weighed down by incessant strikes embarked upon by unions in all sectors of the economy. In recent years, strikes have taken place almost in all the sectors in the country including the education, health and other economic sectors in general. These strikes have cost the country millions of Liberian dollars, FrontPageAfrica can reveal. In November 2013, the more than three day strike by aggrieved teachers as a result of the alleged failure of government to enlist them on payroll cost a blow to the countrys educational system, according to Education Minister Edmonia Tarpeh. Tarpeh said teachers around the country deserted their posts. It is worrisome because our teachers have abandoned their posts throughout the country and students are not in school, she said. In 2013, many sectors in the country were embroiled in one form of protests or the other with their attendant negative impacts on the economy. Although economists have not quantified the exact cost of the strikes, there is no doubt that they have caused severe human and material losses to the sectors involved in particular and to the nation in general. For instance, one of the high profile losses of strike by public school teachers was the death of Joshua McCauley, a former classroom teacher of the John F. Barkarlu School in Gbarnga. He lost his life last year while on his way to Monrovia to participate in the national executive committee of the National Teachers Association, meeting of the union which was to deliberate on whether or not to continue the strike. Apart from the teachers strike, so many trade unions have gone on strike this year for a variety of reasons basically to better working conditions and welfare of their members. The list of unions include the Liberia Motor Transport Union, the Health Workers Association of Liberia, currently on an indefinite strike and aggrieved University of Liberia students. Indeed, the list is really long. Although the unions are different, their agitations are basically similar. The strikes are seemingly caused by unfair treatment of workers, nonimplementation of agreements earlier reached, victimization, violation of legislation or rule, poor application of provisions of collective bargaining, nonobservance of conditions of work and situation not governed by rules. In the case of the University of Liberia, following the end of 14 years of civil war, it has gone on strike for a total of 30 times, or 20 per cent of the total time in the past eight years, according to University sources. This is an equivalent of six semesters or three academic sessions, our sources said. The implication of this is that thousands of students who could have graduated within this period are still in school. It is not only students who bear the brunt of the industrial action by aggrieved students, parents and business

LIBERIA A COUNTRY IN THE GRIP OF STRIKES

Selma Lomax, selma.lomax@frontpageafricaonline.com

PAGE RONT

HEALTH NEWS

Friday, February 21, 2014

owners and other stakeholders in the university communities were also made to suffer. For instance, a man only identified as Derrick, a campus shuttle driver, at the University of Liberia, told FrontPageAfrica last year that he was temporarily unemployed when students protested the removal of the then Vice president for Administration of the University, Wade Brownell. He said: I became unemployed because there were no passengers to convey. Derricks case was pathetic because he couldnt use the bus which was registered strictly for use in the campus anywhere else. It had been very tough for me and my family. I couldnt work because students were not around. There were just a few people on campus and what I took home in a week was not even up to half of what I used to make in one day when there was no strike, he told FrontPageAfrica at the time. For shop owners around the university campuses at Fendell and Monrovia, it was the same tale of woes. They were practically struggling to survive during the students strike action. In the health sector, nurses at government hospitals across the country Monday, February 17, 2014 embarked on a strike to press for the dismissal of the Minister of Health Dr. Walter Gwenigale and two of his deputies. All over the country, several unions, perhaps not as popular as the above listed ones, are either on strike or planning to start. It now appears that for many of these unions, downing tools is the only legitimate way of getting what they want. Just like the health workers,

students and teachers, various unions in Liberia now rely on strikes to settle disputes and press home their demands. To the executives of such organizations, withdrawing their services is the only language the government can understand. The unions derive their strength to embark on strikes seemingly for key reasons. First, Liberia is a member of the International Labor Organization, ILO, which recognizes strike as a fundamental right. The abolition of forced Labor Convention No. 105 of 1957 prohibits the use of forced or compulsory labor as a punishment for having participated in strike. Patients feel the brunt of Nurses Strike Every time nurses stay off work in protest of one demand or the other, it is the poor patients at the hospitals who bear the brunt as there are no doctors to attend to them, FrontPageAfrica investigation has established. Faith Wolokollie, a nurse at the C.B Dunbar Hospital in Gbarnga, told FrontPageAfrica Wednesday that death tolls in the hospitals are higher during nurses strikes. We are all important in this job but nurses are the most important. They are the ones who examine the patients and prescribe a drug, which is why everybody takes us seriously. Every time nurses go on strike, there are lots of patients who cant get treatments and so death tolls are higher at this time, she said. Aside from the catalogue of losses that come with incessant strikes by various unions, Liberia is also at the risk of not achieving its vision 2030 agenda if the rate at which workers in the country

down tools is not reduced. The vision 2030 is the mantra that represents Liberias ambition for a middle income country. But from all indications, that dream may just be another wishful thinking if the current trend of strikes by various unions is not checkmated. Steve Kennedy, a Monroviabased economist, said there is no way Liberia can achieve vision 2030 when workers in strategic institutions in the country continue to stay off work over unsettled issues with the government and their employers. Vision 2030 is a very good vision but it is sad that our government officials have reduced it to a tool for scoring cheap political points. Judging from the present situation where workers in virtually every sector of the economy down tools at the slightest provocation, it is impossible for Liberia to achieve that vision, he said. Continuing, he added: We are still very far behind and there is no way for Liberia to become one of the most developed countries in the world by the year 2030. Do you know how much we lose in this country every time the nurses go on strike? No serious nation can afford to lose that much money. You saw what happened in America during the government shut down. If we

are serious about achieving this vision 2030, then we must find a way of stopping our unions from going on strike because strikes cripple the economy, he said. Corroborating Kennedys view, Emmanuel N.B. Flomo, a resident of Monrovia and a native of Bong County, said Liberia could not achieve the vision 2030 agenda because the right structures to do so were not in place. Becoming a developed nation by the year 2030 is a good dream but we deceive ourselves when we say we will achieve it. There is nothing on ground at the moment to suggest that it can be done. We do not have the right structure in place and our economy is not even the strongest in Africa at the moment. So, it is wishful thinking to say we will be a fully developed country by 2030, he said. On the implications of strikes in the economy, Flomo reckoned that strike should be a last resort for unions because of its adverse effects on the economy of a country. Strikes are legitimate instruments for advancing workers rights but then it must be done cautiously. As a matter of fact, unions ought to go on strike after exploring other means of settling disputes because a strike destroys a lot of things. You can see what is

happening in the health sector now. Incessant industrial actions have grave consequences for any country, he said. For officials of the health and education sectors and other unions that have become infamous for frequent industrial actions, embarking on a total strike is the only way to get the attention of the government. Dalawolor Forkpa, spokesman for health workers in Bong County, said even though the union tries as much as possible not to down tools, the insincerity of the government usually forces them to do so. Nobody likes strikes but we have discovered over the years that politicians are always not sincere. Before this on-going strike, the union had explored so many other means of reminding the government to implement the agreement, he said. Wesseh Zoryou, a lecturer at the Gboveh Senior High School in Bong County also corroborated this view. The issues at stake in the on-going health workers strike are well known; it is about revamping the health sector that has degenerated into an unacceptable level. It was for this reason that the health workers embarked on the strike. I am sure that the strike will produce the 2013 agreement which the government vowed to implement and even review for enhancement, he said. As frequent strikes by various unions continue to take a toll on the life and economy of the country, individuals and other stakeholders have advised that unions look for other ways of pressing home their demands rather than embarking on strikes every now and then. Prince Jones, a petit trader down town Monrovia, said that even though strike is necessary in labor matters, it should be used sparingly. He said: Industrial actions cannot be ruled out as a tool for driving home demands. It becomes an issue when it is prolonged and yielding no fruits. I would still recommend dialogues and continuous negotiations but when these fail, industrial action should be used but not prolonged. Proffering another remedy to strike, James Thompson, a Monrovia-based intellectual, said strikes have become a jaded way of making demands. Even though he advised labor organizations to employ other means, he also urged governments and employers of labor to be sincere and implement agreements. Strikes have become a worn out option and our unions must look for alternatives means of settling issues. Dialogues and a firm adherence to whatever is agreed upon remains the most viable option. Governments and employers of labor must honor their commitments, he said. Continuing, he added: Be that as it may, it appears that as long as the strike is used as a means of getting governments and employers of labor to be true to their responsibilities and commitments, everybody will be hurt by it at all time.

Friday, February 21, 2014

PAGE RONT

NEWS EXTRA

Frontpage

Page 13

ENGAGING THE PROCESS NAYMOTE PREPARES YOUH FOR UPCOMING

Al-Varney Rogers alrogers2008@gmail.com 0886304498

CONSTITUITON REVIEW

[The Executive Director of NAYMOTE Eddie Jarwolo]

democracy. Mathias said; bringing young people together to interact with political parties leaders and media practitioners will help them to better understand the review process. NAYMOTE Gender Coordinator Benetta Davies said, the training is designed to increase young people participation in the constitution review process. Davies said: we have a serious problem with youth participation in this country and the young people constitute half of the population. We, the young people will be the direct beneficiary of that constitution. Davies added that the upcoming constitution review process will not be a repetition of the 1986 constitution. The Executive Director of NAYMOTE Eddie Jarwolo said, the roundtable discussion has brought young people from all parts of Montserrado County to increase their knowledge on the review process. For us the constitutional review process is very cardinal to the rebuilding process of Liberia, Jarwolo said. Jarwolo said, the decentralization act calls for the Superintendent to be elected while the constitution says that president should appoint the superintendent. According to Jarwolo, the decentralization act will only take effect when the constitution is reviewed.

s Liberians prepare to begin the revision of their constitution which has not been reviewed for nearly twenty-eight years, young Liberians are also interested in getting involved in the process. Ahead of the referendum to amend some provisions of the constitution civil society groups have begun creating awareness for the revision process. On Wednesday a local non-governmental organization NAYMOTE with sponsorship from USAID through IREX organized a roundtable dialogue on the constitution review. The dialogue brought together young people from different spheres including universities and secondary schools student leaders and youth advocates. A participant and Executive Director of Educating Youth for Empowerment, Edwin Matthias said, that such dialogue is healthy for the revision of the constitution adding that young people are amongst the population the law is expected to protect or harm. Mathias said, the constitution was prepared at the time to protect the military junta that was in power and at such some critical issues were left out. He said, the constitution currently gives the President too much power. The president power goes down to appointing local officials like district commissioners and even court officials in my mind it is not a representation of good

Page 14 | Frontpage

IN BRIEF
LIBYA GADDAFI RAPE VICTIMS TO BE COMPENSATED

NIGERIA CENTRAL BANK HEAD LAMIDO SANUSI OUSTED Nigeria's central bank governor Lamido Sanusi has been suspended
by the president for "financial recklessness and misconduct".
Nigerians it will appear that the president has chosen to suspend the whistleblower rather than focus on stopping fraud. Efforts to tackle corruption rarely get anywhere in Nigeria. In 2007 Nuhu Ribadu was suspended as the head of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. As Nigeria's pidgin speakers would say: "To fight corruption. No be easy job o." He told the BBC he would challenge his suspension in order to preserve the central bank's independence. Foreign exchange, bond and money markets have stopped trading because of uncertainty caused by the move, Reuters news agency reports. The BBC's Will Ross in Lagos says Mr Sanusi's allegations threaten to expose high-level fraud in Nigeria's notoriously opaque and corrupt oil sector. Nigeria is one of the world's biggest oil producers. "The reality is anyone who challenges the oil sector is striking at the heart of the vested interests that control the Nigerian state and one should be ready for the consequences," Mr Sanusi told the BBC's Focus on Africa programme. The controversy also comes ahead of next year's elections, with the governing party split over whether President Goodluck Jonathan should contest. the case said they had been beaten in custody, including one who said cigarette butts had been put on his head. Another shouted at the judge that he had had no visitors for a month-and-ahalf and did not know the trial was being held until this morning. Al-Jazeera has said only nine of those charged are members of staff and that they were merely reporting the situation in Egypt. It has said the allegations are "absurd, baseless and false" and consistently denied aiding the Brotherhood, on which the authorities launched a fierce crackdown after the military ousted President Mohammed Morsi in July. The interim government and its supporters have accused international news networks of bias in their reporting of human rights abuses against Morsi supporters and secular dissenters. 'Psychologically

PAGE RONT

WORLD NEWS

Friday, February 21, 2014

KINSHASA (Reuters) olice in Democratic Republic of Congo on Thursday broke up a rally by one of President Joseph Kabila's main political rivals, a move that underscored rising tensions two years ahead of presidential elections. Opposition leader Vital Kamerhe, once a close ally of Kabila's, said security forces fired bullets at his supporters in the eastern town of Bukavu. The provincial governor denied live rounds were used and said crowds had been hostile. By 2016, when elections are due, Kabila will have completed two elected terms in office and is barred by the constitution from standing again. Some opposition groups accuse Kabila, however, of wanting to change the constitution and seek a third term in the mineral-rich country. "I think President Kabila is scared of allowing a show of force against his presidency to take place," Kamerhe told Reuters by telephone after the incident. Kamerhe is a former speaker of the National Assembly and minister. He was a key figure in Kabila's 2006 election win, leading campaigning in the east, where he comes from.

CONGO SECURITY FORCES SCATTER ATTEMPTED RALLY BY KABILA RIVAL

omen raped during Libya's 2011 uprising that toppled long-time ruler Muammar Gaddafi should be recognised as war victims, the cabinet has said. Its decree, which needs congressional approval, would put the women on the same level as wounded exfighters and entitle them to compensation. Pro-Gaddafi forces are alleged to have used rape as a weapon. As Libya marks three years since the uprising began, voters are electing a body to write a new constitution. Rape victims 'face honour killings' It will be made up of 60 people - 20 from each of Libya's three regions. 'No burden' During the revolution, the International Criminal Court said it had collected evidence that Col Gaddafi had ordered the rape of women as a weapon against rebel forces.

r Sanusi caused shockwaves in Nigeria when he alleged that $20bn (12bn) in oil revenue had gone missing. Nigeria's state oil firm has denied failing to account for the money, saying the claim was "unsubstantiated".

hree journalists from al-Jazeera have denied all charges at the start of a trial in Cairo that has raised concerns about freedom of speech in Egypt. Egyptian-Canadian bureau chief Mohamed Fahmy, Australian reporter Peter Greste, Egyptian producer Baher Mohamed and five others were refused bail before the case was adjourned until 5 March. They are among 20 people facing charges including joining or aiding a terrorist organisation - the Muslim Brotherhood. The others are being tried in absentia. The al-Jazeera journalists stood in cages, wearing white prison uniforms.

AL-JAZEERA JOURNALISTS DENY CHARGES AT EGYPT TRIAL

v

Mr Sanusi is widely respected after undertaking reforms to the banking sector since his appointment in 2009. He was named central bank governor of the year for 2010 by Banker magazine. To say that Lamido Sanusi has become a fly in the ointment for President Goodluck

Jonathan would be something of an understatement. His allegations threaten to expose high-level fraud in Nigeria's notoriously opaque and corrupt oil sector. He says over a 19-month period, more than $1bn was unaccounted for every month. The controversy comes at a

time when elections loom and some of the president's senior officials are being asked some very awkward questions. Mr Sanusi's critics wonder about his own political ambitions and question whether he is using his job to harm President Jonathan's chances in 2015. But to many

Mohamed Fahmy had a black sling supporting his dislocated shoulder. During a break in the hearing the journalists gave us a gripping account of their conditions in jail. They said were locked up for 23 hours

a day, and denied access to newspapers and television. They said they had no opportunity to prepare their defence, and had not been shown the evidence against them. In court today, there was no translator for Peter

Greste, though proceedings were in Arabic. The journalists said they have not been mistreated physically - though Mr Fahmy has been denied medical treatment for his shoulder. Several others defendants in

Friday, February 21, 2014

s he the Jack of all trades and master of none? Former Liberian heavyweight champions Master Junior Peewee Russian will launch his premiere movie (Justice Denied) at the Rivoli Cinema on Friday at noon. Master Russian has been running the Master Russian Entertainment Films since his official retirement from taekwondo on February 3, 2012. Addressing a news conference on Wednesday at the launching venue, Russian encouraged all Liberians to turn out and support his new endeavor by purchasing a ticket for as low as L$100 (US$1.20) and as high as L$200 (US$2.40). So I am calling on musicians, footballers, sports personalities and you just name it to come and support us so that we, too, can help to rebuild mama Liberia through our talents and career and knowing that entertainment opens the door for success in our country. That is why some of us deemed it necessary to go into the field, he said. The movie highlights a country terrorized by a group of former servicemen, who are demanding justice for their unconstitutional retirement but others are opposed to the terroristic initiative. So, will justice be done to all in the latest Liberian movie, starring Master Russian, Evelyn Fairley, Henry Mamulu, who acted in Imported Bride, and Joseph Weah in a season one and two? And what morale lessons does the movie teach? This movie is all about justice; it is all about encouraging our leaders, who think that they dont owe their people [anything]. We want them to know that they are slaves to those that elect them to power. This movie will teach you how to give your all to save your country. This movie will teach you, who think that you were ill-treated in the past, how to be patient and humble. This movie will teach

Sports

Frontpage

Page 15

SPORT BRIEF
SOURCES: PACERS TRADE DANNY GRANGER TO 76ERS IN DEAL FOR EVAN TURNER

Danesius Marteh, danesius.marteh@frontpageafricaonline.com

you a whole lot. So please come and lets watch this movie on Friday, he pleaded. Russian thanked House Speaker Alex Tyler, Deputy Speaker Hans Barchue, Liberia Maritime Authority commissioner Beyan Keselee, National Port Authority managing director Matilda Parker, Chronicle newspaper managing editor Philipbert Browne, Education Minister Etmonia Tarpeh, Tax Court Judge Eva Mai Mappy-Morgan, ex-Deputy Sport Minister Marbue Richards and Baker Tilly-Liberia managing partner Theo Dehkontee Joseph for their financial support. Since his retirement, Russian has been developing local martial artists through the Master Russian Martial and Fitness Academy since 2007. Hes arguably the second Liberian athlete, after George Weah, to project a positive image of the country through sport but mixed martial artist Trokon Jaytee Joseph will sooner or later surpass his feat. During his career, Russian was the second mixed martial artist
provided 18 certificates and cash prices were given in categories where first place winner (gold) carried a giant size trophy and US$100 whilesecond place (silver) carried a trophy and US$75 and third place winner (bronze) received a trophy and US$50. Edmond Pearl won the gold medal of the heavy weight category and walked away with US$100; Moses Yattor won the bantam weight, Mark Lee was crowned as the champion of the feather weight while Ezekiel Mulbah won the welter weight and Prince Jah was crowned as the champion of the light weight. There was a free gate to give Liberians a glimpse of the event while those who turned out received bags of rice, cartoons of wafer biscuit and assorted school materials amongst others through a raffle draw. The Chairman of the Dong-A socio group, Chin Ho Kang along with African manager Ki-Tae Kim, hailed the LTF and termed it as an honorable service to support the 2014 edition of the championship, which has been dormant for a long period of time due to the lack of sponsorship. Kim, who was thrilled by the performance of the athletes, pledged his organizations

he Indiana Pacers have traded Danny Granger to the Philadelphia 76ers for forwards Evan Turner and Lavoy Allen, league sources told Yahoo Sports. Turner, 25, gives the Pacers a talented, young wing player whom they can keep beyond this playoff run. [Also: Sources: Spurs acquire forward from Raptors ] Turner has averaged 17.4 points, six rebounds and 3.7 assists for the Sixers this season. He was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2010 NBA draft. Turner will be a restricted free agent this summer. Granger, 30, has averaged 17.6 points in his career for the Pacers, but only 8.3 points this season while coming off the bench. He spent the early part of the season recovering from a calf injury. He also played in only five games last season because of a knee injury. The Pacers were expected to lose Granger as a free agent this summer.

in the world and third in Africa and the strongest man in Liberia. He spent 20 years training and fighting to lift the image of Liberia in martial arts and taekwondo across the world.
v

s Liberia celebrates10 years of peace, the Liberia Taekwondo Federation (LTF), through a multimillion sponsorship by Dong-A Pharm and the Korean Liberian Church Mission, has ended a taekwondo championship under the theme, Love Liberia Taekwondo Peace Championship. The Dong-A Pharm is a pharmaceutical company based in Korea and extends its services to Liberian in an effort to promote peace and reconciliation through the Taekwondo. The weeklong tournament, which brought together about 20 different taekwondo Dojans (schools) with five athletes representing each of the registered Dojans. The event kicked-off in the preliminary phase where athletes challenged each other,with about 32 making it to semi-finals, took place at the Sports Commission on Broad Street from January 31 and ended on February 1. As part of the sponsorship, the Dong-A Pharm provided 18 trophies, (gold, silver and bronze) for the first, second and thirdplaced winners in six different categories: fly weight, light weight, heavy weight, welter weight, bantam and feather weight. Dong-A Pharm/KLCM also

Liberia Martial Artists Celebrate Anniversary

TEN YEARS OF TAEKWONDO

His taekwondo academy at the Samuel Kanyon Doe sports complex in Paynesvillehas graduated several. Martial arts are codified systems and traditions of combat

practices, which are practiced for a variety of reasons: selfdefense, competition, physical health and fitness, entertainment, as well as mental, physical, and spiritual development.

commitments to make sure that Pearl, who won the gold medal, is supported annually to boost the capacities of taekwondo athletes. He added that Dong-A Pharm, under the leadership of chairman Chin Ho Kang, will continuously engage Liberian youths through such event for the betterment of the state after 15 years of devastating war. Speaking on behalf of government, Assistant Sports Minister Murphy Gray hailed the LTF for recruiting

youths in such a good program. Gray said despite the challenges the ministry will continue to collaborate efforts with its international partners for taekwondo to be fully supported in Liberia. For his part, LTF president Gbene Wode Doh Baker commended Dong-A Pharm Company and its partners, including government, for the numerous moral and financial supports given the LTF for the successful completion of

championship. Baker argued that, if it wasnt for the Dong-A Pharm and the Koran Liberian Church Mission in collaboration with government, the tournament would not have been a success. He used the occasion to call on government to take on their responsibilities to support the different disciplines in order to adequately empower young people who constitute majority of the population. Baker emphasized that if sports is fully supported young people in the streets will take advantage of the process to empower themselves to become productive citizens instead of becoming liabilities on the society. He also made an appeal to companies to extend their social and corporate responsibilities to sports in an effort to get on pal with their international counterparts. Baker added that it is frustrating that sporting disciplines will continuously chase companies for sponsorship and become frustrated without a single deal to buttress governments efforts.

ccording to a judge at the Spanish High Court, the Catalan club failed to declare a 37.9 million payment in their signing of the Brazilian forward from Santos Barcelona have been charged by the Spanish High Court for tax fraud in their signing of Neymar from Santos last year. The Catalan club were hit with news of the latest probe on Wednesday as prosecutors claimed Barca failed to pay a sum of 9.1m owed on a taxable payment of 37.9m, and despite pleading their innocence in a statement released on their website, judge Pablo Ruz revealed on Thursday that the Blaugrana will be charged in court. The charges concern alleged fiscal irregularities between 2011 and 2013, relating to the Brazilian's controversial transfer.

BARCELONA CHARGED FOR FRAUD IN NEYMAR TAX PROBE

FrontPage
www.frontpageafricaonline.com
VOL 8 NO.539

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2014

Sports

PRICE L$40

CLIMATE CHANGE SLOWLY HITTING LIBERIA

Photo: Courtesy of Sidiki Trawally, Ministry of Finance

FrontPage

Spot News

T
MonroviaJanuary.

he terrible condition of Liberias roads in the hinterland is a major problem for travelers across the country. Recently a visitor from Monrovia was

en-route to Voinjama Lofa County to assess projects and encountered the worst on these roads. The world is changing and the climate is also changing, before in Liberia who would ever dream of poring rain in February let alone March. But this year it seems we are slowly moving towards that. As is shown here it is the dry season but because of global warming Liberia is experiencing his own pinch of climate change, with heavy rainfall in On a road that is supposed to be e dry and filled with red dust, it is the opposite-huge potholes with ditches that paralyses any moving vehicle. These experiences while traveling across the country shows how our people are in dire need of GOOD infrastructure like roads bridges and railways to help make movement easier and also withstand the changing weather of the world. We think development is inevitable; it must come.