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What we need right now in our beloved country, Liberia is a strong "NATIONALITY FEELING" coupled with "COMMITMENT" to the development of our nation. We need to put behind us our personal achievements and turn to the development of our country.
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Vamuyan M.L.Turay, Ains Shams, Cairo, Egypt, 20 Mar 2006
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May God Almighty be your guide -- Liberia at this crossroad and you have been chosen to serve. May the spirits of our ancestors from all tribes walk with you. Thanks for hope, because we the people will and must work with you -- yes we will -- yes we will and must succeeed. That is the right thing to do for your house and your neighbors. So watch Africa, a new day is here.
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Vamali Kromah, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S., 20 Mar 2006
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I think Charles Taylor must stand trial in Liberia so that its dreadful past is turned over for good.
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This move will enable Liberia to stamp its authority on the rule of law, and signify to all that justice is done to all the mighty and low.
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The most urgent thing is for Liberia to embark on a massive education programme. Starting with compulsory primary education, and expand secondary education. Nationwide campaigns should be done targeted at gender empowerment for women. To have maximum effect within the shortest time, Liberia should structure its education in such a way that every literate Liberian should be a peer educator.
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In tandem with education, basic primary health should be the focus, not curative medicine, but basic sanitation and immunisation of children. [ show full text ]
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Ropafadzo Benjamin, Ireland, 20 Mar 2006
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I am a naturalized American citizen originally from Liberia. I listened to President Johnson Sirleaf's prepared speech as she addressed the joint Congress of the United States. I was very impressed with the overall contents of the entire speech. Moreover, I am truly proud, and respectful of Mrs. Johnson-Sirleaf's journey, trials and tribulations that catapulted her to this position. I believed her when she said, "I will make it, I will show you what one woman can do." I truly wish her good fortune, cooperation from President Bush, and other world leaders, whom she solicits. I pray for her and her family, and may God bless her in all of her endeavors.
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Edwin R. Hughes, Burnsville, Minnesota, U.S., 19 Mar 2006
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If Liberia is to join the world community once again our government needs to immediately abolish selfish old laws such as those ralating to citizenship and the ownership of properties. Some of us who were fortunate to have left the country have seen what positive results other countries have made in terms inclusiveness involving people of all nations and colors. In the past, these ancient laws did noting good but to suppress the economic developement of the country.
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Stanley T. Neblett, Indiana, U.S., 19 Mar 2006
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Madam president's speech was very touching and beautifully delivered. Judy Waterbury of Connecticut has the best advice of the day. "Liberians abroad need to return home and help rebuild their nation". I have observed in the past months after the elections were held in Liberia, a lot of Liberians returning home in search of employment with the Liberian government.
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While it is true that the gov. needs to employ people to carry on the nation-building process, it is equally true that the country also needs Liberians who have lived abroad for some time to return home with venture capitalsto help stimulate the growth process. The Labanese have lived in Liberia before, during, and after the civil war. What keeps them in Liberia? Yes, they do have someplace they could settle besides Liberia so don't persue that notion. They are there because business is good.(LPA anyone?). So I say, go home and start a business and do what the Labanese does. Let's partner with our foreign business friends in Liberia to bring economic stability there in the shortest possible time. The gov. alone cannot absorb everybody. [ show full text ]
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Aloysius Stevens, Albany, New York, 19 Mar 2006
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Yes the sanctions should be lifted in order for Liberia to use its natural resources to rebuild. But only after the Liberia government displays that it is making an effort to actually curb the corrupt mentality that is embeded in the Liberian culture.
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As for the U.S. role in Liberia it should be limited as they are directly or indirectly responsible for most of the crisis that occurred in Liberia. The U.S. have been part of the problem at times. The President's main focus should be educating Liberians. If the population is educated they will be well informed and know that outsiders are not going to rebuild Liberia that it is our responsibility. If that is done they will not be misled again and think that if we have internal crisis an outside power will step in and stop it. Which has always been the frame of mind of the Liberian population. Proper prevention is always better than cure. [ show full text ]
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Frederick Robertson, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., 19 Mar 2006
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What we need in Liberia is a new economic order that will spur growth and national development. Liberia must adopt the model of industrialization that has led to the amazing trend of the creation of wealth and development as seen in southeast Asia. If the lifting of sanctions means the resumption of an economic system based on the exportation of natural resources as has been practiced in the past, then why lift it?
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L. Wuanti, Noblesville, Indiana, U.S., 19 Mar 2006
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Congratulations to you, Mrs. Sirleaf.
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This is from a Liberian student based in Egypt. On behalf of the Liberian Student Union in Egypt studying under Alzahar Sheriff want to extend their congenial thanks and appreciation to you for becoming such a wonderful leader of our country. May the Lord guard you and not let any evil lead you to corruption. Remember that, raise by the gun died by the gun. Let justice be done to all men.
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Mohammed Bakelu Sonie, Cairo, Egypt, 19 Mar 2006
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I would suggest for her to call on God's guidance during her reign let her not be there to satisfy any party but be a pillar to the nation. Let her lead a good example as a first lady president in Africa.
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Let all the citizens see her emerge as a succesful president other than trying to make her fail because her failure will not only be for her but to the all nation. Let unity prevail, priority as to be given to the basics necesities of life such as health, education, water, electicity , communication systems, roads networks, etc.
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May the Lord guide her during her term of office.
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Mateus Cambola, Luanda, Angola, 19 Mar 2006
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The issue of Taylor going to face justice in Sierra Leone or wherever should not be look at as a wrongdoing by the leader of Liberia and the international community but as means to discourage the few of bringing war, sicknesses, diseases and hardship to the already tough time most of our people face.
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Those loyalist to Taylor who in the past killed, arrested, and intimidated people who passed them on public road think that by posing threats with stop the trial of criminal Taylor. Taylor is the man who make so many people fatherless, motherless, sisterless, brotherless, armless, legless and worst of all have all the money of the nation in his house where he had ton of girls while the 99.5 percent of the people walked the street looking and begging for bread to feed their families. Is this right? In fact, this is a man that have been troublesome from the day he was born. [ show full text ]
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Paul, Indiana, U.S., 19 Mar 2006
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Some of the major tasks for the sustainability of the hard won peace in Liberia are exactly what the president has embarked upon:(1) by fighting of corruption, (2) cancelation of dubious concentions agreements,(3)appealing and attracting well-meaning international investors,(4)declaration of assets by senior government officials which demonstrate high level of transprancy and (5)support to the Truth and Reconciliation Commision (TRC).
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Julius Smith, Zweru, Grand Gedeh County, Liberia, 19 Mar 2006
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I have read with great dismay that some authors comments posted here have critical analogy about President Sirleaf appointees to her newly inducted government. First of all, I am not a politician nor part and parcel of any political party. Nonetheless, I admired the way in which the President is handling her activities with respect to appointment of Mr. Kabana Jane to the Suprime Court, let character judge itself. Instead of destructive criticism let's have constructive one. We have suffered long enough and it's about time to support this government and not to create hateful or witch hunting.
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With regards to the Taylor saga, I think it is not the rightful solution to our country's many problems. The international communities continued to hamper the premature government of Madam Sirleaf to hand over Charles G. Taylor to the United Nation-backed Court in Sierra Leone for charges of crime against humanity, this may create a bizzare reaction from his supporters creating an unsafe situation the country had alredy gone through. Please let this government be situated and concentrate on the most issues that confront its citizens such as electricity, clean drinking water, hospitals, schools and creating jobs opportunities and establishing a secure atomophere for business venture and investment opportunities in order to attract investors. [ show full text ]
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Brownell D. Zoe, Delaware, U.S., 18 Mar 2006
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Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has started her presidency on a good footing and if she remains consistent, she will set the stage for a success story unprecedented in Liberia's entire existence.
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But the Taylor issue must be resolved first and foremost. Charles Taylor must be made to face the wars crime court in Freetown, Sierra Leone to vindicate himself. It is not known what his loyalists' fears are that they are barking here and there againt his appearance in court to face his 17-count charges. The war crime court will provide Mr. Taylor the best forum to vindicate himself. These lieutenants who aided him to commit heinous crimes against women, children, the helpless, the elderly and others should be brouht to justice also because, it seems to me, that they will in some way present stumbling block to progress in Liberia's hard-won peace. They helped to create the failed state and they want the nation to remain a failed state. [ show full text ]
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Jonathan Morris, Maple Grove, Minnesota, U.S., 18 Mar 2006
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I wholeheartedly want to express my thanks and appreciation to GOD for our wew President Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf who never left the political stage because of her native country Liberia but fought hard with every greedy politician that has failed their own people (Liberians) from the past even some are in her government now.
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To preserve the peace in Liberia, President Sirleaf needs to get rid of past corrupt officials. (A Saying) My behavior goes where ever I go. They only want to be seen as speakers of corruption and lies but not a Speaker of Liberia
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Most of all, the 14 years war has made the illiteracy rate very high in Liberia. The people need security, justice, education and health care. [ show full text ]
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Emmett K. Wesseh III, Brooklyn Center Minnesota, U.S., 18 Mar 2006
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I suggest the following:
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1. Turn Taylor over to the war crimes tribunal in Sierra Leone. To do so would help to reduce or eliminate the culture of impunity that has become pervasive in our society. If Taylor is found guilty and punished, it will strengthen the position of parents who have always established that crime does not pay. If found not guilty, everyone benefits because Taylor would have exonerated himself from charges levied against him while his accusers would have also proven that no one is above the law.
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2. Stengthen the courts and the rule of law.
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3. Maintain the sanctions in exchange for international assistance commensurate with the value of the exports for the first year to help Madam Sirleaf curb corruption. [ show full text ]
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Patrick S. Emerson, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., 18 Mar 2006
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I think the president is moving in the right direction. Her recent efforts to eradicate corruption and send Taylor to face justice is prerequisite to Liberia achieving valuabe peace and substainable development. I hope that all Liberians join hands in unity to rebuild their fragile country. We can give all the money and development materials, but it is the people on the ground who will determine where they want to see themselves and their country in the future.
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Shilue Johnson, New York, New York, U.S., 18 Mar 2006
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Having read an article tonight where the president backtracked on Charles Taylor, if she had only stated that (to be politically correct) I cannot comment on that at this time. And when she went to the U.S. and made the decision to request Taylor'ss return, she would have no critics. Liberia must gain credibility in government and rebuild public trust and then international trust will follow. The Liberian people MUST REALIZE that in a war torn country, you must insert some undesirable to maintain peace.
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2. why in gods name do Liberia have sanctions against them, this is begging for internal conflict. LIFT THE SACTIONS THE US KNOW THAT THIS SHOULD BE DONE IMMEDIATELY.
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3. Get a true economist into the system, and a very strong financial person to manage currency and insert good governance. [ show full text ]
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Sylvester Pinkney, 18 Mar 2006
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All Liberians "must" be extremely proud of our newly elected President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf! When all Liberians were in a state of despair this lady stepped up to face the challenges that most intelligent men fear. We all know the past and what was said but the past is history. We cannot change the past, the focus point here, is the future of Liberia. We had enough. We have had enough and President Sirleaf is the symbolic representation of "ENOUGH."
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Governing a nation is a huge task and Ellen cannot consolidate this torn apart "SWEET LAND OF LIBERTY" alone. I urge all Liberians, everywhere in the world to support this ambitious lady. I particularly am astonished by her passion and courage to play a leading role to restate the land of our ancestors, and eventually this illusion will become a reality. [ show full text ]
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Monroe Krakue, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., 18 Mar 2006
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Congrat Madame President,
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Here are the code of actions to move Liberia forward:
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1. Keep the peace
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a. Justice for all, including Mr. Taylor
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b. Keep eye on trouble makers
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2. Provide security
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a. The police should be better than what we currently have.
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b. Crack down on criminals.
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3. Above all no curruption (no. 1 enemy)
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Albert Zaza, Columbia, Maryland, U.S., 17 Mar 2006
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I keep hearing this argument about lifting sanctions and travel bans from many of my country folks. I guess the issue at stake is not so much the sanctions and travel restrictions as it is seeking to help bring to a halt the heartless cultures of unaccountability, exploitation and dehumanization of the majority by a few gangsters who still roam our city streets, towns and villages. I thought our immediate concern would be to see our newly elected government be formed, seated and prepared to monitor those sensitive areas of our national life.
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I feel it is too soon to begin asking the sanctions and other restrictions to be lifted. I am afraid that those corrupt wolves and lions are still around in disguise. We must give our new government a chance to put in place the necessary mechanism that would help with effective control over our economic and other forms of securities before the sanctions can be lifted. We have been through these hard times for years with no hope in sight. So,I believe exercising just a little patience with our current leadership won't do us any harm. [ show full text ]
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Jakes Sei Voker, Madison, Wisconsin, U.S. 17 Mar 2006
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Kudos to Ellen! It’s been a while since Liberians have had a representation from a leader that is so positive and so full of optimism. As I listen to our first female president, I could not help but feel her passion. With a leader like Ellen, she makes you want to go back home to contribute your part. Ellen, we are coming home to help. We will do our part to build up the private sector. As you eloquently stated…” we would not, we will not, and we can not” let you take on this enormous task alone.
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George P., Atlanta, Georgia, U.S., 17 Mar 2006
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Liberia’s profile was indeed strengthened by the very insightful address before the joint session of the U.S. Congress by our President, Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. She was able to cogently expound on important issues and bring focus to the need and requirements for a comprehensive reform of the Liberian society. The task of reforming Liberia is one that requires both the political will and technical competence to institute fundamental changes to the status quo which over many years fostered a deep rooted culture of cronyism, greed, corruption, mismanagement, and dependency. The success of reforming our country will require the involvement and support of every Liberian citizen. Hopefully, as Mrs. Sirleaf so courageously said, Liberia will become an African "success story" that we all can claim as having played some part in fostering. [ show full text ]
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William F. Zobong Ponder, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S., 17 Mar 2006
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'To God be the Glory' that the guns are silent. It's now time for education, sensitization,and raising peoples' hopes from dehumanization. It is a difficult task so we should allow developments and basic human necessities to prevail before going after those who may have committed heinous crimes. If we mind ambitious people who are advocating for justice we will not develop. Let us allow the dust to settle completely before we begin to sweep. We already have enough problems to begin with and that is our corruptive attitudes which leads us to take sides with gun-totting factions.
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I think the President is on the right track and should not push too fast on the Charles Taylor issue, but she needs to be cautious not to also allow the emotions of the lawmakers who are sitting in the confines of Pentagon's shadows to overwhelm her to take the wrong step. Sierra Leone and Liberia are similar people, if it is not ready yet in Liberia it is also not ready yet in Sierra Leone. Lets proceed slowly but with faith and trust in God. [ show full text ]
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Rev. St. John York, Limuru, Kenya, 17 Mar 2006
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Stop coruption and bring Taylor and his closest working mates to justice.
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Lady Johnson Daniels, England, 17 Mar 2006
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From my vantage point in Liberia for the last several months, the newly elected government of Madame Sirleaf has made several mistakes. These actions may very well be honest errors because of lack of experience or the normal hypocritical ways as practiced by leaders before her including Taylor and Mr. Bryant.
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What are some of the mistakes or conscious attempt to yet again mislead the poor down deprave folks of Liberia? An example of would-be Madame Sirleaf hots for Mr. Taylor, while at the same time appointing another brutal killer Kabana Jane to a lifetime tenure on the Supreme Court. Other glaring examples are the incompetent appointments she has made to her lower and mid-level cabinet. Roughly 60 percent of the people appointed were architects of the failed government past. [ show full text ]
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John G. Zezezora, Kakata, Liberia, 17 Mar 2006
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One of the keys to success with respects to nation building, is for a nation to adopt only the successful aspects of other nations while discarding their failures. All too often, nations adopt the practices of other nations without being fully aware of the flaws inherent in those practices. Serious flaws within those systems, that could have been avoided by the adopting nation, if there had been more due diligence. Some examples of positive aspects that Liberia may want to incorporate are as follows:
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1) The cultivation of NERICA rice; an excellent high yield rice developed by the West African Rice Development Association (WARDA) for which African rice breeder Dr. Moussa Sie' won the prestigious 2006 Fukui International Koshihikari Rice Prize of Japan. NERICA rice is currently being cultivated by a number of African nations. [ show full text ]
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Curtis White, Endicott, New York, U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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I believe the international community, especialy the United Nations should lift the ban on Liberia at time to bring the needed peace to the people of Liberia. Let America play her traditional roll as the godfather of this once sweet land of liberty to take its place back among the community of nations.
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I personally a high degree of trust in the leadership of President Sirleaf and her willingness to set a new stage for good governance in Liberia. The United Nations have seen this commitment and patriotism on the part of the new government, they (U.N.) must act now to lift all bans on resources for the government to forge ahead with the deire programs for the good of the citizenry. Now is the time for action to preserved the peace so long for all Liberians. [ show full text ]
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Eddie B. Stewart, South Bend, Indiana, U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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It is now time for the sanctions on Liberia to be lifted since there is in place an elected government that represents all Liberians. This will greatly help with socio-political and economic development at this crucial stage of the development process.
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Lafayette Manneh, Staten Island, New York, U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has a tremendous opportunity to rebuild her country and creat a bright future for the many faces of Liberia. This will only happen if she focus on creating jobs, reconstructing, rebuilding and bringing progress to Liberia and not allowing the international community pressure on her to see that former President Charles Taylor faces trial will only result in to the country going back to square one. The peace process in Liberia is very fragile and any attempt by her opportunist to seize the moment and pursue Taylor will reviberate violence and bring her Presidency to fall. She should only focus on progress and the well being of the Liberian people first before any other ambition.
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I hope that the Liberian people will help her to succeed to fix their country and create jobs and laws, so that people will leave freely especially the women, free of rapes and other dehumanizing conditions. Good luck Liberia! [ show full text ]
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Patrick C Achibiri, U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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Mrs. Sirleaf is a good woman with a good heart and has good intention to help the Liberian people but she has to get rid of the old Bryant criminals. She has to close her eyes and make the tough decisions and look at the people who will carry her commitment and dreams for the Liberian people forward. She should not look back because Liberia is a spoiled country with people who do not have respect for each other but their pocket books. She should not waste her political capital on people who do not care for the rule of law.
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She need to get rid of her Deputy Finance Minister who was just indicted, arrested and currently under criminal appearance bond. She has to show a perfect example to let the Liberian people know that she is serious and mean business. Wish her well and God be with her and give her continous strength because she has a hugh amount of task ahead to do if she wants to fight corruption in Liberia after Bryant Government with half of the support arm of the past NTGL in her corner and Bryant is going to the Capitol Hill asking lawmakers to approve all of the President's nominee but when asked to come and give account of his past budget he refused. [ show full text ]
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Arthur G. Jackson, Monrovia, Liberia, 16 Mar 2006
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To curb corruption in Liberia is not an easy task. Embezzlement of government funds is popular to the extent that when a minister does not build a luxurious home, people consider him/her stupid. Curbing corruption in Liberia must have to be institutionalized. It is impossible for one person to fight corruption. It won't work
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Emmanuel Kamei, Gaithersburg, Maryland, U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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It has long been my dream that one day Liberia will rise, one day that someone or individuals who are cognizant of the dynamics of this Global Village, imbued with the complexities of this contemporary world, will champion the cause of this "Sweet land of liberty" - Liberia. I salute you Madam President.
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On the issue of sanctions, there should be no doubt of the credibility of the Ellen-led Government. Let's reflect on this saying, "One does not have to eat his entire egg at breakfast table to know that it is rotten". The level of trust of this governmnet can be measured from its very formation and the distinct consistencies of the President, as well as her continued and vigorous determination of zero tolerance for corruption. Liberia is more like starting from zero and as such has nothing to lose. Lifting sanctions for a credible government like this will be a major stimulant for economic growth, development, peace and planty for a war-weary people. [ show full text ]
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J. Nat Holder, Monrovia, Liberia, 16 Mar 2006
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God bless the women of Liberia who had the strength to take to the streets and vote for a real leader and not some corrupt, interest-driven warlord. This is our time to make Liberia to be the pride of Africa and to lead our continent with transparent governance and sound economic inertia. I, Florence Togba, love my country and cannot see Liberia falling apart. I hope President Johnson Sirleaf will keep to her promise and bring light and water to our people soon. God Bless our nation and our new president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Let our love of peace prevail!
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Florence Togba, Madrid, Spain, 16 Mar 2006
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We as Liberians who live in the U.S. must work with the new president for a betterment of our country. She appear to have Liberia at heart and she is very knowledgeable of the need of the country. I pray for a better tomorrow for my native land, so my children can get the oppertunity I had growing up in Libera.
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Samuteh Morris, Brooklyn, New York, U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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We are not surprised about the strong, touching and motivating comment and speech the iron lady Madame Sirleaf made to the US Congress. This lady has come to set a legacy and we are very much optimistic that this lady will deliver the goods.
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John Jallah, Monrovia, Liberia, 16 Mar 2006
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I'm glad the President said in her speech that we are not looking for an hand-out, just a hand-up ( my interpretation). We need the international support in order to begin the process of doing for ourselves. Liberians are very hard working people, and want to be able to contribute towards the rebuilding of economic stability of our country. We will prevail.
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Gladys Greaves-Scott, Silver Spring, Maryland, U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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There's time for everything - there's time for war and there's time for peace, there's time for impunity and there's time for justice, there's time for corruption and there's time for accountability and transparence.
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That being said, I am initially impressed with the Sirleaf administration considering the trend of events.
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She called on all officials of her government to declare their assets, she started herself and others followed and the process is still ongoing; she began to with-hunt one of Charles Taylor's former con-artist, Tom Wowiyou for defamation of character during the elections but she listened to the voice of wisdom by dropping the case while at the mansion following public uproar; she promised justice and it's be exhibited - Charles Taylor, the man who plunged Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and then Cote D'Ivoire into war will not go scott free - She has just asked for him to go to the court and defend himself - justice delayed is justice denied - the victims of Taylor, the dead and living are begining to breath some sigh of relief. [ show full text ]
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Harrison Flomo, Kampala, Uganda, 16 Mar 2006
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I was deeply proud to be a Liberian yesterday sitting up in the Gallery of the House Chamber listening to our President! I was so excited that I had goose bumps just listening to every word. President Sirleaf made what I am sure others will agree, an EXCELLENT presentation. She nicely weaved together her personal experience with the broader national experience and suffering. She went on to educate her audience on the role Liberia has played as a staunch U.S. ally, and most of all, she firmly communicated her desires for good governance that will yield big and measurable social and economic "dividends" for Liberia and America.
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As I mentioned to a friend in attendance, she made the job of our country's allies in Congress 100 times easier when they make the case for additional Congressional funding in support of Liberia's recovery. This was definitely a moment that I will share with my children when they grow up. Man, I am proud!!! [ show full text ]
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Henrique Caine, Maryland, U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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The crucial question for the present government is how to preserve and sustain peace in Liberia. The goal of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf should not be simply to prosecute alleged architects of the notorious civil war but to use these concepts as means to prevent future conflicts and provide human security as a necessary public good. Without peace and stability there can be no sustainable human development, and security should not be with increase funding for the military but through a genuine national reconciliation that addresses the sources of corruption, inequality, and grievances existing in Liberia today. Justice and stability must be dealt with concomitantly.
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Finally, there is a need in post-war Liberia to develop educational and cultural programs at the grassroots level through which ethnic and cultural diversities can be appreciated and integrated into national unity. The Inter-faith mediation committee, civic organizations, and non-governmental can play a significant role in developing these programs. Political leaders on the other hand should encourage unity between ethnic groups, mutual tolerance and accomodation of diversity of opinion, respect for pluralism and cherish the sense of the common good. [ show full text ]
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Joseph S. Sherman, Washington, D.C. , U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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I want for President Sirleaf to talk the international community to provide for us more medical facilities to enable us the medical practioners to return home and be able to help our brothers and sisters with the experiences that we get from the foreign lands. I also want for President Sirleaf to hurry up and implement the election promises by providing for us electricity and water two of the most important aspects of life.
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Betty Moses, Refugees Camp, Ghana, 16 Mar 2006
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I would like for President Sirleaf to actually go out to Liberia's friend and appeal to them in a special way to not only assist my country but to do it with a matter of urgency so that we can get the basics necessary needs like electricity and water so that we the refugees in the various countries can go back home and contribute to the development of our beloved country. I would also like President Sirleaf to be open to all Liberians especially Amb. Weah and the CDC.
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Edward Y. Zayzay, Freetown, Sierra Leone, 16 Mar 2006
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The international community need to see reason to lift the sanction. Now that the war is over, we need to build our country Liberia. Please see reason to lift the sanction up now. One tree cannot make a forest. We need to work with the international community to keep our peace.
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Thanks very much to Madam Ellen for that powerful speech delivered at hte joint section of the United States. Thank you Mama Ellen - Liberians will forever remember you.
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Karsor K. Zubah, Monrovia, Liberia, 16 Mar 2006
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Believe me or not, Mrs. Sirleaf is the one who will bring honesty, fairness, transparancy, equal justice and pure democracy to Liberia our beatiful country. Liberians are very strong, intellegent and proud people; we deserve better soci-economic and a prosperous life style, as we were once a great country.
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I want the president to dismiss all corrupt official and all position be merit and not by who knows you as well as filling out a job application or CV with proper scrutining of higher statutory and non-statutory positions.
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Our security and judiciary system needs an overhaul, as all Liberians are desperate to see justice prevail and not like the past when goverment officials were placing and sending their families on scholarship that they do not merit, as well bribing them for jobs and other things. [ show full text ]
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Foday Johnson, London, United Kingdom, 16 Mar 2006
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The only way to preserve peace in our country, Liberia, is to educate our people.
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Meniboon, M. P., Providence, Rhode Island, U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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Now it's about time that the international community see reason to lift sanctions on the export of Liberia's raw materials. This I believe will help Madam Sirleaf step up on government revenue generation which in return will increase the living standard in the country.
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The U.S. at this time should help to sustain the level of peace in her daughter land (LIBERIA)and above all play a major role in the rebulding of Liberia. U.S. should also play an important role in the reformation of the army which we all know to be the strangth of any nation.
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Madam Sirleaf's priorities should be but not limited to: education, youth empowerment, corruption, building & reconditioning of roads, security, agriculture, water, electricity, reintegration of ex-combatants & transpirancy. [ show full text ]
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Galakpai G. Murray, York, Pennsylvania, U.S., 16 Mar 2006
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Liberia is now embarking on a final journey to achieving modern statehood. The ill start of the country and the divisions led to its internecine wars over the past 20-plus years. Now after the blood letting and score settling, a new nation is born, forged through the fires of its bloods and tears and cognizant of the causes and price of ethnicism, crony capitalism and corruption.
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Noone is more suited to face the challenge Liberia faces than the Grand Dame of Liberian politics, Madame Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.
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I hope she continues to face down the monster of cronyism and corruption while at the same time working on meeting the dire development challenges her nation faces.
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JOBS JOBS JOBS DEVELOPMENT are her challenges. No effort must be spared in ensuring that labour intensive and emergency employment development programmes are devised. [ show full text ]
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Pa Musa Jallow, Nottingham, UK, 15 Mar 2006
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First, congratulation to the historical accendency of Ellen Sirleaf as 1st elected Liberia and Africa female president! I'm indeed in strong support of her dreams, hopes, and success for Liberia: however, I don't want her to do all of what the United States and other short sighted individuals and organizational leaders are telling her to do, that is to tap the behive of bees. Listen, Liberia is just taking the first birth of peace and recovery, why will we allow the destruction of the resources and efforts of the good samaritans. The point is, let Charles Taylor remains in exile and be like Idi Amin of Uganda.
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For instance, Saddam in Irag is in U.S. custody and we can see the chaos and destructions when Sadam had impacted this country for about 27 years, leaving loyalists and supporters still ruining the streets of Baghdad. Imagine if Saddam is killed in custody, what will be the outcome and fate of Irag. Same goes to Charles Taylor. Taylor had impacted Liberia in chaos for 14 years leaving scares, loyalists, and supporters in Liberia and the west African region. One-third of the present Ellen Johnson's officials are strong Taylor loyalists and supporters. Can you imagine what will happen if he is taken to the Sierra Leonian court or in Liberia for presecution? Please, please and please I don't want my country, Liberia, to be another Iraq, where chaos, deaths and destructions are all we hear from there. [ show full text ]
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Toumaryon Moses Kollie, Raleigh, North Carolina, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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Women have the potential and will to do even better then anyone could think. The most of all is, Liberia needed a change in governance and leadership in handling its rich resources and I am profoundly convicted that President Sirleaf is up to the task. My prayers is that the rest of the G8 Countries should rally around Madam sirleaf in order to reconstruct Liberia's broken infastructures that was badly damaged due to the brutal civil war.
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With the potential wave of drastic measures against anyone caught stealing the Liberian money, I am sure the President is setting up the stage for more international assistance from donor countries. I for one, believe Liberia under this administration will rise up above major expectations in dealing with corrupt government officials. [ show full text ]
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Emmanuel Wilson Duo, Newark, Delaware, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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Excellent speech Madam President. I was very proud of who I am (a Liberian) when I heard my president addressing the joint congress of the U.S. She meticulously lay out the issues and problems that we face in Liberia; the connection between Liberia and the U.S. and the reason why their support is needed more than ever before.
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Madam President, I respect you very much and pray that you keep your promises. To all my fellow Liberians, as we are counting on the President and her administration to make our dreams comes true, I will like to ask each and everyone of us to search our hearts and determine what will be our contribution toward sustainable peace in Liberia. Remember this peace can only be broken when we the New Generation sit aside and feel that our import doesn’t matter. President Sirleaf said, “The people of Liberia know that government cannot save the country - only their own strength, their determination, their creativity, resilience and their faith can do that". [ show full text ]
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Sam Kai Dewhea Jr., Minnesota, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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I think that it is very important that the international community help the newly elected president of Liberia so that the citizens can get moving again; therefore lifting of the sanctions are very important.
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Jason Wright, Loganville, Georgia, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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I think to sustain the hard-earned peace we must identify the problems and solve them. The problem Liberia is facing now are corruption, injustice, dishonesty and illiteracy.
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If these problems are not solved there is no way we can sustain peace.
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Kai Fahnbulleh, Adelaide, Australia, 15 Mar 2006
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U.S. should lift all sanctions against Liberia. Increase financial aid to three hundred millions. Send technical support such as civil and agricultural specialists at U.S. expense.
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All the Liberian soldiers that served the Transition Government should be retrained to serve the country in other areas if not in army so that they will not return to the old habit of causing troble. Impairment of integrity must be treated as the country's enemy number one.
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Richard Inyama, Los Angeles, California, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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It is a wonderful moment when Africa's first woman leader embarks upon a journey to re-develop her country after years of war. Hopefully it will be the start of a new relationship with other countries and organizations that will allow her the necessary investment and funding to improve the lot of her people. Infrastructure development, and increased employment opportunities will get her great support from her people. It is my hope that the "loyal opposition" will also join her in this march forward... so that petty politics and the agendas of a few will not prevent the government from focusing on the greater needs.
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Gary B. Smith, Freetown, Sierra Leone, 15 Mar 2006
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My prayer is that President Sirleaf will pressure the U.S. and all donors to contribute funds that can be used to provide jobs and assist with education.
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RESIST donations designated for MILITARY SPENDING!
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Denise Ivy, Albuquerque, New Mexico, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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Ask the international community to provide scolarships to all combatants outside Liberia (for those who are interested in going to school). There are skills-oriented institutions in Africa that will provide not only handicraft skills but will also give them a change of environment which will do a lot to heal and help revive them.
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lusineboyblack, Guinea, 15 Mar 2006
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We as Liberians should be thankful to God, for Him to have given us a special and great person like Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to be our president. I suppose what we should do now is to pray for her to keep up the energy to do what she is doing to put Liberia back on the map. I must admit, she is doing great, and if she keeps on, Liberia is certainly going to be one of the best countries in Africa.
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Henry H. King, Hopkins, Minnesota, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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Let me begin my comments by first thanking ECOWAS and the United Nations for working so hard with Liberians to achieve the level of peace and stability Liberians are currently enjoying.
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To maintain and ensure the durability of peace in Liberia, I think a number of things need to be considered and carried out. First, Liberians, including most especially the Ellen Johnson administration, should never forget the vexing conditions that plunged and kept Liberia in a quagmire of crises for so long. In other words, Liberians should always remember their problem-filled history.
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I think there is a tendency for people to forget or ignore history. This seems to be the case with the current Ellen Johnson government. For example, when President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf decided to pursue a lawsuit against Tom Woewiyu for statement made against her during the 2005 presidential campaign, I saw that as a misuse of powers, something which had been central to the age-old crises in Liberia. Past Liberian leaders had used their privileged position to victimize their real and perceived enemies. President Johnson's decision to pursue a case she reportedly filed as a private citizen was a violation of Article 61 of the Liberian Constitution, which forbids the suing and/or subjection of the President of Liberia to lawsuit of judicial proceedings. [ show full text ]
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J. Kerkula Foeday, Iowa City, Iowa, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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In my modern Africa course, I am so pleased to be able to invoke Ellen's election as a bright light on the road to democracy in Africa. My students are now tired of hearing about this from me, though I cannot seem to tire from telling them about it!
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Brad K. Mazon, Buffalo State College, Buffalo, New York, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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It is believed, at least the majority of Liberians, that this glorious land of liberty, Liberia, that is, was founded on Christian principles by the American Colonization Society( ACS) in 1822. If this accession is true, why not Liberians turn to the almighty God in order for Him to help us sustain the peace and stability He helped to obtain?
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I believe that we have forgotten about God that's why we are having all these proplems. We must first and foremost return to Creator, all else we are doomed to fail in our quest to maintain the relative peace and stability we now enjoy.
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On the other hand, the Unity Party led-government of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf must do away with all the vices that brought about the war: corruption; nepotism; favoratism; tribalism; deprivation and the likes. [ show full text ]
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Massanor Gelehwogee, Buduburam Refugee Camp, Ghana, 15 Mar 2006
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I was stationed in Liberia in the U.S. Peace Corps in Pynetown in 1982-83. Liberia is near and dear to my heart.
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I applaud President Johnson-Sirleaf and wish her and all the people of Liberia best wishes. I do however find it very very interesting that most of the comments on this site come from displaced Liberians living outside the country. I hope that once safety and security are brought to all of Liberia you will want to return to your homeland to bring all the knowlege and experience to Liberia to help it grow into a wonderful place to be. Having read of all the problems of the past in Liberia I do not field any blame to people who were able enough to leave. But, you need to be there, in the country to help build the country. [ show full text ]
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Judy, Waterbury, Connecticut, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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I like to first of thank the management of AllAfrica for this opportunity that has afforded the possibility of airing my thoughts about my BELOVED AND ONLY MOTHERLAND - LIBERIA.
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I also would like to thank all of our brothers and sisters who paricipated in the last general and presidential elections of 2005. Particularly, the result of the presidential election that brought to power Madam Sirleaf was classic and speaks very well of our preparedness to make a difference in our national history. I am convinced that most Liberians might have taken seriously Dr. H.B. Fanbulleh's Jr. comment just before the run off, that the executive mansion is not a place for "On the job training" and your choice of who now occurs your highest office speaks well. Words are inadequate to express my gratitude to each of you who made this wonderfully smart decision. [ show full text ]
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Rev. Jakes Sei Voker, Madison, Wiconsin, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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I think Liberians should be proud of Ellen for the very short period that she has been in office. Secondly, if the men in Liberia cannot get over seeing a female president, then they have a problem. Let these men remember that we are now in the 21st century. This lady is rapidly putting Liberia among comity of nations. This is the first leader in the history of our nation that is living up to her campaign promises. She is cracking down on corruption, revenue has increased since her two months in office, she has commissioned the TRC, officials of her government are declaring their assets, security in the country is getting better and better every day, and the rule of law is taking it course on a daily basis. Why not join her and contribute to the development of the country? [ show full text ]
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Zwannah Sirleaf, Cranston, Rhode Island, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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Congratulations to Mama Ellen for her historic win. As far as sanctions, I think they should be removed when the new government can prove that it is efficient enough to not exploit the country like Taylor, Doe, Tolbert, Tubman, and their predecessors. Also I think sanctions should be removed when Liberia and Nigeria can agree on sending Charles Taylor to trial. I also feel that with the TRC, it should help heal the wounds and answer the questions of events such as the 1979 rice riots, the 1980 coup/execution (and find out the foreign involvement in that), the 1985 elections and bloodbath after that, and last but not least the events of the civil war).
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Also, all money stolen by Taylor, Doe, and even family members of those executed in 1980 that are still in foreign bank accounts should be turned back over to the government. If countries like Sierra Leone, Mozambique, El Salvador, and Cambodia can get back on their feet, then Liberia can definitely do it. [ show full text ]
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Nathan, Austin, Texas, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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While Liberia and Liberians celebrate its new-found democracy following years of Liberians killing Liberians, Liberians destroying Liberia, Liberians looting Liberia resources, Liberians violating Liberians human rights, Liberians enslaving Liberians,Liberians lacking nationalism, and sense of purpose, I want to bring to the attention of the current administration the need for immediate review and reform of the following sectors. The review of all government lease agreements with private citizens for government mininstries/agencies so that wasted resources can be used to build modern ministries/agencies to provide civil servants 21st century work place environments as one of those steps in the fight against corruption. The merger, elimination, and consolidation of overlapping ministries/agencies especially the security sector (INS, CID, FIB, NSA etc)into a single ministry of the ministry of national security. The review of government civil servants at all ministries/agencies for downsizing civil servants for efficiency, cost-effectiveness and out-source to private/professional companies functions of some those ministries/agencies so that goverment will meet its payroll demands. [ show full text ]
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David K. Flomo, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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The way to preserving peace in Liberia is to get away from neo-colonialism metality. We ned to appreciate our own, love ourselves, our country and our brother. Fight illiteracy and make sure to insure us of better security.
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Stephen Togba, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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The security, stability and development of post-war Liberia is inseparably connected with those of other African nations especially its immediate neighboring countries. Consequently, instability in one African country reduces the stability of all other African nations.
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The erosion of political stability in Liberia has been one of the principal causes of its continuing crises and one of the major impediments to the creation of a sound economy and effective intra Liberian cooperation.
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The concept of security goes beyond military considerations. It embraces all aspects of the society including economic, political and and social dimensions of individual, family, community,local and national life.
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The security of a nation must be construed in terms of a security of the individual citizen to live with access to basic necessities of life while fully participating in the affairs of his or her society in freedom and enjoying all fundimental human rights. [ show full text ]
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E. Sumo Jones, Sr., Silver Spring, Maryland, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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Bravo, Pres. Sirleaf, in order to request from the USA and Europe you had to do your home work by writing a formal letter to the Nigerian Government to extradite Charles Taylor. I believe this decision is in the interest of Liberia, we can't continue to suffer because of one man.
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What a wise decision Madam President, now the world is really to support you because Liberia is now a country of equal rights and justice
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Darius Lomax, Benson St., Monrovia, Liberia, 15 Mar 2006
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As much as the president and leaders in Liberia are responsible for setting the tone for peace, the PEOPLE must be willing to do the same. The "masses" need to be patient and choose the path of peace. The new president cannot do anything without those being led doing their part.
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We have often seen how the masses have led leaders to become corrupt. The people become selfish and currupt, demanding from the leaders only things that will promote their individual interests, rather than NATIONAL interests. The people seeking instant change to a situation that requires years of work. People unwilling to have former leaders from their geographical regions account (in court) for their past bad practices ... and the list goes on. [ show full text ]
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Yakubu Pam, Chicago, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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Finally, I get a way to get things off my chest. To be really frank, I wasn’t a Sirleaf supporter. But, now I wouldn’t exchange her for a hundred million dollars diamond! I think for the first time in her long history, Liberia can now boast of a world class leader.
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The adage that the body is useless without a good head can also be said the other way round. Ellen might be a gift from God, but Liberians need to realize this by coming together as a single body, else, this ‘head’ will prove useless. Already, in the senate, our ugly past is showing its ugly head again!
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The refusal of the senate to confirm Kabineh Ja’neh as associate justice on basis of his affiliation with a faction in the civil war is very worrying, though, it hasn’t come as a shock to me. Even the child born today, is aware that from the president to the members of the senate, most Liberian can be associated with a faction. [ show full text ]
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Yousuf Keita, England, 15 Mar 2006
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A problem is not Liberia or which President. Sirleaf has been elected President but how has she got this post?? Will these forces that have elevated her to the highest office in the country allow her to do as she plans. External meddling of internal affairs has always become a problem to Africa and I think we can only get rid of these meddlers and have what to do next other wise we shall continue to be indirectly colinised. You read books and history, how have these external forces treated African citizens and even up to now they are still doing so. Imagine last year when British football teams played in Spain and how the black African players were treated. Today if they are giving you the so-called aid, they first question you if you have capacity to utilize it and so they import in their so-called experts and you find that the expertize line of the budgeting is the one given a lot of money. Let's only get rid of external medding and Africa will shine. [ show full text ]
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David Ndungutse, Kigali, Rwanda, 15 Mar 2006
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For some reason, Liberia's profile as a country does not sit well with me. It appears to me that the history of the founding of this tiny nation is either totally distorted, or it was a fake from the beginning. While it is true that a handful of freed slaves came back to this site of the continent to co-exist with their brothers and sisters after they were freed from slavery, history then claimed that in fact, Liberia was founded for these settlers. The national motto states, "The Love of Liberty Brought Us Here" So what about us the original inhabitants of this land who never left but were here all these hundreds of years?
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The little piece of land that the U.S. government bought for the settlers from local chiefs at the time did not mean that the settlers or the Americo-Liberians own all of Liberia as it later turned out to be. [ show full text ]
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Degan F. Ballayan, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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After experiencing many years of brutal and utterly savage civil wars, no one can blame Liberians for continuously being complacent and shortsighted. Today, everyone (Liberian) is saying that things will be fine under the current President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, never mind the fact that the "structural" problems which led us to war in the first place really haven’t been addressed. I'm talking about "structural" problems such as the ongoing exploitation of our severely impoverished people by companies like Firestone and LAC. I'm also talking about our continuing reliance on handouts from foreign governments as opposed to utilizing our own resources for the benefit of all. To continue to beg without taking a bold stand in regard to retrieving monies stolen from the state's coffers by unscrupulous Liberians is highly cynical to me. Finally, Liberians desperately need to wake up and take charge of their now war-wrecked country rather than serving as mere cheerleaders to this new administration. [ show full text ]
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James W. Harris, Woodbridge, Virginia, U.S., 15 Mar 2006
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I will like to first of all thank the Liberian people for their decision to put the war behind them and move our country forward. Those of us who are in the United States and elsewhere must by now learn how to support our national leaders. We must desist from undermining our leaders. Let us give the new leadership a chance. There are lots of work to be done.
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Those of us who have the requisite qualifications should think about going back home to contribute our quota to nation building. Let us stop organizing ourselves as a negative force towards undermining this government. Organize yourselves as a progressive force to help shape the destiny of our country, Liberia, in a positive and meaniful way. This can only be achieved if we stand united and support our new government. May God bless Liberia and save the state. [ show full text ]
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Momolu E. Siryon, Newcastle, Deleware, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Liberia under Madam Sirleaf must reinvent itself by simply using its natural human and mineral resources for genuine developmental purposes such as modern agriculture, electricity, water purification and infrastructural developement. She can start with the energy sector by constructing mini-dams on all of the rivers that run thru Liberia and attach water purification plants. Also solar and wind sources can be explored.
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Wadiah J Massoud, Lawrenceville, Georgia, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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The international community should have limited sanctions. Example: No logs should be exported from Liberia for ten years. Half of all rubber should be exported as finished products. Lift sanctions on iron ore & minerals. Sanction on all other raw materials.
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U.S. role: Provide experts to implement economic development programs.
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Sirleaf's prorities: Education, roads, corruption, health.
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Quayquay Corfah Sr., San Diego, California, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Liberia's problems is not just Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's. Every Liberian has a stake in the country's welfare. We can start by 1) defeating one of the greatest challenges we face: corruption. 2) Helping our country grow by making some sort of economic contribution. Government is a small entity -- everyone cannot work for the government. Small business owners can serve as a backbone of a strong economy. To do this, the Liberian government will need to give Liberians the opportunity and incentive to do so. While we should welcome foreign investment, Liberians should be given an even playing field and should not have to result to bribery to start a legitimate business -- which eventually will help to grow the country's economy. [ show full text ]
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Kate Peabody, Pensacola, Florida, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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I have traveled to Monrovia, Liberia for the past several years and have assessed the mounting problems confronting the public and private sectors. First of all, the Liberianization policy needs to be enforced to permit Liberians to take control of the private sector. Secondly, there has to be an inclusive banking institution for all Liberians to get involved in the private sector in order to compete with foreign nationals. Thirdly, the human resources of Liberia needs technical and basic job training in order to be skillful, which will enable them to participate in the reconstruction process of the country.
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Last but not least, the public sector needs a thorough overhaul to rid the government of those with the me, myself and I attitudes. [ show full text ]
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Chris Jackson, Randolph, Massachusetts, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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You know after reading some of the commentary posted here, I found it feasible to post mine for your readers. I followed the recent election closely. I am not a supporter of President Sirleaf nonetheless, I admire her for her conviction and willingness to work with all Liberians. I’ve cried everyday in my heart for peace to come to Liberia so that one day we shall return. It is very interesting to see after all what our Sweet Liberia has gone through; there are those so-called patriots of Liberia who cannot accept the fact that a woman is ruling Liberia. All those that are talking about her having an imported government need to let go those ignorance and hypocritical thoughts. Do you know that the best minds of Liberia were and are educated abroad? This is not the time for any destructive criticizing. If you love Liberia as you love yourself or your wife and children, try to be very constructive and have a very positive outlook for the future of our nation. [ show full text ]
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Sam Kai Dewhea Jr., Minnesota, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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I was in Liberia during the October election and the run-up, which brought Madam Sirleaf to power. I hope that she will do all within her power to reduce if not eliminate the level of corruption and institute good fiscal discipline in our financial institions. As she promised during the campaign, I hope that she would appoint people with competencies, good characters, and have expertise in the area of their assignments, especially in our banking institutions as well as the Ministry of Finance. I also do hope that she will go across party lines and try to encourage young, educated Liberians outside of our country to return home.
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Paye S. Gbelayan, Jacksonville, Florida, U.S., March 14, 2006
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Madam Sirleaf's rise to the presidency in Liberia as the first female president in Africa is the beginning of a novel political dispensation in Liberia. As an international stateswoman her image will give Liberia a makeover, and present new opportunities that will move the country forward. I believe she will strive to be the antithesis to past Liberian leaders in recent times, whose reign has been characcterized by corruption, various forms of abuses and killing of innocent people. I do support external assistance for the good of our country. However, I am concerned about the local mobilization of resources. If the government can succeed in accounting for taxes and other levies that are locally generated and used properly, we will be on our way to recovery. [ show full text ]
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Samuel Mulbah Sondah, Antioch, California, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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President Sirleaf is determined to make a difference in restoring the dignity of Liberia and its people, who have been oppressed for the past 14 years by non-nationalistic and unpatriotic individuals.
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The big question is, will President Siurleaf's disciples follow her foot step? Jesus told his disciples that if they love him, they should keep his commandments. President Sirleaf is crystal clear by saying, if you love me and your country, stop your corruption and follow me. If you do not stop stealing and embezzling the country’s money and resources, you are out! Let us pray for President Sirleaf and her disciples as they endeavor to rebuild Liberia. It is the responsibility of all Liberians abroad and at home to contribute in rebuilding sweet Liberia. [ show full text ]
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David D. Dann, Bradenton, Florida, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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I am Victoria. I am 16. I want to say thanks to the new president of our country, for her promises she's making to rebuild the country. I pray that she continue her hard work to rebuild our country.
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Victoria, Lansing, Michigan, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Hi, Mrs. President,
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I am george. I am 17. I was born in Monrovia, Liberia, but during the civil war, we left the country to the Ivory Coast, and then to the U.S.
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I am really excited when I saw this news on the Internet. I love to have you president for our country. I believe you are the one who's going to rebuild our country and future. Actually we as teenagers who left the country during the war, never and didn't see our country. We don't know well about our country. But by the grace of God and your hard work, you going to make us to enjoy our country.
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Please Mrs. President do all you can do to rebuild our country, so we can have a better country, only God will reward you for your hard work. [ show full text ]
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George W., Lansing, Michigan, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Madam president, considering the circumstances and condition in which Liberia finds itself, I believe that you are the right person for this position. Liberia needs a leader that has the country at heart, a leader that has the experience, knowledge, and vision to move the country forward. Madam president, over the years, you have proven yourself to be that kind of a person.
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You did not ascent to this position overnight, as some of your predecessors did. You have paid your dues. In the early 1980's, during the presidency of William R. Tolbert, you rose through several positions in the ministry of finance to get to the top. I know that you can do the job, and you have my trust. You know what is right for the country and will do everything within your power to bring Liberia to what it used to be during the Tolbert era. [ show full text ]
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Samuel B. Tarr, Minnetonka, Minnesota, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Encourage and invest in the agriculture industry, with minimum taxation/tariffs. This will help rural farming communities to get settled. Encourage educational pursuits by younger, talented citizens thru intergovernmental scholarships. Improve the security apparatus. Hard iron hands-on corruption. Enact laws to encourage and tap investors, but not at Liberia's expense.
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Mindful and careful of foreign policy issues, create sector councils and council-like orgs., in all professions. Listen to the world and be honest about shortcomings and being honest about shortcomings and admitting them to the world and make the most of opportunities, now.
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Dr. Sylvester John Lahai, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, 14 Mar 2006
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My parents like many others (97% Liberians) were born outside Monrovia, therefore our people need to talk or see their elected leaders (eg) Senator and a representative should have a local office in their respective constituency where at least (the local leaders) our people -- who most do not even have a place to sleep -- but like in the past will bring a goat to look for their lawmakers with a problem and even seeing them was a matter of luck. So please Congress members, walk to your people. They brought you from the bushes to where you are today and you will be taken out of there (office) the same way you got in if you do not respect them. [ show full text ]
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Joe Mulbah Kolliegbo, Columbia, Maryland, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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This is the time the international community has been waiting for to lift the sanctions that prohibit Liberia from exporting its raw materials. Let the sanctions be lifted. President Ellen is in control.
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The U.S. should without reservation play a leading role in the economic development of Liberia.
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The priorities of President Sirleaf in Liberia should be education, peace and security.
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E. Cholo Nyema, New York, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Ellen should do with the so-called Congo elite and work with those that have fought for social justices, equality, and fairness for the past two decades.
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Seltue R. Karweaye, St. Paul, Minnesota, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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One of the major things that President Sirleaf has to press on is to ensure that Charles Taylor is sent from Nigeria to face justice in Freetown (indeed, a hard thing to do). This may sound unpopular but the reality of it stands as the international community considers the "new Liberia" under Sirleaf is expected to join the civilized world.
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What is unfortuante, however, is the changing tune of the Nigerian president who is seeking the opinion of African leaders; something that was not in his conditionality. The continued stay of Taylor in Nigeria will delay the rapid economic recovery to Liberia.
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James C. Blyee, Jr., Hartford, Connecticut, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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I am a Liberian currently serving in the U.S. military and I do think that the Liberian people are prepared for peace after electing a president. Therefore,the international community should lift the sanctions, increase aid for the Liberian Government and slow its demands for the transfer of Former President Charles Taylor to the UN court in Sierra Leone at this time due to the security problems in the country.
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Joseph E. Conto, Forthood, Texas, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Mother Liberia, who has cried blood for 14 years, wants Ellen, president to take care of her children now and not Charles Taylor. She agreed that Taylor should come and tell her why he had to let her go through this 14 years of war. He made all my childred homeless, hopeless, some have become thiefs and armed robbers. What my children need now is education, security, health care, etc. The trial of Taylor now will not provide the above amenities.
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I want you outsiders to know that even though you are concerned about Taylor being tried, first thing I need to keep my children's body and soul together let they know how to work for themselves. Madam Sirleaf, be of good courage, tried bring total healing to me Mother Liberia. [ show full text ]
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J. Morris Sumo, Accra, Ghana, 14 Mar 2006
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The recent elections in Liberia have shown that the people of Liberia are ready to put hatred behind them and move on to tackle the most important issues of our time.
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As a way to buttress the above position, consider the poor and uneducated who followed voting procedures to vote without causing a scintilla of confusion. Consider also the candidates who bowed out when it became abundantly clear that they did not win. Now is the time to promote Liberian patriotism. I sincerely believe that to promote this patriotism, the people who live in their respective counties must have the right to elect their own mayors or superintendents. These elections, if they're ever held, must and should be monitored by the Elections Commission. People who live in their own counties know what their specific needs are than those who live in the nation's capitol. I do not mean any insult here at all. If this is not the time to hold local elections, I hope the time will come for this to considered. [ show full text ]
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F.S. Hney, Hyattsville, Maryland, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Durning the election in Liberia our president now did tell the Liberian people that she will be very simple with her dress code. But from what we are seening now those cloths she's wearing are very expensive. Madam President you made a promise and we're watching you. We do know expensive things and otherwise.
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Many Thanks.
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Dash S. Wilson, Newcastle, Delaware, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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We Thank The Almighty God for the PEACE in Liberia.
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Mr. Charles Taylor must not set foot in Liberia. Peace will be maintained as long as he is kept out of Liberia. All Patriotic Liberians must now rally around our President to help build our Beloved Country Liberia.
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Madam President, Thank you. God will continue to guide you, as you carry out your work.
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G.R. Jimmeh Sr, New Jersey, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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To sustain peace in liberia, our leaders only have to gain the U.S. favor or else they will support warring factions like in the past with Taylor and others.
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Emmanuel, Gaithersburg, Maryland, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Liberia needs to learn how to get tough on crime, corruption, and violence. Liberia once again makes it on the Forbes top ten most dangerous countries on the planet.
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Jack Smith, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Government officials currently serving Liberia at this present movement do your best to preseve the dignity Liberia had before. Put Liberia first, do not dehumanize your people. Please avoid corruption. Respect human rights.
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Samo Johnson, Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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To sustain peace in Liberia, one of the ways that come to mind is to start thinking about the atonomy of the counties. "So say one, so say all" had a no growth and development in the nation. Monrovia was where all the suggestions and orders came from, and hardly anything of substance and directions. Officials that served in the counties were appointed from Monrovia, and they served at the will of the one who send them.
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Most people did not see any glory or success in being told we have no word yet, so we have to wait for word from the "old man". This kind of political practice was a centralize system that yielded much of anything for over 100 years. [ show full text ]
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N. Boakai Karneh, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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A spirit of genuine love and forgiveness
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Ruth, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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The beginning of everything is the spoiling point. The international community and your African brothers are willing strongly to suport Liberia to be able to gain its recogniton. It is my humble advice to the government official of Liberia to eliminate corruption and put Liberia first above everything. We must not misuse these great oppotunity.
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If we trace history from general perspective, from the foundation of Liberia to this present time, President Sirleaf government have received more essential services through the international community and it is still going on. We must use these resources to the best of our knowledge. We must educate our people by establishing institutions.
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Samuel Quaqua Jr., San Leandro, California, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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I don't really think that it is necessary to lift up the sanction now on Liberia because I am afraid the Ellen-led and imported GOV members will surely use all our resources to service their bills, up keep their family and pay their children's school fees in the USA while we the poor will continue to go to bed hungry, we will have no school for our children and no infrastruture developments in our nation.
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Musa V. Sheriff, Conakry, Guinea, 14 Mar 2006
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Liberia can sustain her peace by rallying around the government and reconstructing a national agenda that will take all Liberians into it. The national agenda will be predicated on the fact that Charles Taylor faced the war court in Sierra Leone or the Hague. I applaud the decision of Ellen to request Taylor extradition. It is a good beginning for Liberia. This move will allow the EU and the USA to provide emergency funding for the new Government.
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Isaac T. Settro, Madison, Wisconsin, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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The first mistake of President Sirleaf is to first of all run to the Western world for money to run her government. We need to learn how to use our own resources to help ourselves, and begin the rebuilding process. Was she depending on Europe and America to make those promises during the election? Borrowing money from Europe and America will not help us now. Instead of giving fish to someone all of the time,it will be better you teach the person how to fishing. That goes to say instead of borrowing money to spend it in Liberia, teach Liberians how to make money with their own resources.
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President Sirleaf, please leave Europe and America and go back home to work with other Liberians in bringing your promises to reality. Please do not credit on behalf of Liberia to bring your promises to pass. Liberia has much debts to pay. [ show full text ]
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William Tokpah, Lexington, Kentucky, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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The greatest concern here is to preserve an everlasting peace for Liberia. In doing so, it is best to state that President Sirleaf has to look on a broader path of reaching out to everybody; not just one group of people; inclusion is what it is and should be.
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As for the U.S. role in Liberia, one has to be very careful. When all is said and done Liberia is for Liberians. Our interest as Liberians should come above all else. If the wrong decision is given or made, our people are the ones that pay the the sad price.
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As far as the lifting of the sanctions; not at this time. The nation's wounds are still bleeding, that element of distrust is still there in other term, people are there to undermine the new government. Lifting the sanctions will only play into their selfish hands. The lifting of the sanctions should go alongside with a rock-solid justice system and national security forces. [ show full text ]
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Mansa Paye, II, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Given that every revenue generating and disbursement institutions have been placed under the operational control and management of the UN (i.e., GEMAP?), the sanctions imposed on the export of its raw materials should be lifted. If this working mechansim is effective, the culture of corruption can be marginalized. The U.S. and its partners should insist on Liberia devising policies that will create disincentives for government-based corruption and institutionalize real democracy in Liberia. Moreover, President Sirleaf must ensure that those responsible for looting the meagre resources of the country are brought to book.
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G. Siaway, Brentwood, Maryland, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Good governance requrires sound leadership. Those holding government position should see themselves as leaders and not rulers. There's no need to act too bossy and show power as done in the past. Some examples are: Ministers and other officials traveling with large entourage of security men, wanting everyone to give way because they are around; driving recklessly or driving with siren/escort for all to clear the way, arresting people without any due process of the law, etc.
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Those of us here in the United States know very well that government officials dare not break the law or behave indifferently. You are not above the law. Lead with humility. Government officials here in the U.S. realize that they are citizens first before officials. They try to behave well in the community as responsbile citizens, and not show off or exert power over the common citizens. Those officials who are educated in the U.S. should make the difference this time. Please implement the sound leadership style you have learned here. You are aware that any mistake public officials here in the U.S. make will lead to the end of their career. [ show full text ]
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Emmanuel R. Paulus, Providence, Rhode Island, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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1. The Liberian goverment needs to build polytechnic universities that will train and provide education that work to the youth of Liberia.
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2. A career oriented education is needed at this time in Liberia.
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3. For the future, the education system needs to be built around Science and Mathematics education.
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Stephen S. Wuor, Charlotte, North Carolina, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Support the newly elected government. Their every decision may not be to your personal liking. Johnson Sirleaf is not afraid to make mistakes or ruffle feathers. In the same vein, she seems to be a humble person who's never too big to say sorry or LIG ("Let It Go" as my four-year-old would say) when the situation warrants it. She seems to have only one item on her agenda; A PEACEFUL, COMPETITIVE, AND PROSPEROUS LIBERIA.
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Yanni Yank, Houston, TX, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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Liberians of all walks of life should give Ellen Johnson Sirleaf the chance to bring back our country from the abyss of distruction. Your support for whatever she endeavors to do for the country and its people will go a long way in bringing peace and stability to our motherland.
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Your support will also encourage the international community to help build Liberia for all of us.
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Cooper Kweme, Germantown, Maryland, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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The UP government should make a dedicated effort in fighting corruption and to persecute those involve in corruption in the past administration.
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To ensure that the government is serious about fighting corruption, all former government officials including members of the House of Representatives and the Senate (i.e. Speaker Snow and others) with involvement in corruption and fraud should be indicted. If any official is found guilty, that official should be fined, property seized and sent to prison.
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Is about time that the government begins putting its words into action.
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Duke Kolliegbo, Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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The road ahead for we Liberians in general and our president in particular is very hard indeed. During her upcoming visit, I will like her to ask Congress for help in building these institutions.
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1. Judiciary, especially law enforcement and interpretation.
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2. Education with emphasis on vocational and technical education.
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3. Healthcare.
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With regards to lifting of sanctions, I will not push for that now as our new-found freedom is still young and fragile. Sanctions should be lifted when the security situation all over the country has improved.
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William Kenneth Doe, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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The only way the hard-won peace can be preserved is by including every Liberian in the process of rebuilding without regards to gender or ethnic discrimination. Liberia also need trained professionals in all works of life to sacrifice their time for the betterment of the country. Liberians need to look after their school age children and make grade school free, and train and pay teachers at least the minimum wage of $50.00 to $100.00 a month.
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I will see ethnic discrimination in the new government which I think will cause a problem in the future. Most of those appointed in the government will only put people they know or people from their tribe. In this matter, every government offices should have a system of hiring system base on experience and qualification. [ show full text ]
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Morris Kromah, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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I believe we should do the following:
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1) Launch a spiritual revival. Let's invite everybody to give their live to Jesus Christ and allow him to give them a reason to live. I expect sentiments for freedom of religion, but it should not deter us.
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2) Ask the international community to provide scolarships to all combatants outside Liberia (for those who are interested in going to school). There are skills-oriented institutions in Africa that will provide not only handicraft skills but will also give them a change of environment which will do a lot to heal and help revive them.
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3) Last of all, let's set up a think thank to draw up a reconstruction action plan, outling our priorities and legislating it as a national policy that all future governments will adhere to. [ show full text ]
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Joseph Collins, Accra, Ghana, 14 Mar 2006
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The international community and Liberians in general should give President Sirleaf the moral and financial support to sustain the peace that Liberians are now enjoying. President Sirleaf has proven to be a capable and democratic leader in a short period of time. Therefore, she needs the overwhelming support of the World in order to move forward.
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Benedict D. Kragbe,Jr., Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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I think Africa must be happy to get Madam Sirleaf to govern that war-torn country. She will need a lot of support both from the regions and international, and at the same time Liberians would like to see their former leader Charles [Taylor] living in Nigeria facing law. Time will not matter, but the man should one day face justice!
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Kenneth Kachimanga, Ulfborg, Denmark, 14 Mar 2006
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The Liberian government should:
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1. Pursue national reconcilliation policy void of discrimination, nepotism, sectionalism and favoritism.
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2. Recruit qualified, experienced and trained personnel. In other words, put a round peg in a round hole and a square peg in a square hole.
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3. Create the forum and avenue for mass participation in the formulation of national policies.
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4. Understand the post-war societal problems; Acknowledge the problems and approach them tactfully.
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Remember: The UP Government is really the legal transitional government. So far, the only consistent policy of the present UP Government is their inconsistencies.
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Alphonso Minor, Monrovia, Liberia, 14 Mar 2006
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I think President Sirleaf has so far demonstrated good governance over Liberia since she became president. Her actions should be quite convincing to the international community to lift the sanctions that prohibit Liberia to export its raw materials. The U.S. role should be on the economic development of the country.
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President Sirleaf's priorities should be the security of Liberia and cracking down on corruption which has been around in the country for decades.
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Emmanuel Tambah, Rosedale, New York, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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I think it is very important that the sanctions be lifted so as to enable the country to use the revenues generated to help with the reconstuction process. The U.S. role should be to put Liberian issues on a fast track. It should also help to jump start the economy.
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The president's priorities should be first and foremost begin to bring back the basics such as electricity, water, sanitation, roads, health system, schools and increase the salaries of civil servants. She should also put in place tough penalties for corruption and re-instate discipline in society.
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Melvin Brown, Staten Island, New York, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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My only concern is that Liberians do all they can to help preserve their peace. With the amount of help destined for Liberia now, any foolish Liberian who wants to add more suffering to the plight in Liberia, will forever be remembered as a devil.
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I also want to encourage Madam Sirleaf to work hard and help her native land.
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Aloysius Benjamin, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S., 14 Mar 2006
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