19 March 2008
A group calling itself the Movement Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND) has expressed doubts over the capability of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf to effectively deliver where her rival and former dictator did not succeed.
Ms. Charles Taylor didn't do sufficiently despite the full electoral advantage given him at the head of the elections of 1997. The group infers that Liberians voted at least thrice but that this has not led to the proper governance as had been earmarked.
Despite his impressive win at the polls, Charles Taylor could not and didn't revive Liberia as president because this vicious warlord is responsible for the cold-blooded murders of tens of thousands of defenseless civilians.
Considering this fact, is it likely that Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf - his co-conspirator - could succeed where Charles Taylor has failed? We are doubtful the group says in a statement, released on its website as follows. The administration, the group detests will not accomplish its promised oaths in the following instances:
"Seared in our memory are these haunting words: "He killed my ma, he killed my pa, I'll vote for him." Gripped with fear and grasping for straws, the Liberian people allowed Charles Taylor to become president.
They also remarked that as everyone well knows, this only prolonged the misery. And regardless the level of Ellen's contribution to the mayhem, her association with Charles Taylor has never been in doubt.
That said: Did we not again grasp for straws by electing her as the president? Why would anyone believe that a person so closely associated with Charles Taylor would be right to heal this nation?
The people of Liberia know full well Charles Taylor and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf are directly responsible for the rapes, torture, maiming and murders of more than 400,000 of our friends and loved ones.
Yet Ellen has shown no contrition, compunction or remorse for her contribution, often downplaying the severity of this awful tragedy. Therefore, both these individuals are unacceptable as leaders or role models and will not be rewarded for their crimes.
STATEMENT FOR RELEASE
BY: THE MOVEMENT SOLIDARITY & TRUST FOR A NEW DAY (S.T.A.N.D.)
Despite his impressive win at the polls, Charles Taylor could not and did not revive Liberia as president because this vicious warlord is responsible for the cold-blooded murders of tens of thousands of defenseless civilians. Considering this fact, is it likely that Ellen Johnson Sirleaf - his co-conspirator - could succeed where Charles Taylor has failed? We are doubtful.
Seared in our memory are these haunting words: "He killed my ma, he killed my pa, I'll vote for him." Gripped with fear and grasping for straws, the Liberian people allowed Charles Taylor to become president. As everyone well knows, this only prolonged the misery. And regardless the level of Ellen's contribution to the mayhem, her association with Charles Taylor has never been in doubt. That said; did we not again grasp for straws by electing her as the president? Why would anyone believe that a person so closely associated with Charles Taylor would be right to heal this nation?
The people of Liberia know full well Charles Taylor and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf are directly responsible for the rapes, torture, maiming and murders of more than 400,000 of our friends and loved ones. Yet Ellen has shown no contrition, compunction or remorse for her contribution, often downplaying the severity of this awful tragedy. Therefore, both these individuals are unacceptable as leaders or role models and will not be rewarded for their crimes. The people of Liberia rejected Charles Taylor primarily because he murdered our fellow compatriots and wrecked the country's entire infrastructure. This explains why in the fourth year of his presidency, he finally faced the people's wrath, barely escaping alive.
The people have also rejected Ellen Johnson Sirleaf because she financed the brutal war that destroyed a generation, impoverished the entire population, decimated families, and turned Liberians into refugees and beggars. Ordering the NPFL rebels to bomb the residents of Monrovia is unpardonable. The question now is not if, but when will Ellen face the wrath of the Liberian people? Though the date may be unknown, the emotions are certain.
Feeling neglected and abandoned, the people of Liberia gathered their anger and dealt decisively with a grave injustice which many had conveniently ignored. This lesson must not be overlooked. The anger which led to the tumultuous events of 2003 still burns deep in the millions whose lives were disrupted by the actions of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Charles Taylor. But again we wait patiently, hoping and trusting that people of conscience will address this grievous injustice in the interest of peace. We're hoping our international partners realize if Charles Taylor could not restore peace to this nation, neither can Ellen.
It is difficult to say with any degree of certainty when their penned-up anger will eventually erupt into a violent rage. However, one thing is certain: a large segment of the population believes Ellen in large part is responsible for their hurt, pain, grief and loss. Without justice being served, it will be difficult if not impossible for these individuals to forgive and forget; especially when Ellen continues to rekindle negative emotions by mishandling post-war reconstruction.
Ellen's decision not to appear before the internationally-sponsored Truth Commission, but rather give priority to the release of a book intended to fund her retirement only adds insult to injury. This brazen attempt to exploit our dead further demonstrates her contempt for the Liberian people. Such behavior has the potential of reigniting the violence considering the current highly charged atmosphere. And her insensitivity places the entire population at risk. She fails to realize the violence unleashed as a result of her ambitious quest for power is the greatest man-made disaster this nation has ever known; its consequences no doubt will linger for decades.
It is understandable Ellen now finds herself in an extremely difficult position being a major contributor to the breakdown of this nation. However, it would be a crime on our part to allow millions to suffer in order to protect a single individual. Ellen knew full well her level of involvement in organizing and prosecuting the brutal war that produced deep-seated anger, hatred and suspicion. Therefore she should have seriously considered possible repercussions before seeking the office of president. Now as the President, she must lead, follow, or step aside.
No longer must we delude ourselves into believing Liberia can emerge from its quagmire without holding accountable individuals bearing the greatest responsibility for war crimes and crimes against humanity. This is why we can no longer stand idly by and wait for another deadly insurrection, which is certain to happen should Ellen continue to place her personal interests above that of the collective. And there is no denying it; this nation cannot and will not heal or be rebuilt successfully under the leadership of persons who organized, participated in, or financed the mass killings.
Therefore, peace-loving Liberians have mobilized under the banner Solidarity & Trust for A New Day (S.T.A.N.D) with the intent of bringing pressure to bear on the Sirleaf administration. It must implement the necessary changes in order to restore normalcy and reconstitute key institutions; preparing the country for a smooth transition to lasting peace and economic prosperity. The transition, however, must begin with rule of law.
We are honoured that Honourable T. Q. Harris, Jr has agreed to serve as the leader of this grassroots Movement and be the voice of those seeking change without violence. We hope President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in the interest of peace will listen to the voices of hope and reason. Her cooperation also will serve as a deterrent to those contemplating violence and discourage others from becoming foot soldiers.
May God bless these endeavors, endow us with wisdom, and grant us peace.
Welcome to STAND - the end of business as usual!
Read comments. Write your own.
Copyright © 2008 The Analyst. All rights reserved. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com). To contact the copyright holder directly for corrections — or for permission to republish or make other authorized use of this material, click here.
AllAfrica aggregates and indexes content from over 125 African news organizations, plus more than 200 other sources, who are responsible for their own reporting and views. Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica.
What is wrong with the statement by this Organization called "SOLDARITY&TRUST FOR A NEW DAY" (S.T.A.N.D)? We as Liberians need to wake up and accept constructive criticism and stop being bias. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, did say on the British Broadcasting Station that her Co-Conspirator "should burn the country down". We as Liberians have to remember she helped finance the civil war in Liberia. It brought destruction to the core fabric of the country,which created chaos that took the life of approximately 400,000 Liberian and millions of refugees. She was elected by the people of Liberia, with the belief she can unite the Liberian people. I think the Liberian people took her to the task of rebuilding the infrastructure, social and economic structure of the country. With the support of various Organization we have some form of Law and Order with a spectrum of security and on going stability. The fact still lies that she has her hand in blood of the Liberian people, and much of our leaders in Liberia. Right now in Liberia as we speak unemployment is high, education is sub-standard, crime rate is high due to lack of security. This should be the administration priority, but it is not happening fast enough. The progress is slow. This administration took over a country that was ruined, and Ellen's administration is barely two years old. The leaders are well secure. They all have security personnel as bodyguards, while the Masses are left to fence for there own security. I do believe, in due time the Ellen Johnson Administration will get it right. Therefore, the statement by Mr. T.Q. Harris and his organization should be embraced as constructive criticism. We all know the supporters of President Sirleaf will try to criticize anyone with any criticism of her administration, constructive or not. All of us as Liberians need to assist with the development of our country, however criticism is only part of it. The question should be, " What contribution has each and everyone done to our community? That will help the Liberian government to alleviate social and economic strain on the people of Liberia. Please do not intentionally withhold progress and development, until the last minute to get re-elected. The Liberian people have suffer enough. Down with Nepotism, Cronyism and Corruptions. DR.PELLAR
Those who have doubts and questioned the capability and credibility of president Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf’s leadership of Liberia must be out of sight and very blind. Liberia is 100% better then 14 years ago. For those who want to become future political leaders of Liberia must wait to cast their votes at the next scheduled elections. Right now Liberia needs people who have a vision for the country and are willing to assist in the development process that the country is facing.
Molley
Now what?The Liberian Media Center (LMC) has called on President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf to honor her pledge to testify at the Truth and Reconciliation Public hearing whenever she is requested to do so.In the month of Janurary President Sirleaf did state "if she is ask to appear at the TRC she will appear". I remember when Mr. Thomas Woeweiyou, a former Senator of Grand Bassa County wrote an open letter calling upon the President to appear to legitimize the TRC hearing. Instead of the former Senator getting an applaud, Mr. Woeweiyou was demonize. Once again, you have another Liberian, Mr. T.Q. Harris that said he thing President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf does not have the capability to run the Country and she should appear at the TRC hearing, Instead of embracing this request by Mr. Harris, he is being ridicule. I personally have no doubt in my mind of the President capability of running the country. Whatever the motive of these individual may be, the facts still remain, that we have a Commission of Truth in Liberia. However, to Authenticate the Process of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, The President need to appear. But instead, she said her appearance at the TRC was going to be a spectacle. The President said, she would rather the Liberian people and the world reading about her Involvement in the devastating war in her autobiography's. This is were I am confuse. When is this book going to be written or published? Is this after or during her term as President? I think The President have to remember her book has to be written on her time, not the Liberian people time. Madame President, you was elected President not a writer of your autobiography. Therefore, if you think your book is necessary at this time, then resign and write your book. I think you should be devoted to the people of Liberia by doing the job you was elected to do.and so far you are doing good. But remember, you was elected President not a writer of your autobiography. It is a tough job you have. I can't imaging when you have the time to write about yourself without neglecting the Business of the Liberian People. Remember that the TRC was established for perpretrator and victim. Therefore, there should be no exception. The TRC is not inviting you as a writer, you are invited as an Financier etc, etc, etc.... of the Civil War that Devastated lives in Liberia. Writing a book at this time is not relevant to the process of reconciliation. So Ma, Please appear Ya-ah, So the others people can follow your foot step. The Liberian people want to know the truth. Lead by example. Thank You.
DR.PELLAR
The internet now a day is for many Liberians who have nothing to offer to the peace process but sit on the computer and cover themselves as peace loving and productive citizens .I want to tell my fellow Liberians that there is and has never been a organization or movement in U.S.A call STAND .
This is a "shock and awe" view on the issues facing Liberia for past, current and future. The world really needs to keep a close eye on T. Q. Harris. This organization views and comments should not be taken lightly. It seems to me that they would like to see distruction to Liberia to serve their selfish individual goals. With Liberia on the road to recovery and plans to take the country to a new level, this organization claims that millions of Liberians share its concerns about the President, simply put I don't. I am calling on all Liberians to stand up and unite against the negative forces behind this organization.
I do not stand for violence. We can take our stance by responding to this organization through our voices. First thing is to pray for our enemies against the state. We pray that the power God will intervene and change their mindset to fight for positive changes and move forward to unite the country under the current leadership. If they feel so indifferently than perhaps when election time rolls around the can support a candidate that share their vision and views.
But it just seems like from their rhetoric, they're promoting violence as a way forward.
Thanks for your time
God bless Liberia with everlasting peace. It's about time for Liberians to grow up. While others are fighting hard to rebuild our country, there are still some handful of people who are trying to destroy us.These are people who are literally frustrated by their failure and wants to blame it on others.For the majority of us who are trying hard to rebuild our home,we will not sit by anymore and let groups like S.T.A.N.D. bring chaos into our country anymore. Enough is enough.
This is a "shock and awe" view on the issues facing Liberia for past, current and future. The world really needs to keep a close eye on T. Q. Harris. This organization views and comments should not be taken lightly. It seems to me that they would like to see distruction to Liberia to serve their selfish individual goals. With Liberia on the road to recovery and plans to take the country to a new level, this organization claims that millions of Liberians share its concerns about the President, simply put I don't. I am calling on all Liberians to stand up and unite against the negative forces behind this organization.
I do not stand for violence. We can take our stance by responding to this organization through our voices. First thing is to pray for our enemies against the state. We pray that the power God will intervene and change their mindset to fight for positive changes and move forward to unite the country under the current leadership. If they feel so indifferently than perhaps when election time rolls around the can support a candidate that share their vision and views.
But it just seems like from their rhetoric, they're promoting violence as a way forward.
Thanks for your time