The NEWS (Monrovia)
C. Emmanuel Johnson
27 March 2008
Monrovia — One of the Unity Party's stalwarts Senator John Ballout says the youth of the party owe no apology to any official, but the executive should apologize for neglecting the partisans.
Senator Ballout's statement was in reaction to recent comments made by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf that she would not dialogue with the youth until they apologize to officials of the party.
However, Senator Ballout said the demonstration by the youth was intended to strengthen the party and remind the executives of their commitments made during the election campaign.
He said the youth claims were legitimate and as such, requires no apology.
"We have alluded to shortcomings and have therefore called for transformation, so let's begin from there and stop asking for apologies," he noted.
Senator Ballout who spoke to The NEWS via mobile phone from Maryland County said they appreciate the appointment of Liberians from the diasporas, but noted that it is necessary to seek the interest of those who elected the government.
He said while it is true that some partisans may not be qualified for appointment, other avenues could be explored for them.
Ballout who is Senior Senator for Maryland County said the Unity Party would lose the elections if executives of UP failed to seek the wellbeing of those grassrooters who contributed immensely in the election of President Sirleaf.
He wants the UP youth to pursue their cause in a peaceful manner rather than being disgruntled.
Recently, the youth of the Party went on the rampage demanding the resignation of Dr. Charles Clarke as chairman.
They said Dr. Clarke was downplaying their interest and that of other partisans.
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Sen. Ballout as a senior and a lawmaker, you should be one of the last to encourage th youth to get out there. Is that the only way to solve problem? You as a senator should know better and you all should stop using the young children in Libeia and destroying their future.