New Democrat (Monrovia)
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This is an article from the Liberian press.

Liberia: Father Tikpor Condemns Corruption and Sectionalism


AllAfrica aggregates reports from Africa's news media. This is an article from the Liberian press. It is not a report by AllAfrica.

Sirleaf with Independence Day Orator Father Tikpor. (Photo Courtesy New Democrat)

This year's 163rd Independent Celebration Orator, Rev. Monsignor Robert G. Tikpor of the Catholic Church has said that corruption and sectionalism remain a major barrier to development here in Liberia.

"...sectionalism, persistent corruption caused by selfishness and greed, in high places, lack of patriotism are some of the detractors stalling our progress and achievement," revealed Rev. Tikpor.

Delivering this year's key note address on the theme, "In National Unity we will stand" at the Independent celebration in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, Father Tikpor emphasized that for Liberia to progress, corruption must be buried. The Catholic Monsignor also revealed that in the 70's, Liberia's economy was comparable to Japan stressing; "Liberia's capital income was second to that of Japan. Then, Japan was the richest country in the world while Liberia came second. Even the Great USA would be placed underneath Liberia."

"All these were due to our natural resources more especially the rubber. But because of corruption and other ills, Liberia's economy cannot be compared to Japan." Though Father Tikpor did not suggest a specific language to be spoken as a national dialect , he disclosed that the lack of a common language, sectionalism and lack of blood relationship amongst others greatly contributes to the current retrogression of the country.

Tagged: Liberia, West Africa

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