FRIDAY, JULY 26, 2013 marked another merry making day for Liberians across the country and in the Diaspora. The day made Liberia 166 years old. This is the day that Liberians from all walks of life cherish and celebrate, no matter their condition and status. THIS HAS ALWAYS been the case, since the country gained her political independence in 1847. It has been customary for Liberians to celebrate, to indicate to the world that Liberia is a free country and that Liberians are free and proud of their freedom.

AS A FREE nation, we boast of enjoying the benefits that accrue to all other independent states around the world. We are entitled to join all international organizations of our choice, as well as sign international agreements and contracts.

THIS POLITICAL INDEPENDENCE gave us the right to defend our territory, explore and manage our own resources for the socio-economic and infrastructural development of the country and make life meaningful for the youth and future leaders of our country.

BUT, SINCE 166 years ago, we have lived and grown void of meaningful development. Our years of existence have been wrapped in corruption wed, emanating from the highest echelon of leadership.

WE HAVE GROWN without tangible development. Politics has made our state without a solid foundation. The culture has been seriously diluted and defiled. Everything intended to preserve the cultural heritage is being looked upon as "country idea" and relegated.

THE POLITICAL INDEPENDENCE which we have celebrated for the past 166 years has not brought us any economic freedom. But, we are told that despite our poverty, we must announce to the world that we are independent.

OUR SOCIAL AND economic lives remain vulnerable. We continue to suffer, while living in the abundance of wealth, not being able to share the light of civilization that accompanies independence.

THE PEOPLE OF Liberia need economic independence that will enable them manage their own economy, and not foreigners who only exploit the country of the meager resources.