Monday, May 26, 2014 Edition

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NEWS EXTRA Ü pg 6 TOP STORIES

BANKING & FINANCE

‘JUST ANOTHER LIE’

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pg 6

BOLSTERING TRADE FINANCING CAPALITIES IN AFRICA

Rob Sirleaf Debunks Raid of US Home by FBI

MARKET BUYING AND SELLING RATES LIBERIAN DOLLARS PER US DOLLAR

Ecobank granted US$ 200 million financing facility by AfDB

FrontPage  

www.frontpageafricaonline.com

VOL 8 NO.601

CENTRAL BANK OF LIBERIA

BUYING

 

THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2014

SELLING

L$88.00/US$1

L$89.00/US$1

WEDNESDAY, MAY 21, 2014

L$84.00/US$1

L$85.00/US$1

THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2014

L$84.00/US$1

L$85.00/US$1

These are indicative rates based on results of daily surveys of the foreign exchange market in Monrovia and its environs. The rates are collected from the Forex Bureaux and the commercials banks. The rates are not set by the Central Bank of Liberia. Source: Research, Policy and Planning Department, Central Bank Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia

MONDAY, MAY 26, 2014

BOXING FOR VAMOMA

PRICE L$40

DOE VS JONES TUSSLE OVER PROPERTY TURNS BRUTAL

INSIDE

"Junior Doe and his people tore my shirt and I tore their shirts too, anyway they felt over powered because I am on the ground and there are more people in support of me, my mother came in my brother came in, there were commotion but we asked them to leave but they insisted that they were not going to leave and we were able to drive them out," Maxwell Jones

MALAWI ELECTION STALEMATE President declares Malawi election 'null and void'; Supreme Court Overrules pg 14 World News

News Extra pg. 5

CRISIS IN MAKING Lawmakers Vow to Hold Budget Hostage LEGISLATIVE BEAT

pg 10

Monday, May 26, 2014

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internal controls but the entity has been made into an agency with more staff and huge budget through an act passed by the National Legislature creating further financial burden for the Government. NBC occupies a private building on 9th street in Sinkor, same as the IAA which is also in a private building on the United Nations Drive down Monrovia. The Land Commission is also occupying another private building in Jallah Town and several other agencies and commissions of government. The National Commission on Higher Education which previously occupied the same building as the Ministry of Education is now on its own occupying a building in Paynesville. Government’s spending on rent has quadruple within the last three years as smaller agencies and commissions move to occupy private buildings committing state funds to huge payments for rents. Accordingly when the act creating these entities are about to be passed into law by the National Legislature, heads of these entities quickly negotiate with family members or friends for buildings to rent, committing the government to huge expenditures on rent and leases.

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Monroviaor two successive years, the Government of Liberia has experienced budget shortfalls resulting in the streamlining of expenditures and budget cuts for projects but yet the Government spends millions of dollars on rent and other expenditures that can be easily be avoided if state owned building are renovated and jointly used by agencies and commissions. In the ensuing 2014-2015 budget the Government claims it is carrying out austerity measures by cutting down expenditures through limiting spending on recharge cards, gasoline and foreign travels. “Further steps would be taken to reduce excessive expenditure on goods and services by eliminating scratch cards and reducing spending on fuel and foreign travel. Fuel will be restricted to operational use only; and for all air travel less than eight hours in duration, officials and ministers will be required to fly economy class. The number of foreign trips will also be limited to three per year, with the exception of the President, Vice President, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Finance; and there will be a limit of no more than five members on any travel party” says President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in her budget address. Amid the pronounced measures by the government to minimize expenditure, FrontPageAfrica has gathered that the Government is spending more money on rent of buildings than what it will save from cutting down purchase of scratch cards, gasoline and foreign travels. In leases and other short term rent, the Government is pending millions of dollars to private individuals and some institutions. In the wake of huge expenditures on rent and leases, there are several state owned buildings left abandoned where some have turned hideouts for criminals. Government has failed in eight years to do feasibility studies on the number of state owned buildings completed, uncompleted to match against the cost of completing some if not all of these public buildings for use by government entities against the total cost incurred on rent annually. It has become a known fact that some of the private buildings being rented by some government entities are owed by relatives and in some instances higher ups of those functionaries of government, who benefit from the money paid in rent and leases and therefore

do not prefer cutting down waste on behalf of the government for personal gains. LTA $1.5 Million Lease Amongst the huge spending by the state entities on rent, the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) is currently occupying a building at the cost of US$1.5 million despite ignoring the advice of the Public Procurement and Concession Commission (PPCC) not having the Ministries of Justice and Finance signoff on the lease agreement signed with a Chinese Landlord in line with the PPC Act, 2010. President Sirleaf ordered a freeze on the LTA account but the entity is still operational and the building in question is now in use by the LTA, an indication of a failed attempt by the Government to avoid such huge expenditure for rent for the LTA with less than 500 employees. The wide pronouncement by the government for cancellation of the contract could not hold water as the ministry of justice, which was mandated by the President as per a Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism public pronouncement has taken no measure to ensure that contract is cancelled. With the advice from the PPCC that LTA should conduct a feasibility study on the possibility of renovating some state owned buildings or constructing its own building rather than renting for such huge amount of money, the advice has fallen on deaf ears. Too much money on rent President Sirleaf upon taking power in 2006 announced that she will ensure that Government is small but efficient which resulted into the merging of several government entities and the closing down of others and the downsizing civil servants. But in eight years, there has been increased in state entities contrary to the president’s pronounced small but efficient government. There are new entities with undefined functions and in some cases overlapping of functions with existing ones. There is the National Bureau of Concessions (NBC), whose work is yet unknown since its establishment, the Internal Audit Secretariat which has again been transformed in to the Internal Audit Agency and dozens of others. The Public Financial management Law, 2009 called for the establishment of the IAS as a small body to help management Government ministries and agencies

LRA $700K rent deal in Play The Liberia Revenue Authority is about to begin operations by July this year and FrontPageAfrica has gathered that the new entity has negotiated a rent with the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP) that will see the LRA paying around US$700,000 annually for rent of portion of the building located at the ELWA junction in Paynesville. With LRA yet to begin operations to show how it can boost the revenue generation of Government, it has already committed the government to US$700,000 just in rent, a situation that could create further constraints on the national budget. Combined with its staff cost and other institutional expenditure the LRA could just be creating more financial burden rather than helping to boost income. According to the Government, the LRA will be separated from the Ministry of Finance in order to make revenue collection more rigorous, but still some of the employees currently involved in revenue collection are amongst the same folks expected to move unto the LRA and until a year revenue collection report is available, committing the government to huge expenditure on a new entity is another liability and a mockery to Finance Minister Konneh’s proclaimed austerity measure. The Finance Minister is cutting down expenditures on scratch cards, gasoline and foreign travels but yet just one new entity has created an expenditure line item of US$700,000, nearly one million dollars. Rents and leases are fixed expenditures incurred by the Government annually which can only be reduced when some of these state owned buildings are renovated and jointly used by state entities. For example the National Housing Building on Ashmun Street in Monrovia can host more than four government institutions when renovated and the combined cost of rent for private buildings by these four government entities can be minimized. The LTA, NBC, IAA and even the LRA can all easily occupy the National Housing building and the combined cost of their rent over a one year period is highly possible to cover the cost of renovating the building to minimize waste. Whatever the case it is the question of matching minimizing waste on behalf of the state versus paying money to private individuals for the benefit of a few.

Monday, May 26, 2014

Frontpage

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FrontPage COMMENTARY EDITORIAL KENYA: TERRORISM AND LOST WAR ON v

Commentary

CORRUPTION TRANSPARENCY CZARS ARE LEAVING

CORRUPTION IS A word that is now becoming boring in the ears of Liberians as their hope and aspirations for corruption free Liberia is now becoming illusive. THEIR FIRST POST WAR President in 2006 gave them reasons to celebrate when she declared corruption public enemy number one promising to fight the menace head-on. LIBERIANS CELEBRATED the declaration by the Iron lady who won the election on the heels of Harvard educated and former United Nations Development Programme and Citi Bank senior employee. FIGHTING CORRUPTION to the letter has been seen that one of the major ways in which President Sirleaf can maintain a legacy after her tenure as President but it now seems the President will have to look elsewhere for solace as her declared war on corruption has turned upside down. THE IRON LADY started the fight against corruption by calling onboard several anti corruption czars to serve as team players on robust team charged with the huge task of fighting a menace that has permeated the Liberian society for centuries. THE LIST of anti corruption czars included Auditor General John S. Morlu who was at least the lone man onboard until the Liberian Anti Corruption Commission was established and tough talking Frances Johnson Allison appointed to head the LACC. AFTER RELEASING dozens of audit reports in which several close associates of the President and some of her trusted ministers were implicated in fraud related practices, the President failed to renew the contract of Morlu, giving him the exit door. THEN CAME Cllr. Allison started off well at the LACC taking the issue of asset declaration by public officials as major priority in a bid to know the worth of these officials before coming to government and during their stay in public service. UPON THE ISSUANCE of an asset declaration verification report by the LACC in which key Sirleaf inner circle officials were indicated including Binyah C. Kesselly, Matilda Parker, amongst others, Cllr. Allison was not reappointed by the President and reasons for her exit are also still under the cloud. NOW THE THIRD of the trinity anti graft institutions, Public Procurement and Concession Commission which made headways over the last few years, nullifying several contracts that were arranged through bogus means, compelling public entities to submit their procurement plans as a means of monitoring their procurement of goods and services has become the latest to be shown the exit. PPCC Chairman Peggy Varfley Meres on May 19 call it short when she tendered her resignation to the President. “AS YOU ARE AWARE, we have an underdeveloped private sector and the public sector is essentially the only game in town. This attracts all kinds of selfish interests and with that comes the risk of rent-seeking actors attempting to use public resources for personal gain. The absence or weakness of institutional checks and balances leaves the country at the mercy of the personal morality of its actors.” MERES LETTER of resignation is another of few individuals who have proven the willingness to fight corruption in Liberia. The likes of John Morlu, II who made the General Auditing Commission of Liberia (GAC) is known and exposed individuals for acts of corruption, Cllr. Frances Johnson Allison’s tenure at the Liberia Anti Corruption Commission when she also released the asset verification report that named several close associates of the President for concealing assets are just amongst some of the anti corruption czars that have parted ways with the Sirleaf’s regime. THE PPCC on Meres was able to say no to a controversial catering contract at the Liberia National Police Training

GRAFT, DEBT AND CREDIT Edward Clay

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proar followed the news on 16 May that British tourists were being shipped home from Mombasa on security advice. Tourists, inconvenienced and disappointed, were sceptical of the threat. The Kenyan government and public accused western governments of destroying their tourist industry. Within days, local media reported the loss of 4,000 jobs lost at the Coast. Only hours later, news arrived of explosions in Nairobi. Ten Kenyans died and some 70 were injured. These indicated that the threat in Kenya presented a new and more dangerous level of lethal sophistication. The tragedy lies in the deaths and injuries of innocent Kenyans. Their government has failed them twice over. These events coincide with renewed public attention in Kenya to corruption scandals exposed ten years ago while I was British high commissioner, but reaching back longer. These comprised 18 dodgy contracts, almost all in the security sector, called collectively ‘Anglo-Leasing’. They illustrated how Kenyan procurement could be subverted for private gain on a huge scale, cloaked under secrecy deemed necessary for such security-related equipment. They also demonstrated how grand corruption in Kenya had become institutionalised, with contracts like these being handed on from rent-seekers in one government to the next. The Kenyan government cannot get out of paying for these fraudulent contracts. One result of that is the government has to re-schedule part of its debt. Another is to delay Kenya’s issuance of its first Eurobond. Terrorism itself reduces confidence in Kenya further. The dodgy contracts have delivered nothing commensurate to Kenya’s defences. Nor has the extensive foreign assistance rendered in the last 15 years. The government’s insouciance in face of the threat combines with a thin-skinned response to criticism. When 18 ambassadors signed a call for renewed efforts against graft last month, they were duly berated by President Kenyatta’s attack dogs. The fact is that Kenya’s institutions are so corrupt that the large funds allocated over the years to security have been largely squandered. Its leadership is repeatedly embarrassed by recurrent demonstrations of how Kenya’s declarations of intent on graft fail against the engrained venality in the system. Its citizens are effectively swindled twice: their taxes stolen while their security is not one whit improved, leaving them exposed to violent criminality and terrorism, culminating in last

year’s attack on the Westgate shopping mall, and now these events. The UN calls Nairobi its most dangerous posting. Finally, no tragedy is complete without the element of farce. Nine years ago, a man called Joshua Kulei was declined a visa to visit Britain – a privilege he had hitherto regarded as a right. Mr Kulei was a personal assistant to former President Moi, and one of the iconic figures of the grand corruption associated with that regime. Although Anglo-Leasing reaches back into that era, it was not the most egregious case. When Mr Kulei was told in 2004 that his presence in this country was not conducive to the public good it was a shock. Mr Moi rang me to intercede, in vain. As the news spread, it caused disbelief, then glee, in Kenya. Last month, Mr Kulei again visited the United Kingdom, rejoicing at his freedom to travel here in his usual style after a denial of ten years. The question arises, what has he done to redeem his unsavoury reputation? I put exactly that question to my constituency’s MP, Justice Secretary Chris Grayling. The Home Office refused to confirm or deny anything out of respect for Kulei’s privacy. The Foreign Office, for its part, provided a long bromide from Mark Simmonds about the UK government’s unchanged policy on corruption in Kenya. But something clearly has changed, and we have a right to know what. Corruption flourishes in Kenya as ever. The policy of excluding a couple of dozen luminaries of a corrupt elite has had a useful effect: it helped disrupt the corruption networks – which run through the UK, incidentally – and exposed to public ridicule those affected. It dented their confidence that they could rely on entry to the UK as a safe haven if life ever got too hot. It signalled to Kenya’s long-suffering citizens that we were on the side of the anti-graft movement. Our interests, like theirs, are in a government which is effective in service-delivery and especially in combating insecurity. Badly run institutions and venal leadership are a menace to these interests. So, why has Mr Kulei been let off? What signal does his presence here send to us and to Kenya? How many more Kenyan VIPs denied visas will quietly be allowed back? Will we protect their privacy at the expense of seeing Kenya’s security attacked by dedicated terrorists who raise their game faster than the better-resourced but lumbering Kenyan state and its flawed elites?

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Academy, which was awarded to Adelaide Gardner, a member of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf’s Kitchen Cabinet, who reportedly used her unofficial capacity to bulldoze her way through a catering contract, using the President’s name and, according to LNP sources, intimidating commandants at the academy into withdrawing a qualified bid winner and declaring Gardner the winner. IT IS NOW TIME Sirleaf and Liberians realize that the war on corruption has been lost with the departure of individuals who are willing to stand up to the task and say no to bogus deals whether its involves the President relatives, friends or not. THE YES MADAM PRESIDENT SYNDROME is hurting the country and stifling the fight against corruption, the stronger ones will always disagree with the President and her associates

who want to reap the milk out of Liberia and therefore will be frustrated to leave the government. THE WAR on corruption can never be won when only those who agree with the President and honor any contracts or deals initiated by her associates are heading anti corruption institutions. CURRENTLY THE GAC is headed by a lady who worked with the President at the Foreign Ministry before taking the new assignment so the GAC is now just another institution headed by somebody who will say “yes Madam” to President Sirleaf, same will soon be with the LACC and the PPCC, so where is Liberia headed in this fight against corruption. LIBERIA HAS lost the war on corruption as the transparency czars are leaving the Government.

Monday, May 26, 2014

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FrontPage

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING ABOUT OUR STORIES ON THE WORLDWIDE WEB

COMMENTS FROM FPA ONLINE GERALDINE DOE SHERIFF QUITS CDC, SAYS PARTY CANNOT ACHIEVE CHRIS JOHNSON · WORKS AT HUMANITARIAN

I hope you've saved enough money cause you are also on your way out of the Senate when your current expires! SYLVESTER MOSES Regardless of any spirited attempt to save face the resignation of Hon. Geraldine Doe Sheriff, a sitting senator from the capital, and a former chairperson, would undoubtedly hurt the main opposition, CDC. And using derogatory remarks to dismiss the significance of her departure would only accentuate the immaturity of her detractors at the helm of the party. Every political organization has its own problems: rifts and rivalries. But they should be fixed to not fester, and lead to defections of core members together with their followers. Such internal hemorrhage occurred during the last presidential elections. Geraldine’s election to the senate was a great moment for the CDC brand; let’s hope her exit isn’t momentous to the fortunes of the party. Pluralistic democracy affirms regular transfers of power from one party to another; that’s why Liberia isn’t a one - party state. And the necessity for stability dictates that another party other than UP wins in 2017. Is CDC ready? It is sad that a once alert party which gave hope to our young and restless population is sleep - walking: they ought to wake up or lose again. JOSEPH MULBAH · CUTTINGTON UNIVERSITY This has been said again and again that CDC is a party of number not ideas, people come there to get the numbers and work their way out on the political steeps . Many are call but few chosen , there are so many leaders in the CCD ,the mighty party in line for one of the world loved people(GEORGE WEAH) ,who just want to win their seat or post of which they are wishing for. when will the MIGHTY CDC learn. 2017 is here again what are we doing, what is the game plan ? There seen to be more problem come 2017 power take over . will CDC stand the heat from the Liberian people ? now that every Liberian are politicians .Let wait and ccccc VICTOR FAYIA · SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO MD AT TOTAL LIBERIA INC. this too is Liberia many fools and less educated people outcome of less education and know how in the society will Liberia continues like this after 155 or 56 yrs of independence? sorry CDC for when u were fighting to put her into position with pride and honor we all fight to put the old mother into position and now we all seen what is happening in our land and the same goes to the cdcians on a woman leadership and leaders many will pass through CDC for their ways out and success cause that is the only easy to go through guys we all coming very soon as time goes on hail CDC hail ALL BOIMA PASSAWE · WORKS AT MITSUBISHI CATERPILLAR FORKLIFT AMERICA I don't see CDC to do anything better comes 2017. Another party will show strength in 2017, but not CDC. Let think about different party.

JUST ANOTHER LIE’: ROB SIRLEAF DEBUNKS RAID OF US HOME BY FBI

• SYLVESTER MOSES · TOP COMMENTER Robert Sirleaf was a Vice President at Wells Fargo Bank in Charlotte, NC; a city which is evolving into the banking Mecca of the US. So we agree that if there was an FBI raid at his residence, it would make not only the “Charlotte Observer” newspaper, but the rumor mill of a bustling Liberian community which makes Peyton’s Place seems like a convent. And if “the truth shall come out”, let us wait rather than attempting at preempting it through a pinch of peppered prevarications. Should politics be the motive for this new smear campaign, Weah, Robert and Neyor would each make a great senator.They are professionals, patriots, compassionate, and business - minded; criteria necessary for an effective senator in Liberia. Instead of discouraging some of the brightest and best, we should be welcoming them to take on the difficult task of running one of the poorest and most backward real estates in the world. Avoiding political instability in the next five years would need skills, courage, and charisma; therefore, we protect Liberia by giving a chance to those who can bring these attributes along.

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ACDL MEMBERS MUST ‘CONSCIOUSLY CLEAR THEIR NAMES

The Editor,

Let me use your medium to call on all founders of the Association for Constitutional Democracy in Liberia (ACDL), that the Liberian people are demanding answersto the following questions: 1. What was the main objective for which the Association was founded? 2. What were then the underlying principles of the Association? 3. Did the ACDL in any form and manner support the NPFL insurrection either morally or financially? 4. Did individual members within the Association contributed to the NPFL rebellion? 5. Mr. Woewiuyuwho is now being held in custody on immigration charges in the US was he a founding member of the Association? 6. Did the leadership of the ACDL gave approval to a letter signed by Mr. Harry A. Greaves, Jr. , TREASURER of the ACDL addressed to Cllr. Clearance Simpson, Jr., dated April 9, 1990 soliciting money from Cllr. Simpson in support of the NPFL rebellion? 7. Did other founding members of the ACDL are aware that other overzealous members of the Association were in support of the NPFL military campaign? The Liberian people are awaiting your answers, because for the past 20 years or so ACDL members are in the constant habit denials of supporting the military NPFL’s campaign. Since the publication by the Frontpageafrica of a letter dated April 9, 1990 written on the official Letter-Head of the Association, it now refreshes the memory of the Liberian people of connivance by the ACDL with the notorious NPFL in destabilizing Liberia. A new debate has been open calling for the establishment of a Hybrid Court to try war crimes suspect and human rights violators. So, members of ACDL, please try to consciously clear your names especially to our dear brother; Ezekiel Pajibo, a social commentator who was then the youngest member of the ACDL Executive Board. Ezekiel you are aware that aiding and abetting as a serious crime. Please try to get tothe other older guys who founded the ACDL to give the Liberian people clear cut answers to these questions other than constant denials or pretty soon it will be too late. Micah Moore [email protected]

WILL THERE EVER BE JUSTICE FOR LIBERIAN WOMEN UNDER THE RULE OF AFRICA’S FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENT?

The Editor,

Even though women suffered the brunt of violence during Liberia’s 14 years carnage, Africa’s first female President continues to work against the establishment of a Liberian war crimes court. Rather; she has only settled for a so-called Truth forum that will further humiliate victims of rape and sex enslavement by dragging them yet again through a public ordeal that ultimately holds no one accountable. If the President is unwilling or unable to use THE RULE OF LAW to protect women, what real protection can she provide them?

Is the President for her own selfish gain using the women of Liberia? Whatever her strategy, I would like to admonish President Sirleaf that any attempt at delaying justice in the hope that time will eventually diminish the severity of the pain suffered by the Liberian people is a serious miscalculation. Liberia cannot and will not heal unless those responsible for the rape, torture, maiming, as well the coldblooded murders of our friends and loved ones are held accountable. Failing to deal with these sensitive issues only prolongs the start of genuine reconstruction. Bernard Gbayee Goah, [email protected]

IT'S TIME TO PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR MOUTH IS, GOVERNOR JONES

The Editor,

Speaking about the future of the Liberian economy, (at the Liberian Business Association induction ceremony), our psychic Governor (Dr. Joseph Mills Jones) "sees" a new economy, where "Liberians are not sitting as consumer, but producers and owners"! (Re "CBL GOVERNOR PREDICTS BRIGHT FUTURE FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP") By the way, Liberia is poised to become the 2nd largest producer of fake money because of CBL's monetary policies! Zimbabwe is the first! (1 US$= Z$300,000,000,000,000!) But here's the kicker: Governor Jones says that "in order to get into the new Liberian economy, Liberian entrepreneurs MUST have access to credit on reasonable terms..." Oh really? But who's stopping them (Liberian entrepreneurs) from having "access to credit on reasonable terms", Governor? Other people? Or themselves? Hey, I know the Governor is afraid of telling these people (Liberian entrepreneurs) the truth because he wants their votes in 2017 (Presidential election).....But since I'm not hustling for votes, I shall give them an honest answer. You ready? Memo to Liberian Entrepreneurs: Nobody owes you jack! We're all equal under the law! If the banks and other lending institutions DON'T want to extend credit to you on "reasonable terms", too bad...It's someone else's money-NOT yours! Perhaps if you put down a security deposit or had a collateral or a good credit history, they might extend credit to you! But neither you nor Governor Jones have the right to FORCE anybody to extend credit to you "on reasonable terms." If you can't compete in the open market, then you shouldn't be business! But look. If Governor Jones insist that you guys MUST have "access to credit on reasonable terms", why can't he reach into his pocket and lend you his own damn money? Hey Governor, the ball is now in your court! Instead of abusing the power of the Central Bank to print more fake money, which leads to inflation and the depreciation of the Liberian dollar, you should put your OWN damn money on the line for these Liberian voters, oops, I mean entrepreneurs! Come on now, Governor---It's time to put YOUR money where your MOUTH is or shut the hell up! Martin Scott Atlanta, Georgia [email protected]

EDITORIAL TEAM

Rodney D. Sieh, Managing Editor, 0886-738-666; 077-936-138, [email protected]; [email protected] Wade C. L. Williams, News Desk Chief, wade. [email protected]; 0880664793 Sports Editor, Danesius Marteh, danesius.marteh@ frontpageafricaonline.com, 0886236528 Henry Karmo, henry.karmo@frontpageafricaonline. com Al-varney Rogers al.rogers@frontpageafricaonline. com, 0886-304498 Sports Reporter, A. Macaulay Sombai,macaulay. [email protected], 077217428

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Monday, May 26, 2014

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DOE VS JONES TUSSLE OVER PROPERTY TURNS BRUTAL

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Monroviaollowing Tuesday’s ruling in the case Nancy B. Doe vs. G. Alvin Jones on Saturday, the two families were at each other’s throat, engaging in physical fight with clothes torn and blows exchange over the Vamoma property. Samuel K. Doe Jr. and the son of G. Alvin Jones, Maxwell Jones ended up in a fist fight Saturday accordingly after an attempt by the former President’s son to move into the disputed VAMOMA property. The decision by Samuel K Doe Jr. popularly known as Junior Doe, to move on the grounds of VAMOMA came less than four days after a ruling by the civil law court which favored the Doe family as the highest shareholder in the VAMOMA Corporation. No Court Order Maxwell Jones told FrontPageAfrica that with no court order the Doe family forcibly moved on the grounds of VAMOMA adding that their action shows no sign of respect for the rule of law. "Nancy Doe sent her son [Junior Doe] they came this morning they came with no documents and court order, the three of them decided to come in, they brought no court officers with them, they brought no police with them so they came in the yard because according to them they own 87% of the property, in their mind they are the majority shareholder," Maxwell told FrontPageAfrica. Maxwell said, the case between the both families is still in court despite the ruling from the lower court but he was surprised to see the Doe family moving into the premises he and other family members currently live. Jones said, upon receiving information that they [Doe’s] were on the grounds of the compound, he immediately came down stairs to know the purpose of their visit. Jones explained: "They walked in the compound, I was informed by my security that they were in the yard, so I came down immediately, went to them and asked what are you doing here they became hostile and begin insulting and we ended into a fist fight,". According to Jones the commotion on the compound grew to an extent that his mother and brother got involved. "Junior Doe and his people tore my shirt and I tore their shirt too, anyway they felt over powered because I am on the ground and there

BOXING FOR VAMOMA "Junior Doe and his people tore my shirt and I tore their shirts too, anyway they felt over powered because I am on the ground and there are more people in support of me, my mother came in my brother came in, there were commotion but we asked them to leave but they insisted that they were not going to leave and we were able to drive them out," Maxwell Jones

are more people in support of me, my mother came in my brother came in, there were commotion but we asked them to leave but they insisted that they were not going to leave and we were able to drive them out," Jones added. The son of the former Finance Minister said, after the commotion Junior Doe and his accomplices left the compound adding that in no time they [Doe] came with police from the Airfield depot. "They left and called the

police from SLIM depot and they came and asked us so that we can go and talk it at the police station, my experience with the police when you find yourself in their zone you are messed up, so I told them I heard what you say I am not refusing but my right tells me if my legal counsel is not here I cannot go there," Jones noted. When FrontPageAfrica visited home of the former first lady just nearby the headquarters of the Traditional Council of Liberia to get her side of

the story, Madam Doe in a respond told her security to inform FPA that she wasn't feeling well to talk to the press. The security after taking along the identification card of FPA report returned and also said Samuel K. Doe, Jr. was not ready to talk. The dispute for the VAMOMA property began in February 2004 when the former first lady Nancy Doe, started claiming ownership of the property on ground that most of the funding to construct the building was

provided by her late husband something the family of the former Finance Minister Alvin Jones refuted. Jones recalled, on May 20, 2014 the judge of the civil law court ruled that their Article of Incorporation presented before the court was fraudulent. "On Tuesday of this week [May 20, 2014] we were called to the court by our lawyer for the ruling, the ruling that came from the judge was that our article of incorporation was fraudulent based his judgment on a

verdict made by six female jurors," Jones added. Jones argued that the jurors lack the professional and technical knowledge to determine if a document is fraudulent. "The judge supported the jurors decision that our documents were fraudulent but how do you prove fraud, fraud must be proven there was no way to prove fraud that they said our documents were fraudulent." Jones said. According to Jones, his legal counsel was denied motion of retrial adding that this left them [Jones] with no option but take an appeal to the Supreme Court. Ruling on sentiments Jones believes that both the jurors and the judge decisions were based on sentiment instead of facts. "I think the ruling was based on sentiments, here is this there were five female jurors in a case involving a widow, former first lady, someone that is not educated and she now is coming to say that this cooperation is owned by my husband and children and the Johnny Kpor family, we are saying no it is only owned by one family the jury sentiment will be like the woman one to share and we do not want to share it will be that you are greedy so they play on their sentiments there." The two families were once a friends with one serving as Finance Minister and another the President of the Republic of Liberia but for years they have become estranged enemies now in court over property ownership and besides the court process, they are at each other’s throat, engaging in physical fight. The case has been lingering in court for years until Tuesday when Judge Peter Gbeneweleh denied a motion for retrial earlier filed by lawyers representing the Jones. Jones lawyers announced an appeal before the Supreme Court, meaning the case is still ongoing until decided by the highest arbiter of Justice. The case is in line with the Liberian legal system, a ruling by a lower court is not effected once a party to the case takes an appeal to the Supreme Court, leaving the high court with the options to either uphold the ruling of the lower court wherein such ruling is implemented or order a retrial.

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NEWS EXTRA

‘JUST ANOTHER

Rob Sirleaf Debunks Raid of US Home by FBI

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BANKING & FINANCE

BOLSTERING TRADE FINANCING CAPALITIES IN AFRICA Ecobank granted US$ 200 million financing facility by AfDB

E Kigali –

cobank Transnational Incorporated (“Ecobank” or “the Group”) and the African Development Bank (‘AfDB’) on Wednesday21st May signed a US$ 200 million Trade Finance Facility. The facility was signed at an official ceremonyheld during the AfDB Annual General Meeting in Kigali by Mr. Albert Essien, Ecobank’s Group Chief Executive, and Mr. Alex Rugamba, Director, AfDB. The facility comprises two components: a US$100 million unfunded risk-sharing facility to bolster Ecobank’s capacity as an international confirming bank for trade transactions originated by issuing banks in Africa and anotherUS$100 million trade facilitation loan which will be used by Ecobank to provide trade finance support to local corporates and SMEs in Africa.Over a period of 3.5 years, the facility will support approximately US$1.8 billion of trade transactions in Africa. “This facility will greatly support international and

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intra-regional trade in Africa,” commented Mr. Albert Essien, Ecobank’s Group CEO. “We look forward to an everdeepening collaboration with the AfDB to provide vital trade finance support to promote regional integration and the development of SMEs across Africa.” Incorporated in Lomé, Togo, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated (‘ETI’) is the parent company of the leading independent pan-African banking group, Ecobank. It currently has a presence in

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Monrovia – he office of Mr. Robert A. Sirleaf has dismissed an online media report suggesting that Mr. Sirleaf’s North Carolina home has been raided by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation(FBI). The online news organ, The New Dispensation citing unnamed sources reported that the son of Liberian president Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, was raided on Thursday, May 22, 2014. The report claimed that the FBI raided Mr. Sirleaf’s home in North Carolina as part of an ongoing investigation on suspicion of funneling money through the First Investment Bank in Liberia to the United States. But in a statement issued in Monrovia Friday, Mr. Sirleaf’s office states: “Mr. Sirleaf’s owns a home in the State of North Carolina, but does NOT live in the residence, and has not for the past 5 years. It was never, and has never been raided by any law enforcement agency internationally, or one of the United States, including the FBI. We repeatedly see (from the same individuals) incorrect, politically motivated, sensational, and fictional news reports quoting non-existing “anonymous sources.” All of which are factually incorrect. This story is just another lie! We will have no further/future comment.” Sirleaf is reportedly contemplating a run for the Senate as a potential challenger to football legend George Weah in a race that is expected to be very competitive. While he has not yet publicly declared his intentions, it is widely believe that Sirleaf is all but set to throw his hat into what is poised to be a crowded Montserrado County senatorial race. Besides Weah and Sirleaf, the race is also expected to feature, Mr. Christopher Neyor, former head of the National Oil Company of Liberia, Youth Activist Benjamin Sanvee and incumbent Joyce Musu Freeman. An aide in Mr. Sirleaf’s office responding to a FrontPageAfrica inquiry Friday, said Mr. Sirleaf’s real estate record in the U.S. is public information and a raid by of all groups the FBI would have been picked up by all major news networks by now.

Monday, May 26, 2014

35 Africancountries, namely: Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo (Brazzaville), Congo (Democratic Republic), Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

The Group is also represented in France through its affiliate EBI SA in Paris. ETI also has representative offices in Dubai (United Arab Emirates), London (UK), and Beijing (China). ETI is listed on the stock exchanges in Lagos, Accra, and the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA) –the BRVM. The Group is owned by more than 600,000 local and international institutional and individual shareholders. The Group employsover19,000 people in 39 different countries in over 1,250branches and offices. Ecobank is a full-service bank providing wholesale, retail, investment and transaction banking services and products to governments, financial institutions, multinationals, international organizations, medium, small and micro businesses and individuals. Additional information may be found at: ecobank.com

GOVERNMENT NEWS

  DEPUTY MINISTER, PATRICK M’BAYO BIDS FORMER PRESIDENT SIRLEAF FAREWELL; PURSUES POSTGRADUATE STUDIES AT GEORGE TOWN UNIVERSITY

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Monrovia – resident Ellen Johnson Sirleaf says government will continue to invest in Liberia’s human resource development as one of the surest ways to securing the future for prepared Liberians. President Sirleaf said she was pleased that Liberian students who have had the opportunity to study abroad have demonstrated a high degree of academic excellence which has shown the world that Liberians have great potential when given the opportunity to exploit them. “This,” the Liberian leader said, “has motivated government to continue to explore avenues where Liberians, irrespective of background, can prepare themselves for future challenges.” According to an Executive Mansion release, President Sirleaf was speaking during a courtesy call paid to her by the former deputy minister

for youth development at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mr. Patrick M’bayo. Mr. M’bayo had gone to meet the Liberian leader to say thanks to her for granting him a scholarship to pursue post-graduate studies at one of America’s top universities, George Town University in Washington DC. He assured the President Sirleaf of being a Liberian ambassador during his sojourn in the United States and will do nothing that will undermine the growth and development of the country and its people. Mr. M’bayo, who is expected to leave on Sunday, May 25, once served as assistant minister for youth services at the Ministry of Youth and Sports. He was later promoted to deputy minister for youth development before being replaced by Mr. John Saah N’tow to afford him the opportunity to undergo postgraduate studies in the United States.

Monday, May 26, 2014

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Monrovia: n the shade of palms lining Monrovia's Waterside Market, street vendors vie for customers, yelling to passers-by about their latest bargains while keeping an eye out for the ever-present menace of the police. Sitting behind her jewellery stall, 29-year-old student Zoe Freeman smiles nervously as she explains how officers in Liberia's capital regularly confiscate her merchandise and extort money from her. "Sometimes they charge you $10, another time you pay $20 or 500 Liberian dollars ($5.80/4.2 euros). The prices vary with different officers," she tells AFP. "Sometimes they confiscate your goods and take them to their headquarters and by the time you get there, they've stolen nearly everything." In the punishing tropical heat of a Liberian spring, the air thick with the aroma of seasonings, smoked fish and ripe mangoes, traders across the market tell the same story. Abel Dayougar, 26, quit a life spent in and out of jail for armed robbery to become a used-clothes trader, but says police harassment is making him question whether turning over a new leaf was the right decision. "That's what brought me into the market -- to make an honest living... I am begging the president (Ellen Johnson Sirleaf) to talk to her police to leave us alone," he said. In Mechlin Street, a steep hill leading down to Waterside lined with Fulani tailor shops, Indian garment boutiques and Lebanese homeware stores selling cheap kitchen utensils imported from China, traders complain of police brutality. Louis Gray, 33, said he was beaten up after resisting a police officer attempting to take the clothes he was selling.

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LAW & ORDER

Frontpage

LIBERIA POLICE

DOGGED BY GRAFT Despite Decade Of Reforms, Corruption Still Haunting Force

- Police 'most corrupt' This is the reality of doing business on the streets of Africa's oldest republic, which was devastated by 14 years of back-to-back civil wars. More than 200,000 people were killed in the 1989-2003 conflicts and thousands more fled the fighting, which left the economy in tatters and the country overrun with weapons. Ten years on, Liberia is one of the world's most corrupt nations and the police force is seen as the institution most on the take, according to Transparency International's 2013 Global Corruption Barometer. The graft survey found 77 percent of Liberians asked, had paid a bribe to law enforcement officers in the past year. And Human Rights Watch documented cases of police demanding money from people to investigate alleged crimes and extorting goods from street vendors, in a report issued last year. The 58-year-old Liberia National Police (LNP) was effectively started from scratch again by the United Nations peacekeeping mission UNMIL after the war. With 4,864 officers for some 4.3 million people, the force

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represents about a quarter of the number in Scotland, which has a comparable population. The chronic weaknesses in the force have become an urgent issue with a drawdown of United Nations troops from a peak of 15,000 in the postwar west African nation to just 3,750 by next summer, leaving the police in sole charge of security. Basic police training is severely behind schedule owing to funding shortfalls, the UN says, with a reported backlog of over 1,000 recruits waiting to be shown the ropes. The salary for a police constable in Liberia is just $150 a month

and morale is further dented by the deplorable condition of stations across the country, lacking the most basic of facilities. - No handcuffs, no uniforms AFP visited two police posts in Monrovia where officers complained of intermittent electricity and no water supply, vehicles, computers, telecommunications, uniforms, or even handcuffs. In each case the dilapidated, musty buildings looked like they would barely withstand a heavy rainstorm, let alone a serious breakout attempt.

"What makes the job most difficult is a lack of logistics across the board. The men are willing to work, the men are there, but the logistics are not," Chief Superintendent Prince Gittens of Paynesville police station tells AFP. Amara Kamar, the shift supervisor at Bongotown station, said he had 45 policemen, about half the number required to do an adequate job. Karin Landgren, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Liberia, told reporters in April she had visited police stations across the country and seen the same

grim picture. Liberia's police chief Chris Massaquoi says the force is on top of recruitment and expects to have 8,000 officers by 2017. He maintains that poverty and   the corruption it breeds are not exclusively a police problem. "This is a country that was torn apart during 14 years of civil war. All of the infrastructures, all of the institutions, were broken down... and there are competing priorities," he told AFP. Corruption, he said, was present in all sectors of Liberian society, urging the public to take responsibility for the problem.

"Let's take for instance the issue of bribes. How would an officer get bribed? By the citizens, by the motorists. And if they do not provide the bribe, if it is not offered, it would not be taken," he told AFP. When AFP pointed out that police are accused of demanding and not just accepting money, Massaquoi replied that the force has appealed to the public to stop giving police cash, "even if they ask". He said officers had been suspended or dismissed "on numerous occasions" where evidence of corruption was provided. "Those days are gone where officers will go out and brutalise people and harass people. We're not going to encourage that," he said. "And so for now the public knows very well that we are serious about being able to mete out justice in keeping with the rule of law and being able to protect everyone in this country." Back at Waterside Market, however, the traders don't share his optimism. "All of the police are the same," says Bendu Brown, a widow at 28 and a mother-of-three who tells AFP that officers have beaten her up. "There's no jobs in the country. We are selling on the street so that we don't engage in prostitution, so that our brothers don't engage in armed robbery, but the police keep coming after us."

 

Monday, May 26, 2014

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PICTORIAL ON THE ISSURANCE OF WRIT FOR THE CONDUCT OF THE 2014 SPECIAL SENATORIAL ELECTION BY THE NATIONAL ELECTIONS COMMISSION OF LIBERIA

Cllr. Sarah Jegede Toe (Co-chairman NEC)

Madam Antoinette B. Johnson (Clerk of writ)

Election Magistrates

Migrates receiving writ of election

Cllr. Jerome Korkoya (Chairman NEC)

Political parties Representatives at the event

Monday, May 26, 2014

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Monday, May 26, 2014

LEGISLATIVE BEAT

CRISIS IN MAKING

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Lawmakers Vow to Hold Budget Hostage

Monrovia-

hat appears to be a serious crisis is gradually developing at the National Legislature as the two chambers (Senate and Representatives) continue to differ on the US$73 million proposed allocation suggested by the House of Representatives. Upon return for their second seating the House of Representatives proposed a US$73 million direct district development allocation into the country’s National budget and communicated to the upper House (senate) but the senate in return rejected the proposal. The decision by the senate has led to mixed reactions amongst Representatives as some feel their colleagues’ action is out of order and should not be accepted. The Lawmakers during Thursday’s discussion claimed that the decision to send the proposed communication to the senate was in the spirit of collaboration but did not need their approval quoting Article 34 of the constitution as their reference. Article 34 (I) says; ”all revenue bills whether subsidies, charges, imposts duties or taxes and other financial bills, shall originate in the House of Representatives, but the Senate may propose or concur with amendments as on other bills.” Using this provision and other provisions of the constitution as their reliance, the lawmakers individually spoke on the issue and stating that the senate misinterpreted their decision to inform them about what they want to do in the budget year 2014/15 in the spirit of collaboration. Representative James Biney (NPP-District#1 Maryland County) “I was never convinced that the senate is keen in supporting the effort that will indeed improve the lives of the people we represent. “Mr. Speaker remember that when the issue came about it was my advise that we did not need to write the senate and your response was that a lot of our colleagues see it as been in the spirit of coordination. My observation at the time is what we are experiencing today. I listen to Senator Isaac Nyenabo and he said one of the reasons they rejected the proposal is because electoral districts are not constitutional and the US$73 million suggest that the money is being appropriated on the basis of electoral districts. But Mr. Speaker allow me to correct the senate since he spoke for them, electoral districts are established on the basis of constitution and the reason why 73 in my opinion Mr. speaker it is the

Henry Karmo (0886522495) [email protected]

 

 

 

believe of our people that each Representative is supposed to speak for a constituency and we have 73 constituencies and that money is intended to target the people that is what we call equitable distribution of our nation wealth. Only if those senators understand that we are here not to follow the caprices of the executive respect the executive but at the same time adequately represent our people to the extent that if we decide to take loan to take care of the needs of our people that’s the constitution of our country and I really think we are at the point where our senators need to understand that for too long our people have suffered and we need to stop playing politics. What I want to say to my colleagues is that change comes with a cost if it will mean the budget will stay here it will and if we succeed in doing it the rest of the other Representatives that will come after us will have a model to follow and I am sure in 20 years no district will look the way it look so it is about time if the senate is not ready we must proceed that is why we will continue to Represent the people they can represent the executive”. Representative Gabriel Smith (INDP-District #2 Grand Bassa County) “The writers of our constitution did not make a mistake in Article 34 D of the constitution which gives the power of the budget to the House Representatives that was never

a mistake because they knew the House of Representatives are the full embodiment of the people. They are people who are from the villages and slums of our counties therefore their views will be represented. We represent the people we are the people from the villages, slums and ghettos we know the needs of our people they are elites we cannot continue to follow them in the guitars to continuously relegate our people to a state of nobody. This formula that is derived under your leadership should not be trashed into the dungeon what the senate is doing is calculated and it is a calculated attempt to perpetuate that philosophy that put others in a state of nobodiness. There are places in this country Mr. Speaker our brothers and sisters will never have an opportunity to sit in class room if we do not take this stand so in conclusion the House is on the right trajectory this is our fragrant responsibility devour upon us by the constitution of the Republic of Liberia and will not be stiffer or impeded by some of our colleagues in the senate. Let us not be deterred”. Moses Acarous Gray (CDCDistrict#8 Montserrado County) Mr. Speaker distinguished colleagues we are the good people of this legislature. if you take a panoramic look at this district where the three branches of government are you will see over five slums communities which demonstrates

underdevelopment because in the past developmental projects are been Presidentially driven . Making comparative analysis with countries in Africa where legislators make appropriation on behalf of their people it is unfortunate that people are counter arguing that this cannot work in Liberia because it has never worked for hundred and more years. My district is a victim of over thirty thousand because of the budget shortfall and all that is because the project for which the money is been allocated for is a Presidential driven project. If the need be let so fulfill and take that decision and let the senate run to the Supreme Court to interpret this provision of the constitution”. Munah Pelham-Youngblood (CDC-District #9Montserrado County)

 

“Mr. Speaker, distinguished colleagues this is not politics as usual this is our people we are talking about in the Liberian constitution Article 80 talks about constituencies not political districts the framer of the constitution felt this is where equity comes about we need to distribute the nation wealth equitably. This is the time we can say sure Liberia has been lifted but can we say the lives of the people in rural parts of the country have been lifted? This is not politics, we are in democracy of representation and since we are representing the people we are under obligation to talk for our people. It is about time that we ensure that the need of our people is addressed through the budget”. Edwin Snowe (INDPDistrict$6 Montserrado

County) “Mr. Speaker, we have the authority to appropriate the six hundred million dollar in the entire budget if the Liberian people can trust us with the entire budget why question us for giving back 73 to our people for development. We have an obligation to our people let’s not be deterred if it will mean we stay here until October when they are having elections before we pass that so be it but the Liberian people must benefit. We are not asking for salary increase, new vehicles or for us to go implement projects we are saying put the money in the budget the executive Branch will implement the projects through their respective agencies and Ministries”.

DEATH ANNOUNCEMENT

This is to announce with deep sorrow the death of Samuel Benedict Cooper Jr. This sad event took place in the ambulance en route to St. Joseph’s Catholic Hospital, on Thursday, May 15, 2014 at 12:40 pm. This is a tremendous loss for the Cooper family and for countless others that affectionately referred to him as Ben Cooper, Papa Zulu, Jolly Pappy, or JP.

Samuel Benedict Cooper, Jr June 22, 1944—May 15, 2014

Funeral arrangements will be as follows: Removal of Ben’s body from the Stryker Funeral Home: Friday, June 6, 2014 at 4 PM With the wake keeping to follow at Trinity Cathedral, Broad Street. Funeral Service will be held at Trinity Cathedral, Broad Street:   Saturday, June 7, 2014 at 10:00 AM This announcement was brought in by the Cooper Family.

Monday, May 26, 2014

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POLITICS

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MOVING TOWARD A SIRLEAF PETITION MONTSERRADO COUNTY REDEMPTION SQUAD’S EFFORT TO NEUTRALIZE THE WEAH EFFECT Wade C. L. Williams, [email protected]

A villager signing the petition

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Monroviahe battle for Montserrado County senatorial seat is the talk of the town as former standard-bearer and vice standard-bearer of the Congress for Democratic Change Football legend George Weah is set to run for the muchcoveted seat. Now with the likes of Weah in the race it seemed the area is a no go zone for many who might be considered political novices against a heavyweight. Suddenly a group of young Liberians under the banner ‘Montserrado County Redemption Squad led by Jowel Ama Hansford say they want to change that and make the race in Montserrado a challenge for Weah, therefore the group wants to introduce the President’s son-Robert Sirleaf onto the tracks for what seems a baton relay. “Unlike before when Ambassador Weah announced his candidacy, there was no one to counter his force because there were no heavyweights,” said Hansford in an interview with FronPageAfrica. “But with the introduction of Mr. Sirleaf, it is going to be an uphill battle for Weah and it is not going to be a free ride.” The group, made up of several young persons has embarked on a campaign, soliciting signatures that would culminate into a petition to be presented to Mr. Sirleaf. “It is a great thing to be here today, to ask you to join us, as we ask this great man called Robert Sirleaf to contest for the senatorial seat of Montserrado County,” said Hansford as he explained the group’s vision to the people of Gbondio Town in rural Montserrado County. “If we do it that way, we think the people of rural Montserrado County, will be a part of the political governance structure of Montserrado County because for too long, they have been pushed aside; their views have not been heard.”

The Montserrado Redemption Squad Hansford believes that people who live in the remote parts of the county, are not feeling the impact of the ongoing development that is taking shape in the country and he thinks Mr. Sirleaf can change that. “There is a reason why we have decided to come to the people of rural Montserrado; for over a long period of time, the people of this part of Montserrado have been grossly unrepresented,” he said. “This time around for you to be redeemed from the pains of underrepresentation, and so this time around we are saying, for you to be redeemed from the hands of underrepresentation for over nine years, we have come to you to join us, so that you can help us ask this man called Robert Allen Sirleaf to contest. Let power come from you.” For his mother’s sake

The group in conversation with villagers

Ishmael B. Kromah is Principal of the only public school Gbondio Public School, for him, electing Mr. Sirleaf is like a payback to his (Sirleaf) mother, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s kindness. “I am going to contact my student registration form and those who are eligible to vote will vote for Mr. Robert Sirleaf,” said Kromah. “I haven’t see Mr. Sirleaf but there goes a saying that if you have never come across a leopard or a lion, but when you see the skin, that’s the leopard there. For Ellen Johnson business, I put my head on chopping board because, the motorbike that I’m riding now, it was from Ellen. For me, Ellen has been the first head of state to visit us in this area, since Liberia was founded.” Kromah said President Sirleaf’s sacrificed to visit them sometime ago despite the deplorable road condition, and it is something to show gratitude for by electing her son senator for Montserrado County. “The time Madam Sirleaf came here…. just imagine it was raining but the President said I’m coming there. The President came under that torrential rain, she came and dedicated this our building,” he said. “Ellen government is one of the best governments we have had in this country; so because of Ellen I will consult my student registration listing all my students that are eligible to vote, will vote for Robert Sirleaf.” Vandi Kahn walked an hour thirty minutes to get to the meeting because he wanted to make a point to the group and this was what he told them: “When it comes on the line of seeking support from the less fortunate and making all this fine statement then when it is done the people will not come back to us; many of our senators when they take the seat, they just think from Sinkor to Johannson is Montserrado County,” said Kahn.

“I want to give a scenario; the representative before Dakel was Victoria Lynch; we met the woman…just listen to these words she told us ‘Am I the only member of the caucus that you continue to come to me?’ So when people come with these kinds of messages, it can always reflect my mind on those negative things that she said to us.” The Hansford led group shares the view of people like Kahn who thinks the CDC deserves a punishment for what they call the dereliction of duty and misuse of power. The group thinks Robert Sirleaf can deliver the needed change. But Weah, the man at the center of the Montserrado senatorial battle said in a FrontPageAfrica interview that he is not deterred by any name that might pop up even at the last minute. “You say the big gun, then you say I’m afraid? This is not a game for me. Coming into the race is about the people that are looking for hope I have gone into two elections on the Congress for Democratic Change and if you look at the statistics, it will tell you that even in the Presidential race; two elections, CDC won Montserrado County,” he said. Still strong For Weah Montserrado is still his cradle, and no amount of galvanizing by his opponent can rob him of his moment. “We are still strong, we are optimistic; we have the strength to beat anybody in Montserrado County. It is not about name, it is not about Robert Sirleaf, it is not about who’s coming. I think it is about our party; we are motivated more than ever before,” he said. “We know the race is going to be a tough one; we are not complacent. Like I said, the race is not a game; it is to represent our people. I have no fear. I have gone to two elections against Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and I have proved that Montserrado County is our county.” Even though it has been rumored that Mr. Sirleaf would throw his hat in the race for Gbarpolu County, the latest effort in Montserrado County by the MRS is the first serious move to bring the former National Oil Company (NOCAL) chairman into the race. But sources say Mr. Sirleaf is still not keen on jumping in the race until he sees a decisive base of support from the people. According to the National Elections Commission (NEC), the CDC candidate Geraldine Doe Sherriff in the 2011 senatorial election secured 52.7% of the total votes cast (233,038). The group looks to mobilize over 40,000 signatures in order to be able to petition Mr. Sirleaf. Montserrado County is the most populous in the country and winning the county is a big task even at the level of presidency. Senatorial elections in Montserrado County from 2005 to current have all been won by the CDC.

Monday, May 26, 2014

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REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP FOR EDUCATION BASIC EDUCATION PROJECT (GPEBEP) 3RD STREET, SINKOR, 1000 MONROVIA 10, LIBERIA NOTICE OF AWARD

LIBERIA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY (LCAA)

AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR FOUR PROJECTS AS PER TABLE BELOW FOR THE GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP FOR EDUCATION BASIC EDUCATION PROJECT OF THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT (This Ad is being re-advertized because none of the applicants met the basic requirements)

Identification Number: NCB Nos:MOE/GPEP/NCB/W/33-36/14

Liberia Civil Aviation Authority is accepting applications from qualified and experienced professionals with background in Mathematics or Physics to serve as Air Traffic Controller within the Air Traffic Management Department of the CAA. Job Title: Place of Work: Reports to:

Air Traffic Controller Liberia Civil Aviation Authority / Robertsfield, Liberia Manager (ATMD), Liberia Civil Aviation Authority

Job Duties and Responsibilities

 Prevent collision between aircraft arriving at or departing from Roberts/Spriggs and aircraft transiting the Roberts’ Terminal Control Area/Control Zone (TMA/CTR) below 10,000 feet/Flight Level 100;  Prevent collision between aircraft on the maneuvering area and obstructions on that area; and  Expedite and maintain safe and orderly flow of air traffic.  Prepare on-shift duty report prior to turnover.  Respond to emergency distress calls and other unexpected events. Required Education & Qualification  

A BSc Degree in Mathematics or Physics Must have at least 3 years experience in either of the above fields

Summary of Scope of the Awarded Contract National Competitive Bidding (NCB) for Construction of four (4No.) Schools as per the below Schedule of requirements: Lot No.

2.

MOE/GPEP/NCB/W/35/14

3.

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Liberia Civil Aviation Authority is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants on the basis of merit. How to Apply

Please send your applications, along with your Resume and references attached to: Human Resource Section Liberia Civil Aviation Authority Robertsfield, Liberia.

Deadline for submission of application is June 10, 2014. ONLY SHORLISTED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONTACTED

P.O. Box 68, Harbel Margibi County, Republic of Liberia Tel: 231-76998848/49 eFax: +1(404) 506-9617

Remarks

1,021,779.23

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SEMOH GROUP OF COMPANIES ZHONGMEI ENGINEERING GROUP TANGDA CONSTRUCTION COMPANY EMMARK CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE ZAF CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE SERVICE AKASI CONSTRUCTION SERVICES EAST INTERNATIONAL GROUP, INC.

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LIBERIAN LIBERIAN

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575,162.71

574,866.17

LIBERIAN

549,294.51

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Lowest evaluated bidder with a contract sum of US$574,866.17. Less Competitive Bidder

3 4. 5. 6.

9. Lot No. 2. 1.

5.

Employment Opportunity

Evaluated Price (US$)

2

4.

Personal Attributes - The Air Traffic Controller must maintain strict confidentiality in performing duties assigned. - Be honest, respectful and trustworthy. - Be culturally aware and sensitivity. - Must be flexible and demonstrate sound work ethics.

Read-out Price (US$)

1,175,566.19

3.

Skills The Air Traffic Controller must be able to demonstrate the following skills: - Team building; - Professional competence and independent judgment; - Use of analytical discretion problem-solving; - Firm in decision-making; - Articulate and proficient oral communications skills; - Computer literacy in Microsoft - word-processing; - Possess stress and time management skills. - Ability to work quickly and accurately under pressure. - Be self-disciplined

1

LIBERIAN

2.

English grammar fluency and composition; Communicate fluently and distinctly to airmen within Liberia’s territorial airspace; and Must have knowledge in Microsoft word-processing, Excel and Power-point.

Nationality

CICO

8.

-

Name of Bidder

CONSTRUCTION OF KAFFEH(BASIC EDUCATION SCHOOL) BORROBO DISTRICT, MARYLAND COUNTY. CONSTRUCTION OF WELSO ELEMENTARY AND JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL (BASIC EDUCATION) SASSTOWN DISTRICT, GRAND KRU COUNTY. CONSTRUCTION OF DROAH PUBLIC SCHOOL (BASIC EDUCATION), CENTRAL KPAYAN DISTRICT, SINOE COUNTY.

1.

The Air Traffic Controller must have proficient knowledge in the following areas:

E-mail: [email protected] / www.liberiacaa.com

MOE/GPEP/CW/NCB/36/14

Lot No. Lot.1

Construction period

CONSTRUCTION OF PENNOKON ELEMEMTARY SCHOOL (BASIC EDUCATION) PUTU DISTRICT, GRAND GEDEH COUNTY

MOE/GPEP/CW/NCB/34/14

7.

Tel: 231-76998848/49 eFax: +1(404) 506-9617

Description

MOE/GPEP/NCB/W/33/14

1.

Knowledge

P.O. Box 68, Harbel Margibi County, Republic of Liberia

Package No.

10 months following the date of effectiveness the of the Contract

Position Summary: The Air Traffic Controller shall under the supervision of Senior Air Traffic Controller be responsible to ensure the safe, orderly and expeditious movement of Air Traffic in the lower airspace of the skies of Liberia by providing Air Traffic Services (ATS) and Aeronautical Information Services to ensure the safe, orderly and expeditious movement of Air Traffic in the lower airspace of Liberia. The Air Traffic Controller shall report to the Manager Air Traffic Management Department.

PROJECT ID: P117662 IDA GRANT NO.: TF097456

6. Lot No. 3. 1. 2.

AGRO MANAGEMENT & BROKAGE Name of Bidder

Less Competitive Bidder

Nationality

Read-out Price (US$)

Evaluated Price (US$)

CHINA

774,687.14

783,753.58

Less Competitive Bidder

LIBERIA

729,992.89

729,992.89

Less Competitive Bidder

CUSMOS COMPANY CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

LIBERIA

642,288.06

642,288.06

AGRO MANAGEMENT BROKERS AGENCY

LIBERIA

568,312.09

Lowest Evaluated Bidder with a contract sum of US$642,288.06 Less Competitive Bidder

601,386.96

CHINA

1,285,954.02

1,148,996.91

LIBERIA

925,623.47

852,995.84

Nationality

Read-out Price (US$)

Evaluated Price (US$) 1,168,081.13 923,471.31

Less Competitive bidder Less Competitive bidder

ZHONGMEI ENGINEERING GROUP LIMITED UNICORN INCORPORATED

LIBERIA

&

CHINA CHONGQING INTERNATIONAL (CICO) SEMOH GROUP COMPANIES

OF

Name of Bidder

Remarks

Less Competitive Bidder Less Competitive Bidder Remarks

CICO SEMOH GROUP OF COMPANIES ZHONGMEI ENGINEERING GROUP

Liberia Liberia

1,265,081.13 899,699.91

Liberia

721,789.39

784,129.40

Less Competitive bidder

Liberia

715,265.58

715,265.58

Less Competitive bidder

5.

UNICORN LIBERIA INCORPORATED ALISA GROUP OF COMPANIES

Liberia

623,461.80

630,946.42

Less Competitive bidder

6.

TWIN BUSINESS GROUP

Liberia

610,226.47

616,803.15

Liberia

575,919.13

609,290.95

Lowest Competitive bidder Less Competitive bidder

3. 4.

7.

Lot No. 4. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

7.

HARDING INC.

CONSTRUCTION

Name of Bidder

Nationality

Read-out Price (US$)

Evaluated Price (US$)

TENGDA CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, LTD

Liberia

763,640.44

763,778.37

Less Competitive bidder

Liberia

1,196,052.64

1,065,363.49

Less Competitive bidder

Liberia

570,083.22

631,012.05

Less Competitive bidder

Liberia

601,226.47

605,792.84

Liberia

925,623.47

909,612.66

Less Competitive bidder Less Competitive bidder

Liberia

321,789.92

Rejected

Liberia

619,341.50

619,341.50

Less Competitive bidder

Liberia

689,710.91

692,928.42

Less Competitive bidder

Liberia

582,301.57

582,301.57

Lowest evaluated bidder

Liberia

584,574.01

584,574.01

Less Competitive bidder

Liberia

643,406.02

649,064.54

Less Competitive bidder

CHINA CHONGQING INTERNATIONAL (CICO) FAIRDEAL COMMERCIAL LIB, INC TWIN BUSINESS GROUP SEMOH COMPANIES

GROUP

OF

LIBERIA RURAL DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNITY SERVICE CUSMOS COMPANY

CONSTRUCTION

8.

EMMARK CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE INC.

9.

EAST GROUP

10.

E-mail: [email protected] / www.liberiacaa.com 11.

2

AKASI SERVICES

INTERNATIONAL CONSTRUCTION

ZAF CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES

3

Remarks

Submission was not compliant to ITB.

Monday, May 26, 2014

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PAGE RONT

LIFE STYLE

Frontpage

Page 13

‘JEHOVAH BLESS’ SAYON MAYSON, LIBERIA’S SHINNING GOSPEL STAR OF THE YEAR

TREASURES FROM S/ IN LEONE REGULATOR STILL LACC DRAGNET & LIBERIA ON DISPLAY AT SMITHSONIAN MUSEUM OF AFRICAN ART

Commission on Higher Education Director General long Corruption tale A Nat Bayjay Special Promotional Article, [email protected] (231) 777 402737

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irector, Johnnetta Betsch Cole, Deputy Director and Chief Curator, Christine Mullen Kreamer and Bonnie Berry, Assistant to the Director at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art in Washington, DC, United States of America, on Wednesday May 21st, 2014 warmly received a four-man delegation from the Embassy of Sierra Leone, who visited an exhibition entitled: “Visions of the Forests”: The Art of Liberia and Sierra Leone” that is currently underway. The exhibition which was officially opened on April 9th, 2014 will end on August 17th, 2014. The entrance is free and is opened to all. Led by Ambassador Bockari Kortu Stevens, other members of the delegation included Deputy Chief of Mission – Ambassador Ibrahim S. Conteh, Minister Counselor – Mrs. Isatu Sillah, Third Secretary – Ms. Fatmatta Dao and Information Attaché – Mr. Pasco Gerald Temple. On arrival, Ambassador Stevens did not only congratulate Director, Jonnnetta Betsch Cole and Deputy Director and Chief Curator, Christine Mullen Kreamer including other authorities and staff for the fiftieth anniversary celebration of the museum but he also thanked them for showcasing the treasures of the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Republic of Liberia. He gave a brief comparison between the culture and traditions of the two sister countries of Sierra Leone and Liberia and took a tour of the facility. According to the Deputy Director and Chief Curator, Christine Mullen Kreamer, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is exhibiting treasures from the Republic of Sierra Leone and the Republic of Liberia collected by William Siegmann (1943– 2011), former Curator of African Art at the Brooklyn Museum, who lived and worked in Liberia from 1965 to 1987. According to Ms. Kreamer, “Visions from the Forests” provides an exceptional overview of the region’s traditional art forms, including masks and other artworks used in men’s and women’s initiation associations, jewelry and prestige objects of cast brass, ivory, and horn, small stone figures dating from the 15th to 18th centuries, and woven and dyed textiles. With emphasis on connoisseurship and the identification of specific artists or workshops, the exhibition reveals the deep personal and scholarly connections forged by Siegmann during

his many years of research on the arts and cultures of the West African region. “William Siegmann – Bill”, as scholars and collectors internationally knew him, was a rare individual whose deepseated knowledge about the arts of Africa and his exceptional eye for quality distinguished him as a true connoisseur. During many years of research and curatorial work, Siegmann developed a large personal collection of traditional African art, primarily from Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Côte d’Ivoire, which reflected his extensive fieldwork and study and the passion he had for the people and cultures of the West African region. Several artistic legacies from the Mende, Sapi, Sherbro and Themne ethnic groups were openly on display in the gallery. A Gbeni mask of the Mende ethnic group made up of wood, leopard skin, sheep skin, antelope skin, raffia, cotton, cowrie shells, a twentieth century tassel hat from the Themne ethnic group made with silver, a mid-twentieth century Kaiwa helmet hat worn by soweis, an early twentieth century side blown horn, normoli head, goboi, gongoli and many more were all displayed. On the Liberian side, some works from the Dan, Grebo, and Loma people were also found in the galleries. An early twentieth century Dan or Mano artist mask with shoulder cloth, wood, animal fur, feathers of the great blue Turaco, Cotton and beads: ring with knobs, necklace, tompieme or bagle mask called slu or hawk made up of wood, metal feathers and angbai or nyangbai masks are all on display. Giving their impressions, all the members of the Sierra Leone Embassy delegation expressed positive sentiments about the exhibition and encouraged Sierra Leoneans to take advantage of the opportunity and refresh their memories. H.E. Ambassador Bockari Stevens is inviting all Sierra Leoneans, including friends of Sierra Leone and DNA rooted to visit the exhibition and learn more about the cultural heritage of the motherland, Sierra Leone. On April 12 2014, Mrs. Isatu Sillah Minister/ Counselor of the Embassy of Sierra Leone together with past serving Peace Corps in Liberia and Sierra Leone witnessed the official opening of the “Visions of the Forests”: The Art of Liberia and Sierra Leone” at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art.

Award-winning  Sayon Mayson

ith pleasure I present to you Minister Sayon Mayson, Liberia’s Gospel Artist of the year 2013-2014. With this, you now know that he is the biggest Gospel artist our nation can boost of at the moment, at least as per the choice of the Liberian Association of Gospel Musical Artists (LAGMA). The Christian conglomerate association of all Gospel musicians in Liberia bestowed upon the young artist that highest national title on March 30, 2014 during its Annual Awards Night. Minister Mayson is currently most famous for his thrilling testimonial song titled “Jehovah Bless Me”, one that eventually earned him the award. Additionally, he won four other awards as he was also voted the Best Gospel Artist, Best Male Vocalist, Best Song, and Best Male Artist during this year’s annual event. He was nominated in all four of the categories and went on to win all including the coveted one ‘Artist of The Year’. “I just give God the glory for his blessings. For that song ‘Jehovah Bless Me’ which continues to make so much headways, I honestly never expected it to be such a boom”, the tall-slim young artist stated. Humming the wordings of the song (He took me from nowhere to someone), Minister Mayson said, “I just decided to sit down one day in my room and began to think about where He has taken me from, where He has brought me and where He is taking me. So I just decided to praise Him in my room and that is how the whole song came about. I sang this song to just appreciate God”. “I have been singing in my church [Trinity Healing Temple] choir for a while now and God decided to just bless me and I’m now the Gospel Artist of the Year”, he exclaimed. But prior to his national award, Minister Mayson’s recognition had been gone international. He was one of two Liberian Gospel artists who for the very first time were nominated by the prestigeous internationally acclaimed Africa Gospel Music Awards (AGMA’s), the other being awards-winning Kanvee Gaines Adams. The 4th edition of the AGMA event nominated and placed Mayson among other top-notch African Gospel Artists in the category Best Male Artist of West African For 2013 that was held in London, the United Kingdom in July of last year. Though a late invitation and a 15-day visa issuance restriction coupled with Mayson’s ongoing academic exams at the time all prevented his attendance of the event, Mayson’s touching Gospel music continues to touch lives the world over. A graduating senior student of the University of Liberia (reading Accounting and Economics), Minister Mayson’s musical dream goes beyond: “My first priority for now is getting my first degree which comes in December and then I will begin to put full time into music with no limits to what I can achieve by God’s special grace.” With special acknowledgment to Mr. Nathan Reeves whose sponsorship has helped him through God’s grace, the artist who is working on his third 8-tracked album seeks additional assistance and sponsorship to make his dream a reality: “I even want to have a bigger musical show to bless God, though I had a thanks-giving concert in my church a few Sundays ago”. His immediate future plans include holding God-inspiring musical concerts in other parts of Liberia outside Monrovia and even international concerts, especially among Diaspora Liberians in the United States, Australia and Europe. Beginning at the tender age of nine, a smaller, leaning Mayson would be made to stand on the bench to sing among people in various churches and school campuses. Though born in Monrovia with parents named Mr. Maxwell Mayson and Mrs. Oretha Vah (deceased), he hails from Grand Bassa County where he schooled at the Bassa Community School (BCS) and the WPL Brumskine United Methodist School where he wooed his fellow students through his singing before returning to Monrovia where he has began the process of fully launching himself into stardom with God’s grace. He has produced two albums, the first being ‘Noone Like U’ (8 tracks) in 2008 and the current thrilling one called ‘Jehovah Bless You’ (8 tracks) in 2013. His third (with another set of 8 tracks) will be released officially on June 4, 2014 to mark his 34th birthday. He had previously won Best Lyric Composer in 2008, Best Male Vocalist in 2009, and in 2010 and 2011 the Best Male Vocalist. Currently the President of the Music Ministry and Director of the English Choir at THT Church in Topoe Village in Gardnersville, Sayon Mayson’s favored musical sojourn is most likely to shoot upwards: “For now, Bro. Bayjay, there’s no turning back for me, by God’s special grace”, he concluded.

 

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PAGE RONT

Page 14 | Frontpage

IN BRIEF

WITH DECISIVE REBUKE, US EYES LONG HAUL IN THAILAND

WORLD NEWS

Monday, May 26, 2014

I

Washington (AFP) n swiftly punishing Thailand's military for seizing power, the United States is looking beyond short-term interests as it braces for prolonged strife in its oldest Asian ally. Within hours after the army took control of Thailand on Thursday, Secretary of State John Kerry condemned the coup as having "no justification" and urged the quick restoration of democracy and press freedom. The United States suspended $3.5 million in defense assistance, or about a third of its total aid to Thailand, and canceled ongoing military exercises with the kingdom -- a vital US ally for decades, including in the Vietnam War.

UKRAINE'S PRESIDENTIAL VOTE: A STEP OUT OF CRISIS

U

MOSCOW (AP) — krainians vote Sunday in an early presidential election that could be a crucial step toward resolving the country's crisis, but separatists in the east are threatening to block the vote. The election — which comes six months after the outbreak of protests that led to the president's ouster and a deepening chasm between pro-Europe and proRussia Ukrainians — aims to unify the fiercely divided country or at least discourage further polarization. After months of protests against his rule and scores of protesters killed by snipers, President Viktor Yanukovych signed an agreement with opposition leaders on Feb. 21 calling for early presidential elections by December. He fled later in the day, eventually resurfacing in Russia, and parliament decided to hold the presidential election May 25.

BOY TIED TO BUS STOP HIGHLIGHTS STRUGGLE FOR DISABLED INDIANS

T

Mumbai (AFP) he nine-year-old boy dressed in blue lay listlessly on the pavement in the scorching Mumbai summer afternoon, his ankle tethered with rope to a bus stop, unheeded by pedestrians strolling past. Lakhan Kale cannot hear or speak and suffers from cerebral palsy and epilepsy, so his grandmother and carer tied him up to keep him safe while she went to work, selling toys and flower garlands on the city's roadsides. "What else can I do? He can't talk, so how will he tell anyone if he gets lost?" said homeless Sakhubai Kale, 66, who raised Lakhan on the street by the bus stop shaded by the hanging roots of a banyan tree. Lakhan's father died several years ago and his mother walked out on the family, his grandmother told AFP.

PRESIDENT DECLARES MALAWI ELECTION 'NULL AND VOID'; SUPREME COURT OVERRULES

B

lantyre (Malawi) (AFP) - Malawi's President Joyce Banda declared this week's chaotic election "null and void" and called for a fresh vote, but the high court rejected the decision. Banda, who has claimed there were "serious irregularities" with the poll, declared fresh elections should be held within 90 days but said she would not stand as a candidate, to "give Malawians a free and fair" election. But hours after her announcement, Malawi's high court issued an injunction preventing the president from annulling the poll. The injunction was granted after a lawyer for the Malawi Electoral Commission applied to the court to quash Banda’s decision, asking whether she had any “mandate, constitutional or statutory to interfere with electoral process”. The president had previously said that she was annulling the poll using "powers conferred upon me from the constitution." Banda's main rival Peter Mutharika said the decision to annul the election was "illegal". "Nothing in the constitution gives the president powers

to cancel an election," said Mutharika, who partial results showed was well ahead of Banda in the polls. "This is clearly illegal, unconstitutional and not acceptable." Malawi Electoral Commission workers and other stakeholders recount votes during the ongoing national … There were chaotic scenes at the tally centre in Blantyre when word went around that the poll had been nullified, with police ordering a shutdown of the centre. UN Secretary General Ban Kimoon called on all parties to refrain from violence, remain

calm and "support fully" the Malawi Electoral Commission in completing its work. Ban commended the Malawi people "for turning out in large numbers for the country's first tripartite elections”, his spokesperson said. Preliminary observer statements indicated that the polling process was “generally consistent with regional and international standards” despite technical problems and fraud allegations, according to the UN chief. European Union election observers echoed the call for calm. Banda has alleged people had

voted multiple times, ballots had been tampered with, presiding officers arrested, and the computerised voter counting system collapsed. Her supporters have alleged that Mutharika -- who is already facing pre-election treason charges -- may be behind the irregularities. Malawian presidential candidate Peter Mutharika gestures during a press conference at his residence … With about a third of the votes counted, Mutharika, 74, had 42 percent of the vote, while Banda has 23 percent, according to preliminary results announced

by the electoral commission late on Friday. Mutharika is the brother of late president Bingu wa Mutharika, who died in office two years ago. He allegedly attempted to conceal his brother's death by flying his body to South Africa in a bid to prevent then vice president Banda from coming to power as the constitution decreed. That led to treason charges against him. On Saturday he did not claim victory but said the "people have spoken and this was a free and credible election". "I hope the president abandons the path she has taken," Mutharika said. "As citizens we should not take this country on the path of destruction and everyone should remain calm until results are announced." "Whoever has won should take over the government and start the process of rebuilding the country." - Darling of the West After Mutharika's corruptiontainted eight-year rule, Banda was feted by the West as one of Africa's rare women leaders, even receiving a high profile visit from then US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. But her government has since been ensnared in a $30 million government corruption scandal dubbed "Cashgate" that has seen foreign donors freeze badly needed aid. That aid is likely to remain frozen as long as the current crisis continues. Voting had been scheduled to take place on Tuesday, but was extended through to Thursday when delays of up to 10 hours prompted riots in the commercial capital Blantyre, where the army was deployed. Banda's request for an audit was rebuffed by the country's electoral commission chief, who told AFP that despite problems with the electronic counting system, the tally was continuing manually. Maxon Mbendera insisted the election was "valid" and said Banda's claim was caused by "desperation". Kenneth Msonda, a spokesman for Banda's People’s Party, told AFP conceding defeat was not the issue. "Why concede defeat when anomalies have not been rectified?"

NIGERIA'S BOKO HARAM KILLS 28 IN THREE VILLAGE ATTACKS

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MAIDUGURI Nigeria (Reuters) uspected Islamist Boko Haram gunmen rampaged through t hree villages in northern Nigeria, killing 28 people and burning houses to the ground in a pattern of violence that has become almost a daily occurrence, according to police and witnesses. All three attacks happened on Thursday in remote parts of Borno state, the epicentre of Boko Haram's increasingly bloody struggle for an Islamic kingdom in religiously mixed Nigeria. One took place right next to Chibok, by the Cameroon border, from where more than 200 school girls were abducted last month. The most deadly was in the town of Kerenua, near the Niger border. Scores of militants opened fire on residents, killing 20 of them, and burned houses, a police source said. Since the girls' abduction on

April 14, at least 450 civilians have been killed by the group, according to a Reuters count. A spate of bombings across north and central Nigeria has killed hundreds, including two in the capital Abuja and one in the central city of Jos on Tuesday that killed 118 people.

In a sign Jos could be targeted again, a suicide bombing on Saturday that was meant to target an open air viewing of a football match in the central Nigerian city of Jos killed three people before reaching its target, a witness told Reuters. [ID:nL6N0OA152] The bomber approached Jos

Viewing Centre while people were watching Real Madrid play Atletico Madrid, but failed to get there before his car exploded, Mohammed Shittu, a local journalist at the scene said. The source said some phone signals to the militants had been tracked to Niger itself, suggesting they may have been directed from there. Dozens had been wounded by bullets, he said. Another attack occurred in a small village of Kubur Viu, a few kilometres away from Chibok, resident Simeon Yhana said. The police source concurred with the attack and toll. "They killed five people. This place is right next to Chibok. The military is supposed to be protecting this area but we fear these people (Boko Haram) are coming back," Yhana said. Militants shot dead three other people during an attack on the village of Kimba, the police source said. Nigerian President Goodluck

Jonathan was in South Africa on Saturday, his office said, to discuss ways of tackling Islamist militancy across the continent with African heads of state. Nigeria and its neighbours say Boko Haram - which has killed thousands during its five-yearold insurgency in Africa's top oil producer - now threatens the security of the whole region. The insurgents initially attacked mostly security forces and government officials after they launched their uprising in northeast Borno state's capital Maiduguri in 2009. When Jonathan ordered an offensive a year ago to flush them out, civilians formed vigilante groups to help   out - making them targets too. Nigeria accepted help from the United States, Britain, France and China last week and around 80 U.S. troops were arriving in Chad to start a mission to try to free the girls, who remain in captivity.

Monday, May 26, 2014

R

Lisbon (AFP) eal Madrid won the Champions League for the 10th time thanks to extra time goals from Gareth Bale, Marcelo and Cristiano Ronaldo as they came from behind in dramatic circumstances to beat Atletico Madrid 4-1 in Lisbon on Saturday. Atletico seemed set for their first ever European crown as they led deep into stoppage time thanks to Diego Godin's first-half header, but Sergio Ramos took the game into extra time with a towering header in the 93rd minute. And for the second time this season having already scored the winner to hand Real the Copa del Rey against Barcelona last month, Bale scored the crucial goal when he headed into an empty net after Thibaut Courtois had parried Angel di Maria's effort. With Atletico committed to finding an equaliser, Real were able to counter-attack at will and Marcelo killed the game off when his low shot had too much power for Courtois before Ronaldo sealed his return to Lisbon with a fourth from the penalty spot. "It is the most important goal I have scored," said Ramos. "It is an incredible feeling. We kept fighting until the end for the fans. It is not my goal, but one for all Madrid fans, my family and all those that have supported us until the end. We deserved it after so many years." Real coach Carlo Ancelotti, meanwhile, becomes the first man since Bob Paisley to win the competition three times. "We have done it with a lot of suffering and difficulty, but in the end we have done it and we deserved it," said the Italian. "I am very happy for this because we have won a trophy that for Real Madrid is very important.

Sports

Frontpage

'LA DECIMA'

DONOVAN: "I ABSOLUTELY DESERVED TO BE GOING"

A

Los Angeles (AFP) ll-time US scoring leader Landon Donovan answered questions Saturday for the first time about his snub from the World Cup squad, saying he "absolutely deserved" to be going to Brazil. US coach Jurgen Klinsmann announced his 23-man roster for next month's global football showdown and said Donovan, 32, was a step behind the other strikers in training camp. "I'm disappointed. I'm sad," Donovan said. "I'm human and I wanted to go. I really wanted to go.

HEAT RALLY LATE, BEAT PACERS 99-87 IN GAME 3

We have worked hard all year for this." Atletico captain Gabi admitted that his side had been well-beaten in extra time after suffering the body blow of Ramos' equaliser. "They managed to equalise and that is football," he told Television Espanola. "After the extra time they were deserving winners. We have competed for a year like animals and we have gone as far as we could." Atletico's top scorer Diego Costa had been surprisingly included in Diego Simeone's starting lineup despite suffering a hamstring injury just seven days ago as Atletico clinched the La Liga title against Barcelona.

However, the Brazilian-born striker lasted just nine minutes as he hobbled off to be replaced by Adrian Lopez. Bale had the first clear chance of the match when the Welshman pounced on Tiago's errant pass in midfield and scampered forward into the area but side-footed wide on his favoured left foot. Three minutes later it was Atletico who took the lead as Juanfran headed a cleared corner back into the box and Godin took advantage of indecision by Iker Casillas to loop the ball over the Spanish captain and just over the line. Ronaldo had a couple of halfchances to level at the start of the second-half as Courtois

awkwardly tipped another freekick from distance over before the Portuguese captain headed just wide from a corner. - Taking risks As Real took more risks to find the equaliser, though, Atletico were also becoming more dangerous on the break and Adrian was unfortunate to see his goalbound effort deflected just wide by Sami Khedira. Bale wasted another good opening as he sprinted onto Ronaldo's pass, but chose the wrong option in trying to squeeze the ball home at the near post and dumped the ball into the side netting. Just when Atletico thought they had the trophy won, though, Real

Lofa United set to register for LFA second division league A. Macaulay Sombai, [email protected]

T

SPORT BRIEF

Bale, Ronaldo goals lead Real to 10th Champions League

got their reward as Ramos rose to power Luka Modric's corner past the helpless Courtois. Atletico's tiredness then showed in the second period of extra time as Real had too much pace and   power and finally went in front 10 minutes from the end when Di Maria burst into the area and despite his effort being saved by Courtois, Bale was on hand to head in at the back post. Courtois also got a hand to Marcelo's low drive eight minutes later, but the Belgian international couldn't keep it out. And Ronaldo got the goal he craved back in his homeland when he was clipped by Gabi moments later and got back up to slam the resulting penalty home.

ADDING UP THE NUMBERS

he founder and president of newlyformed Lofa United FC has told

Page 15

FrontPageAfrica that the club are presently carrying on serious preparation in order to register for the pending

Liberia Football Association (LFA) second division league. Sheik Abraham K. Sackor  

said the team head coach Arthur Jallah has started intensive training with several friendly matches. Liberia under-20 warmedup with a 2-0 win over Lofa United at the Antoinette Tubman Stadium (ATS) before whipping Ivory Coast 1-0 in their first leg preliminaries of the 2015 African championship. Lofa have secured a win and defeat from preparatory matches in Gardnerville. The team has also started the construction of a football academy in Voinjama, Lofa County. “I am trying to create a system where, in other counties, citizens could follow my footstep and which I think five or six years from now all of the 15 counties will have their team which I believe will help immensely

to promote the game in Liberia,” Sackor, who intends to construct another academy in Monrovia, explained. Sackor said the Monrovia academy will deal with children between seven and 15 years while the Voinjama academy will hold above 17 years. He added that the academy will take academic works seriously as everybody will not be lucky to play professional football in Europe or America. “Weare going to take the responsibility of these children’s high school and college education very serious. We are urging them to focus their minds on both the game and their lessons because we all know that they will not remain in the game forever and we want, after they retired from the game, to have something else to do for their living,” he stressed.

D

MIAMI (AP) — own by 15 early, the Miami Heat could have hit the panic button. Instead, they found a way to move within two wins of another trip to the NBA Finals. LeBron James scored 26 points, Dwyane Wade added 23 and the Heat shook off a horrid start to beat the Indiana Pacers 99-87 on Saturday night in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals, taking a 2-1 lead and breaking a backand-forth trend in the rivalry. The teams had alternated wins and losses in 13 straight meetings — until now. Miami trailed 37-22 before outscoring Indiana 77-50 the rest of the way.

LIVERPOOL TRANSFER NEWS: BIGMONEY STARS REPORTEDLY ON BRENDAN RODGERS' RADAR

W

ith the World Cup now just over a fortnight away, Liverpool's transfer window is in danger of grinding to a temporary halt, an issue that many elite clubs will face in the next month or so. That being said, the delay isn't likely to temper Brendan Rodgers' desire for squad improvements this summer as the 2014-15 campaign beckons with bigger and brighter prospects than have been seen at Anfield for some years. Back among the Champions League elite, the Reds have a certain responsibility to their fans in improving the quality of their playing staff over the next few months, and here we take a look at some of the latest comment on rumours emerging on Merseyside.

FrontPage www.frontpageafricaonline.com

Sports

'LA DECIMA' VOL 8 NO.601

MONDAY, MAY 26, 2014

PRICE L$40

Bale, Ronaldo goals lead Real to 10th Champions League

FrontPage

Spot News POTHOLES IN THE CLASSROOM  

Infrastructure Even in Education is Still a Problem

A Monrovia -

visitor was at a public school just outside the Nation’s capitol Monrovia and what she saw was shocking. Students continue to learn under difficult conditions, as authorities responsible to provide the requisite materials or environment for the learning are not doing so. At the Gbondeh Public School Behind the Ricks Mission in rural Montserrado, the classrooms are full of potholes like on a motor road, classrooms are without adequate seating and the building have not been painted for several Christmases and New Year events. The students, some with only one copybook, others trek to school without shoes on foot because there is no road and the parents are so poor. The Lift Liberia, Agenda for Transformation is yet to reach these people in this part of Liberia, even though they are so close to the center of where development originates.