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pg 8

pg 6

NPP LACKS
CAPACITY TO
WIN ELECTION

BACK IN
PLAY

Allen Sees Bleak


Election Prospect as
Biney Elected Chairman

Chinese-Funded US$ 60M


Ministerial Complex construction
starts next year in Liberia

LAW & ORDER

pg 7

KOREANS
SUE GOL

Over Seizure of
$US2million

FrontPage
www.frontpageafricaonline.com

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2015

VOL 9 NO.124

LIBERIA: LOOMING ELECTIONS CONUNDRUM?

SUPREME COURT RULING


VS. 2017 IMPLICATIONS

PRICE L$40

I strongly believe that there is no prohibition, no restriction or injunction on women holding any
position including election that is why a lot of women have been elected to positions of power. The
Supreme Court ruling is within the confines of the law. Cllr. Pearl Brown Bull,

News Analysis - pg. 5

CENTRAL BANK OF LIBERIA

MARKET BUYING AND SELLING RATES


LIBERIAN DOLLARS PER US DOLLAR

BUYING

SELLING

L$88.00/US$1

L$89.00/US$1

MONDAY, AUGUST 17, 2015

L$88.00/US$1

L$89.00/US$1

TUESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2015

L$88.00/US$1

L$89.00/US$1

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11, 2015

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

Page 2 | Frontpage

FROM PAGE 1

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Monroviaiberia and the United


States of America have a
long standing traditional
and historic relationship
dating far back as 1822 when
free slaves, majority from the
United States, were repatriated
to Liberia under the direction
of the American Colonization
Society (ACS).
Many of the free slaves had
their origin from several
American
states
including
Virginia, Maryland and others; a
relationship that set the stage for
centuries of friendly ties between
Liberia and the United States.
When
Liberia
gained
independence on July 26, 1847,
its closeness to the United States
led to some benefits including
the construction of the Roberts
International Airport and some
other facilities.
One of the major benefits from
Liberias
close
relationship
to the United States was the
construction of the John F.
Kennedy Memorial Hospital. The
hospital was built at the request
of Liberian President William V.S.
Tubman, whose 1961 visit with
U.S. President John F. Kennedy
laid the groundwork for USAID
funding for a national medical
center in Liberia. The facility was
eventually named in the former
American Presidents honor; but
today the facility lies in ruins.
The JFK hospital project was
funded with a $6.8 million loan
and $9.2 million in grants from
USAID and a $1 million contribution from the Liberian
Government. Construction began in 1965 and the facility
opened on July 27, 1971.
During its opening in 1971, the hospital comprised of four
institutions including, Maternity Hospital, Tubman National
Institute of Medical Arts (a paramedical and nursing school)
and Catherine Mills Rehabilitation Hospital (a psychiatric
care facility).
Besides the maternity hospital which was rebuilt in 1981
with funding from the Japanese government and named
the Liberian-Japanese Friendship Maternity Hospital, other
segments of the hospital were constructed during the
regime of former President Tubman.
Based on the history of the hospital where it was constructed
during the regime of former US President John F. Kennedy
the facility was named in his honor.
When naming humans, a new born child is named after an
individual based on the affection such individual harbors for
the new born. In most instances, the naming translates into
the individual in whose honor the child is named providing
assistance such as financial and other forms of support to
the child through the parents.
Parents on the other hand name their child after an individual
as a consequence of that individual positive contributions to
society.
In the same vein, facilities are named in honor of an
individual based on the contributions of that individual
towards the construction of the facility bearing in the mind
the hope that legacy of such individual will translate into
long term support to that institution.
LIBERIA JF KENNEDY NAMING FIASCO

In Liberia, American Presidents and all things America


are held in high esteem. As such, naming the hospital
after a famous US president has been thought to be a
way of appealing to the magnanimity of the Americans to
continuously give support in other to keep the name of their
former president on a decent and essential facility.
Ideally located along the main Tubman Boulevard on the
outskirts of Monrovia, the JFK at the moment lies in ruins
with the physical facility looking dull.
Besides the physical look of the hospital, the facility does not
resemble a 21st century medical institution, lacking state of
the art equipment to diagnose illnesses, provide treatment
and serve the population.
For many Liberians, the JFK has turned a death trap, unable
to treat people suffering from common diseases, where

Samwar S. Fallah, samwar.fallah@frontpageafricaonline.com


deaths of those admitted for treatment are announced on a
daily basis. People have to commute over eight hours to the
Jackson F. Doe Memorial Hospital in Tappita, Nimba County
to seek medical attention.
In recent years, there is no success story of successful
complex medical operation at the JFK as government
officials and others who can afford to fly out of Liberia when
sick have to ignore the JFK and seek mediation treatment
abroad.
Many fail to make the long journey across the Atlantic Ocean
and die before reaching hospitals in Ghana, Senegal, the
United States and other countries abroad.
Recently, former Executive Protection Service (EPS)
Director, Othello Warrick died before a helicopter arranged
to fly him to Senegal could arrive. Similarly, Mrs. Clavenda
Parker, a long-time friend to President Sirleaf was forced
to seek medical care in next door Ghana, after suffering a
minor stroke.
President Sirleaf, Vice President Joseph Boakai and other
officials are among many who are forced to travel abroad
for regular medical checkup when what is referred to as the
nations referral hospital lies in debris.
FrontPageAfrica has gathered from sources at the hospital
that Dr. Wvannie Mae Scott-McDonald, general Administrator
of the Hospital from 2007 to present is currently out of the
country to seek medical attention. The hospital has been
unable, despite several requests from FrontPageAfrica to
address Scott-McDonalds absence from the hospital.
SHAMEFUL NAME FOR POWERFUL KENNEDY?

The current plight of the JFK hospital appears as a


contradiction of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, a well-respected
American leader with good history built during his
presidency.
At age 43, JFK was the youngest man to have been elected
to the office, the second-youngest president (after Theodore
Roosevelt, who was 42 when he became president after the
assassination of William McKinley).
Kennedy was the first person born in the 20th century to
serve as president of the United States. To date, Kennedy
has been the only Roman Catholic president and the only
president to have won a Pulitzer Prize.
With such great history, naming the hospital in honor of
this respected American president now appears to be an
embarrassment to Americans to see a pristine facility,
named after their former president, in ruins.
Liberians at the other end will feel that the Americans have
failed to keep the name of their former leader associated

with something good by assisting the JFK hospital to be a


modern facility, ensuring that the name of their former
leader is still held high in high esteem.
It is no doubt that no country as civilized as the United States
of America will be happy to see the name of its former leader
used on a facility that is unable to keep a good reputation.
Currently, the JFK hospital is facing lawsuit for wrongful
death from a lawmaker, Representative Edward Forh, who
has taken the hospital to court for failing to attend to his sick
daughter during the Ebola outbreak, leading to her death.
Many Liberians continued to decry the inability of JFK
to provide treatment for their families which had led to
numerous deaths.
Even if the Americans have no obligation to help the JFK
hospital be a modern facility, the name of its former leader
is being used in a shameful manner and it has bearing on the
image of former President JF Kennedy, a one-time Pulitzer
Prize winner.
US GONE AFTER EBOLA?

When the deadly Ebola virus struck Liberia, the United


States of America responded by sending US Navy officers to
help with the construction of Ebola treatment units and US
also dispatched some other personnel to the country to help.
According to US sources, that country spent over $1.4 billion
on its Ebola mission in West Africa, with most of it going to
Liberia.
US sources state that deploying the military cost $360
million, not including the construction, staffing and
operating expenses at the treatment centers it built.
The American military built a total of 11 centers and the
United States promised that will continue to provide support
to the country to build a resilient health system that will be
able to withstand any future outbreak.
But since the end of Ebola, US presence is no longer felt on
the ground like the case during the outbreak.
The JFK and other major health facilities are still where
Ebola left them with no major improvement to show in
preparation to tackle any future disease outbreak.
Experts believe a good health system can easily deal with
outbreak such as Ebola like the case with Nigeria and
Senegal but with the huge internal support to Liberia now in
decline the country might have defeated Ebola but its ability
to withstand future outreach is still very weak.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Page 3

FrontPage COMMENTARY
EDITORIAL FROM AFRICAN QUEENS
Frontpage

MESSY
JFK & THE
KENNEDY
LEGACY

America Owes it to its Former


President to Bolstered Liberias
Broken Healthcare System
TO SAY THAT POST-WAR LIBERIA IS STRUGGLING in the
healthcare department may be an understatement for
many still unable to find affordable healthcare.
MANY, INCLUDING government officials have to travel to
neighboring Ghana, Senegal or as far away to South Africa
and even the United States of America for treatment.
REALITY HIT CLOSED to home recently when Mr. Othello
Warrick, a former head of the Executive Protective Service
which protects the Liberian presidency and a former
Deputy Minister of National Defense died while efforts
were being made to have him airlifted to Senegal for a
brain aneurism procedure.
LESS THAN 24 HOURS LATER, MRS. Clavenda Parker, a
long-time friend to President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, was
also rushed to the John F. Kennedy Medical Center after
suffering a minor stroke. She was taken to next door
Ghana for treatment days later.
THE LIST GOES ON and on of prominent Liberian officials
often having to travel because the healthcare situation in
Liberia is in a total mess.
FORMER INTERIM PRESIDENT Charles Gyude Bryant
endured months of illness while running behind a tugboat
deal that never went through in hopes of finding means of
seeking treatment in Southern Africa.
OUR PRESIDENT, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf never misses a
chance to get her annual check-up whenever she happens
to be in the U.S.
FORMER PRESIDENT MOSES Blah, too. Lack of money to
travel to next door Ghana led him to his early grave.
FORMER PRESIDENT William V. S. Tubman died in
The London Clinic in London, England on Sunday, July
23, 1971 at age 75 from complications after a surgery.
Tubman had been flown to England on July 4, 1971 and
entered the clinic for examination and treatment of his
prostate gland condition
A FEW DAYS LATER, on July 27, 1971, the JFK Medical
Center was built.
IT WAS UPON TUBMANS request while on a visit to the
United States of America in 1961 to former President
John F. Kennedy, which paved the way for the United
States Aid for International Development(USAID) to lay
the groundwork for funding of what has become today,
the leading referral hospital in Liberia.
THE PROJECT WAS funded with a $6.8 million loan
and $9.2 million in grants from USAID and a $1 million
contribution from the Liberian Government. Construction
began in 1965 and the facility opened on July 27, 1971.
DURING THE LONG-RUNNING civil war, the hospital
sustained heavy damage and despite some fine-tuning
over the years, remains a sad testament to everything that
is wrong with Liberia.
PATIENTS CONTINUE to cry over high cost of treatment
while many others have had to purchase their drugs from
outside the hospital just to get care.
MANAGEMENT of the hospital has also been a problem
amid numerous complaints from patients and employees.
THE JFK facility, like the health system in Liberia was
exposed by the deadly Ebola virus outbreak which killed

TO DONGONYARO BABES
By: Nnamdi F. Akwada LGSW, MSW is a Social Justice Activist, /AfricanDiasporatv ; Contributing Writer

When Mr. Innocent Idibia notably known as 2Face


released his song African Queen in 2004, it soon
became a worldwide mega hit and was rereleased
by EMI records in 2006. That song and the video
elevated Nigerian and African music to the top strata
of YouTube downloads. The skillful production of the
African Queen music video made the African Diaspora
and others appreciate the Nollywood entertainment
industry all the more. Nollywood motion pictures
evolved out of the creativity of Nigerians who did
not want the corrupt military governments and their
civilian acolytes to determine their production and
intake of entertainment. Ironically, in this civilian era
we appear to be at a crossroads where politicians are
co-opting our entertainment complexes.
The Story for the Gods song aka Dongonyaro by
Olamide is a classic product of this era. But as usual
Nigerians are more perturbed about the sexual
depictions of the video than the systematic arena of
unbridled corruption that have birthed this product
and pivoted the entertainment industry. In Nigeria
and Africa we are more prone to take our frustrations
out on the roadside pickpockets/petty thieves
than to react against the greedy and shortsighted
elites that rob us blind and steal the future of the
entire continent. Rather than confront these good
for nothing socio-economic bandits we allow them
to use tribalism and religion to wage a clandestine
and public war against us while entrenching their
interests with immunity and impunity.
As a clear sign of our impotence, Nigerians and other
Africans actually use tyres to lynch petty thieves with
unrighteous indignation while political and military
thugs are rewarded with traditional titles such as high
chief and absolved of their sins by the Pastors and
Imams who are rewarded with large sums of money.
Some of us in the African Diaspora are more engaged
by the 21st century lynching of people of African
origins in America via the police and vigilantes
than the prevalent norms on the continent. There
are churches and so-called born-again preachers
everywhere in Africa that embrace the rich corrupt
elites whereas condemning the poor. Islamic sharia
in Nigeria is now used in condemning the poor and
chopping off limbs while the real criminals have
special seats at the mosques.

However, it should be noted that in the African


Queen era, there was a message that needed to be
sent out to counteract the globalization forces of
this century. The song African queen reawakened
our consciousness to appreciate the beauty of black
women. It probably slowed down the sale of bleaching
creams by .05%, reduced the bitter competition for
resources among us, and curtailed the tides of selfhate within our various communities. It should also
be remembered that the same era ushered in the
activist music of artists like Timaya. Then Timaya was
more introspective and focused on the poverty and
corruption within the Niger Delta area and Nigeria
as a whole.
But our musical entertainment seems to have
transitioned into a beehive of bum-bum shaking
and/or breaking down the rhythmic qualities of big
behinds. Our musicians use the name of Fela in vain
and sing about the nyash (buttocks) as if we do not
have any other pressing matter on the continent.
Certainly, I for one do not have anything against
having a good time and shaking your bum but there
are other things we need to add into the equation.
People were quick to lash out at Olamide on account
of the story for the gods song and video instead of
focusing on the real problems that bedevil us. We
need to concentrate on our real problems instead of
chasing phantoms.
Any wonder that we have some young dynamic
individuals producing art in the Nollywood industries
while our political situation remains at a standstill.
How is it that in a land that has nearly 200 million
people and boost some of the smartest people on
earth we have allowed two men to rule twice in
different decades? Why are we content with thieves
and criminals at the helms of most of our political,
economic, and social institutions? We condone the
men and women that steal from our country and the
continent whereas condemn those that are forced
to conform to societal pressures just to survive
hardships. The real voice of the streets Mr. Fela
showed us that we could shake our nyashes while
disrupting the status quo. When will our generation
assume the leadership for change?

scores of Liberians and next-door neighbors in Sierra


Leone and Guinea.
NAMED IN HONOR of a Former United States President, it
is important that the U.S. government take a keen interest
in insuring that the intent of the memory of a former
President, is not tainted as a result of what is unfolding at
the hospital in Liberia.
THE HOSPITAL HAS become for many, a symbol of Just for
Killing(JFK) with many lacking trust in getting adequate
care or even adequate medical staffers.
IN SPITE of everything that is wrong with the health
system in Liberia, JFK has some great nurses, doctors and
medical practitioners who make sacrifices on a daily basis
to save the lives of many. But in the absence of a strong
healthcare system, they can only do so much with so little
at their exposure.
AMERICA to its credit has doled out billions of dollars
in aid and other annuities to Liberia over the years, but
a lot of those funds have been directed through its own
agencies, diminishing returns on the ability of those funds
to make strong impact on those languishing at the bottom
of the economic ladder.
MISUSE OF FUNDS by government officials and a host of
accountability and transparency issues have contributed,
too. But whatever the issues are, America owes this

much to the legacy of President Kennedy to seize the


responsibility of making the JFK what is supposed to be,
a haven for the sick and wounded where everyone has a
chance at getting treated thereby minimizing the need to
travel outside for treatment, especially for those who can
afford it. If privatization is an option, it must be explored
and processed swiftly.
IT IS SAD that Liberia, Africas oldest republic, whose
former president died from a treatable and preventable
prostate, continue to see similar deaths, decades after
Tubmans death.
LIBERIA, AFRICAS oldest republic could use a haven for
stroke victims, aneurism and various other treatable
illnesses that many Liberians are falling to their early
graves daily due to the lack of a hospital capable of treating
those illnesses.
AMERICA, Liberias perennial stepfather owes it to itself
and a former President to help make this urgent medical
necessity, an urgent reality, if for nothing else, but for the
sake of humanity and the historic ties that bind the two
countries.
LET US NOT wait for another outbreak before fixing a
fixable and preventable dilemma killing and maiming
scores of Liberians living without access to affordable and
reachable healthcare.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Page 4 | Frontpage

The Reader's Page

FrontPage

WHAT READERS ARE SAYING


ABOUT OUR STORIES ON THE
WORLDWIDE WEB

COMMENTS FROM
FPA ONLINE
UREY EYEING U.S.
SANCTIONS LIFT IN QUEST
FOR LIBERIAN PRESIDENCY
GABRIEL MONGER ZARWEA
I hope that the Sanctions remain in place for Urey until he tell
us we the Liberian where did got all that money. Before the war
of criminal Charles Taylor and another criminal Ellen Johnson
Sirleaf he has nothing until he got in employ with the MAFIA
GOVERNMENT as commissioner of maritime.
Musterpha Fofana

Owner and CEO at Self Employed and Loving It!


If I were you,Urey.
Urey please take my advice and stay away from the presidency
of Liberia. This thing is not meant for you. You know you are
on several hooks. Yes, maybe others may have taken you out of
their hooks, but it doesn't mean you are free and think that is ok
to step in politic and maybe score some surprising points. Dont'
let the same people from your former regime to convince you to
step in this race.
JAMES ZULU GREAR MONITORING OFFICER AT FINNISH
REFUGEE COUNCIL-F.R.C
Education and experience matters, what needs to be clarified is,
was the education used positively impart our people. Or should
people be rewarded because they used their high education to
conieved with criminal networks and regimes to take liberia 200
years backwards? Or should they be rewarded to implement
their experienced in criminality?

TAWEH JALLAH NEVER BEEN TO SCHOOL BEFORE. SELF


THOUGHT
Urey put the cart before the horse when he registered his party
before getting America to lift its sanctions against him and his
NPFL friends. Is Urey asking for sanction to be lifted from all of
Taylor's henchmen also?
EMMANUEL JACKSON KNOXVILLE BUSINESS COLLEGE
I think, the quest for wealth and property ownerships; have
overshadowed the whole argument, of what it means to develop
a nation, with its citizenry acquiring the benefits.in the case, of
Liberia the settlers zeal; for wealth and property superseded
the essence of creating the nation, with full participation of
all its ethnic groups. Many Liberians, can't even exist in their
native land, because they have no ownership of any property or
wealth, all because of the galvanization by the settlers' progeny
and the emerging indigenous elites. Only, one politician I have
heard addressed the issues of; the return of thousand Liberians
back to their native land, it's Simeon Freeman. I think, Urey
presidency will restore ,what the locusts have consumed.

MASSA WASHINGTON CLINICAL SUPERVISOR/ THERAPIST


AT WES
Mr. Moses, your posts are usually well written and food for
thought. But, I do not understand this latest one on the Ureys.
Can you please. explain what you are trying to say?
SYLVESTER MOSES WORKS AT SELF-EMPLOYED
The pioneering fathers who left America were slaves freed to
join the trek to Africa, which means that all the subsequent
acquired wealth from JJ Robert to Ellen was gotten from
promixity to power. And, especially, with us, the country people,
joining in the presumptions of power after Tubman's Open
Door policy, there's enough blame to go around. In short, we've
a problem, let's fix it instead of zeroing with an ethnic lenses.
Ben Urey's wife was a business woman who employed others
in her telephone start - up called lone star. It would surprise
many that some of her earliest employees in 1996 are bonafide
prosperous entrepreneurs today. We know that because of our
relationship with some of the beneficiaries of her expertise and
training.
CHARLES RUSSELL DIRECTOR AT FIRST CHOICE LEARNING
ACADEMY, LLC
I believe Mr. Urey is ready and capable to move Liberia forward.
One of the perennial problems that have kept bedeviling
Liberia is a culture, a pattern of socio-political criticism made
out of personal envy, out of malice, hatred, ethnicity, negative
political motives and individuals that pretends to have balanced
judgment on national issues. I challenge anyone to show an
audit report indicting Mr. Benoni Urey of any form of corruption
when he served his people and country in the position as
Maritime Commissioner. All of the unfounded accusations
against Mr. Urey are spread by rumor mongers

DISCLAIMER

The comments expressed here are those of our online readers and
bloggers and do no represent the views of FrontPageAfrica

Send your letters and comments to:


editor@frontpageafricaonline.com
YOU WRITE; WE PUBLISH; THEY READ!

MULBAH K. MORLU VISIT TO THE UNITED


STATES: AN END TO THE RHETORIC OF
SO-CALLED INTERNATIONAL CONSPIRACY!
The Editor,

cross the ages since our formation, the CDC


has encountered naysayers. For some of these,
criticizing our movement was something done
unintentionally, a moment of error resulting from
poor reflection on the realities of their own existence and
desire. For others it was calculated, a ploy to benefit from
the goodies on offer to anyone willing to make an occupation
of criticizing the mighty Congress for Democratic Change.
However, there are a few others for whom this have become
habitual, a knee-jerk reaction at the spur of every moment,
contrary to reality and to records. These are people who
would say Ebola is false because CDC says Ebola is real,
question the existence of the sun if we say it exists and spend
their nights dreaming of theories that say the CDC will not
attain state power.
However, we are willing to create food for thought for all
these detractors. These persons have strongly criticized
Partisan Mulbah Morlu, Vice Chair for Operations of the
CDC and crafted for themselves a theory that no one of
substance would have a dealing with him. Yet, some of these
persons were on the same flight with comrade Doctori, as he
is affectionately called by hundreds of his followers in the
CDC, when he arrived in the United States. He is heading the
advance team of a CDC delegation scheduled in the various
states in the United States of America. With this role, he will
initiate key interactions with the political dispensation of
that nation and Liberians in the United States.
The time is now for Liberians to join us in rejecting
and combating the false claims of these government
propagandists. The claims that an international framework
exists which punishes the CDC has never been true and will
never be. The government and people of the United States
have shown the utmost level of interest in advancing the
cause of political pluralism in Liberia and do not exist in a
bubble of immaculate Ellen. Several times every year, a CDC
reflection convention is hosted in that great country through
the great instrumentality of comrade compatriot ideologue
Isaac Vah Tukpah. I need not pause to say, there have been
no political party breach in the United States that have been
so productive and instrumental in projecting the party to
the political arrangement of the United States as compare
to the CDC USA. This advantage has been attained by the
CDC under the astute stewardship of comrade ideologue
Isaac Vah Tukpah. The United Nations, African Union and
European Union remain dedicated partners in ensuring
Liberia gets a government where their aid is advantageously
to benefit Liberians. CDC is at the centerpiece of this new
dispensation, which will brighten Liberia.
CDCians are Liberians and would not stop being Liberians
simply because any government-hired voice or mere job
seeker disagrees with them. It is comical that someone
would call Lenn Eugene Nagbe a murderer, accusing him of
killing Sam Bokarie, when he is in the CDC but brand him

a hero and National Campaign Manager when he chooses


to join the ruling Unity Party. These individuals today, say
the worst sort of things about Acarous Moses Gray, Mulbah
K. Morlu, Jefferson Koijee and others, but would be the first
ones to stage massive press conferences if any of these true
peoples servants were ever to consider joining the ruling
Unity Party. God forbid! It is much easier for Satan to return
to Heaven then for these characters to ever join the ruling
United Party.
But the masses know their leaders. And the masses are
fed up with fruitless endeavors of the current regime, the
pointless reversals of its supporters who rejoice for clouds
without rain and are specifically resolute to make their
voices heard once again. This party has its future projected
and its responsibility secured.
Later this month, the CDC leadership will again return to
the United States. The political leader Senator George Weah
will meet his counterparts. He will also be honored to meet
with the movers and shakers of the United States body
politic. Party ideologues will carry out parallel gatherings
with members of the US business community, centered at
identifying key options for improving the moribund national
economy.
The CDC is a movement centered on making the ordinary
Liberians become great. This is a greater principle behind
our national existence: that no person should be limited
simply because someone disagrees with their aspirational
choices. The CDC believes a school teacher should not rent
throughout his live. The CDC believes a young lady without a
father should become a champion of national advancement.
The CDC believes in celebrating its heroes, including
compatriot Mulbah K. Morlu. This man has stood relentless
against the evils of the criminal cartel in whose hands this
country is managed. This man has remained robust and
vigilant in criticizing the inequalities engulfing the nation,
and has never wavered despite being imprisoned seven
times in Ellens nine years. Those who ridiculed Mulbah
Morlu and the Forum for Establishment of a War Crimes
Court have not commended his achievement, now that the
US government has provided US$5 million to pursue those
who committed such crimes.
However, the CDC victory cannot be stopped. Like the
conspirators could not stop the name Ceasar from being
the greatest name in Rome, no amount of arrogance and
posturing on the part of our detractors would stop the
CDC from fulling its destiny of leading Liberia to fulfill its
potential. The victory of 2017 shall be a continuation of
Senator George Sayekorzie Manneh Weah in 2014.
Behold Our Time Is Now! 2017 the Masses Victory a Must
and Cannot Be Postponed!!
Jefferson T. Koijee
Chairman
Revolutionary National Youth League
Mighty Congress for Democratic Change

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Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Monrovia
epending
on
who you ask, the
Supreme
Court
of Liberia may
have opened a can of worms
which could have serious
implications on the 2017
presidential and legislative
elections.
If
the
utterances
of
Senator Prince Y. Johnson
(Independent, Nimba) are
anything to go by, contentions
over the results of the 2017
elections could form a long
line all the way to the high
court.
The court set a precedent in
a string of recent decisions
leading many to suggest that
it could have implications on
the 2017 elections. But Cllr.
Pearl Brown Bull, a former
head of the Grievances and
Ethics Committee of the
Supreme Court disagrees
with many who say the
high court has set a wrong
precedent. I hope they
could do their work in the
legislature and understand
the boundaries of the three
branches of government.
Taking pointed jabs at Senator
Geraldine Doe-Sheriff, Cllr.
Bull, who is also a former
chair of the womens wing of
both the True Whig Party and
the ruling Unity Party, said
she is disappointed in those
including Doe-Sheriff who
are taking issues with the
high court.
They must respect the ruling
of the court until there is an
appeal. But they still have a
political option. They can use
their politics to appeal to Dr.
Henrique Tokpah to allow the
Bong County results to stand.
But I do not see any bias.

Frontpage

Page 5

LIBERIA: LOOMING ELECTIONS CONUNDRUM?

SUPREME COURT RULING


VS. 2017 IMPLICATIONS

I strongly believe that there is no prohibition, no restriction or injunction on women holding


any position including election; that is why a lot of women have been elected to positions of
power. The Supreme Court ruling is within the confines of the law. Cllr. Pearl Brown Bull

Samwar S. Fallah, samwar.fallah@frontpageafricaonline.com

According to Bull, the


Supreme Court is the final
arbiter of justice. From the
Supreme Court you can only
go to God. The Supreme Court
is not bias against women.
Speaking from a legal
standing point, Cllr. Bull said,
critics of the court, should
use their office to enforce

laws for women. Leave the


supreme county alone. This
thing about the court being
bias is not correct. I strongly
believe that there is no
prohibition, no restriction or
injunction on women holding
any
position
including
election that is why a lot of
women have been elected to
positions of power. They are
doing it in the confines of the
law.
One of the individuals at the
core of the Supreme Court
ruling, Senator Jewel Howard
Taylor who was declared
the winner by the National
Elections Commission took
exception to the Supreme
Court decision mandating
a rerun citing procedural
election irregularities by
officials of NEC committed
in 3 polling centers namely
Sanoyea Market, Yarbayeh
Public school and Bletenda
Palava Hut as the basis for its
decision.
Although she might hold
the advantage going into
the rerun election expected
to take place within 60days
where she is ahead after
obtaining 13,255 votes as
compared to her closest rival
Dr. Tokpas 11,672 votes
leaving a margin of 1,583
votes but Senator Taylor took
a dip at the Courts decision
describing it as setting a
precedent for chaos during

the pending 2017 election.


Our concern is that this
Supreme Court precedent
has now opened the door for
complete chaos in 2017. For
every seat will be contested
at the Supreme Court even
if it is clear that a rerun will
not change the results of
the elections, the disputed
Senator posted on her official
Facebook page.
The rerun will be a contest
for a total of 2,260 votes and
Jewel says she is confident
of retaining her post. She
stated With these numbers,
it is clear that for Dr. Tokpa to
win the rerun, he would have
to first obtain 1,583 votes
to catch up with Senator
Taylor's votes in order to
beat her. This will be almost
impossible for this is Senator
Taylor's stronghold and it
is very unlikely for her to
receive no votes from these
polling places. And so every
vote receives will push her
numbers up. Note that she
won 417 votes in those areas
whilst Dr. Tokpa won only
65.
The chorus against the court
ruling has been trumpeting
and adding to Jewels fears.
Senator Prince Johnson who
is popular in his native Nimba
County is said to have told
a congregation that he will
rush to Supreme Court when
he feels cheated in 2017.

Johnson, a pastor, is quoted by


a local newspaper as saying
politics is nearing and he will
be contesting the presidency
where he also informed his
congregation that if he is
cheated he will seek redress
through the court.
The Supreme Court in its
decision following hearings
from all parties into the
case Dr. Henrique Tokpa,
Independent
candidate
vs the National Elections
Commission and Madam
Jewel Howard Taylor of
the
National
Patriotic
Party decided that indeed
election irregularities were
committed in three (3) areas
within District # 7, Bong
County namely, Sanoyea
Market Precinct, polling
place # 5, Yarbayeh Public
School and Beletanda Palava
Hut polling precincts.
In the absence of any
complaint
or
evidence
of irregularities in the
remaining
twenty-four
voting precincts of District
# 7, we hold that the ballots
cast in those three areas

having
been compromised, a
recount of ballots already cast
and counted will not suffice
to cure the irregularities;
rather, a re-run or a repeat
of the elections by voters
registered in those precincts
herein specified will restore
the credibility of the election
process thereat, and it so
ordered, the Supreme Court
decided.
The court handed its ruling
for the rerun and mandated
NEC to conduct the election
within 60 days.
Stated the Supreme Court
Wherefore and in view of
the facts and circumstances,
the laws and principles
stated herein above and in
consonance with the law that
this Court is authorized to
enter the requisite judgment
that a lower tribunal should
have rendered in this case,
the NEC, this Court hereby
declares null and void the
ballots cast in Sanoyea
Market precinct, polling
place # 5, voting precinct
code 6098, Yarbayeh Public
School voting precinct code
6126 and Beletanda Palava
Hut voting precinct code
6005, respectively and a rerun or new elections ordered
in the said polling place
and precincts, respectively,
with the participation by

registered voters within a


period of sixty (60) days.
Since the December 2014
Special Senatorial Election,
there were a number of
petitions filed before the
Supreme Court by candidates
against election results in
several counties out of which
the court has heard and
handed decisions in all the
petitions.
Candidates in eight of the
15 counties including Grand
Kru,
Rivergee,
Margibi,
Maryland, Bomi, Grand Cape
Mount, Lofa and Bong all filed
petitions before the Supreme
Court crying foul during the
senatorial race.
Out of a total of eight petitions
filed before the court, the
high court threw out six for
lack of sufficient evidence
to support the complaints
and other legal technicalities
handling critical decisions in
just two.
In Lofa County, the court
ordered a recount in two
districts, in a case filed by Cllr.
Joseph K. Jallah of the Alliance
for Peace and Democracy
against the National Elections
Commission, all poll workers,
Stephen Zargo and Eugene F.
Kpakar.
The high court in its judgment
under the signature of four
justices stated that they have
heard the legal arguments
and contentions advanced by
the parties, reviewed the facts
and circumstances presented
by the records and examined
the laws controlling in the
case.
The court is satisfied that
irregularities
occurred
during the tallying of
votes
inconsistent
with
the elections law which
impugned the integrity of the
vote counting process, all of
which presented a sufficient
legal basis for a recount of
ballots in the votes cast in
districts 1 & 4 of Lofa County
in the special Senatorial
Elections is hereby adjudged,
stated the Supreme Court.
The manner and form in
which the high court handled
the
numerous
election
related complaints points
to the ability of the court
to legally deal with future
issues that might arise
from the 2017 general and
presidential elections. Many
believe the court being able
to deal with eight petitions
and legally disposed of them
from January to August is a
good sign that the court is up
to the task, allaying any fears.

Page 6 | Frontpage

NPP LACKS CAPACITY


TO WIN ELECTION

Allen Sees Bleak Election Prospect as Biney Elected Chairman


Edwin G. Genoway, Jr (231886458910)-edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

Monroviahe
long
awaited
leadership election
of the former ruling
National
Patriotic
Party (NPP) has finally come
to an end after failing to be
held over the weekend due to
the absence of the National
Elections Commission (NEC)
observers.
The
election
follows
a
leadership wrangle that led
to the resignation of Cllr.
Theophilus Gould as chairman
of the party.
Those
who
contested

the
vacant
chairmanship
position included Cyril Allen,
Representative James P. Biney
and Lawrence George. James
Biney won the chairmanship
after defeating his nearest rival
Cyril Allen 223 to 35 votes.
Candidates for national vice
chairman for administration
included
Senator
Sando
Johnson, former Bomi County
Senator Lahai Lansanah and
Anthony Barclay. Johnson won
this category.
Representative George Mulbah
is now the new chairman
for Operations after the

convention.

DEMOCRATIC RULE
The newly elected Chairman
of the National Patriotic
Party (NPP), Representative
Biney of Maryland County has
promised to bring the NPP to a
democratic rule.
Representative Biney said his
leadership will be a leadership
of the partisans of the party.
Biney sees his taking over of
the party as a privilege given
to him by committed partisans.
The NPP lawmaker noted
that he will bring together all

KOREANS SUE LIBERIAN GOVERNMENT

OVER SEIZURE OF $US2MILLION


Bettie K. Johnson /betty.johnson@frontpgeafriconline.com

Monroviao l l o w i n g
recommendations from
a special committee to
President Ellen Johnson
Sirleaf regarding the seizure
of money from some Korean
businessmen who were accused
by state security officers of
counterfeiting and illegal arrest
by the National security Agency,
it seems the failure to act by the
Liberian President has landed
her government in trouble as the
affected individuals have filed a
lawsuit demanding more than
US$ 2 million in damages.
The Dean and Professor of Law,
Louis Arthur Grimes School of
Law, University of Liberia, Cllr.
David A. B. Jallah headed a special
independent
committee
to
investigate accusations of money
laundering,
counterfeiting,
illegal arrest and conspiracy to
defraud, involving some Korean
nationals, a Lebanese and
the National Security Agency
(NSA) and the committee
recommended actions against
security agents who arrested the
individuals and confiscated their
money.
The report was handed over
to the Liberian President
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in 2014
which she forwarded to the
Ministry of Justice for review

and to ensure that appropriate


actions, including all of the
recommendations, contained in
the report are taken consistent
with law.
In its report, the committee
recommended that appropriate
administrative actions be taken
against the operatives of the
National Security Agency (five in
all) who were directly involved
with the arrest of the Korean and
Sierra Leonean nationals.
The presidential Committee
also recommended that agents
of the NSA (five in all) who
were directly involved with the

arrest of the Korean and Sierra


Leonean nationals, and their coconspirators (including two who
do not work with the NSA) be
handed over to the Ministry of
Justice for prosecution in order
to clear the name and image of
the National Security Agency.
The
committee
further
recommend that the Government
of Liberia refunds to the Korean
nationals the full amount of
the Two Hundred, Forty Seven
Thousand, Five Hundred United
States Dollars (US$247, 500.00)
which they (Korean) withdrew
from the International Bank of

aggrieved partisans who left


the party.
He noted that the NPP is a big
party that cannot be controlled
by a single person, saying the
democratization of the party is
paramount.
He described his chairmanship
as a priority for the partisans
to vote and democratize the
party. In the NPP, the will of
the majority always move the
party decision, no one man can
make decision, he noted.
On the issue of the party
being
stigmatized,
Biney
disagreed with people who
Liberia (IBLL) on July 8, 2014,
and which they proceeded with
directly to the City King Hotel,
immediately thereafter, and
were arrested shortly after their
arrival.
A copy of the report was also
forwarded to the NSA to ensure
that the Agency works with the
Ministry of Justice to ensure the
speedy implementation of the
recommendations.
It is a year now since the
recommendations were made
to the Liberian President but
the President and relevant
institutions have not been able
to act on the recommendations.
Lawyers
representing
the
interest of the four Korean
businessmen, have filed a
US$2,849,000 action of damages
for wrong lawsuit against the
Liberian Government.
The
Lawyers
of
the
complainants prayed the court
to hold the government and
the NSA responsible for their
wrongful conducts and to pay
to their clients an amount of
US$348,000 as special damages
and US$2,500,000 as general
damages.
In their petition to the Court,
the Koreans said the NSA
manhandled them in their
cell and subsequently seized
US$247,500 with other valuable
properties.
The lawsuit claimed that in July
2014, the Korean nationals came
to Liberia for business at the
invitation of one Nasser Aly, a
businessman believed to be a
Lebanese national residing in the
Liberia engaged in gold mining.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015


have the belief that the NPP is
stigmatized, saying there are
individuals within the party
that are stigmatized.
We will build the image
of the party, the NPP is not
stigmatized some individuals
in the party might be
stigmatized but not the party,
he noted.

NPP LACKS CAPACITY


Meanwhile, the Chairman
emeritus of the NPP Cyril Allen,
says the NPP does not have the
capacity to win election like
the way it won during the 1997
election.
Allen noted that since the
party is incapacitated to
win the election come 2017,
it is prudent that the NPP
collaborates with other parties
to get to power.
Allen lost the Chairmanship
election of the NPP to
Representative James Biney at
a just ended NPP convention in
Congo Town with 223 votes to
35.
The NPP former chairman
noted that most of the party
partisans have left the party
and gone away, while others in
the party have founded their
own parties.
Some partisans of NPP believe
that the wide margin defeat
between Biney and Allen is due
to Allens current friendship
with former NPP Stalwart,
Benoni Urey.
Before the convention, it was
speculated among delegates
that Allen will mortgage
the party to his (Allens)
friend, Benoni Urey. Ureys
All Liberian Party (ALP) was
recently certificated by the
National Elections Commission
(NEC).
We dont think we can vote
Cyril Allen as our chairman
because he is very close to
Benoni Urey and when he wins
he will sell our party to Urey,
thats why we will not elect him

The Korean nationals said


they asked Aly for a number
of documents and pieces of
information which was sent via
email and he also issued them
an invoice on his companys
letterhead. The letter was
addressed to one of the four
men, identified as Mr. Kim Aleck.
In the letter, the document
explained that Aly told Kim that
he had on sale 16 kilograms of
gold at the price of US$568,000,
which they claimed was written
in ink on the invoice and
requested 50 percent payment
which amounted to US$284,000.
Upon receiving the document
submitted by Nasser Aly and
upon
further
independent
inquiry, they found no reason
to suspect that Aly was not a
legitimate businessman or that
the sale and purchase of the
gold covered by his invoice could
violate any law, the lawyers
argued in their complaint.
The
Korean
businessmen
decided to proceed with the
transaction by mobilizing the
necessary funds, amounting to
the 50 percent required by Mr.
Aly.
They alleged that on June
27, 2014, they withdrew the
equivalent of U$40,000 from the
Kookmin Bank in South Korea, at
which time they used US$12,584
to purchase air tickets, while
the remaining money was
distributed among them, each
collecting US$6,854 to travel to
Liberia.
The court document requested
that upon their arrival in Liberia,
they agreed to purchase 16

as our chairman, one delegate


told FPA before the convention.
But Allen said no one man
can change the decision of the
party if the National Executive
Committee members of the
party are in favor of the
decision. He intoned that the
leadership of T.C. Gould was
dictatorial, something that led
the party to the convention.
There was no democracy
during the TC Gould leadership
and this was what the party
was lacking, but we are still
part of the decision making of
the party. I am a member of the
national executive committee
of the party, the National
Executive Committee is the
highest decision maker of the
party, no one man can rule the
NPP like the way it happens in
other parties, he said.
Speaking to the FPA after his
defeat to Biney, Allen said
he trusts the ability of Biney.
Biney will make a good
chairman with the collective
efforts of the executive
committee members.
The former NPP Chairman
said there is a need to bring
onboard the standard bearer
of the party, former first lady
Jewel Howard Taylor.
With this new leadership, the
standard bearer of the NPP is
not on board yet, but this is
a goal to bring the standard
bearer on board with the
new leadership, as far as we
are concern she is still our
standard bearer and as such
she needs to be on board, he
noted.
The
National
Election
Commission (NEC) recently
warned against the holding
of convention by a group
of partisans of the National
Patriotic Party (NPP), until the
matter before it was finalized.
It was the second time the
Commission has given similar
warning.
kilograms of gold and on July
8, 2014, proceeded with their
agent to the International Bank
(IB) and withdrew U$247,500
and preceded to their hotel,
(City King Hotel) in Sinkor, Old
Road in Monrovia where Mr. Aly
agreed to meet them to conclude
the payment.
Unfortunately, they claimed
that while they were at the
hotel finalizing the transaction,
a group of men, who later
identified themselves as agents
of the NSA abruptly and violently
stormed their hotel room and
arrested them.
The NSA agents seized from
them the amount of U$247,500,
along with other valuable items
including gas torch, gold melting
dish, two packs of chemicals to
test the gold and an electronic
gold scale.
Later our clients were taken
to the NSA headquarters where
they were stripped naked
placed in solitary confinement
in dark rooms, and subjected to
various forms of humiliation and
degradation without any formal
charge or they being advised of
their rights as required by the
law, court record quoted the
lawyers.
They further claimed, The
government charged them with
the commission of crimes of
illegal possession of combustible
cyanide that posed national
security risk to the lives of
Liberians, money laundering,
counterfeiting, and conspiracy to
defraud the government.

BACK IN PLAY
Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Frontpage

Page 7

Chinese-Funded US$ 60M Ministerial Complex


construction starts next year in Liberia

Monrovia
t appears that the longawaited Chinese-funded
ministerial complex for
Liberia is back on the
burner after months of delays
and diplomatic bottlenecks,
FrontPageAfrica has learned.
The Ministerial Complex,
at a cost of 60 million
(USD) is scheduled to begin
construction in the 2nd quarter
of next year, according to Mr.
Clarence Moniba, Head of the
Presidents Program Delivery
Unit (PDU) at the Ministry
of State, responding to a
FrontPageAfrica inquiry this
week confirmed that a design
team sent by the Chinese
Government was in country in
May to finalize the conceptual
and technical drawings for a
massive building that will host
five ministries and agencies.
In addition, the Ministerial
complex will also house a large
conference room that will host
up to 500 people, Moniba
explained.
THE PDU head noted that both
the Peoples Republic of China,
as well as the Ministry of
Public Works signed off on the
plans to move forward. The
Chinese Government is now
conducting their tendering and
procurement process in order
to select the company that will
begin the actual construction.
In addition to the ministerial
complex, Moniba says the
Chinese will also construct a
Capital Building Annex which
houses the Liberian National

Legislature. The company,


when selected in the early part
of 2016, will begin to mobilize
and begin preliminary works
by April of 2016, Moniba
added.
Moniba said both projects are
in line with President Sirleafs
efforts to continue to improve
infrastructure and offices for
all government employees.
The President led the efforts
to bring this development, in
collaboration with the Chinese
Government, to Liberia, said
Moniba.
Ironically, the site of the
ministerial complex which will
host about 10 ministries, was
used as an Ebola treatment
unit during the recent outbreak
which killed more than 4,800
people in Liberia and almost
11,300 people in the three
countries since the outbreak

began in December 2013.


The number of new cases has
fallen to close to zero in recent
weeks in both Sierra Leone and
Guinea while Liberia has been
Ebola-free for several weeks
now.
During his visit, Minister
Wang said China is open to
cooperation in all areas and we
know that Liberia is attracting
investments from all countries
around the world. We know
about the historic ties between
Liberia and USA but China has
its own strength," Wang said.
"Our relations with Liberia
have enjoyed fast growth," he
said.
In September 2012, China and
Liberia signed the agreement
for the construction of the
multimillion dollar Ministerial
Complex which is expected
to become the second largest

building constructed by China


in Africa after the African Union
(AU) Headquarters in Addis
Ababa, Ethiopia. However
the start of the project was
delayed over efforts to remove
squatters from the area.
China has in recent years
made a number of major
infrastructure contributions
to Liberia and are poised to do
more. During a recent visit to
Liberia, Foreign Minister Wang
Yi announced that China will
build a new coastal highway
for Liberia as part of its aid to
the country recovering from an
Ebola epidemic.
Liberia's existing coastal
route is vital for commerce as
the country rebuilds after a
civil war that ended in 2003.
It connects the capital to the
border with Ivory Coast via the
port city of Buchanan, where

exports of exports of iron and


timber pass through, but much
of the road is unpaved. China
is currently preparing for the
renovation of the Samuel K.
Doe Complex after the raining
season.
Prior to Minister Wangs
visit, a16-member business
delegation from China visited
Liberia with a focus on the
private sector investment.
During the visit, President
Sirleaf indicated that the
Chinese business delegation
have
identified
several
sectors of interest which are
important; not only consistent

with governments Agenda


for Transformation and the
National Vision 2030 but
also the countrys Post-Ebola
Economic Stabilization Plan.
The delegations major areas
of focus included mining,
infrastructural development,
telecommunication
sector,
electricity,
fruit
juice
production, among others.
Time is of the essence.
Whatever you do; whatever
we agree to cooperate and to
partner in, we want it done
fast, President Sirleaf urged,
reminding them of quality and
international standards.

CHINESE UNIVERSITY PARTNERS WITH


STELLA MARIS ON STUDENT EXCHANGE
Edwin G. Genoway, Jr (231886458910)-edwin.genoway@frontpageafricaonline.com

Monrovia hina
University
of
Mining
and
T e c h n o l o g y
(CUMT),
has
signed a memorandum of
understanding with the Stella
Maris Polytechnic to establish
and academic and professional
relationship, including student
exchange.
CUMT is located in the city
of Xuzhou, northwest of
East China province Jiangsu
Province. It is halfway
between Beijing and Shanghai
and is easily accessible to
both cities by express train
with approximately 3 hours
between the both cities.
The
memorandum
of
understanding will promote
and
accelerate
programs
in Science and technology,
research,
training
and
extension in various technical
disciplines of engineering and

other related business and


management courses.
According to the MOU,
the program is intended
to establish and develop
cooperation as a mutually
beneficial relationship which
aims at jointly pursuing
original and applied research
of mutual interest.
The agreement shall be
implemented
through
development of biennial work
plans, to be developed jointly,
that describe specifically the
activities to be carried out and
which set forth the intended
contribution of each party.
The parties agree that
units (schools or faculties)
undertaking
a
particular
task under the scope of the
agreement will enter into
bilateral
contracts.
Such
contracts will specify the
details of the cooperation
and the amount and source of

financing for given common


enterprise.
Elaborating further on the
MOU, Garmondyu E. Crusoe Jr.,
a candidate of Ph.D. in Mining
at the CUMT told FPA that the
work plans may originate from
either party but shall require
the full approval of both parties
for implementation.
An authorized coordinator will
be appointed from both parties
to follow up the execution of
this agreement and to suggest
necessary measures for its
development, he said.
Crusoe is a graduate of the

Stella Maris Polytechnic.


He said the MOU between
the two schools will allow
the exchange of students,
especially students of the Stella
Maris Polytechnic who want to
do graduate and post-graduate
studies in Chinathey will
have the opportunity to benefit
from the program.
Crusoe noted that there are
many learning opportunities in
China that Liberians can make
good use of.
He noted that the MOU
requires CUMT and SMP to
name any member of their

staff to develop suitable work


plans and to ensure proper
and effective implementation
of the agreement.
CUMT offers scholarship
opportunities for master and
doctorate degree candidates
from SMP, who shall meet
the requirements of CUMT
scholarship. The number of
scholarship will be flexible
subject
to
applicants
qualification, Crusoe noted.
The Director for Student Affairs
at the Stella Maris Polytechnic,
Jallah Washington, welcomed
the MOU describing it as boost

to the educational sector of


Liberia.
The MOU is goodit will
allow students to improve on
their education when they
graduate from the Stella Maris
Polytechnic. It will also help
teachers who will want to get
their Ph.D. and come back and
teach, he noted.
Stella Maris Alumnus give
back to School
Meanwhile, former graduates
of the Stella Maris Polytechnic
known as the Liberian
Chinese Trained Scholars
gave their alma mater 300
e-books in order to create an
e-Library. The books were
given alongside hard copies
in order for students to have
access.
The students said giving
the books is their way of
paying back. The alumni also
promised to provide more
books in every discipline
after the establishment of the
e-library.
The e-library is fully operational
with the availability of internet;
students will access the library
through the internet.

STINKY DISTRICT

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Page 8 | Frontpage

Liberias Waterside Market mires in Stench and feces


Massa F. Kanneh-Dorley massa.kanneh@frontpageafricaonline.com/ 0886848625

M
Monrovia-

arketers in one
of the busiest
market places
in
Monrovia
are threatening to stage a
protest action before the
Liberia Water and Sewer
Corporation (LWSC) if the
Agency fails to cover the
exposed sewage holes that
have been opened for the
past three Months.
On several streets used to
get to the general market,
water containing feces is
seen flowing profusely,
creating constraints for
commuters and marketers.
From Randall and Water
Streets, along Mechlin
and
Water
Streets
towards the old Housing
Bank,
marketers
told
FrontPageAfrica they have
been experiencing extreme
difficulty in their various
selling places due to the
smell of feces from flowing
water.
Chairman of a business
group United Brothers
Association,
Richard
Jackson
disclosed to
FrontPageAfrica that in
April of this year, a group
of elderly men onboard
a LWSC pickup drove to
waterside with equipment
and uncovered the taps of
more than four manholes
or sewage holes.
He said when he decided
to inquire about what
they were doing, the men
informed him that they

were about to haul the


water to empty the holes.
Jackson added that from
that moment the men failed
to cover the holes which led
him to visit the LWSC office
to inform authorities about
the situation.
The marketer said he was
informed by the LWSC that
the team would come over
the next day to haul the
water, something he said
was done but the covers
were never returned to
cover the holes.
It has been more than
three months since these
holes were opened. It has
been a serious issue, it
was around April LWSC
pickup filled with elderly
men came with various
instruments on the Mechlin
and Water, Randall and
in front of Housing Bank,
they opened the taps off
the holes and we learned
that they sold the covers to
some Nigerian guy Jackson
alleged.
Jackson said the situation is
causing serious decline in
sales for their businesses as
many customers will come
but immediately run away
from the bad smell of the
business environment.
According to Jackson, he
has also been told that the
group that uncovered the
holes is not from the LWSC
and the agency is not aware
about the whereabouts the
covers that were removed.
This is really causing

serious problem for us,


sometimes when this thing
ready, we are not able to
eat, most especially when
the sun is shining the entire
market can be stink. People
have to run away to move
further up the hill to be
able to eat their food said
Jackson.
There are about seven
holes whose covers were
removed, the whole of
Water Street is in feces

and the whole place has


been polluted. At least at
the time we had the covers,
we never saw feces floating
like this, but since they took
the taps the situation has
been so worse, he added.
Jackson
alarmed
that
people have been getting
sick from inhaling such
a polluted air and some
have suffered diarrhea and
they are now compelled
to give the ultimatum for

the covers to be brought


back or else they will stage
a protest by August 30 to
claim public attention to
their plight.
We are getting sick from
this thing, we inhaling the
smell from this thing and
when you get diarrhea you
go to hospital they will tell
you it is Ebola. If LWSC
does not bring the taps
for these holes and cover
them we have no option

but to March to their office


and block the whole place
Jackson threatened.
He said they are tired
buying chlorine to put in
those holes in order to
minimize the scent and
are therefore demanding
urgent attention to their
demand.
Liberia
Marketing
Association Superintendent
for sidewalk, Sarah Pajibo
admitted that she, as the
head for the area, has
written several letters both
to Public Works and LWSC
to address the issue but yet
to get any feedback.
Ms. Pajibo added that
she fears the outbreak of
disease due to the pollution
from the feces.
She expressed fear that
Liberia has just emerged
from the deadly Ebola virus
and would not want to go
through another outbreak
such as diarrhea.
Superintendent Pajibo said
with the several visits she
had made to LWSC, she has
been informed that LWSC
does not have an equipment
to undertake such work of
splitting the road to mend
the broken pipes.
We are getting tire with it
we have walked and walked
but nothing has been done,
its more than three months
now
Superintendent
Pajibo lamented.
Look at the country, it
should not be like that, we
have just been through the
Ebola and wouldnt want to
go through any disease, the
government really needs
to see to it to fix that place
if not it could make a lot
of people to get sick she
added.
Superintendent Pajibo is
urging her members to
exercise restraint in order
for the issue to be resolved
amicably without protest.

Richard Jackson, Chairman United Brother Association in waterside

VULNERABLE & ABANDONED:


Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Frontpage

Page 9

A VOICELESS CRY FROM LIBERIAS DEAF COMMUNITY


Deaf in society are socially, economically, politically and spiritually isolated, due to the communication barrier. The
standard of Education for deaf is very poor and low, while job opportunities do not exist. Article 11 of the Constitution
of Liberia says persons are born all Abdullah Tani Konateh, Media Officer-Liberia National Association of the Deaf

Monrovia he Liberia National


Association
of
the Deaf, Media
Officer
Abdullah
Tani Konateh is appealing
to President Ellen JohnsonSirleaf and her government
to ratify the United Nations
Convention on the rights of
persons with disabilities,
which Liberia was among the
first countries in the world
to sign, leading to the ACT
on Persons with Disabilities
of 2006 passed by the
legislature which is yet to be
implemented fully.
Deaf Konateh, an advocate
for the deaf community
since 2012 revealed that
the absence of the use of
sign language in public
gathering remains a major
challenge to them, leaving
Deaf persons sidelined and
marginalized because of the
communication barrier.
Deaf in society are socially,
economically, politically and
spiritually isolated, due to
the communication barrier.
The standard of Education
for deaf is very poor and low,
while job opportunities do
not exist. It is time that the
government of Liberia assists
us, in order for the public to
appreciate the vital role deaf
could play in the national
development, says Abdullah
Tani Konateh.
Using a sign interpreter;
Abdullah cry in an interview
with FPA. He called on the

Monrovia
he
Ebola
Virus
Disease (EVD) took
a severe toll on
Liberia in terms of
human deaths, commercial
restrictions and an increase
in economic hardship. During
the EVD crisis, urban slums
and communities were locked
down; families were taken
under weeks-long quarantines
which
hampered
normal
farming
and
commercial
activities. Many people lost
their jobs or daily sources of
cash and a recent Nationwide
Food Security Assessment
estimates that over half of all
families in Bomi experienced
monthly income losses as
compared to times before
Ebola.
The report further supports
the findings of Welthungerhilfe
(WHH) and Action Contre la
Faim (ACF) field assessment
conducted in December 2014,
which found that many petty
traders, wage laborers, and
farmers in areas affected by the
Ebola virus were struggling to
feed their families. Households
who lost an adult family
member to Ebola are more
likely to be food insecure.
Ceceila* was a petty trader in
Montserrado, she used to sell
small things in the market.

By James-Emmanuel D. Cole, Jr [0886-211390, 0777-027030] Staff Writer

government to ensure that


sign language be recognize
as an official language for
service providers like doctors,
nurses, the police, the court,
the bank, universities, as well
as the media to enable them
share problem they face.

He also appealed for the


training of more sign
language interpreters who
would train the service
provider and interpret for
the deaf in Liberia.
Ministry
of
Education
needs to pay attention to

the Deaf students in higher


institutions that are facing
difficulties because of the
absence of sign language
interpreters. The ministry
should have a special
Education Division to pay
critical attention to the

teaching and effective use of


sign language in schools, this
will attract the interest of the
public and will help reduce
the frustrations of Deaf
children, Konateh said.
According to him, disability
or deafness is unfortunate

as well as, difficult to


comprehend, which has
psychological, physiological
and sociological effects on
the personality of individual.
The recognition of the sign
language in public gathering
would be a big relief to the
Deaf community.
He added We must not
forget that every hearing
person is as potential as a
Deaf Person. We appeal that
all television stations in the
country use sign language in
their programmes, to allow
greater participation of the
Deaf people.
Deaf in society are socially,
economically, politically and
spiritually isolated, due to
the communication barrier.
The standard of Education
for deaf is very poor and low,
while job opportunities do
not exist. Article 11 of the
Constitution of Liberia says
persons are born all said
Konateh.
Adding to Konateh appeal;
Jaytee Railey, a Sign Language
Interpreter at Hope for the
Deaf School is also appealing
with parents to learn the
sign language in order to
communicate with their
children and not to abandon
them.
He called on the government
of Liberia to subsidize all
Deaf schools in Liberia, as
well as to provide scholarship
for the deaf students to
acquire higher education and
train more Sign Language
Interpreter to be assigned at
higher education across to
country.

BOOSTING LIVELIHOOD RECOVERY,


IMPROVING PURCHASING POWER IN LIBERIA

An initiative of Welthungerhilfe (WHH) and Action Contre la Faim (ACF) with


funding from the European Commissions Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection

Her home was quarantined


after her husband, sister,
brother and aunt all died from
Ebola. She found that people
treated her differently when
she returned to trade at the
market,

When
Ebola
happened,
people stopped buying from
me. People would know my
house and stigmatise me, call
my house Ebola Centre. They
dont want to buy from me
because they think they get

the virus, she says. It was not


easy. Some in the market, they
wont accept your money when
you try to buy.
WHH
and
ACF,
with
funding from the European
Commissions Humanitarian

Aid and Civil Protection


department,
are
helping
EVD affected households,
like Cecelias, to recover by
improving their purchasing
power through unconditional
cash transfers and income

generating activities (IGA).


This boost to livelihoods
will mitigate the immediate
insecurities people face when
having to choose between
spending their income on food
to feed their family or spending
monies on other essential
items.
WHH and ACF together with
Lonestar Cell MTN will train
those included in the project
on mobile money transfers
service, the modern technology
which enables easy access of
cash transfers.
These activities are set
to benefit a total of 1,300
households
constituting
6,630 people in targeted
areas across Montserrado
and Bomi Counties. Targeted
areas of intervention in the
two Counties are: Westpoint,
LoganTown, Clara town, St.
Paul Bridge, Gardnersville,
Barnersville, Caldwell, Todee,
Sinkor, Brewersville, Kpalah,
Mount Barclay, Klay Town,
Joseph Town, Sass Town, and
Tubmanburg among others.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Page 10 | Frontpage

CHINA UNION EBOLA SCARES OFF TRAINEE


CONCEDES NURSES IN LIBERIA
Pays Workers Dependent Education Benefit

Monrovia ollowing
several
twists and turns, the
Management of China
Union
Investment,
(Liberia)
Bong
Mining
Company, LTD has finally
made payment of its workers
dependent educational benefit.
The management of China
Union and its employees have
been at odds with one another
in recent times resulting to
the workers carrying on a goslow action in demand of their
dependents education benefit.
Disclosing this to this paper
at his Bong Mines Office, the
Public Relations Manager,
Allen Fu said after series of
negotiations with shareholders
of the company and the
leadership of the worker
Union, they settled down to
the payment of the education
benefit of their workers.
He further disclosed that a
total of (1218) one thousand
two hundred and eighteen
dependents of China Unions
employees benefited from the
education fund.
It can be recalled that on May
1- 25 of this year, workers of
the China Union Investment
(Liberia)
Bong
Mining
Company LTD. Went on a goslow action in demand of their
dependent education benefit.
The situation at the time led
to the intervention of the
Liberian Government through
the Labor Ministry and Margibi
County District Number Four
Representative, Ben A. Fofana.
Three dependents of each
employee between the ages of
3- 18 years old received one
hundred United States Dollars
as their education benefit.
Mr. Fu said it cost the
management of China Union
a total of one hundred and
twenty one thousand United
States for the full payment
of its employee dependents
education benefit.
He also indicated that the
management could have made
payment of the employees
dependent education benefit
as agreed upon but could not
readily do so all due to the low
price per metric ton of iron ore
on the world market.
The price of iron ore on
the world per metric ton is
fluctuating between 45- 50


United States Dollars, Mr. Fu
said.
As a result of the current price,
management losing 27.00
United States Dollars on each
ton produced, something Mr.
Fu said was causing serious
problem for the company.
The President of the Worker
Union, Kesselie Sumo said they
staged the go-slow action in
demand of their dependent
education, an action he termed
as very legitimate because
it was agreed upon between
them and the management of
China Union.
He also stressed that their
action in May was very
genuine and never acted
outside the laws of Liberia as
their demand was agreement
with the Collective Bargaining
Agreement, (CBA) signed
between them and the
management of China Union
with the acquiescence of the
National
United
Workers
Union of Liberia and the
Liberian Government through
the Labor Ministry in February
of this year.
Mr. Sumo is meanwhile
commending the Liberian
Government through the Labor
Ministry, the National United
Workers Union of Liberia and
Representative Ben A. Fofana
for their intervention into their
plight.
He said it was based on their
timely intervention that led to
them having a very peaceful
action in demand of their
dependent education benefit.
China
Union
Investment
(Liberia)
Bong
Mining
Company currently has a total
of 412 Liberians in its employ
and is the second largest iron
ore mining company next
world steel giant, Arcelor Mittal
in Yekepa, Nimba County.

MARCONI COLLINS, A NURSING STUDENT AT THE REDEMPTION HOSPITAL IN LIBERIA,


CARES FOR A PATIENT AS PART OF HER INTERNSHIP, DESPITE FEARS OF EBOLA.

MONROVIA, (IRIN) ike hundreds of other


nursing students in
Liberia, Jerry Songu
should have been
beginning
his
internship
this month, the final step to
graduating and earning his
license. Instead, he has chosen
to put his studies and future
career on hold.
Ebola has no boundaries, the
36-year-old, who is in his third
year of nursing school at the
Caldwell Community Nursing
School in the capital Monrovia,
told IRIN. It killed registered
nurses and it can also kill
practising nurses. So this is
nothing to play with.
For me, I have resolved to wait
until everything [the Ebola
outbreak] is totally over, he
said. My life is important and
I must do everything to protect
it. Big [senior] doctors died in
this country from Ebola and
who am I to take the risk? I am
just a student. No rush now.
Liberia was in dire need of
more doctors and nurses
before the Ebola outbreak
began. The health system has
struggled to rebuild followed
the 1999-2003 civil war that
left hundreds of thousands
dead and destroyed the
countrys infrastructure. A lack
of good schools and training
as well as depressed wages

meant recovery in the medical


sector was painfully slow.
Then the country lost nearly
200 health workers during the
deadly Ebola outbreak, which
killed more than 11,000 people
across West Africa. Now the
situation is getting even more
desperate as many Liberians
considering a medical career
are being put off because
theyre afraid of catching the
virus.
Songu certainly isnt alone.
Before the outbreak, the
country averaged around
1,000 nursing students per
year. Just 400 or so have signed
up this year.
Morris Nyanfore is a nursing
teacher in Monrovia. He said
that when he told his students
about the internship, most of
them were reluctant to sign
up. We told them everything
they needed to do [to protect
themselves] when they go
into the hospital, he said. But
most of them expressed fear of
contracting the disease.
Weighing the risk
Ebola was first confirmed in
Liberia on 30 March 2014. The
country was briefly declared
Ebola-free in May 2015, but
on 30 June the outbreak
resurfaced. No new cases have
been reported since mid-July.
More than two dozen medical
interns assigned at various

health facilities across the


country died in 2014 after
contracting
Ebola,
local
authorities say. At least 192
Liberian health workers have
died in all.
Health officials here have
begun trying to reassure
nursing students that the
risk of contracting Ebola is
quite low. Although, there is
no special program in place
to assist those who want to
become nurses or doctors,
the government has been
providing additional protective
equipment
and
teaching
students how to protect
themselves against the virus.
But, for many, this isnt enough.
Our administrators need
to be sensible and wait a
while before sending us for
the internship, 28-year-old
Martha Clinton, a secondyear nursing student at the
Community Nursing School on
Bushrod Island in the outskirts
of Monrovia, told IRIN. Just
the other day Ebola resurfaced
in this country when we were
not expecting it. This thing can
come and go.
Clinton is also refusing to start
her internship until Ebola
is completely gone from the
region.
I know it is very important
to do my internship, but I am
also scared of Ebola, she said.

Liberia. "As a Liberian native,


she understands the country,
having been back for the past
three years and has been
personally contributing to
skills building and employment
creation in the private sector
through
entrepreneurship
development programs., said
Mr. Alexander B. Cummings
Jr., Chairman of the Board
and also Executive VP and
Chief Administrative Officer
for The Coca-Cola Company.
This hiring is in line with our
core values of promoting a
culture of excellence in Liberia
and Africa. Ms. Gbedema
has a track record of over 25
years in development with
international
organizations

such as the World Bank, IMF


and the UN in Liberia, around
Africa, Latin America and the
Caribbean as well as in North
America.
The foundation aims to be
Liberia and Africas leading
Non
Profit
Organization,
focusing
on
empowering
and uplifting Africans in the
sectors of Education, Health
and Agriculture. The CAF
anticipates making substantial
and sustainable impact in
Liberia.
Africa can be empowered
and uplifted by Africans
if we are intentional and
purposeful about selecting
the right people with the right
experience and credentials

to address the challenges of


the continent, said Chairman
Cummings.
Prior to taking up this
appointment, Ms. Gbedema
was Partnership Evaluation
Consultant
UNDP/UNICEF
Guyana,
South
America,
Consultant for the Caribbean
Export Development Agency
in
Barbados,
Head
of
Personnel for the Department
of Technology and Services at
the International Monetary
Fund, Washington DC,, Change
Management, Career and
Professional
Development
Consultant, World Bank Group,
Washington DC, Administrator,
UN Volunteer Program, UNDP
Guyana, Program Director,

I dont want to be another


victim like my colleagues who
went for an internship last
year. Our neighbours are
still experiencing Ebola. Why
are we in a rush to do this?
We need to wait a bit. My life
comes first.
Nurses in Liberia earn up to
just $125 each month at public
hospitals and $150 at private
clinics. It is an amount many
see as too low to justify such
risk, and no more than several
other safer professions would
pay.
I am finding it very hard to
make this decision [to start
my internship], 31-year-old
Monrovia nursing student
Annie Wlojo, told IRIN. I have
two young children and I am
the only one providing for their
needs. I dont want my kids
to suffer [if I die from Ebola].
So I have decided to wait until
another time before I can make
that decision to go for the
internship.
Our country needs us
Despite the pervasive fear,
there are still some nursing
students who are willing to
continue their studies for the
sake of helping others.
Yes, it was a difficult decision
to make, said 34-year-old
Joe Smith, who just began his
internship at the Redemption
Hospital in New Kru Town. I
thought it over many times but
later decided to go. I think this
is the time our country really
needs us.
Marconi Collins, a nursing
intern at the same hospital,
told IRIN that even though
she is scared of Ebola, she is
prepared to serve people who
are sick.
If we all decided not to do the
internship, then where is this
country headed? she asked. I
know Ebola is bad, but we need
to serve humanity. I wear
my PPEs [personal protection
equipment] and I make sure I
dont touch patients with my
bare hands. I avoid touching
all [bodily] fluids. We need to
help our own people because
we cant expect foreigners to
come to our county to serve
our people.

CUMMINGS AFRICA FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES NEW COUNTRY DIRECTOR IN LIBERIA


Gearing up for
strong program
impact in Liberia
and Africa

Monrovia ummings
Africa
Foundation (CAF), a
foundation founded
by Mr. Alexander B.
Cummings, Jr. and his family,
announced today the hiring of
its new Country Director for
Liberia, Ms. Fatu Gbedema.
I am very excited to have Ms.
Gbedema lead CAF in Liberia
because she has demonstrated
a
strong
understanding
economic development, has
been part of finding solutions
to broken systems across
three geographic regions in
the world and understands
what it takes to leverage
these experiences to make
the necessary impact in

Friedrich Ebert Foundation,


Ghana, Social Services Officer,
UNHCR Ghana and Press
and Public Relations Liaison,
UNICEF Liberia.
Fatu Gbedema holds an MSc in
Organizational Development
and Change Management from
the University of Maryland,
College Park, an MA in
International Economics and
Trade from the Legon Center
for International Affairs and
Development, University of
Ghana and a BA in Political
Science from the University
of Liberia . She is a product of
the St. Teresas Convent High
School in Monrovia, Liberia,

Wednesday, August 19, 2015


Republic of Liberia
Ministry of National Defense
UN Drive BTC
1000 Monrovia, 10, Liberia
West Africca
Office of The Assistant Minister For Pub lic Affairs
VACANCY ANNOUINCEMENTS
The Ministry of National Defense is in search of qualified Nurses, Laboratory Technicians and
Midwives to be assigned at the various clinics within the military facilities across the Country.

Laboratory Technicians Position (2):


Qualifications:
Must have a diploma or certificate in Laboratory Technology/Science, a bachelors degree in
Laboratory Science is an added advantage
Must have three years of working experience
Must be willing to take assignment out of Town, mainly at Military Bases
Willingness to keep abreast of new skills in the nursing field
Technological proficiency in relevant laboratory equipment
Must be familiar with the operations, quality control and maintenance of laboratory equipment
Position of Nurses (2)
Qualifications:
Must have bachelor degree in Nursing
At least three years of working experience in the nursing field
Must be willing to take assignment out of Town, mainly at Military Bases
Must be a Registered Nurse

Position of Midwives (2)


Qualifications
Must have a diploma or certificate from a recognized School of Midwifery
Must have at least five years of working experience as a professional Midwife
Must be willing to take assignment out of Town, mainly at Military Bases

NOTE: All applicants, in addition to the requirements for qualification, must meet all Ministry
of Healths qualifications for such positions or assignments.
COMPENSATION:
Salary will be commensurable with the level of training and credible experience. Applicants are
advised to submit their letters of application and resumes along with copies of their credentials
(Degree, Diploma or Certificate, etc. ) to Attention:

Department of Personnel and Administration

Ministry of National Defense

BTC, U N Drive, Monrovia, Liberia

Ref. Department of Health Vacancies
Deadline for submission of application and resume is Monday, August 25, 2015 before close of
official business. No application will be accepted after 4:00PM. Meanwhile, only prequalified or
short listed candidates will be contacted to sit interview.
Signed: _______________________
David K. Dahn

Assistant Minister for Public Affairs

Frontpage

Page 11

NATIONAL COMPETITIVE BIDDING (NCB)


Invitation for Bids (IFB)

FOR THE PURCHASE OF


STATIONERY & SUPPLIES
IFB NO. NASSCORP/SBA/NCB/005/15/16
Note: This advertisement applies only to
Liberian-owned Small Businesses that are legally
registered and are in compliance with Liberian Tax
Regulations and Social Security Contribution Payments.
The National Social Security & Welfare Corporation intends
to apply a portion of its 2015/2016 fiscal budget towards the
procurement of Stationery & Supplies under contract for IFB NO.
NASSCORP/SBA/NCB/005/15/16.
The National Social Security & Welfare Corporation now invites
sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the supply of
the Stationery & Supplies.

Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive


Bidding (NCB)
procedures specified in the PPCA and is open
to all Liberian-owned, eligible and qualified bidders.

Interested parties may obtain further information from the


Procurement Unit in the office of the Coordinator of General
Services at the NASSCORP Complex, 15th Street, Sinkor, and buy
a copy of the Bidding Documents written in English for a price of
US$25.00 non-refundable from August 14, 2015 thru 8, 2015 from
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily.
Qualification requirements include: past performance report
including names of at least two clients, Legal documents including
(current business registration, current tax payment receipts/tax
clearance and Social Security contribution payment receipts.
Deadline for the submission of bids is September 14, 2015 at 2:00
p.m. Bids will be opened on the same day at 2:00 p.m. in the Board
Room of NASSCORP located at the Complex Offices on 15th Street,
Sinkor, Monrovia in the presence of bidders representatives. All
bids must be sealed in a medium size brown envelop and labeled
as follows:
SEALED BID FOR THE SUPPLY OF STATIONERY & SUPPLIES
REFERENCE: IFB NO. NASSCORP/SBA/NCB/005/15/16

All bids must be hand delivered to the following address:

The Procurement Unit, NASSCORP Complex, 15th Street, Sinkor,


Monrovia.
Attention: Coordinator, General Services Department
Please note that electronic bids will not be permitted, and that late
bids will be rejected and returned unopened. NASSCORP reserves
the right to reject all bids.11

Signed:
The Management, NASSCORP

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Page 12 | Frontpage

Republic of Liberia

Republic of Liberia

Ministry of National Defense (MOD)

Ministry of National Defense (MOD)

INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB)

INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB)

The GOL through the Ministry of National Defense (MOD) anticipate


funding from its National Budget for FY 2015/2016 for the The GOL through the Ministry of National Defense (MOD) anticipate
funding from its National Budget for FY 2015/2016 for the
procurement of Dry Ration (Rice).
procurement of the following contract packages.

No. LOT

DESCRIPTION

CODE

QUANTITY

Dry Ration (Rice)

IFB NO. MOD/NCB/001/15/16

28,200 Bags

LOT 1

No.

LOT

DESCRIPTION

CODE

QUANTITY

LOT 2

Building materials

IFB NO. MOD/NCB/002/15/16

Assorted

LOT 3

Printing and Binding materials

IFB NO. MOD/NCB/003/15/16

Assorted

The Ministry of National defense now invites sealed bids from eligible The Ministry of National defense now invites sealed bids from eligible
and qualified Liberian owned Businesses for the supply of Dry Ration and qualified bidders for the above contract packages. Each lot must
(Rice) for FY 2015/2016 as indicated above
be bided for separately.
Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding
(NCB) procedure specified in the PPC Act and is opened to only
Liberian owned Businesses as defined in the Small Business Act.
Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information from the
Procurement Unit of the Ministry of National Defense and obtain copy
of the Bidding Documents at the address given below.
Qualifications requirements includes

Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding


(NCB) procedure specified in the PPC Act and is opened to all eligible
bidders as defined in the Guidelines. Interested eligible bidders may
obtain further information from the Procurement Unit of the Ministry
of National Defense and obtain copy of the Bidding Documents at the
address given below.
Qualifications requirements includes

I. Article of Incorporation
I. Article of Incorporation
II. Valid Business Registration Certificate with appropriate business II. Valid Business Registration Certificate with appropriate business
activity code
activity code
III. Valid tax Clearance
III. Valid tax Clearance
IV. Past Performance Record including the name and contact number
of at least 2 clients
IV. Past Performance Record including the name and contact number
of at least 2 clients
All bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security of 2% from a
reputable bank and bids must be valid for 60 days after the deadline
V. Availability of Warehouse
for submission.
All bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security of 2% from a
reputable bank and bids must be valid for 60 days after the deadline
for submission.
A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be pick up by
interested bidders on the submission of a written Application to the
address below beginning Wednesday, August 12, 2015. Deadline for
submission of bids is 12:00 noon on Wednesday, September 9, 2015.

A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be pick up by


interested bidders on the submission of a written Application to the
address below beginning Wednesday, August 12, 2015. Deadline for
submission of bids is 12:30 noon on Wednesday, September 9, 2015.

Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected and
returned to bidders unopened. Bids will be opened in the presence
of the bidders who choose to attend or bidders representatives on
Wednesday, September 9, 2015 at 13:00 noon in the conference room
of the Ministry of National Defense on Lynch Street. Bids submitted
must be sealed and labeled as follow

Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected and
returned to bidders unopened. Bids will be opened in the presence
of the bidders who choose to attend or bidders representatives on
Wednesday, September 9, 2015 at 12:00 noon in the conference room
of the Ministry of National Defense on Lynch Street. Bids submitted
REF: IFB NO. MOD/NCB/001/15/16
must be sealed and labeled as follow
Attention:
Procurement Director
REF: IFB NO. MOD/NCB/001/15/16
Attention:
Procurement Unit, DMALT, Delta Building
Procurement Director
Ministry of National Defense
Procurement Unit, DMALT, Delta Building
BTC Compound, United Nations Drive & Lynch Street
Ministry of National Defense
Monrovia, Liberia
BTC Compound, United Nations Drive & Lynch Street
Monrovia, Liberia
SIGNED: ____________________________________
PROCUREMENT DIRECTOR
SIGNED: ____________________________________
PROCUREMENT DIRECTOR
APPROVED: __________________________
MINISTER/HEAD OF PC
APPROVED: __________________________
MINISTER/HEAD OF PC

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Frontpage

Page 13

The Bong County Technical College invites applications for the position of Vice President for Academic
Affairs. The Vice President for Academic Affairs is the chief academic officer of the College.

The Bong County Technical College invites applications for the position of COMPTROLLER. The comptroller is
the chief financial officer of the college

Reporting directly to the president, the Vice President for Academic Affairs is responsible for developing,
implementing, and managing the instructional programs and academic outreach activities of the College. The
ideal candidate will demonstrate the following skills and abilities:

Reporting directly to the president, the Comptroller is responsible for planning, organizing and supervising
accounting-related functions for the College, including general accounting, policy development, cash
management, budget, audit preparation, forecasting revenues and expenditures, purchasing and accountingrelated contract compliance.

Realizing the need for developing individuals in technical disciplines, the Liberian Fifty Second (52nd)
Legislature passed into law the establishment of the Bong County Technical College in 2010. The college
is accredited by the National Commission on Higher Education to offer the bachelors degree in Computer
Science, Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering, Agriculture Technology, Science Education and Nursing. The
college opened its doors to students on November 18, 2013 with 414 students. The current enrolment of the
colleges stands at over one thousand students.

Leadership
Act as a primary advisor to the President, representing both academic programs and academic support
services.
Initiate and shape strategic and operational planning for curricular and academic program needs.
Guide the academic department heads in the selection, evaluation, promotion, retention, tenure, and
professional development of faculty.
Direct resources and personnel of the academic departments and academic support offices to achieve the
academic mission of BCTC.

Management
Ensure that library, academic services, and information technology are compatible with the instructional
goals of BCTC
Coordinate all budgetary aspects of the various academic units. Monitors expenditures of these units.
In consultation with the President and BCTCs policies, establish and approve salaries for existing and new
faculty members.
Supervise the planning and scheduling of all instructional classes and ensure the delivery of classes and the
publication of necessary schedules and requirements.
Supervise and manage instructional programs within the guidelines established by BCTC and governing and
accrediting agencies.
Meet with students, parents, and other interested parties to resolve questions and issues about BCTCs
policies and procedures relating to academic and student concerns.
Coordination
Work closely with the President, Vice President for Administration and Financial Comptroller to effectively
establish and achieve the goals and mission of BCTC.
Work closely with the Vice President for Administration and Comptroller to enhance and maximize the
academic and student services function of BCTC, including student recruitment, admission, advising, transfer,
financial aid, and other student activities.
Supervision
Supervise the following positions:
Library Director
Director of Institutional Research
Registrar
Academic Department Heads
Professional Staff in the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs

Respond
Given the complexity and demands of a higher education institution, the Vice President for academic affairs
must be willing to respond to unexpected events and needs, as well as complete other assigned duties. The Vice
President for Academic Affairs must be willing to live in the city of Gbarnga, Bong County or its environs.
EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE
The position of Vice President for Academic Affairs requires an earned terminal degree from an accredited
institution of higher education and a minimum of three years of academic and/or administrative experience. A
Candidates with a Masters degree with five or more years of experience working in a higher education setting
with direct involvements with academic related responsibility maybe accepted in this position.
The Vice President for Academic Affairs must exhibit a personal standard of behavior that will be a model
for the institution and will inspire others to work collaboratively toward shared goals. Candidates should
demonstrate a commitment to diversity, an appreciation for its important contributions to excellence, and the
ability to work with and leverage the experience of a diverse work force.
The Bong County Technical College is particularly interested in candidates who have experience working with
students from diverse backgrounds and who have a demonstrated commitment to improving the levels of
access and success for underprivileged students within higher education.
TYPE OF APPOINTMENT: Full-time administrative position.
SALARY: Commensurate with education and experience. Excellent benefits package.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: July 31, 2015
POSITION START DATE: September 10, 2015

APPLICATION PROCESS:
Submit a cover letter describing qualifications and experience as they relate to the specific requirements,
responsibilities, and preferences of this position, current resum or curriculum Vita, a copy of transcripts for
all degrees completed (official transcripts will be required upon hire), the names, phone numbers and e-mail
addresses of three professional references.
By submitting an application for this position, you grant the Bong County Technical College the
expressed right to contact all references and institutions you have in your application. If you do not
want your references and institutions to be contacted, please do not continue the application process.
All unverified credentials will be removed from your application package. Any personal reference not
reachable will be considered as nonexistence.

Realizing the need for developing individuals in technical disciplines, the Liberian Fifty Second (52nd)
Legislature passed into law the establishment of the Bong County Technical College in 2010. The college
is accredited by the National Commission on Higher Education to offer the bachelors degree in Computer
Science, Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering, Agriculture Technology, Science Education and Nursing. The
college opened its doors to students on November 18, 2013 with 414 students. The current enrolment of the
colleges stands at over one thousand students.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Supervise personnel in providing accounting services for the College, including training, scheduling,
assigning and reviewing work, evaluating performance, performance coaching, and recommending or carrying
out various personnel actions.
2. Research, evaluate, develop and recommend general financial policies/procedures/manuals and
modifications to existing methods to improve effectiveness and efficiency.
3. Prepare or oversee the preparation and review of financial statements, reconciliations, and reports related
to the Colleges financial affairs; provide information, specific analysis, and appropriate training to others on
financial and budgeting issues, etc.
4. Respond to concerns and inquiries from students, parents, vendors, state and county agencies, employees,
etc. related to accounting matters. Oversee the resolution of students financial obligation problems within
policy guidelines of the College.
5. Review account activities on funds to ensure accuracy and conformity with applicable controls and
guidelines. Notify appropriate persons and/or take corrective actions as necessary. Review and strengthen
financial and accounting internal controls to ensure protection of the College financial resources. Formulate
and enforce policies and procedures regarding College cash disbursements.
6. Prepare/review adjusting entries and schedules for annual audit; schedule audit and work with auditors
in answering questions, providing necessary information and explaining accounting/financial system; review
audit results and implement necessary/recommended internal controls and/or other revisions.
7. Coordinate preparation of College budget and other related documents. Analyze budget revenues/
expenditures as needed. Prepare department budget requests and monitor expenditures for compliance with
approved budget. Supervise the compilation and preparation of all budget programs in all College Funds.
8. Review daily cash balances and makes all shortterm investments. Supervise the encumbrance system and
monitor account balances.
9. Supervise investment of College funds and monitor College vending contracts.
10. Review grants reports and cash requirements for all grants of the College.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
The ideal candidate for this position will possess a Master in Business Administration with two years
experience working in a senior level financial management position. Candidate with a Bachelors degree in
Accounting and three to five years relevant work experience may also be considered for this position. Candidate
with a Bachelors degree and working towards earning an MBA or a MPA degree with strong background in
budget and financial analysis maybe considered for this position. All candidates applying to this position must
have a strong working knowledge of the Public Procurement Commissions procedures. Thorough knowledge
of accounting practices in the public sector, including grant and fund accounting; budget analysis; preparation
of financial statements; internal auditing of transactions; accounting software; and, general supervisory
practices is required.
Coordination
Work closely with the President, Vice President for Administration and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Supervision

1. Supervises staff in the business department; general oversight of part-time and student employees working
in the business office.
2. Responsible for performance evaluations of staff. Carries out other supervisory responsibilities in
accordance with college policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include: interview, hire, and train
employees; plan, assign, and direct work; reward and discipline employees; address complaints and resolve
problems.
TYPE OF APPOINTMENT: Full-time administrative position.
SALARY: Commensurate with education and experience. Excellent benefits package.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: August 31, 2015
POSITION START DATE: September 10, 2015
APPLICATION PROCESS:

Submit a cover letter describing qualifications and experience as they relate to the specific requirements,
responsibilities, and preferences of this position, current resum or curriculum Vita, a copy of transcripts for
all degrees completed (official transcripts will be required upon hire), the names, phone numbers and e-mail
addresses of three professional references.
By submitting an application for this position, you grant the Bong County Technical College the
expressed right to contact all references and institutions you have in your application. If you do not
want your references and institutions to be contacted, please do not continue the application process.
All unverified credentials will be removed from your application package. Any personal reference not
reachable will be considered as nonexistence.

Send all application materials to any one or two of the addresses below.

Send all application materials to any one or two of the addresses below.

2. The Search Committee/Vice President for Academic Affairs


Bong County Technical College
William V.S. Tubman Gray Campus
Gbarnga, Bong County

5. The Search Committee/Office of the President


Bong County Technical College
William V.S. Tubman Gray Campus
Gbarnga, Bong County

1. flomo001@umn.edu

3. The Search Committee/Vice President for Academic Affairs


Bong County Technical College
National Commission on Higher Education
SD Cooper Road
Monrovia, Liberia

For more information, contact +231880825097 or email flomo001@umn.edu

4. flomo001@umn.edu

6. The Search Committee/Office of the President


Bong County Technical College
National Commission on Higher Education
SD Cooper Road
Monrovia, Liberia

For more information, contact +231880825097 or email flomo001@umn.edu

Page 14 | Frontpage

PAGE

RONT

WORLD NEWS

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

MAN IN YELLOW SHIRT IS FOCUS


OF BANGKOK BOMBING PROBE
PROSECUTORS APPEAL
PISTORIUS VERDICT, SEEK
MURDER CONVICTION

Pretoria (AFP) outh African prosecutors have filed an appeal calling


for Paralympian star Oscar Pistorius to be convicted of
murder for killing his girlfriend -- just days before he is
due to be released from prison.
Pistorius has spent less than a year behind bars since being
convicted in a sensational trial on the lesser charge of culpable
homicide, and is expected to leave jail on Friday for a form of
house arrest.
But the 28-year-old could soon be back in prison if prosecutors
are successful in their argument in the appeal court filed
Monday that he should have been convicted of murder rather
than culpable homicide -- a charge equivalent to manslaughter.
If they win their case, which is expected to be heard in November,
Pistorius could face at least 15 years in jail.
The athlete -- known as the "Blade Runner" for the prosthetic
legs he wears on the track -- won international fame after racing
against able-bodied competitors in the 2012 London Olympics,
and his trial was broadcast live around the world.
"I think the chances are pretty good that the appeals court will
rule in favour of the state and overturn the verdict," said Ulrich
Roux, a criminal lawyer in Johannesburg.

Pier, which is used by tourists,


although no one was hurt.
Prawut released several photos
of the man, with and without
the backpack, on social media.
The images were apparently
taken from closed-circuit video
at the shrine before the bomb
exploded.
Experts investigate the Erawan
shrine at the site of a deadly
blast in central Bangkok,
Thailand, Au
Video posted separately on
Thai media appeared to show
the same man sitting on a
bench at the shrine, taking off
the backpack and leaving it
behind as he walked away.
Without elaborating, the prime
minister said, "Today we have
seen the closed-circuit footage,
we saw some suspects, but it
wasn't clear. We have to find
them first."
Prayuth said the government
will expedite "all investigative
efforts to find the perpetrators
and bring them to justice."

practices and language.


Thai authorities identified
five victims as Thai and four
as Chinese two of them
from Hong Kong along
with two Malaysians and one
Singaporean, and said the
nationalities of the other eight
victims remained unknown.
The British Foreign Office
said one victim was a British
citizen named Vivian Chan
who lived in Hong Kong. It was
not immediately clear whether
she was one of the two Hong
Kong victims identified by Thai
officials. Officials at London's
BPP University said she had
studied there.
"Everyone at BPP University is
devastated to hear of the loss
The bomb, which police say of one of our students, Vivian
was made from a pipe and Chan Wing Yan, in Bangkok
weighed 3 kilograms (more yesterday. Our thoughts are
than 6 pounds), went off about with Vivian's family and we
7 p.m. in an upscale area filled will work to support them in
with tourists, office workers any way we can," the school
and shoppers. No one has said in a statement.
claimed responsibility.
Defense
Minister
Prawit
Prawut said Tuesday's blast at Wongsuwan said authorities
the Sathorn Pier frequented by had no idea an attack had been
tourist boats also was caused planned.
by a pipe bomb and could be "We didn't know about this
related to the shrine attack.
ahead of time. We had no
Police said the bomb was intelligence on this attack," he
thrown from the Taksin Bridge said.
and fell into the Chao Phraya The Erawan Shrine, right,
River, where it exploded. and Rajprasong intersection
Security video showed a remains closed in Bangkok,
sudden blast of water over Thailand, Tuesday,
a walkway at the pier as Prayuth vowed to "hurry and
bystanders ran for safety.
find the bombers," though
The Erawan Shrine is dedicated he noted there may be just
to the Hindu god Brahma, but one perpetrator. Speaking to
is extremely popular among reporters, he continued what
Thailand's Buddhists as well has been a notoriously prickly
as Chinese tourists. Although relationship with the media
Thailand is predominantly since the former general took
Buddhist, it has enormous control in a May 2014 coup that
Hindu influence on its religious ousted a civilian government.

Clinton leads the race for


Democratic
presidential
nomination by wide margin
even though questions about
her use of the server have
since shadowed her campaign.
Republicans have seized on the
issue to raise questions about
Clinton's trustworthiness.
Clinton again this weekend
repeated a carefully constructed
defense of her actions, in that she
did not send or receive emails
marked classified at the time.
But her emails show some
messages she wrote were
censored by the State Department
for national security reasons
before they were publicly
released.
The
government
blacked-out those messages
under a provision of the Freedom
of Information Act intended to
protect material that had been

deemed and properly classified


for purposes of national defense
or foreign policy.
What hasn't been released: data
that could show how secure her
system was, whether someone
tried to break in, and who else
had accounts on her system.
A lawyer for Platte River
Networks, a Colorado-based
technology services company
that began managing the Clinton
server in 2013, said the server
was provided to the FBI last
week.
Indeed, many physical details
of the server remain unknown,
such as whether its data was
backed up. In March, The
Associated Press discovered
her server traced back to an
Internet connection at her home
in Chappaqua, New York.
A computer server isn't a marvel

AFGHAN FORCES RETREAT FROM STRATEGIC

DISTRICT IN HELMAND PROVINCE

LASHKAR GAH, Afghanistan (Reuters) fghan security forces have "tactically retreated" from
a key district in the southern province of Helmand
that foreign troops battled for years to secure, as the
Taliban make a late summer push to expand areas they
control in a traditional stronghold.
The Taliban have made a grab to secure territory in the north
and south this summer, but despite some gains, have struggled
to hold ground, even though most foreign forces withdrew from
Afghanistan in 2014.
Officials in Helmand said security forces had shifted the Naw
Zad district governor's office to a safer location about 3 km (2
miles) away to avoid civilian casualties during Taliban attacks,
and that they had retained control of the district.

or police hunting
who was responsible
for Monday's deadly
bombing in central
Bangkok, there was no doubt
about the man with youthful
shaggy dark hair and glasses.
"The yellow shirt guy is not just
the suspect. He is the bomber,"
police spokesman Lt. Gen.
Prawut Thavornsiri told The
Associated Press on Tuesday.
Prime Minister Prayuth Chanocha called the shrine bombing
near a busy intersection that
killed 20 and wounded more
than 100 "the worst incident
that has ever happened in
Thailand," and he promised to
track down those responsible.
"There have been minor
bombs or just noise, but this
time they aimed for innocent
lives," Prayuth said. "They
want to destroy our economy,
our tourism."
Bangkok was rattled again
Tuesday when another pipe
bomb blew up at the Sathorn

PROBE OF CLINTON'S SERVER COULD


FIND MORE THAN JUST EMAILS

ICC TO RULE ON KENYA'S ALLEGED FAILURE TO COOPERATE

A
A


AMSTERDAM (Reuters) ppeals judges at the International Criminal Court
are set to decide on Wednesday whether Kenya
cooperated in the court's collapsed case against
President Uhuru Kenyatta, or failed to provide key
evidence to prosecutors.
Prosecutors dropped charges of crimes against humanity
against Kenyatta in December. They have maintained that
they were unable to build their case because of obstruction by
Kenyan authorities.
Judges in The Hague will rule on a prosecution request to
declare that Kenya failed to comply with an April 2012 attempt
to obtain Kenyatta's personal banking records. They have asked
that the matter be referred to the Assembly of States Parties,
the 123-member executive body that oversees the court, or the
United Nations, to consider "appropriate measures."

WASHINGTON (AP)
forensic examination
of Hillary Rodham
Clinton's
private
computer
server
could unearth more details than
what she put in her emails. It
could answer lingering questions
about the security of her system,
who had access to it and whether
outsiders tried to crack its
contents.
Clinton last week handed over
to the FBI her private server,
which she used to send, receive
and store emails during her four
years as secretary of state. The
bureau is holding the machine
in protective custody after
the intelligence community's
inspector
general
raised
concerns recently that classified
information had traversed the
system.

of modern technology. Just like


a home desktop, the computer's
data is stored on a hard drive. It's
unclear whether the drive that
Clinton used was thoroughly
erased before the device was
turned over to federal agents.
If it had been, it's also uncertain
whether the FBI could recover
the data. Clinton's lawyer has
used a precise term, "wiped,"
to describe the deleted emails,
but it was not immediately clear
whether the server had been
wiped. Such a process overwrites
deleted content to make it harder
or impossible to recover.
An FBI spokesman declined to
comment.
Investigators who examine
her server might find all sorts
of information how it was
configured, whether it received
necessary security updates to fix
vulnerabilities in software, or
whether anyone tried to access it
without permission.
Clinton said in March that she
had exchanged about 60,000
emails during her four years in
the Obama administration, about
half of which were personal and
deleted. She turned over the
others to the State Department,
which is reviewing and releasing
them on a monthly basis.
Last month, the inspector general
for the State Department warned
that some of the information
that passed through Clinton's
server was classified information
produced by the U.S. intelligence
community.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Monrovia s it the most-watched


football league in the
world?
With a broadcast in 212
territories to 643 million
homes and a potential
television audience of 4.7
billion people, the English
Premier League (EPL) is the
most-watched football league
in the world.
After
an
Alex
OxladeChamberlain 24th minute
goal against Chelsea in the
Community Shield at Wembley
Stadium on August 2, the
2015/2016 EPL kicked-off on
August 8 with Chelsea drawing
2-2 with Swansea City in the
peak of surprises before being
humiliated 3-0 at the Etihad
Stadium on August 16.
But the most fascinating
statistics and or history from
the opening matches was that
eight of the 30 goals were
scored by African footballers.
Ghanas Andre Dede Ayew
scored as Swansea forced
the defending champions to
a 2-2 draw and Ayew scored
as Swansea beat Newcastle
United 2-0 on August 15.
Nigerias Odion Ighalo, who
scored 20 goals as Watford
gained promotion from the
Championship, got his career
off to a good start but Ivorian
Arouna Kone scored an 86th
minute goal as Everton forced
a 2-2 with the newcomers on
August 8.
Algerias Riyiad Mahrez scored
twice as Leicester City beat
Sunderland 4-2 on August 8
and scored in the 2-1 away win
to West Ham United on August
15.
Senegals Papiss Cisse scored
for Newcastle in their 2-2 draw
with Southampton on August
9.
Cisses compatriot, Cheikhou
Kouyate, scored the first of two
goals as West Ham beat Arsenal
at the Emirates Stadium on
August 9.
And Yaya Toure scored as
Manchester City beat West
Bromwich Albion 3-0 on
August 10.
But that has been no Liberian,
who has left an impact on the
EPL since Christopher Wreh
and George Weah faded in thin
air.
EYEING A WREH OR WEAH
REINCARNATION
Wreh became the first-ever
Liberian footballer to play in
the EPL when
Arsenal signed him in the
summer of 1997 for 300,000,
linking up with his former boss
at AS Monaco, Arsne Wenger.
Wreh rose to prominence in
the summer of 1997 when he
took part in a Liberian game
show which included one
challenge where he managed
to outrun a lion.
Although fourth choice behind
Ian Wright, Dennis Bergkamp
and Nicolas Anelka, Wreh still
played an important part in
the Gunners' double-winning
season of 1997/1998, scoring
in vital 10 EPL wins against
Wimbledon
and
Bolton
Wanderers, and scoring the
only goal of the Gunners'
FA Cup semi-final win over

Frontpage

Sports

FROM WREH TO WEAH


Growing Statistics on Match-Day One

Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Wreh went on to start in the
1998 FA Cup final, and although
he did not score, Arsenal beat
Newcastle United 20.
Despite scoring in the 1998
FA Charity Shield against
Manchester United, Wreh
could not sustain his previous
form and he played fewer and
fewer games and that proved
to be his final goal for the club;
after the arrival of Thierry
Henry and Davor uker in
1999 and was squeezed out
altogether.
Wreh had brief loan spells with
Birmingham City (where he
scored once against Grimsby),
AEK Athens and Den Bosch,
but none of these were made
permanent.
He left Arsenal in 2000, having
scored five goals in 46 matches
(most of them as a substitute).
Wreh's career never reached
the same heights as it had
at Arsenal, as he became
somewhat of a journeyman
footballer.
He initially signed for Al-Hilal
in Saudi Arabia, then returned
to the United
Kingdom in 2001 with brief
stints at Bournemouth and St.
Mirren, but fitness problems
meant he rarely got a game.
He worked under Martin Hayes
at Bishops Stortford, and after
Wreh didnt turn up for a game
Martin said: Honestly, even
if he had turned up for the
Enfield game I wouldnt have
put him on the bench, never
mind started him. He didnt
turn up for training last Friday
and that wasnt the first time. I
can never get hold of him. Its
not on. I have to think of the
other lads who do put in the
time and effort.
After trying his luck at Bishops
Stortford, he played for
United Counties League side
Buckingham Town. In 2007, he
returned to football, signing for
Perseman Manokwari of the
Indonesian Football League.
In 2013, Wreh later partnered
with Northants Junior Foxes
in association with Leicester
City academy to train and
recruit young kids for academy
football.
Wreh is Liberia head coach for
the womens female under-20
squad, which lost 14-1 on
aggregate to Nigeria in a 2016
World Cup qualifiers in July
2015 as the players accused
him of slashing their perdiems
from US$50 to US$40.

GEORGE WEAH
Weah would pick-up from
where Wreh left it when he
signed for Chelsea on loan from
AC Milan on 11 January 2000
for the 1999/2000 season.
His time was deemed a success,
especially where he instantly
endeared himself to their fans
by scoring the winner against
rivals Tottenham Hotspur
on his debut, and scored
further league goals against
Wimbledon and Liverpool.
He
also
scored
twice
in
Chelsea's
victorious
1999/2000 FA Cup campaign,
netting crucial goals against
Leicester City and Gillingham.
This led to him starting in the
final, which Chelsea won 10.
Chelsea manager Gianluca
Vialli did not make Weah's
move permanent.
On 1 August 2000, he signed
for
newly-promoted
EPL
side Manchester City on a
free transfer on a two-year
contract worth 30,000 a
week, declining the offer of a
1 million pay-off from Milan
owner Silvio Berlusconi.
He played 11 games in all
competitions for City, scoring
four times, before leaving on 16
October 2000 after becoming
dissatisfied with manager Joe
Royle for selecting him as a
substitute too frequently.
He had only played the full
90 minutes in three of his 11
games for the Maine Road
club. But when Weah packed
his bags and walked out of
City after securing a 500,000
golden handshake during the
2000/2001 season, it perhaps
closed a memorable chapter of
Liberian footballers not only
in England but Europe. Weah
lasted 10 weeks at the now
Etihad Stadium before falling
out with Royle.
He was unhappy about being
left out of the starting line-up
and complained that Royle
showed him a lack of respect.
City insiders revealed that
terminating his contract worth 2.5m over two years cost the club 500,000.
Added to the 250,000 he
picked up in wages during his
10-week stay, that represents
an outlay of 750,000 for one
league goal.
Weah, a substitute for four of
City's last six games, scored
three times in the Worthington
Cup against Gillingham (again

as he had at Chelsea) but his


only Premiership goal was in
the 3-2 defeat at Liverpool on
September 9, 2000.
"He brought some moments
of magic with him but it was
always going to be a delicate
situation with him. He's 34
years old and he just wants
to play all the time. I can
understand that fully but I
have to do what I think is best
for Manchester City.
"It is always regretful when
things do not work out between
club and player. George is a
true professional who has
a great stature throughout
European football and we wish
him well" Royle was quoted by
The Guardian newspapers Ian
Whittell on October 17, 2000.
Weah, however, was less
complimentary about Royle,
branding him "unprofessional
and disrespectful".
He also claimed that, after
being dropped for four of
City's last six league games in
the 2000/2001 season, he felt
like "the worst player that ever
existed".

"I'm not willing to subject


myself to feeling small in front
of the younger players that
I hope to be an example and
an inspiration to. I will not
accept being at a club where
the manager names me in the
team and then calls me five
hours later to tell me that I am
not in the team. In my opinion,
that is unprofessional and
disrespectful and [it] shows
a lack of confidence in me,"
Weah told Whittell.
He denied that being left on
the bench was a problem for
him and that he had come
back to England - after a loan
spell at Chelsea - purely for the
25,000-a-week wages which
made him City's highest-paid
player at that time.
Weah said: "I'm not upset just
because I'm not playing. I do
accept because of my age that
I won't play all the games. I

didn't come for the money. I


could have stayed at AC Milan
but instead I sacrificed $2m
[1.4m] from them in order to
come here. I didn't leave that
for somebody to tell me to shut
up and fuck off.
"I was made to feel old and of
no real use to the club. I felt I
was being used for publicity to
attract other players. I respect
the people I work with and
I expect the same in return.
My reasons for leaving are
the lack of respect, the lack
of communication and the
dishonesty shown to me by Joe
Royle."
Weah made his debut away to
Charlton Athletic on August 19,
2000 while his last game was at
home to Newcastle United on
September 30, 2000, totaling
seven: five in the league and
two in the league cup.
Alex Nimelys move to City
from Cameroons Coton Sport
de Garoua in 2008 was seen as
a new chapter.
He spent six years at City but
only played one EPL game
against Burnley on April 3,
2010 and instead spent time
on loan at Middlebrough,
Coventry City and Crystal
Palace.
He signed with Port Vale for
a short and unhappy spell in
November 2014.
It is five years now since a
Liberian last played in the
EPL, least to talk about a last
Liberian goal.
But the Liberia Football
Association (LFA) wants more
governmental support and
advocated for US$5 million
during the 2014/2015 budget
year with no clear-cut plan or
programs on what it will do
with such a funding.
LFA president Musa Bility has
urged President Ellen JohnsonSirleaf, who is the chief patron
of sports, not to sign the
2015/2016 budget, which has
US$250,000 for the national
teams, into law.
Bility wants US$2.3 million for
a successful participation in
the 2018 World Cup qualifiers,
which start in October but
there is no comprehensive
plan on how the money will be
spent.
He is claiming that the
projected amount is just a
games budget, really? Has
Bility spoken about the
US$300,000 given by Fifa in a
December 2014 circular to all
participants in the qualifiers?
Will Liberia past Guinea Bissau
to cry for more budgetary
support? Until we raise the
level of our footballers or
development plans, Liberia
will continue to lack behind
Guinea, Ivory Coast, Nigeria
and Ghana in the sub-region.
The EPL has begun and
Liberians can only watch,
cheer or bet for their favorites
teams.

Page 15

SPORTS

JUVENTUS AHEAD OF
CHELSEA IN DONSAH
PURSUIT - AGENT

uventus are set to


beat Chelsea and
Fiorentina to the
signing of Godfred
Donsah from Cagliari, the
midfielder's agent has
revealed.
The
19-year-old
has
reportedly
attracted
interest from the three
sides after a bright
campaign
with
the
Sardinian club.
And his agent, Oliver
Arthur,
has
revealed
that he is set to enter
negotiations with the
Serie A champions in the
near future.
BARCELONA PROTEST PIQUE'S
REFEREE RANT RED CARD

arcelona
have
protested Gerard
Pique's innocence
against
the
referee's allegation that
he said "I s*** on your
w**** mother" in Monday's
Supercopa
de
Espana
second leg against Athletic
Bilbao.
The centre-back was red
carded 56 minutes into
Barca's attempt at turning
around a 4-0 first-leg deficit
after Lionel Messi had given
them a one-goal lead by
half-time.

REAL MADRID SIGN


KOVACIC FROM INTER

eal Madrid have


completed
the
signing of Mateo
Kovacic
from

Inter.
The two sides reached an
agreement for the 21-yearold Croatia international over
the weekend, with Madrid
coughing up 35 million to
convince the Nerazzurri to
sell him.
Inter boss Roberto Mancini
already admitted on Sunday
that the player was on his way
to the Santiago Bernabeu, and
the attacking midfielder was
confirmed as the club's new
signing on Tuesday, penning
a six-year deal with the Liga
giants.

FrontPage
www.frontpageafricaonline.com

VOL 9 NO.124

Sports

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2015

A. Macaulay Sombai, sombaifrontpageafricaonline.com 0777217428


Monroviawo first division teams, along with one-second division team over the
weekend qualified for the semifinal stage of the Liberia Football Association
(LFA) knockout or FA Cup competition.
The three teams include defending champions FC Fassell, Barrack Young
Controllers (BYC II) and Monrovia Club Breweries.
FC Fassell, the defending champions, reached the semifinal through a 1-0 triumph
over LISCR FC last Saturday at the ATS.
Monrovia Club Breweries and BYC II advanced to the competition semifinal through
penalty kicks.
Breweries overpowered Jubilee FC 3-2 in penalty shootout after the both teams
settled to a 0-0 draw during the 90 minutes play while BYC dumped Watanga FC 4-3
in penalty kick after the full times ended 0-0.
The Secretary General of the LFA agreed that the knockout or FA CUP semifinal draw
would be held on tomorrow Wednesday at the Headquarters of the football house.
One of the three semifinalists will be a (bystander) which means the team that
would be chosen as a bystander during the draw would automatically qualify for
the competition grand finale; and the LFA wishes all of the three success in their
endeavor. The secretary General said.
The Manager of MC Breweries whose team is among the three knockout semifinalists
but presently seated bottom of the LFA first division group A table says they are
taking their present status in the knockout competition as serious and vowed not to
leave any stone unturned until they are crowned champions.
Eric Panton revealed that for long his team has not won a single trophy in the LFA
league and he thinks it is time for them to bring smile to their sponsors, fans and
sympathizers.
The team Manager highlighted that his team present status in the knockout stage
means a lot to them because of his side failure to really perform to expectation in
the national league. He urged his players, head coach and members of his technical
staff to now focus 99.9% of their attentions on the knockout or FA cup competition.
He mentioned that his team did not enter the league just to be a participant but to
win one of the two major trophies and that can only be done through the seriousness
of both the coach members of his technical staff and the players.
Says Panton: I am urging my Head Coach, members of his technical staff and players
to please focus their attention on our next match to come in the knockout because
we are presently seated bottom of our group (a) table in the first division with
only six points out of nine matches played with one remaining game to go so this
competition is our only hope for the whole season so let us take it serious.

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