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INSIDE THIS EDITION

EDITORIAL
The ULs Moment of Truth
See Pg. 4

Ode to Mandela
See Pg. 4

COMMENTARY

G
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Global Witness Identifies Lapses in Liberias Oil Sector

By Joaquin Sendolo
citizens, there are still lapses that need to be corrected if it (oil) would be a blessing to Liberians. According to the group, there is no clear-cut definition of who constitutes a beneficial owner in the act, and it fears that without a defined beneficial owner, companies could report that they are owned by holding-companies or trusts. A definition stating that the beneficial owner or a company is, the natural person (s) who directly or indirectly ultimately owns or controls the corporate entity could be used for the draft act, Global Witness suggests. Global Witness also observes that the act created by

www.liberianobserver.com

LOCAL NEWS
Serve as Light in Darkness
See Pg. 3

HEALTH
Lofa County Scores High in Maternal and New Born Health
See Pg. 5

Grand Bassa Targets US$200K

By Keith Morris from Buchanan
rand Bassa County needs a little over US$200,000 to jump-start an Educational Trust Fund, according to the countys Superintendent, Etweeda Cooper.

lobal Witness, a watch-dog group for the worlds natural resources, says that while the petroleum act of Liberia may have some strength to make the expected oil profitable to

Contd on pg. 13

-Simon Freeman Tells Lofa Students

Todays UL Degrees only Decorate Homes

Mr. Simon Freeman (See story on Page 13)

Do Not Despise Your Birthright

See Pg. 8b

EDUCATION

Council of Churches Speaks on Pressing National Issues

-Murder of Saah Gbollie, Ellen Corkrum, Lofas Church & Traditional Saga Highlighted

Contd on pg. 13

Grand Bassa Co. Supt. Etweeda (Sugars) Cooper

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DAILY OBSERVER Monday, December 16, 2013 Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Kaliningrad: European Fears over Russian Missiles

Russia has long threatened to deploy its Iskander missile system in Kaliningrad
(BBC) - European countries bordering Russias territory of Kaliningrad say they are worried at reports that Moscow has put nuclearcapable missiles there. Lithuania and Poland both issued statements of concern. Russia has not confirmed the report but insists it has every right to station missiles in its western-most region. Moscow has long threatened to move Iskander short-range missile systems to Kaliningrad in response to the United States own European missile shield. Russia sees the missile shield as a threat to its nuclear deterrent. It was one of the biggest sources of confrontation between Moscow and Washington during the presidencies of George W Bush and Vladimir Putin. President Barack Obama tried to reset relations with Russia, and the shield system was revised - but it survived in a different form and continued to antagonise Russia. No violation The US insists that the missile shield is not aimed at Russia but designed to defend Europe from attack from rogue states - assumed to include Iran.

World News

(BBC) - A statue of Nelson Mandela, South Africas first black president, has been unveiled in the capital, Pretoria, a day after he was buried. The nine-metre (30ft) bronze statue has been erected at the Union Buildings, the government headquarters. The statue, with Mr Mandelas hands reaching outward, was intended to show that he had embraced the whole nation, President Jacob Zuma said. Mr Mandela was given a state funeral at his ancestral home on Sunday. African National Congress (ANC) members, veterans of the fight against apartheid and foreign dignitaries - including several African presidents and the Prince of Wales attended the funeral ceremony in the village of Qunu in South Africas Eastern Cape province. It followed a 10-day period of mourning and celebrating Mr Mandelas life after his death at the age of 95. The national flag was raised on Monday from its half-mast

Nelson Mandela Statue Unveiled in Pretoria by Zuma

Page 2
Foreign Briefs

Israel
(BBC) - The Israeli army has shot two Lebanese soldiers after an Israeli soldier was killed by a Lebanese army sniper, the Israeli military has said. An Israeli army spokeswoman said Israeli troops opened fire after noticing suspicious movement. There is no word on their condition and Lebanon has not yet commented. The shooting came after the 31-year-old Israeli soldier was fatally wounded when his vehicle was hit by up to seven shots fired from Lebanon.

President Zuma was at the unveiling of a new statue of Nelson Mandela

position, and was flying as normal. Battle of Blood River The statue was unveiled on South Africas Day of Reconciliation, a public holiday which marks the end of racial conflict in South Africa. Former President Mandela is associated with the promotion of reconciliation which is why the day was chosen for the unveiling, said the government. During white minority rule, 16 December was called the Day of Covenant to honour the victory of Afrikaners over a Zulu army in an 1838 clash known as the Battle of Blood River. More than a century later, on 16 December 1961, Mr Mandela launched an armed group, Umkhonto we Sizwe (Spear of the Nation), to fight South Africas white minority rule. It led to his arrest and imprisonment for 27 years. After he became president in 1994 at the end of minority rule, he used the day to urge South Africans to set aside their differences and to unite. During his address at the funeral on Sunday, Mr Zuma pledged to build on Mr Mandelas legacy. As your journey ends today, ours must continue in earnest... South Africa will continue to rise because we dare not fail you, he said. Mr Mandelas body lay in state at the Union Buildings for three days last week, at least 100,000 people filed past his open casket to pay their last respects.

Syria
(BBC) - The United Nations has announced its biggest ever appeal, seeking $6.5bn (4bn; 4.7bn euros) for humanitarian aid to Syria. The UN estimates nearly three-quarters of Syrias 22.4 million population will need humanitarian aid in 2014. The appeal coincides with a new study by the International Rescue Committee, which warns that starvation is now threatening the Syrian population. Bread prices have risen by 500% in some areas, according to the report. Four out of five Syrians said their greatest worry was that food would run out, the survey found.

South Sudan Quashes Coup Attempt

Says President Kiir
possible, he said, vowing those responsible would be have to stand before the appropriate law institution. The ruling party, former rebel force the Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement (SPLM), would never allow power to be transferred by force, he said. He announced a curfew would be in place every night between 18:00 and 06:00, beginning on Monday. Rest assured that the government is doing all it can to make sure that citizens are secured and safe. Foreign Minister Barnaba Marial Benjamin told the Associated Press that some soldiers had tried to raid the weapons store at the main military based in the capital, but were repulsed. He said some politicians had since been arrested. Mr Riek has not commented and his whereabouts are unclear. But his spokesman said he was safe and denied reports he had been arrested. Civilians flee South Sudan - the worlds youngest country and one of the least developed - has struggled to achieve a stable government since becoming independent from Sudan in 2011. The independence referendum was intended to end a decades-long conflict, led by the SPLM, against the north. The oil-rich country is ethnically and politically divided, with many armed groups active. Tensions have been particularly high since President Kiir dismissed his

(BBC) - She was found guilty of threatening state security and belittling the 1994 genocide. The Supreme Court also found her guilty of spreading rumours intended to incite people to revolt charges on which she had earlier been cleared. She had appealed against her conviction. She insists the trial was politically motivated. The Unified Democratic Forces (UDF) leader, who was in court for the ruling, was arrested in April 2010 months after returning from exile and was barred from standing in elections later that year.

Rwanda

President Salva Kiir: The government is in full control of the security situation in Juba
(BBC) - South Sudans President Salva Kiir says an attempted coup by soldiers loyal to his former deputy Riek Machar has been put down. Mr Kiir said the government was in full control of the capital, Juba, after a night of heavy fighting between soldiers in the presidential guard. A night time curfew has been put in place and a number of arrests have reportedly been made. Several people were reported injured and hundreds have fled to a US base. Hilde Johnson, the UNs special representative in the country, said she was deeply concerned and urged all parties in the fighting to cease hostilities immediately and exercise restraint. I have been in touch regularly with the key leaders, including at the highest levels to call for calm, she said. The fighting in Juba broke out overnight, and intensified in the early morning, with reports of continuous gunfire and several explosions. The citys airport has been closed and the state TV channel SSTV went off air for several hours. Shortly after it came back on air, SSTV broadcast an address from Mr Kiir, wearing military uniform rather than his usual civilian clothing and flanked by government officials. He said the violence was an attempted coup, but that the government was now in full control and the attackers were being chased down. He said the fighting began when unidentified uniformed personnel opened fire at a meeting of SPLM, followed by an attack on army headquarters near the university carried out by a group of soldiers allied to the former vice-president Dr Riek Machar and his group. I will not allow or tolerate such incidents once again in our new nation. I strongly condemn these criminal actions in the strongest terms

Chile
(BBC) - Chileans are casting their votes in a presidential run-off, with Michelle Bachelet widely expected to win. The left-wing candidate faces Evelyn Matthei, a former minister in the governing centre-right coalition. Ms Bachelet, who was president in 2006-10, won the first round last month, but failed to secure an outright majority

entire cabinet, including Mr Machar, in July. The sackings are believed to have followed a power struggle - Mr Machar has said he plans to contest the presidential elections in 2015. He now leads a dissident faction within the SPLM. The two men are from rival ethnic groups that have clashed in the past. Mr Kiir is from the Dinka community, the largest in South Sudan, while Mr Machar is from the Nuer, the second-largest. Some Nuer have complained about Dinka political domination. Juba was reportedly calm by mid-morning with few civilians on the streets, but heavily armed troops were seen patrolling. Hundreds of people, mainly women and children, have taken shelter at the UN compound near the airport and at a UN house in the city. A spokesman told Reuters seven people, including a twoyear-old boy, had been treated for gunshot wound. The UN said in a statement: We hope the security situation in Juba will quickly normalise to enable the civilians to return very soon to their residential areas. To that end, UNMISS (the UN mission in South Sudan) calls on all parties to show continued calm and restraint. The UN and the US embassy advised their citizens to stay at home. Both denied rumours they were harbouring any political or military figures.

EU
(BBC) - Turkey and the EU have signed a deal enabling EU countries to send back illegal migrants who entered the 28-nation bloc via Turkey. The deal also establishes a roadmap for lifting visa requirements for Turks travelling to the EU. Visafree status is expected in three years time. Turkey is a major transit country for Asians and Africans heading for the EU. Ankara has set up special camps for thousands of Syrian refugees, but other migrants often face great hardship.

Afghanistan
(BBC) - UK troops can come home from Afghanistan knowing it was mission accomplished, David Cameron has said as he visited the country. The prime minister met forces stationed at Camp Bastion in Helmand, a year before the last British combat forces are due to leave the country. He said a basic level of security had been achieved and troops could come home with their heads held high. But Labour warned against complacency, insisting the job was not yet done. Military experts said UK troops had been broadly successful in fulfilling their central objectives - set out in their UN mandate of protecting the Afghan population and institutions from Taliban insurgents and ensuring al-Qaeda did not regain a foothold in the country.

Serve as Light in Darkness

Police director tells all-new police college graduates
security has relied in the hands of UNMIL. Todays ceremony is a unique one in that, this is the first of its kind in the existence of the Liberia National Police that the (LNP) is graduating individuals who are all college graduates specializing primarily in justice and other related disciplines. It is an indication that the LNP is on its way to becoming a high class and fully professional modern police organization that all Liberians can be justly proud of, he stated. Director Massaquoi maintained that the recruitment, vetting and training of only college graduates, especially those trained in criminal justice for enlistment into the LNP was a pilot project conceived and supported by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. He also stated that the Minister of Justice, headed by Cllr. Christiana P.

DAILY OBSERVER Monday, December 16, 2013 Tuesday, December 17, 2013

olice Director Chris Massaquoi has told the new Liberia National Police Training Academy (LNPTA) graduates to project themselves as the LUX IN TENEBRIS or light in darkness, so that others will emulate them. According to Director Massaquoi, Liberians will be proud of the new graduates, all of whom have first degree in Criminal Justice, if they conducted themselves in line with the ethics; adding: Be strong, be brave and never compromise your profession as a decent and responsible police officer. He spoke Friday, December 13, at the LNPTA in Paynesville City. The Police boss told the audience that the day marked another milestone in the implementation of the goals of the Liberian Government in strengthening and preparing

Police Director Massaquoi wants graduates be light in darkness

the Liberia national police to fully assume its statutory responsibility of protecting life and property and maintaining law and order, as well as protecting the peace, upon the eventual departure of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL). Since 2003, Liberias

Tah, under which the LNP falls, spared no effort in ensuring the success of the project. According Mr. Massaquoi, who also served as a former Commissioner for the Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization (BIN), the Presidents vision is intended not only to improve the quality of those making up the new LNP, but to also to provide jobs for quality young people who have chosen law enforcement as a career. The special crops project is an experiment aimed at shortening the time in preparing one individual from the level of recruit to that of a middle manager or to the rank of an assistant commissioner of police (ACP), he added. This preparation will also assist in the gradual transformation of the Liberia national police into a well trained and professionally functional police organization comparable to any in the world. that ALFALIT International Liberia is helping the Liberian Government meet the needs of adult literacy learners. The Executive Director of ALFALIT International Liberia, Rev. Emmanuel J. Giddings, disclosed that Liberias adult literacy initiative had impacted more than 55,000 students since 2006. Director Giddings extended his gratitude to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for the provisions of books and funds for the overall running of the program. Director General of Suzuku Incorporated, Dr. Togba Nah Tipoteh, told the graduates to go out and encourage others to enroll in the ALFAIT Liberias adult literacy program to ensure that more Liberians are literate. In closing, Director Tipoteh urged the graduates and Liberians in general to emulate the examples of late South African President Nelson Mandela for his humble posture and strong stance for freedom and justice for all. 2,640 adult literacy learners were awarded with certificates of achievement following several months of mentoring by ALFALIT International Liberias trained teachers and facilitators at 40 established centers in Monrovia.

Locals Want Govt Mediate ArcelorMittal E&P Conflict

By William Q. Harmon

Page 3

Adult Learners Get Certificates of Achievement

(L-R-) ALFALIT-Liberias Director Giddings, Deputy Minister Kotchi United Methodist Church Bishop John G. Innis, U.S. Ambassador Malac, Guest and ALFALIT graduates in Monrovia

ver 2,000 adult literacy learners were awarded certificates of achievement over the weekend from ALFALIT-international in a mass graduation ceremony held at the Bethel Cathedral of Hope Church in Congo Town. They were tutored in specialized modules under the auspices of ALFALITinternationals Liberian headquarters in the USA. According to the organizers of the graduation program, the adult literacy students --who were mainly women---, came from the communities of

By Edwin M. Fayia III

Central, Western, Lower and Upper Montserrado County. Speaking at the graduation on Saturday, November 14, District #3 Representative and House Committee Chairman on Education, Bill Twehway, called on the graduates not to stop where they have reached, but strive to continue their educations with determination. The House Committee Chairman on Education extended his thanks and appreciation to ALFALIT International Liberia for initiating an adult education program that has addressed the issues of poverty and illiteracy. In his introductory remarks, Daily Observer Publisher Kenneth Y. Best, explained

that it is possible to make Liberia a better place if education stakeholders support adult literacy programs. In a special statement, the American Ambassador to Liberia, Madam Deborah Malac, said she was inspired by the mass participation of women in ALFALITs adult education program. When a person can read and write in proper English, they realize the importance of education in accomplishing their goals, Ambassador Malac asserted. Ambassador Malac said that the women of Liberia would be empowered against the menace of violence by knowing how to read. She said the American Government is aiding in the development of Liberias educational sector in partnership with the Ministry of Education and other stakeholders. Ambassador Malac, however, emphasized that ultimately it was the responsibility of the Liberian Government to create educational opportunities for Liberians. Deputy Education Minister, Hawa Goll Kotchi, said

n an bid for peace and tranquility in the mining vicinity of Yekepah, citizens of Nimba County have called on the government of Liberia to intervene in the alleged, ongoing indebtedness between steel giant, ArcelorMittal and its sub-contractor company, Engineers and Planners (E&P). E&P, a Ghanaian company, was contracted by Arcelor Mittal to carry out mining operations at its Tokadeh Mine---a two-year agreement that ends on the 31st of this month. The management of E&P recently accused ArcelorMittals management of failing to settle with them for services they rendered the steel giant to the tune of several million U.S. dollars. E&P also accused Mittal Steel of threatening E&Ps employees to go to work under the threat of being fired, though the employees are not under their jurisdiction. ArcelorMittal has however rebuffed such claims, indicating that it does not owe E&P any money; instead, it is E&P that still owes them in services until the expiration of the contract which is on December 31, 2013. But E&P halted all operations at its Tokadeh mine on the 5th of December to the dismay of the management of ArcelorMittal. The situation has further heightened tensions between some employees of E&P and their management, who are demanding December salaries and Christmas bonuses after allegedly ignoring the companys halt action, that would have compelled ArcelorMittal to settle her financial obligation. The situation has left the fate of about 189 personnel--all Liberian and legitimate employees of E&P---in limbo. An ArcelorMittal contractor who begged anonymity said: People always refer to Nimbaians as violentminded people, so we do not want anything to happen in this place; let government intervene so the whole issue
three young men comes after a nine years of studies and observation by responsible, well known members of the Catholic Church, proving that all the brothers are worthy to be priests. The Archbishop has at the same time celled on the relative and friends of the newly ordained priests to give the hand support, adding that you are human being, and human make mistake but see your usefulness were your life can be what you stand for as priest. Guard them and give them what they need in order to get them strong, not taking care of their need will make them to

E&P Country Representative, Pamela Bowen Addressing Newsmen Recently in Monrovia.

can be settled. Everyone is looking up to government to bring this situation to an end, so they must act swiftly, We learned that E&P wanted to take her equipment out of the mine; but they have been stopped by Mittal steels management on several occasions. Our government needs to intervene as quickly as possible to settle this matter or else we will have some problems in this area, said, Michael Zorlee, a resident of Yekepah. I want to call on the government through the relevant ministries such as Labor, Lands, Mines, and Energy, and Justice, to tackle this situation before it gets out of hand. Let those who are wrong be told they are wrong, and those who are right be told so, he added. Meanwhile, E&P Human Resource Manager, Harrison Agama, said the management of ArcelorMittal continues to prevent his company from transporting its equipment from the mines. Mr. Agama said that they will no longer condone such acts and it will do all it takes to have their equipment transported to Monrovia. He said that several former employees of E&P are threatening to seize the companys equipment or vandalize their warehouse. ArcelorMittal has always paid E&P in line with the terms of the contract and on a timely basis. We make payments within 30 days, once a bill is received, said ArcelorMittals Yekepa Communication Manager, Mr. Jerry Mwagbe.
embezzle the church funds. The Archbishop Rev. Lewis J Zeigler said be exemplifiers of the word of God, if that is done, Liberia will have a good priests and the church of the lord will give to the need. He said, it was important to be a brother keepers, adding that the late Michael Francis must be remember for his many supports and the thing he left with the people of Christ. Do not allow anyone to fool you by beauty, dress code and others that will carry the priesthood life style astray, causing all of you to be negatively seen in the church of the lord.

-Archbishop Rev. Lewis Jerome Zeigler urges them to be focused

Catholic Church Ordains 3 as Priests

By Alvin Worzi
Church on Saturday December 14, 2013 ordained three young men as priests by an Archbishop Rev. Lewis J. Zeigler, after inquiry among the Christian people and recommendation by those responsible. The Archbishop said, After a mature decision, prayers, these young men will be ordained as priests and ready to serve God, they are young, good looking, and handsome but need the

he Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Monrovia, Rev. Lewis J. Zeigler, has urged three young priests to be focused in discharging their responsibility as shepherds, adding that the word of God was not a property but said be a constituent of the word. The St. Kizito Catholic

encouragement to be steadfast he added. The Archbishop has at the same called on members of the Catholic Church to encourage the newly ordained priests for the journey and at the same warned the members, adding that desists from any act that has the propensity to undermine the priesthood. Doing the ordination, the Bishop however called on the three newly priests to take

the confident to impacts to everyone, but maintains that its important to remember those who contributed including your teachers, mother, and father as a good shepherd in the land. The bishop has reminded the newly ordained priest to take advantage of their usefulness when discharging to the needed, but called on them to put away childhood behavior and have a life style that will tell us who you are in the church, the Bishop said. According to the Rev. Lewis J. Zeigler, the ordination of the

Tuesday, 5,17, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Tuesday, December 17, 2013 Tuesday,November December 2013 I WILL NOT LEAVE FROM HERE !!!

Page 4

Published by Liberian Observer Corporation P.O. Box 1858, Monrovia

Liberias First Independent Daily 0886812888, 0886472772 www.liberianobserver.com

Friday, November 22, 2013 was one of the worst days in the history of the University of Liberia. Since its creation by President W.V.S. Tubman in 1950, and even its founding as Liberia College by former President J.J. Roberts in 1862, the only day that might be comparable was August 22, 1984. On that day, Head of State Samuel K. Doe dispatched highly doped and murderous soldiers on campus, under the leadership of his Defense Minister Gray D. Allison, to strip naked, brutalize, rape and some reports say even kill students, faculty and staff. This violent assault on the nations highest institution of learning was in response to a weeklong demonstration by UL students following the arrest of their Political Science professor, Dr. Amos Sawyer, charging him with a socialist plot to destabilize the government. There were also reports that the soldiers pursued some of the wounded in various hospitals and escorted them to unknown destinations, never again to be seen. But when the Daily Observer invited parents to report their missing children, not a single parent came forward. One highly placed American official, who was here unknown to most people, told the world at the time that if the Daily Observer did not report anyone missing, then it could be concluded that there were none. Many citizens became afraid for the Daily Observer when the following day we carried photos of several brutalized students and a courageous and forthright editorial, quoting Shakespeares Hamlet: Bleed, Bleed, Poor Country: Great Tyranny. People said we were looking for more trouble with the military government. That was then. Two Fridays ago it was not a ruthless military dictator that brought the UL into national and international disrepute, but the institutions own students and faculty. With the tacit backing of the faculty, UL students staged a demonstration on the UL main campus, carrying a coffin and announcing the demise of their vice president for academic affairs, Dr. Wede Brownell. Had she been on campus or at her home on ULs Fendall campus, which they forcibly entered by breaking down the doors, she might have been killed, just as Mary Antoinette Brown Sherman, then UL president, would have been killed on August 22, 1984, had she been on campus. The students vandalized Dr. Brownells home and committed other acts that cannot be printed here. Why this violent outburst against this woman? Simply because she was brought in by UL president Emmet Dennis to help clean up the corruption that had for many years become endemic at UL, involving the faculty, staff and students, obliterating whatever standards the school had developed over the years and plunging its reputation to an all time low. The corruption had begun in the very admissions office, where hardly any student could enter the institution without paying money under the table. President Emmet Dennis himself told the Daily Observer that shortly after taking office, a faculty emissary presented him a brown envelope containing his share of the booty (ill-gotten gains) extorted from students wishing to enter the institution. That the faculty and staff had the temerity to offer the UL president a share of their lootan academician and scientist who had spent over a quarter century in senior positions at Rutgers, one of Americas leading universitieswas a tacit indication of how brazen, endemic and widespread corruption and criminality had become at UL. The faculty has also long lost interest in building and maintaining an efficient library at UL, because they wanted to continue selling their pamphlets to students. No wonder it is commonplace to find UL graduates who can neither read nor write. These were the same faculty that stood solidly behind the students in calling for the dismissal or resignation of Dr. Wede Brownell. In her defiant press statement last Thursday, she said she would not be resigning, but was rather determined to stay and continue her efforts to clean up the system at UL. She called it a criminal den and urged the Legislature to pass into law a bill to declare academic felony a criminal act. The Board of Trustees and the Visitor to the University are faced with a very serious crisis. Can they muster the courage to rescue UL from further corruption, criminality and decay? That remains to be seen.

The ULs Moment of Truth

OBSERVER CARTOON WITH A. Leslie Lumeh E-mail: leslie@leslielumeh.com www.leslielumeh.com

The passing on of Mr. Mandela to the other side, a man in his own class, a harbinger and full epitome of peace is a clarion call to Africa and the entire world to seek peace and harmony for the common good of humanity. It is our hope that South Africa after Madiba will rise and show the world what it is to forgive and forget, seeking peace and forging ahead for the common existence of all South Africans and thus carrying the legacy of Madiba to the next level. The long years of incarceration at Robben Island taught Madiba to be at peace with self and the environment, make use of his isolation and uplifting those who were faint hearted alongside him. Out of prison, the man did not bear any scars of hate, but forgiveness, peace and reconciliation ensured from him. He surprised too many not only in his native country but the world at large with his desire to forgive and let everyone in South Africa enjoy equal rights. Through his deeds he defied the status quo, modelled a paradigm shift, inspired a vision and challenged others to think like him. The Rainbow country was born Like his idol the Indian peace icon, Mahatma Gandhi Mr. Mandela used peaceful tactics for dealing with the issues of racialism, segregation and apartheid and encouraged a common existence for all based on equal rights. He fought injustices out of prison and in prison. With persis-

ODE TO MANDELA

use to change the world he attended various universities and continued reading. Espoused Sacrifice - at great price could one give up fame of the Presidency and the tripling of power attached. He did not let power get to his head. In being so humble and giving, he allowed others to also emerge as leaders. This is as if the 27 years in prison were not enough and itsafter effects to his health which has culminated into his death.. Skirmish against Conformity Madiba made a number of decisions different from the current beliefs of the time, both in his personal and public life. Away from the status quo he challenged CHUNGU KABASO the system of the time and fashUNIVERSITY OF LUSAKA ioned his own dream. firstjkc@hotmail.com Stubborn Sense of Fairness tence victory was won. Closing of another chapter of thisempowered him to endure the illustrious life of Madiba is doing everything he believed was indeed a dark day but we thank dead-on even when others went God as we celebrate his life. against it. And many other attriSuch people do not come that butes. Madiba indeed has fought the easy and as the world mourns the fight and run his race and acchallenge is: can we do all of us counted for his time on this to live the legacy of that great inearth. Sweet will be the memodividual and take his mantle? A ries of this statesman, revolutionselflessness Leader and a great ist, sportsman, teacher, friend, believer in the contributions of pioneer, a freedom fighter, others that is the way to dehero, colossus, icon and simply scribe Mr. Mandela a commonwealth-sincewe all want to identify with him and his Other qualities that shaped the life of Mr. Mandela: achievements. Our prayer is that they shall Yearning for Knowledge one of the familiar quotes under- arise others with the attributes of scores Mr. Mandelas longing for the Madiba. Africa needs them education Education is the most and the world needs them too. Goodbye Madiba. powerful weapon which you can

Tuesday, November 5, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Monday, December 16, 2013 Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Page5 4 Page

RBHS and Goodwill Ambassador Laud the Gains

agreed on a few things that we said we would do to improve the maternal and new born health situation in this county. And we are here today to see how we have come since our last meeting, Hodge announced at the start of the interactions with the Lofa County Health Team. The news of no maternal death in Lofa in the last six months is a news of progress and we must celebrate it, Hodge added. Meanwhile, Liberias Good-Will Ambassador for Maternal and New Born Health, Madam Miatta Fahnbulleh, has welcomed the commitment of the Lofa County team to the provision of basic health services to mothers and children in the area. Madam Fahnbulleh encouraged them to continue what she termed the good-work to ensure zero-mother-andchild deaths in the county. Let us continue to score on the gains being made by making sure that are women deliver safely and bring into this world healthy babies, Ambassador Fahnubulleh

Lofa County Scores High in Maternal and New Born Health

stressed. She then praised the TTMs for abiding by the instructions which among others urge that they should not perform home deliveries of pregnant women. Hearing that you are abiding by this regulation and seeing that you are helping the pregnant women to go to the hospitals for treatment gladdens our hearts, a visibly cheerful Ambassador Fahnbulleh said. Ambassador Fahnbulleh also encouraged the women to take advantage of available family planning services. Making use of family planning commodities is a step in the direction of reducing maternal mortality and unplanned pregnancies, she encouraged them. The team from RBHS and the Maternal Goodwill Ambassador has also been wooing the involvement of countys officials in the campaign to encourage pregnant women to go to health facilities for treatment and care rather than visiting unskilled birth attendants. A local administrative

ince we the Trained Traditional Midwives (TTMs) were told to take every pregnant woman to the health facilities and not perform any delivery at home, there have been no maternal deaths in our county, a smiling Bendu Brima, head of the TTMs in Vahun District, disclosed to an audience that responded with thunderous applause. Brima was making at a follow-up with the Lofa County Health Team, County officials and Trained Traditional Midwives in Foya, Lofa County. The meeting was spearheaded by the Rebuilding Basic Health Services (RBHS) as part of its program aimed at preventing maternal and new born deaths in Liberia. The institutions Maternal Health Adviser, Madam Sarah Hodge, said the institution is working with health teams in Bong, Nimba and Lofa Counties to ensure that mothers and children stay healthy and strong. During our visit here, we

(Flash Back) Aunty Miatta interacting with one of the female students of the Lango Lippaye where she encouraged students to put their education first and use condom if they ever got jammed
leader in Foya, Lofa County promised the local administrations commitment to ensuring that husbands escort their wives and spouses to the health facilities so that they (men), too, can help always encourage their women to regularly visit the health facilities. Since being appointed to the post of Goodwill Ambassador, Ms. Fahnbulleh has taken the campaign to all walks of Liberians, including students, TTNs, county administrators and county health teams.

MIA Deputy Minister Wins Award

By Gloria T.Tamba
oring of Mr. Sirleaf as well deserved, and proof that he is hard working and willing to serve his country and people. He encouraged Mr. Sirleaf to continue the hard work and to serve the Liberian people to the best of his ability. The Chairman also described Ellen Cockrums secret recordings as scam that she is using to destroy the Government of Liberia and the peace that the people of Liberia are enjoying. I condemn the behavior of Cockrum and also challenge her to face the Government of Liberias justice system within 72 hours, Mr.Keita added. He advised the government officials that were implicated in the Cockrum controversy to ignore her lies and work harder to move the country forward. In response, Mr.Sirleaf person spoke from counties including Bomi, Gbarpolu, Sinoe, Nimba, Margibi, and Montserrado. Over the last week, CRC also met with elders from every part of Liberia in Gbarnga, Bong County, to acquaint them with the mandates of the Constitution Review Committee and to receive their input as to what changes they want made in the Liberian Constitution.

Chairperson Warns against Divisiveness

As Constitution review process speeds

By Joaquin Sendolo

he Chairperson of the Constitution Review Committee (CRC), Cllr. Gloria Musu Scott, warned civic educators and others implementing the mandate of the CRC to avoid all talk and activities that would cause discrimination and division among Liberians. Cllr. Scott sounding the warning recently at a civic education workshop in Monrovia, where she stressed that the review process is meant to listen to Liberians views regarding revision of the constitution if need be, and as such requires acceptance of all views expressed. This is not about remembering conflict you had with another for a boyfriend or girlfriend long ago. Please put those differences aside and send out the message properly and accept all views that will come; for the peace we have today could easily be broken if we are not careful how we conduct this exercise, Cllr.

Cllr. Scott making remarks.

Scott told the civic educators. She also emphasized that leaflets and copies of the 1986 Constitution being given out are meant for all Liberians without prejudice. She asserted that refusal to give them to certain individuals because of animosity arising from tribal differences or other personal issues was unacceptable. Cllr. Scott noted that Liberias ugly past can be attributed to marginalization of certain groups in economic and political activities, and one of the factors responsible is the

absence of all Liberians views on the constitution. The CRC Chairperson stressed that based on this factor, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf constituted the committee to inform, educate, and solicit views from Liberians; to then record and submit them to determine possible action as to how every citizen can be a part of the governing process. The Liberian society is comprised of the disabled, women, and youth who constitute the marginalized and minorities. In this regard, the Chairperson urged civic educators who are undergoing subsequent training to be conscious of people with diverse backgrounds and ensure their views were respected. She emphasized that this consideration should be paramount as copies of the constitution and leaflets about the CRC were given to them when they expressed interest. Cllr. Scott acknowledged that the referendum expected to come after the review process if need be, would only be successful if civic educators

he progressive Alliance Movement of Liberia has honored the Deputy Minister for administration of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Varney Sirleaf, as the Deputy Minister of the year 20132014. According to the group Chairman, Mr. K. Mamadee Keita, Minister Sirleaf was honored for his outstanding contributions to Liberian society and the nation as a whole. The MIA DMA was also presented with a certificate in honor of his performance this year. The certification and honoring program was held yesterday at the Ministry of Internal Affairs in Monrovia. Mr. Keita described the honperform their roles well and Liberians views are heard by reaching and soliciting from them in full. The Constitution Review Committee (CRC), with help from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), has begun training civic educators and trainers to begin the implementation of its mandate. 26 persons attended the workshop where the Chair-

thanked the organization and the MIA family for what he termed as motivation. I will continue to work more for the country and the people at large, he declared. He described decentralization as an important issue that cannot work without the involvement of the people. In order to maintain peace and reconciliation, the MIA along with the President has decentralized the County Meet across all of the 15counties. He disclosed that during the past years the County Meet was only played in Monrovia. He mentioned Sime Darby, GVL, and other companies as great allies to the Government and people of Liberia. The only way we can have more jobs is for our people to provide land for the companies to use, he said while thanking the companies. According to CRC sources, one burning issue that came out of the meeting in Gbarnga centered on tenures of Senators, Representatives, and the President, which participants said should be reduced. Another issue of concern was that of dual citizenship, which the elders said should not be paid attention to because it creates a conflict of interest.

DAILY OBSERVER

ountry mourns the of Mandela and commemorates his immortal legacy Few foreign leaders have been written about in Chinese textbooks, but millions of Chinese high school students know Nelson Mandela as a modern hero. He was a true freedom fighter, says one book. Instead of bowing to this unjust system of government, he became a lifelong warrior in the battle to free South Africa. Today, thanks to the sacrifice of Mandela, apartheid has been outlawed. Everyone in South Africa now has an equal opportunity at home and at work to live comfortably. Even though the great hero passed away on Dec 5 at the age of 95, his story and legacy will remain in China, and his name will forever be remembered by the Chinese people. Chinese Vice-President Li Yuanchao on Dec 10 expressed deep condolences and paid tribute to the former South African president, saying the Chinese will always cherish Mandelas contribution to China-South Africa relations. Speaking at the memorial service held in FNB stadium in Johannesburg, the special representative of Chinese President Xi Jinping said Mandela was the pride of the African people. For all his life, he had strived for the liberation of African nations, championed the dignity of the African people and endeavored to advance the unity of all African countries and move forward Africas cooperation with the world, Li said. Mandela was an old friend of the Chinese people and a household name in China. As one of the founding fathers of China-South Africa relations, Mandela had committed himself to China-South Africa friendship and China-Africa cooperation with great passion. Li said the best way to remember and commemorate Mandela was to advocate his spirit and carry forward his legacy. Switching from Chinese to English, he concluded his speech: Although the great man has left, Mandelas thought and his spirit will live for ever. Hong Lei, spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said that top Chinese leaders regard Mandela highly. President Xi and Premier Li Keqiang give great credence to the important role Mandela played in the anti-apartheid struggle and the founding of

Chinese Connection
Sponsored by the Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China

CHINA & AFRICA

Wei says. Mandela had always been friendly toward China. After bilateral cooperation started, he was interested in Chinese agriculture and hoped to realize food self-sufficiency in Africa as well. That cooperation has expanded to many industries, such as manufacturing, tourism and infrastructure, and China has become South Africas largest trade partner, he adds. Wei visited Mandela four times when he worked in Africa. Mandela had problems with his legs after years of sleeping on the hard concrete ground in prison, but he insisted on greeting us by standing up every time, he says. He was a really kind person and full of wisdom. As one of the worlds most charismatic leaders, Mandela won respect and love, regardless of race, ideology or gender, which is very rare, even for world leaders, Wei says. He Wenping, an expert on African studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, says the unprecedented scale of Mandelas memorial service showed that his spiritual legacy was shared by the whole world. The world is sharing his spirit of reconciliation, the power of forgiveness as well as the unswerving pursuit of peace, she says. However, South Africa is still facing severe challenges, especially in economic development, she adds. This is also why (South African) President Zuma says there is still a along way to go before the goal Mandela pursued is achieved. As people braved driving rain and cold to honor Mandela at the FNB Stadium, where Mandela made his last major public appearance for the 2010 World Cup final, those in China also expressed their condolences. Boards printed in Chinese and English bearing Mandelas quotation - The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall - were placed outside the South African embassy compound in Beijing, accompanied by two giant portraits of Mandela and many flowers. Since his death, the embassy has been deluged with messages by phone and through the Internet, and many Beijing residents have stopped to pay tribute, forming long lines as they waited to sign books of condolences. Zhang Yiwen, 32, who works with the World Food Program China Office, was one of them. Mandela was a fighter for freedom and justice, she said. Its very inspiring that a sin-

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Page 6

(China Daily Africa)

the new South Africa, as well as his contribution to the development of China-South Africa relations, Hong said. Mandelas connection with China goes back a long way. In his memoir Conversations with Myself, Mandela said he was inspired by the work of Mao Zedong and Chinese revolutionary experiences. Mandela was imprisoned on Robben Island for 18 of the 27 years he served behind bars, often doing hard labor. He once told me that every morning while he was forced to work, he would usually look east over the sea toward China to encourage him and reinforce what he was fighting for, says Wei Jianguo, a former vice-minister of commerce who worked in Africa for many years. Mandela read many books, especially biographies of revolutionaries, for knowledge and inspiration. On his long reading list were two books about China: Red Star Over China and Sun Tzus ancient treatise The Art of War. Red Star Over China, written by American journalist Edgar Snow and published in 1937, tells of the guerrilla battles of the Communist Party of China, and is notable for its neutral and graphic description of the Long March and Mao Zedongs life. Mandela took lessons about Chinas revolution from this book and was deeply impressed by Mao. He wrote in his autobiography: I saw that it was Maos determination and non-traditional thinking that led him to victory. In an interview with Richard Stengel, a senior editor at Time magazine, Mandela praised Chinas revolution as

a real masterpiece. The Long March, Mandela said, is indeed a miracle. Once you learned their way of revolution, you will believe that anything is possible. In 1998, during his presidency, China and South Africa established diplomatic relations. The South African people largely know that China was one of the first countries Mandela visited after he came out of prison, and one of the last countries he paid a visit to near the end of his presidential term, says South African Ambassador to China Bheki Langa. It was remarkable that over only 15 years since diplomatic relations have been established, economic ties have grown rapidly. In Johannesburg, South Africans who attended the memorial service were confident that South Africa-China relations will advance due to the legacy of Mandela. We have a very good relationship with China and hope Chinese people can feel our inspiration as well, said Nancy Dlimina, a 29-year-old university student. We must share his spirit for equality in life and love for everyone, and take it higher. Mandela was a fighter, who was firmly against racial discrimination and apartheid. His goal was hard to achieve, but his success, especially his strong willpower, won respect from the whole world. After his first term as president, Mandela decided not to seek a second term. He became a peace ambassador and an HIV/AIDS campaigner, traveling around Africa. He had always been working hard for the good of the African people, former vice-minister

Chinese pay tribute to Nelson Mandela outside the South African embassy in Beijing on Dec 6. Zou Hong / China Daily
gle person can have such great achievements. His spirit not only helped me stay strong when facing challenges in my life but also encouraged me to help vulnerable groups. South African Ambassador Langa says he was overwhelmed by the emotions expressed by the Chinese on Mandelas death. We were quite heartened by that. We didnt know he was so well-known and beloved in China, he says. Mandelas ideas have been embraced by a lot of people in South Africa, in the ruling party of ANC, and in the present government. So we can be very confident about the development of South Africa in the long term. Mandelas death dominated Chinese TV channels, while Baidu, the largest Chinese search engine, changed its search page to gray in mourning. Other major Web portals devoted special sections to him, presenting retrospectives on his life and broadcasting the memorial service live. Many users posted Mandelas sayings, such as It always seems impossible until its done, and I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. Glorious Years, a song about anti-racism and the struggles of Mandela, registered a high number of clicks among Chinese Internet users over the week. In 1990, Wong Ka-kui, the lead singer of Hong Kong rock band Beyond, wrote it as a tribute to Mandelas contribution to winning his countrys freedom. In the song, Wong honors Mandela with the lines: His dark skin gives meaning to his lifes devotion to the color struggle and He believes in his ability to change the future. Who else can accomplish this? It is reported that several years after Wong died in 1993, Mandela heard about the song and cried when he listened to the translated lyrics. The South African community in Beijing also paid tribute in their own way. Mandela has served our nation and the world with distinguished dignity, and we will forever remain indebted to him, said Tebogo Lefifi, country manager of Brand South Africa, a government public relations agency, at a memorial event held at a South African restaurant. While his passing is a source of sadness, we shall all continue to celebrate his legacy of commitment and service for the improvement of conditions in his own country and around the world, she added. Many people at the service left messages on a 5-meter scroll, which will be sent to Mandelas family.

Sponsored by the Embassy of the Peoples Republic of China. Please send your comments to the following email: chinaemb_lr@mfa.gov.cn

DAILY OBSERVER United Nations Development Programme

Tuesday December 17, 2013

Page 7

Announcement - Change of Name

LIBERIA

TERMS OF REFERENCE HUMAN RIGHTS MONITORS TO OPERATE IN MARYLAND, GRAND KRU, RIVER GEE (HUB 2), SINOE AND GRAND GEDEH (HUB 3) COUNTIES

he Joint Justice and Security Programme envisage the establishment of five regional hubs to strengthen the justice and security institution in all Counties. Each of the five hubs will be strategically situated, so as to enhance justice and security services throughout Liberia. The five regional hubs will service two or three counties providing more effective operational control and proximity for staff deployment, communication and service delivery.

This is to notify the general public that Sunnyboy Weah name has been changed to Gabriel Sunnyboy Weah Jr. Additionally, all documents bearing his previous name, Sunnyboy Weah should remain valid. This announcement should claim the attention of the general public. Signed: Gabriel Sunnyboy Weah Jr.

Announcement - Change of Name

The hubs will be staffed by the representatives of various institutions including the Police, Corrections, the BIN, Judiciary and the Ministry of Justice. As human rights plays a significant role in enhancing justice and security in the country, 2 INCHR human rights monitors per county will also be placed in Maryland, Grand Kru, River Gee, Sinoe and Grand Gedeh Counties. Their Terms of Reference will include, but not limited to the following: Human rights monitoring ESCR including labor related human rights issues in mining and plantation companies in the counties; Right to access, affordable and quality health services to poor and marginalized population in the five counties; Right to Free and compulsory education; Human rights impact of harmful traditional practices; Monitor access to justice, fair & speedy trial; rights or prisoners and detainees Pay regular visit to prisons, police and courts; Monitoring of civil and political rights in general; Interact with state actors and non-state actors in the respective counties on human rights issues; Receive human rights complaints in the respective counties and channel them as per INCHR internal procedures and direction. Human rights capacity building Collaborate with government agencies and non-government agencies in the area of Human Rights protection and promotion in the counties and also in the Hub; In collaboration with partners, organize human rights training for the staff in the Hub and various government agencies and NGO partners in the five counties; Undertake and coordinate Human Rights education and sensitization activities in the five counties. Human rights reporting and other activities Provide situation report periodically on specific issues on Human Rights and Governance in the five counties; Provide monthly reports on human rights violation and abuses; Carry out activities of human rights as directed by the Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR). Document statistics as it relates to the tracking of human rights indicators monitored by the Justice and Security Joint Program and report same to the Regional Coordinator of the Justice and Security Joint Program on a monthly basis. Education Requirement: College degree or 3 years experience in Human Rights Monitoring. Candidates with majors in Social Science and humanities and/or Sociology will be a plus, but not a must. Preferred Candidates: Local residents of Maryland, Grand Kru, River Gee, Sinoe and Grand Gedeh Counties are encouraged to apply. Members of Civil Society Organizations with experience in Human Rights Monitoring and Advocacy are also encouraged to apply Send Curriculum Vitae along with cover letter to: Board of Commissioners Independent National Commission on Human Rights Tubman Boulevard @ VP Road Junction Monrovia Email: lib_inchr@yahoo.com Note: ALL APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN 4:00 P.M, DECEMBER 20, 2013.

This is to notify the general public that Abrahim Abubakar Sambollah name has been changed to Ibrahim Abu-Bakr Gross. Additionally, all documents bearing his previous name, Abrahim Abubakar Sambollah should remain valid. This announcement should claim the attention of the general public. Signed: Ibrahim Abu-Bakr Gross

West African Insurance Company Executives Convene Technical Meetings in Monrovia, December 16-17, 2013 (A Pictorial)

DAILY OBSERVER

Tuesday December 17, 2013

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A view of WAICA conference in progress

CBL Cllr. Jallah at the WAICA Technical Meeting

Conference delegates comparing notes

One of delegates makes a point at the meeting

A conference delegate (right) being interviewed by a journalist

Interprators at the two-day Meeting

Some of the delegates

More conference delegates

DAILY OBSERVER

Tuesday December 17, 2013

Page 13 8a

You Are Cordially Invited To Trinity Cathedral Choirs 2013 Christmas Cantata An Hour of Classical and Christmas Music

Sunday, December 22, 2013 40 Clock Post Meridian Trinity Cathedral, Broad Street Entrance: Gratis (Contributions Gratefully Appreciated) Dedicated To: The Youths of Liberia

Found at all major supermarkets in downtown Monrovia

Tuesday, December November 5, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Monday, December 16, 2013 Thursday, 12, 2013

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0886554882/0777544882

Do Not Despise Your Birthright

-Clergy Urges UL Graduates

his years prospective graduates of the University of Liberia (UL) have been urged to appreciate their academic achievements and love their country in the process of attaining their full

from the Dean of John R. Bryant Theological Seminary African Methodist Episcopal University (AMEU), and Senior Pastor of the Empowerment Temple in Monrovia, Rev. Dr. Katurah York Cooper.

the biblical story of two brothers born on the same day, Jacob and Esau. You should not despise or look down upon yourself and your country, because you now belong to the elite class by your qualification, Rev. Cooper said, inspiring a long round of ap-

of this, it is favored among the community of nations. Love your country without any precondition, because to despise it means self-destruction, looking down on oneself; selling of the nations natural resources for personal gain and other acts hostile to building the country

Dr. Dennis poses with some students of the A.M Dogliotti College of Medicine at the UL
but to broaden it for Liberia and for those to come after them. Do not lose your focus; rather have faith in your spiritual birthright so you can succeed. Be disciplined, diligent, and faithful to turn enmity (bad feeling) and every moment of frustration into success; confusion into consent, and hatred into healing. UL President, Dr. Emmet E. Dennis, announced that in the calendar of events for the 95th Convocation, a series of planned activities were proceeding in keeping with the schedule. These activities include, but are not limited to: the observance of the Alumni Home Coming Day, the 2013 Class Day/Night Program, the UL Faculty Association Day; Oath and Honors Day at the A.M.

Rev. Cooper and Dr. Dennis looking to ULs future as prospective graduates march in procession
potential in life. The admonition to the 1000 plus prospective graduates was contained in a Baccalaureate Sermon delivered on Sunday Rev. Dr. Cooper, who gave the admonition at the Samuel K. Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville on the theme, Dont Despise Your Birthright, based on plause from the graduates. Liberia, she said, is a unique country with a rich history. It is Africas oldest, because are to our detriment, she continued. She urged the graduates not limit their acquired knowledge, you, the citizens assured Minister Samukai through one of the speakers, Tamba Fendekie Tumbey, a senior Kissi Governor for Montserrado County. Other speakers included Senator George T. Tengbeh, Steve Bundor of the Foya University Student Association (FUSA), while Chief Sylvester Tamba led the gowning ceremony. Responding to the honor, Minister Samukai expressed gratitude to Liberians irrespective of location for upholding the tenet of peace and democracy. He gave a particular mention to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for her continued confidence in his leadership ability, despite attempts by some detractors to drive a wedge (block, lock) between him and the president. He then pledged his unwavering loyalty to the Liberian leader and vowed to uphold the goals set by the Unity Party-led administration by maintain peace and security in the country. which she believes would ensure that Liberian students have hands-on knowledge in the science subjects, while also getting attracted to the courses. She then stressed the need for more corporate government partnerships particularly in the area of education. MOEs intention is to ensure that public schools are wellequipped and considered places for education to draw the attention of students. Before cutting the ribbon to the labs, NOCAL vice president for Corporate Social Affairs, Pete Norman, said, The dedication of the laboratories is to buttress governments effort to enhance education in the country. In their separate remarks, HMHS Principal Bee Myers Mortee, and president of the student government, John K. Taylor, expressed gratitude for the laboratories. They promised to maintain them at all times, and to use them for the intended purpose.

For Uplifting Educational System

-Kissi Citizen Samukai Honored

n assembly of citizens from the predominately Kissispeaking Foya District in Lofa County have honored the Minister of National Defense, Brownie J. Samukai, Jr., for his intervention in uplifting the district educational system. The ceremony, which was performed over the weekend, brought together an array of

A
T

Mini Samukai (C) is flank by his Kissi kinsmen shortly after the ceremony
prominent citizens including the chiefs, student leaders, family members, and several of the ministers admirers. It was held in the conference room of the ministry at the Barclay Training Center (BTC) over the weekend. In their letter of solidarity of support to Minister Samukai, the Foya citizens said, they were honoring Minister Samukai for helping to advance the educational system of Foya District.

The Minister is said to have provided five professional teachers (all college graduates) when the district was in desperate need of qualified instructors to teach their children. Minister Samukai took upon himself to pay the instructors attractive salaries for the period of one academic calendar year, the citizens said reading their statement to a round of applause. Aside from taking the five teachers to the district, the citizens also recalled scholarships Minister Samukai provided to deserving students hailing from the district to complete high school and university. To demonstrate our commitment to this pledge, we the citizens of Lofa County are gowning you today Hon. Samukai, to signify our unflinching support of you. We honor people that deserve honor, and you are one of those, we would never betray

New Book Released on Agri, Climate Change

By C.Y. Kwanue

Dogliotti College of Medicine, which was held yesterday, Monday, December 16; and the Commencement Convocation itself that will take place on December 18th. Protocol for the Commencement Convocation, according to Dr. Dennis begins at 8:30 a.m. at the S.K. D. Sports Complex in Paynesville, with the arrival of the UL faculty and staff, the chorus, and the Graduates. This 95th Class is a blessed class and very special to me because it is my 10th graduation since I became president of this university about five ago, Dr. Dennis told the prospective graduates as they shouted in unison: Dr Emmet Ernest Dennis, our president!

he Ministry of Education (MOE) in partnership with the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) has dedicated several newly constructed science laboratories at various high schools in Montserrado, Harbel, and Margibi and in Sinje, Grand Cape Mount counties respectively. The projects, according to the consultant to Education Minister, Victoria Kahn Kennedy, were constructed and funded by NOCAL. Madam Kennedy said that part of MOEs partnership with the entity is aimed at improving science education across the country. The exercise is expected to cover the entire country, but in the strategic locations of particular high schools to benefit students in nearby communities. The laboratories contain safety materials for the sciences including goggles, gloves, and coats. In a statement during one of the recent dedicatory ceremo-

MOE Dedicates Science Labs in Several Schools

nies, deputy Education Minister, Hawa Goll-Kotchi, informed the audience that the construction of the laboratories would enable them (students) to perform better in the science subjects during the West African Examination Council (WAEC) WASSCE exams. WASSCE is a type of standardized test in West Africa. WAEC administers the exams, and they are only offered to candidates residing in Anglophone West African countries, of which Liberia is included. The WASSCE, also known as the General Certificate Examinations (GCE) allow all students in both private and public schools to take this examination. At a recent meeting with WAEC officials in Monrovia, the Deputy Minister, said her office was informed that students across the country always failed the science courses primarily due to the lacked of basic science teaching material and better equipped laboratories. In addition, during another

round of meeting with WAEC regarding the poor performance by students, Mrs. Kotchi assured members of WAEC from other West African countries that Liberian students would do better in the exams in the coming years. WAEC is controlled by four English-speaking countries: the Gambia, Nigeria, Ghana and Liberia. The Deputy Ministers assumption is due primarily to the construction and dedication of several other well-equipped laboratories across the country for high school students. Our ongoing exercise to recruit trained science teachers, coupled with the arrival of the Peace Corps and other volunteering teachers from ECOWAS who are focused in the sciences, we can rest assured that our students will come out with flying colors in the coming years, she enthused. Deputy Minister Kotchi then expressed the MOEs gratitude to NOCAL for their partnership,

new book entitled West Africa Agriculture and Climate Change has been released on the market, a release from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Liberia has said. The book was launched in Warsaw, Poland at the 19th Conference of the Parties (COP 19) of the United Nations Framework convention on Climate (UNFCCC). It examines how climate change will affect food security threats and explores increased efforts needed to achieve sustainable food security in 11 of the 16 countries that make up West Africa. The countries include Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote dIvoire, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo. The book, according to the release, was published by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) based in Washington DC, the United States of America. It describes the climate and non-climate stressors influencing economic growth in the agriculture sector, considering expected population and income growth. The comprehensive analysis depicts how both population and income growth will mount increased pressure on the natural resources needed to produce food, and how climate change makes the challenge greater, the release added. Through the use of hundreds of scenario maps, models, figures, and detailed analyses, the book present plausible scenarios that combine economic and biophysical characteristics that consider a variety of future climate and economic growth scenarios

by 2050. By focusing on individual countries within the broader regional context, the book provides a comprehensive overview of how policies can be implemented cohesively at a country level to build regional resilience. The country-based chapter on Liberia-Chapter eight was authored by Mr. Benjamin S. Karmorh, Jr., the Coordinator on Climate Change Enabling Activities at the EPA of Liberia. The chapter on Liberia points out that there has been considerable variation in the predictions for temperature and precipitation changes due to climate change, which has resulted in different projected outcomes regarding the production of the countrys staple - rice, with some models showing most areas actually increasing in yield due to favorable changes in climate, while other models showing losses in yield due to unfavorable changes in climate. These results underscored a need for flexibility and responsiveness in the agricultural sector in regard to adapting to climate change. Based on the results of the study, the release noted that the author provides national government and organizations on climate change adaptation on recommendations such that the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) improve its policy on monitoring climate change, incorporating guidance on adaptation measures to reduce rainfall and higher temperatures. It among other things also recommended that The MOA strengthen its policy on nationwide awareness of environmental considerations in all agricultural activities by providing farmers with climate change related information.

DAILY OBSERVER

Tuesday December 17, 2013

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DAILY OBSERVER

Tuesday December 17, 2013

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MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS

Office of the Superintendent Nimba County Social Development Fund

MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS

Office of the Superintendent Nimba County Social Development Fund
Sanniquellie City, Nimba County
INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR PURCHASE OF A BRAND NEW VEHICLE IFB N0. NC/NCB/003/12/13
1. The Nimba County Administration has received funding from AccelorMittal/The Government of Liberia through the County Social Development Fund and intends to use portion of the fund towards the purchase of one new vehicle to facilitate implementation of projects in the county. 2. The County therefore invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the supply of one new vehicle as indicated below:

Sanniquellie City, Nimba County

INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB) FOR CONSTRUCTION OF INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS IFB N0. NC/NCB/002/12/13
1. The Nimba County Administration has received funding from AccelorMittal/The Government of Liberia through the County and Social Development Funds and intends to use a portion of the fund towards the implementation of infrastructure projects in the county. 2. The County therefore invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for execution of the projects as indicated below:

Lot Description A 1 Elementary School Construction 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Elementary School Construction Junior High School Extension to Snr High School Elementary School Extension to Jnr High School Elementary School Construction Elementary School Construction Administrative Bldg Completion Administrative Bldg Completion

Qty 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

Location Kinon Town, Yarmein Administrative District. Gbonnie Town, Yarmein Administrative District. Gbarpa Town, Yarmein Admin District Zolowee Town, Sanniquellie Mah Admin District Sanniquellie Airfield Community, Sanniquellie Mah Admin District Gehwee Town, Sanniquellie Mah Admin. District Baylehglay Hdq, Zoe-Gbao Admin. District Payee Hdq, Gbor Admin. District

3. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) method of procurement specified in the Public Procurement & Concessions Acts (PPCA), and is open to all eligible bidders. General Qualification Criteria: Contact person, phone number Companys profile including brief history and past performance record with at least three references Companys Articles of Incorporation (including Notary Certificate) Valid 2013 Ministry of Commerce Business Registration Certificate Ministry of Finance current Tax Clearance Bid security of 2% of quoted bid price by bidder in absolute value drawn on a reputable bank in Liberia Availability of spare parts Vehicle maintenance workshop (Added advantage) 4. Interested Bidders/Firms may obtain additional information and bids documents from the Procurement Officer in the Office of the Superintendent in Sanniquellie City, Nimba County starting from Wednesday November 27, 2013, (Monday to Friday) 9:30am to 4:00pm daily for a non-refundable fee of US$100.00 (One Hundred United States Dollars). Bidders may bid for more than one lot. 5. Deadline for bids submission is Friday, December 27th, 2013 at 12:00 noon and bids will be immediately open in the presence of bidders or their representatives who choose to attend at 1:00pm in the conference room of the Administrative Building in Sanniquellie City. 6. Sealed bids indicating lot number and name, labeled: IFBN0. NCA/ NCB/003/12/13 written on back of envelop must be delivered to the Procurement Officer in the Superintendents Office, Sanniquellie City, Nimba County, not later than December 27th, 2013 at 12:00 noon. 7. No alternative bids or electronic bids will be accepted. Late bids will be rejected and returned unopened. 8. The County Procurement Committee reserves the right to reject or accept any bid submitted and to annul or postpone the exercise at any time without incurring any liability or assigning any reason thereto. Invitation for Bid and Award of Contract will be offered to qualified bidders in accordance with procurement procedures applicable under Republic of Liberia PPC Act. NOTE: ALL FIRMS/BIDDERS WHO EARLIER APPLIED IN RESPONSE TO THE LAST IFB ARE REQUESTED TO UPDATE THEIR BID DOCUMENTS AND RE-SUBMIT WITHOUT MAKING ANY FURTHER PAYMENT. All Bids including the above required documents must be addressed to: The Procurement Director Nimba County Snniquellie City, Liberia Contact: 0886493075/0886-570-719 Signed: Secretary/Procurement Committee Nimba County Approved: Chairperson/Procurement Committee & Superintendent, Nimba County

Lot Description Qty B 1 Diesel Double Cabin 4WD 1 Nimba County Pickup, 5 speed Transportation

Location

3. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) method of procurement specified in the Public Procurement & Concessions Acts (PPCA) and approved by the Public Procurement & Concession Commission (PPCC), and is open to all eligible bidders. General Qualification Criteria: Contact person, phone number Companys profile including brief history and past performance record with at least three references Companys Articles of Incorporation (including Notary Certificate) Valid 2013 Business Registration Certificate Valid Ministry of Public Works Certificate (Current) Valid Tax Clearance Bid security of 2% of the quoted bid price by bidders in absolute value drawn on a reputable bank in Liberia Capacity to pre-finance construction works 4. Interested Bidders/Firms may obtain additional information and bid documents from the Procurement Officer in the Office of the Superintendent in Sanniquellie City, Nimba County is starting from Wednesday, November 27, 2013, (Monday to Friday) 9:30am to 4:00pm daily for a non-refundable fee of US$100.00 (One Hundred United States Dollars). Bidders may bid for more than one project. 5. Deadline for bid submission is Friday, December 27, 2013 at 12:00 noon and bids will be immediately open in the presence of bidders or their representatives who choose to attend at 1:00pm in the conference room of the Administrative Building in Sanniquellie City. 6. Sealed bids indicating the lot number and project title, labeled: IFBN0. NC/NCB/002/12/13 written on the back of envelop must be delivered to the Procurement Officer in the Superintendents Office, Sanniquellie City, Nimba County, not later than December 27th, 2013 at 12:00 noon. 7. No alternative bids or electronic bids will be accepted. Late bids will be rejected and returned unopened. 8. The County Procurement Committee reserves the right to reject or accept any bid submitted and to annul or postpone the exercise at any time without incurring any liability or assigning any reason thereto. Invitation for Bid and Award of Contract will be offered to qualified bidders in accordance with procurement procedures applicable under the Republic of Liberia PPCC Act published and approved, September 2005. Consideration will be given to the most responsive firms/entities that have the capacity to provide pre-financing service to the projects. NOTE: ALL FIRMS/BIDDERS WHO EARLIER APPLIED IN RESPONSE TO THE LAST IFB ARE REQUESTED TO UPDATE THEIR BID DOCUMENTS AND RESUBMIT WITHOUT MAKING ANY FURTHER PAYMENT. All Bids including the above required documents must be addressed to: The Procurement Director Nimba County Sanniquellie City, Liberia Contact: 0886493075/0886-570-719 Signed: Secretary/Procurement Committee Nimba County

Approved: Chairperson/Procurement Committee & Superintendent, Nimba County

DAILY OBSERVER

Tuesday December 17, 2013

Page 11 8

Advanced International Training Programme in

Advanced International Training Programme

Private Sector Growth (PSG) Strategies

Are you one of the most influential public officials in your country? Do you promote private sector development? Do you want sustainable growth in your countrys economy?
Our world is rapidly changing and government and business leaders alike are at the sharp edge of this transformation. New technology, changing consumer preferences and globalisation of markets are creating challenges and opportunities for businesses and governments in all parts of the world. The Private Sector Growth Strategies Programme aims to prepare decision-makers to face these challenges: and to nurture, stimulate and develop opportunities in the changing business environment to benefit your country, by building a sustainable and competitive business environment and economy. The programme for PSG Strategies is closely linked to the training programme in Strategic Business Management for business leaders. Your input as a decision-maker in private sector development in your country will be extremely important in the development of a common action plan for Private Sector Development. This plan will be the key outcome from collaboration between participants in the two programmes. The overall aim of this programme is to contribute to the development of a vibrant and sustainable private sector. It also seeks to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors, for better functioning markets and improved integration in world trade. PSG Strategies provides you with the unique opportunity of close collaboration and exchange with leaders and decision-makers from Sweden and other countries, developing strong, long-lasting professional networks. It aims to stimulate your personal development and capacity, to strengthen you as a leader for change. For questions and applications, email: psd@sipuweb.se or visit the website at www.privatesectordevelopment.se.

Strategic Business Management (SBM)

Are you one of the most ambitious and innovative entrepreneurs in your country? Do you want your business to grow in a sustainable way? Do you want to contribute to economic development in your country? Our world is rapidly changing and business leaders are at the sharp edge of this transformation. New technology, changing consumer preferences and globalisation of markets are creating challenges and opportunities for businesses everywhere. The Advanced International Training Programme on Strategic Business Management (SBM) aims to prepare you and your business to face these challenges and to benefit from opportunities in the changing business environment for sustainable and profitable growth. The SBM programme is closely linked to the training programme in Private Sector Growth Strategies for key public officials. Your input as a business leader will be extremely important in the development of a common action plan for Private Sector Development. This plan will be the key outcome from collaboration between participants in the two programmes. The overall aim of SBM is to contribute to the development of a vibrant and sustainable private sector, seeking to strengthen collaboration between the private and public sectors, for better functioning markets and improved integration in world trade. Strategic Business Management provides you with the unique opportunity of close collaboration and exchange with business leaders and decision-makers from Sweden and other countries, developing strong, long-lasting professional networks. It aims to stimulate your personal development and capacity, to strengthen you as a leader for change. For questions and applications, email: psd@sipuweb.se or visit the website at www.privatesectordevelopment.se.

DAILY OBSERVER Monday, December 16, 2013 Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Page 12

nsurance regulators and operators from the West African Monetary Zone (WAMZ) are meeting in Liberia with a desire to harmonize and integrate the insurance sector within the region. The Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), regulator of the Liberian insurance industry, is hosting the twoday meeting in Monrovia in collaboration with the West African Insurance Companies Association (WAICA). WAICA is the insurance body for all licensed and accredited insurance companies operating in all six WAMZ countries namely: Liberia, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Nigeria and The Gambia. Mr. William B. Coker, Secretary General and CEO of WAICA speaking at the opening ceremony of the conference yesterday, thanked CBL Executive Governor Dr. J. Mills Jones

Intl Insurance Gurus Meet Here

By George D. Kennedy
for hosting and sponsoring the WAICA conference in Monrovia. Mr. Coker told this paper that WAICA and its stakeholder countries are working with the West African Monetary Institute (WAMI) to bring about an integration and harmonization of the insurance practices within WAMZ-member countries. These countries are bringing into line their laws and practices in a harmonized and integrated faction for the insurance industry. This will allowed insurance companies of the WAMI to move from one country to another to do business with little hassles, he said. The WAICA CEO observed that the integration of the insurance industry within the WAMI and the WAMZ will create a formidable and strong operating market within the region. Mr. Coker believes that a harmonized insurance sector will spur investment States (ECOWAS) for a smooth movement towards a single currency, he stated. With each member WAMZ country having its own insurance policy, however, it is crystal clear that WAICA faces uphill task in its desire to achieve a harmonization of the insurance industry of the region. The CEO acknowledged this challenge during the interview and told our reporter that compromises would be made going forward. We recognize that the major challenge facing our integration process is the difference in policies and laws within member countries. Bringing these countries together can be a major challenge. Some economies are also small while the others are large. The laws are different by countries and so bringing these laws together will require sacrifices and compromises to accommodate other countries, Coker added. He insisted that there must obviously be compromises along the way. The West African Bankers Association (WABA) is also nursing similar challenge as the banking industry pushes for integration ahead of the future introduction of a single currency for West Africa. Though WABA is far ahead in its integration and harmonization process, the Association is said to be lured into dealing with the different bank policies in member countries. Mr. Coker disclosed that the capital markets within the WAMZ countries have also gone ahead with the integration and harmonization of their activities. Meanwhile, the WAICA Meeting in Monrovia is a prelude the Council Meeting. Decisions reached at the WAICA Meeting must be endorsed by the Council before it becomes binding on member countries, Coker said. WAICA was founded in 1973 by insurance institutions in The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ghana and Nigeria, with the blessing of their respective governments. WAICAs activities in various member countries are

WAICAs CEO William B. Coker harmonization of insurance sector will spur investment, create jobs
within member countries because insurance companies from sister countries would directly take more risks to promote investment in other countries. With this, he said more jobs will be created within the region. Coker also observed that a harmonized insurance sector within the WAMZ will pave the way for a smooth transition to a single for the West African sub-region. Both WAMZ and WAMI are closely working with the Economic Community of West African

We Want Liberians Promote HomeLiberia Needs to Seek Indian Investment made Goods
llr. Althea Sherman, General Counsel/Chief Operating Officer of the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL), has urged Liberians to promote made-in-Liberia goods on the local markets as well as strengthening the business industries of the country. Madam Sherman said it was important to promote homemade goods in our country, so that they (made-inLiberia goods) can compete with imported goods on the Liberian market. NOCALs Chief Operating Officer made the commendation on Saturday, December 14, at the Monrovia City Hall, during the opening of the second Annual Liberian Arts, Craft and Culture Festival, held under the theme: Promoting Local Content Entrepreneurship in the Arts and Tourism Sectors, organized by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry with support from the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP) in collaboration with the Liberia Coca Cola Bottling Company.

still attended and supported by distinguished government personalities at ministerial and occasionally higher levels. Because of the international nature and structure of the organization, it was agreed by the founding Fathers to locate the headquarters of WAICA in Accra, Ghana. However, for various reasons the organization did not operate on a fulltime basis for most of its existence and was manned on a part time basis from the offices of the then State Insurance Corporation, now State Insurance Company of Ghana. The Current Executive Committee wanting to develop the organization into its full potential, and given the international make-up of the organization, has, after a rigorous selection process which included interviewing potential candidates from each of the member countries, appointed a Secretary General/CEO for the organization on a fulltime basis.

By David A. Yates

In her address, Madam Sherman explained that the festival is intended to promote and showcase Liberians home-made product of different kinds on the local Market, and thereby drawing the attention of entrepreneurs worldwide. Madam Sherman said that Liberia has many artifacts (object made by human) to offer the world but Liberians should begin to promote the works and goods of their local craftsmen. Adding she said artifacts play a major role in the tourism industry and they also create jobs opportunity for youths in the country. Cllr. Sherman used the occasion to call on the Members 53rd National Legislatures to help strengthen the countrys tourism sector that would attract international investors to come into the country and invest more in our economy. Meanwhile, the second Annual Liberian Arts, Craft and Culture Festival brought together formal and informal business people, Government representatives as well as civil society organizations in support of their home-made products.

--Ambassador Soni Tells Deputy Foreign Minister

(L-r) Ambassador V.B. Soni in a hand shake with Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Elias Shonoyin

ndian diplomat V. B. Soni Wednesday, December 11, urged the Government of Liberia to emulate the good examples of other African countries that are currently benefiting from his countrys investment. Ambassador Soni said that those benefiting countries were receiving millions of United States Dollars in

By David A. Yates

foreign investment from his country. Interestingly, the former Ambassador was quick to point out that they were thinking of investing in the transport sector, sugar cane industries amongst others in Liberia. He did not say when their investment will take place but also added that they were also looking at investment in energy, agriculture and

infrastructure. Since independence, India with all its resources, was unable to feed itself but its success story began with a revolution that made the nation to produce its own food and secure food security, Ambassador Soni indicated when he and his business delegation held a close-door meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

Receiving the Indian delegations on behalf of Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration, Mr. Elias Shonoyin, told the team that Liberia has rich and virgin resources for agriculture purposes, noting that it lacks technical and technological know-hows to attract mechanized farming to boost its economy. The Foreign Affairs Deputy Minister said that Liberia has an excellent economic environment for investment but needs robust energy and power supply to attract investors to the country. He added that Liberia was opened to any foreign investors, who may want to invest there. He acknowledges that Liberia and India are working to expand cooperation which is aimed at enhancing Indian investment in the country. Meanwhile, Ambassador Soni is also the former Indian Ambassador to Ukraine, Senegal, Mali, Mauritania, Haiti, Georgia, Guinea Bissau, Dominican Republic, Cape Verde and Armenia. Currently he is the chairman of the Oversees Infrastructure Alliance based in India.

DAILY OBSERVER Tuesday, December 17, 2013

the National Oil Company (NOCAL) does not make any specific reference to the Liberian Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (LEITI). Furthermore, Global Witness says there is no requirement in the Petroleum Act to ensure that petroleum production data, export volumes, or prices that the oil will be sold for are published. Even though the Section 15 of the Petroleum Act establishes strong pre-qualification requirements, Global Witness

Global Witness

Page 13
damage even if the pollution were not the fault of the company, Global Witness observes that the act contains a narrow definition of pollution which could exclude oil, and oil companies would avoid responsibility for spills. In its conclusion of the findings, Global Witness said success of the laws in developing a petroleum sector that would support Liberias economic development will in part, be determined by the safeguards within the Revenue Management Bill which has yet to be developed. held in Waka Town, District #2 Grand Bassa County. Committing on the successful hosting of the event, Supt. Cooper described the festival as successful and unique. She praised the citizens and farmers for committing themselves to the process, adding; This event always showcases the uniqueness of Grand Bassa and its people. Since the process started under my predecessor in 2008, we have had successful and overwhelming society, the Churches should be engaged in helping to find solutions to the crisis. Most of the people affected are our church members and whatever affects them economically also affects them spiritually as church members. The LCC deputy said the Council is concerned about the state of affairs economically, and wishes to work along with stakeholders, including the Government, on identifying what role the churches can play as effective community-based tool, helping in constructing schools, clinics/ hospitals. These are groups that are already intervening, so if they were to form partnership with government to fight poverty or hunger that will be a great experience. He said his local church, Water in the Desert Apostolic Pentecostal Church brings in more than 200,000 vegetable you a report about the power you delegated to them, Mr. Freeman said. He, however, described the suffering of Liberian as a setback to the rebuilding of the country. The concluding statement says strong transparency, oversight, and accountability provisions will be needed to ensure that any revenue from a potential oil find in Liberia can be effectively harnessed. Global Witness urged members of the Legislature to honestly debate the issues and correct all lapses created in both the NOCAL and Petroleum Acts to create a good economic climate for Liberia when the exploration of oil in Liberias waters yields commercial quantity. participation from our people and were grateful for such collaboration. On the issue of opposing views against the festival and funding directed and collected during the process, Madam Cooper maintained; disagreement does not mean that we are at war. Grand Bassa remains united and we will take steps to address the concerns raised by our fellow citizens, she concluded. seeds each year as a way of fighting hunger, and wants to continue that in a sustainably way. Rev. Brown described the secret recordings of government officials by former RIA Managing Director Ellen Corkrum as sad, saying the only way to develop Liberia is by demonstrating love for it. The recording has killed the whole argument of dualcitizenship and if government fails in extraditing Ms. Corkrum that will bury the whole dual-citizenship issue; why, because it will speak to the difficulties of maintaining dualcitizenship when the security of the country is at stake. The other thing that concerns us is the way our government officials cannot remain tightlipped on serious national security issues, but talk loosely, instead. He called on patriotic Liberians to help join in making the state a better place to live, adding: What good is free speech, when a people refuse to listen and continue to marginalize its citizens.

The intent of the project is to provide scholarships and financial aid for deserving students in the areas of science and technology. In an interview with the Daily Observer in Buchanan City, Grand Bassa County over the weekend, Supt. Cooper stressed the need for more funding and support to these students across the county in

Grand Bassa

is of the view that more has to be done to set clear conditions that will identify specific issues. Some of the conditions needed to spell out according to Global Witness, include a companys human right records, treatment of employees, payment of tax, transparency record, anti-corruption measures, ethical procurement policy, corporate social responsibility, and involvement in legal infringements anywhere in the world.

A well-documented report compiled by Global Witness with a copy in this papers possession, also underscores another weakness of the Petroleum Act and NOCAL Act as power given the President to bypass competitive bidding procedures, awarding petroleum agreements on the basis of direct negotiations. Moreover, Global Witness indicated in its findings that the NOCAL Act allows members of the NOCALs board of directors to set the level of payments they are to receive as a stipend and per diem Bassa County Supt. named the Dumboy Festival, and other meaningful events to be undertaken by her administration to support this genuine cause. The Dumboy Festival is the mean driver behind this initiative, Supt. Cooper disclosed. She indicated that a regular and successful hosting of the Dumboy Festival gives local government the opportunity to attract tourists and investment to the county. However, she announced shipers, and the desecration of a Church. Also, a moratorium was placed on church activities in Malawu by the Minister of Internal Affairs because of the crisis that was unfolding. We have been able to sit down with the Ministry of Internal Affairs to conclude that since he has been to the area and has held meetings with the people, and encouraged them---along with the local Christians---to go back to the town without incident, it was about time that the 61 Christians in Malawu began to hold their worship services until we can find solution to the crisis; it doesnt look right for Church activities to be closed while other activities go on in the town. So it is in the interest of all of us---including the government---that as a nation, we allow people to pray the way they choose. Currently, he said the 61 Christians are allowed to pray degrees to little more than something to only decorate the home with, he said.

for travel outside of Liberia; something GW says would cause the board to allocate limitless amount. The document further stresses that the draft Petroleum Act Section 51, which governs the acquisition of land fails to refer to or recognize customary land rights, leaving communities that have customary rather than formal land rights without clear legal protection should companies seek to acquire their land. While under section 61.1 of the Petroleum Act holds the contractor liable for pollution that her office will shortly embark on a campaign to shortlist students for the project. We want to give the country the best brains in the areas of science and technology, and as such, our investment will be directed towards building the human resource capacity of our youth, Madam Cooper added. The Superintendent made the statement at the close of the much-talk-about Dumboy Festival that was officially individually, but following the Councils meeting with the Ministry of Internal Affairs, it was agreed that a team be put together to go back to Malawu before the Christmas to see how regular service could be resumed. He then disclosed that the LCC was working towards its 29th General Assembly in January 2014, and will focus on how the Churches can work along with other stakeholders to fight hunger and poverty as a reconciliation posture, in line with this governments declared Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS). Rev. Brown, who is also the Overseer of the Water in the Desert Apostolic Pentecostal Church, said the LCC will be interested to know how far that has gone, and how the Churches can help enhance that fight. He said there have been talks about hunger and poverty; and as the conscience of the how they approach the process---are questions the politician seems to have forgotten to ask. Mr. Freeman urged the Concerned Lofa Organization for the Protection of Wologizi to be resilient in contributing to the breadbaskets of Liberia, adding: The need to building the road from Lofa to Monrovia means a change for the people of Lofa. He was speaking at the official launch of the Concerned Lofa Organization for the Protection of Wologizi, where he served as guest speaker of the program held at the main campus of the UL. Mr. Freeman said it was sad that over 80 students will sit in a single classroom at the University of Liberia to acquire knowledge; he attributed that situation to bad administration and the abuse of power by elected officials in the country. According to him, There is a delegation of responsibility: you vote to delegate power to your leaders and they must come into the district to give

order to build the capacity of the younger generation. She expressed the local governments commitment to the success of the project through instituting the right policy and measure in an effort to raise much-needed resources for the county. Questioned about how funding will be generated to support said initiative, the Grand

attention. The 1st vice president of the LCC, Reverend Kortu Brown, in an exclusive interview with the Daily Observer, began by describing as scary, the gruesome murder of former lawmaker of Liberia, Fayiah Saah Gbollie. Rev. Kortu challenged the Government through the Ministry of Justice to launch an intensive investigation and bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime, to justice. This is not the way for a war devastated country to celebrate 10 years of peace; nor does it speak well for a people who pride themselves as true Christians living in a country (arguably) said to be founded on Christian principles. It is ironic (a mockery) to be festive about the birth of Christ the Savior, while the life of a family man is grue-

Council of

somely taken away. The LCC in no uncertain terms condemns this brutal murder of Honorable Fayiah Saah Gbollie, former Member of the Interim National Assembly. For anyone in our time, to simply walk into someone elses home and murder that individual at day undermines the sense of personal security for all in the community. Criminals will come to understand that the law is swift and that people who undermine our security will always be brought to justice. Moving on, Rev Brown said that the LCC has been involved with the feud between the traditional people and Christian worshippers in Malawu Town, Zorzor District. That led to the arrest and shackling of pastors and wor-

Todays UL

By Alvin Worzi
he former standard bearer of the Movement for Progressive Change (MPC), Mr.

Simon Freeman, has described degrees awarded by the University of Liberia as something good for only decorating homes and nothing substantial. The degrees seem to have no impact on the lives of those that hold them, reducing the

Liberians must graduate from the low income to higher income through education achieved, he had also added. Whether the students are working hard at taking in the learning offered them---and

DAILY OBSERVER Tuesday, December 17, 2013

The Other Page

WORD SEARCH

Mystery Christmas Carol #2

ALL AND ASK ASLEEP AWAY BABY BED BLESS BRIGHT BUT CARE CATTLE CHILDREN CLOSE CRIB CRYING DEAR DOWN FOREVER FROM HAY HEAD HEAVEN HIS JESUS LAID LAY LITTLE LIVE LOOK LOOKED LORD LOVE LOWING MAKES MANGER MORNING NEAR NIGH POOR PRAY SIDE SKY STARS STAY SWEET TAKE TENDER THEE THERE THY WAKES WHERE WITH

SUDOKU
Place a number from 1 to 9 in every empty cell so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box containing all the numbers from 1 to 9. No number can appear twice in a row, column or 3x3 box. Do not guess you can work it out by process of elimination. GOOD LUCK!

With Fumbah Kromah & BSG

Da de man woh beat your woman?

Last weeks results:

POLITICALLY X-P-DIENT
With A. Leslie Lumeh

YOULL ALWAYS BE HERE!

Circle the 10 differences between the two illustrations below:

BRAIN GAME

WITH Fumbah Kromah

Last weeks results:

Tuesday, November 5, 17, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Tuesday, December 17,2013 2013 Tuesday, December

Page 4 Page 15

Fo r ad qu ve ick rt ise bu in sine th ss is re sp su ac lts e ,

Sinoe, Gbarpolu in Goalless Draw David Broplehs -Nimba Defeats Rivercess 2-1 Burial Thursday
crowd in the 69th minute. Sam Jackson again, in the 86th minute, increased the tally through a diagonal kick, a goal that Timothy Paulaus, and Evan B. Somah disputed. Sinoe coachs Mortar Fofana said, Our slogan for this preliminary round is Operation Clear All and we are going to move to the next stage. In kickball Gbarpolu County, in the ongoing Group Ds preliminary qualifiers, whipped host, Sinoe County 2-0. The 9-players kickball team, under the captainship of Rachel Garto put up an impressive move in the first two rounds with a point lead, but the Nenwon T. Sayes side ably assisted by pitcher Edina John reconsolidated and nailed their host, 4-2 5-rounds. Last years runner-up Nimba County narrowly beat 4-time winners, Rivercess County, 1-0. Captain and pitcher Gbemee Nyumah was the Woman of the match. Nimba and Rivercess kickball man was in progress when this report was sent. Tomorrow, Tuesday, December 17, Gbarpolu will lock horns with Nimba in both football and kickball, while host, Sinoe will engage their traditional rival, Rivercess. On Saturday night, the eve of the game, at the Doris Null City Hall the acquaintance gathering of the eight teams which was traditionally aimed for players to familiarize and embrace each other to foster friendship, fair-play, peace and unity were greeted with self-praise of counties teams. The teams partially refused to honor the objective of the gathering. Gbarpolus football team was the only squad absent due to its late arrival on Friday and prepared for the opener against Sinoe. Rivercess came a day earlier. Both counties rode on old pick-up vehicles standing and sitting for hours on rocky roads. Nimba arrived on Wednesday on jeeps and was the most organized in term of transportation. Even though the Cestos and Bopolu players arrived dusty in Greenville, there were smiles on their faces, ready to unleash their kind of magical wand to gain qualification, because 50% of their Preliminary Round Contract Funds in the tone of US$125 were provided, and the balance, were promised upon their return. Sinoe, the host, came earlier than the other teams but would receive 50% of their money, after their first game.

Read more sports articles on the Daily Observer website @ www.liberianobserver.com/sports

-LFA Promises USD500 to Family

Nimba Countys squad

By Leroy M. Sonpon, III in Greenville, Sinoe County

housands of Sinoe County supporters, including Superintendent J. Milton Teahjay were on Sunday disappointed over the goalless draw in the football match and defeat in the kickball derby on their home soil. Teahjays gloomy expression, in his green-and-white tee-shirt with the inscriptions Sinoe Mandela at the front and Chief Patron on the back spoke volume of his discontent. Sinoe County failed to rattle the net despite several chances and more ball possession, through Boye Bouley, Adol-

eferee James Fredrick, commonly known as Soe, from further participating in the 2013/14 edition of the tournament. Referee Soe was assigned to Group IV in Greenville, Sinoe County, was expelled after the protest committee found him guilty of mishandling Sundays (December 15) football match between Nimba and Rivercess Counties, following a marathon investigation into

Referee Soe Expelled from County Meet

a protest filed by Rivercess County. The game ended 2 1 in favor of Nimba. But Rivercess protested on grounds that Referee Fredrick unfairly allowed Nimbas winning goal. The protest committee, comprising representatives of all sporting federations participating in the competition, MYS officials and other stakeholders, found Fredrick guilty of violating a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) gov-

phus and Konwohn Karblee. Gbarpolus towering defenders, Isaac Wrolloh, Kortu Brown and Fassell Sheriff as well as goalie Jimmy Dorbor mended the net to-the-teeth. Strikers Matthew Wesseh, Rufus Padmore, Tarweh Senneh and Webster Walatees pointed moves could not threaten Sinoes defense. Sinoes coach Bra Dixon said the draw was their unlucky day but he is hopeful of qualifying. Gbarpolu coach Stephen Momo said the draw was unfortunate, but still confident. In the second football match, Nimba County defeated Rivercess County, 2-1 through Sam Jackson who sent the red-andblue fans wild with his 2nd minute goal. Winger George Beah of Rivercess silenced the

The late David L. M. Bropleh

By Omari Jackson

Minister Eugene Nagbe

erning the NCSM between the Liberia Referee Associa-

BYC vs. Asante Kotoko

Barrack Young Controllers and Asante Kotoko of Ghana Red Lions will also take ocal champions, Club Champions competiBYC will play tion on February 7, 8, or 9 Gabons Canthez in the Ghanas Asante with the return leg on Febru- Mandela Cup in the same Kotoko in their ary 15, 16 or 17. period.

tion (LRA) and MYS, which emphasizes strict adherence to the universal rules of football, including fair treatment of all participating teams by all referees and other game officials, a press release signed by Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Youth and Sports said last night. The protest committee, comprising representatives of all sporting federations participating in the competition, MYS officials and other stakeholders, found Fredrick guilty of violating a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) governing the NCSM between the Liberia Referee Association (LRA) and MYS, which emphasizes strict adherence to the universal rules of football, including fair treatment of all participating teams by all referees and other game officials. In a related development, Youth and Sports Minister Eugene Nagbe has congratulated the National Amputee Football team for winning the 4th edition of the Cup of Africans for Amputee Football (CANAF) in Nairobi, Kenya last week.

he children and widow of the late Major David Livingston M. Bropleh (Diego) welcomed me to their residence near Tweh Farm and was informed that his remains will be interred on Thursday, December 19. Bropleh died on October 18 at the Abor Hospital in Volta Region, Ghana. There will be a silent wakekeeping at the familys compound in Tweh Farm on Wednesday December 18, said Widow Nancy Bropleh. With me, was Jonathan Armah Baxter, who played one season (1986-87) for the St. Josephs Warriors before joining Mighty Barrolle and eventually NPA-Anchors at the time the late Bropleh was Warriors president. Diego was a man of enormous confidence, Baxter said, he always had a way to maintain confidence in his playing team anytime we lost a game. A military man, he earned the position of Major in the Armed Forces of Liberia in the 1980s, Nancy Bropleh said. My late husband was director of finance at the National Legislature during the Peoples Redemption Council administration, Nancy said. Armah said, For example after a loss against say Mighty Barrolle, Diego and Jerry Weagba would say, since Barrolles next match is against Young Eagles, Barrolle would lose that game and then Invincible Eleven would also lose their game against Fulani and then Warriors would win their next encounter against Cedar United. One time after a loss, Baxter said, Diego dismissed the coach, who then was the late

Victor Sieh Sr., Diego told all the playing team he was now a coach. Jerry Weagba, who later left the team to join Invincible Eleven, now pastors a church in Monrovia. Among some of the players that Armah Baxter mentioned were Varney Greene, Lucretius Togba, Mayango Jallah, the late Paul Dadzie, George Shillengton, George Johnson, Stephen Sonpon, Nathaniel Naplah, Orlando Krangar, Romeo Cooper, Abu Kamara, Ezekiel Doe, and Mohammed Kumba. Diego, besides his job as a controller, had a used car lot in Gardnersville, and he was also the founder and executive member of the Liberia National Lotteries. He was a family man who fathered eight children. He was also a popular figure in several West African countries, including Ghana, where he died and Sierra Leone, where he spent many years, leading the Sierra Leone Army against insurgents. Diegos love for soccer made him to bring the late Ghanaian coach Joe Ghartey to handle St. Josephs Warriors, Varney Greene said. At the recent 6-1 loss of Lone Star to Nigerias Super Eagles in a World Cup tie, Diego was reportedly furious that he wished the playing team could have been forced to walk from Nigeria to Liberia. Meanwhile, Armah Baxter informed the Daily Observer yesterday that the Liberia Football Association President Musa Bility has promised to make a cash donation of U$500 towards Diegos burial. With Liberian football facing challenges, and football authorities struggling against odds to rescue the game, Diegos death is a great loss to Liberia.

Fo r ad qu ve ick rt ise bu in sine th ss is re sp su ac lts e ,

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VOL. 16. NO. 39 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2013

What Did Dr. Owl Say?

Only free men can negotiate; prisoners cannot enter into contracts. Your freedom and mine cannot be separated.

-Nelson Mandela, Dr. Owls South African guest

Rotary Club of Monrovia to Dedicate US$100K School in Marshall

By Edwin M. Fayia III
magnate and philanthropist, Bill Gates, gave Rotarians an assist by matching that amount to supplement the Rotary Clubs development projects around the world. The Rotary Club of Monrovia explained that a majority of the World Health Organizations (WHO) and UNICEFs vaccination programs are funded by Rotary Internationals clubs financial contributions. He further disclosed that those international agencies and local medical-related institutions provide professional coordination services in order for the supply of medical items to reach the needy, targeted in countries around the world. In a brief statement at the charity ball, Rotary Club of Monrovia president, Milton B. Weeks, pointed out that the Ben Town School will be completed this

PRICE: LD 40

he Rotary Club of Monrovia and its support partners will soon dedicate a US$100,000 six-classroom school in Ben Town, Marshall City, in Margibi County. This development represents another demonstration of the Clubs regular service to the needy, humanity and society. The disclosure of the Bens Town School project was made over the weekend during a charity ball at the Executive Pavilion in Monrovia. Commenting on Rotary Internationals global initiatives, Rotarian Milton B. Weeks disclosed that a few years ago, Rotarians were able to raise US$200 million. As a result of that accomplishment, computer

Rotary Weeks, speaking to Members and guests at Executive Pavilion in Monrovia

week and turned over early next year to the Liberian Government. The Rotary Clubs local boss also intimated that the school will be furnished with state-ofthe-art (up to date) equipment; a computer lab and a reading room for the students and teachers will also be made available. Rotarian Weeks added that in order to ensure quality learning at the Ben Town School, the Rotary Club of Monrovia plans a residential quarters for teachers assigned to the school. In another development, Rotarian Weeks has disclosed that beginning 2014, the Rotary Club of Monrovia would collaborate with the Ministry of Transport (MOT) to carry out awareness and public education on the newly installed traffic lights in Monrovia and its environs. Mr. Weeks continued that sometime next year, the Rotary Club would begin its twicea-year medical outreach to communities in some parts of Montserrado County that are challenged with acute shortages of health and medical supplies. Shedding light on his Clubs other projects, Rotarian Weeks told the guests in attendance that the charity organization has established an internet caf in Tappita; solar panels are being installed to enhance a 24-hour operation of the communication facility in Nimba County. As a part of its traditional service to humanity and greater Liberia, Rotarian Weeks explained that next year, the Rotary Club of Monrovia would resume the beautification of the nations capital by providing street lights. We want people of all backgrounds to consider giving back---and in so doing, put smiles on the faces on those in needy communities, Rotarian Weeks pleaded

Several Passengers Stranded in Ganta

By Ishmael F. Menkor

ith less than 10 days to Christmas, the absence of commercial cars at various parking stations in Ganta, has become very visible, as several persons have stayed hours without a car. Sayekwalo Ziah, a passenger traveling from Ganta to Monrovia for his little brothers graduation said, Weve been at the parking station since 5 a.m., but cannot get cars to leave. Because of the shortage of commercial cars, transport fares had gone up to L$1,200 from L$800 few days ago. If you are fortunate to

With the shortage of commercial passenger transport, people had to make do by getting on board this truck
find any car, they will charge you above L$1,000 and also charged for whatever loads you might be carrying, he said. Our Nimba County Correspondent said at the dispatching terminal in Ganta, many passengers were seen lying on the ground waiting patiently without cars. We have registered over 72 passengers but there is no car for them to leave, said one of the dispatchers. At least last years season, there were four National Transit Authority (NTA) buses running in Ganta to ease the transport problem. This year only two are seen plying the route. The transportation cost from Ganta to other parts of Nimba has also gone up from the regular fares, due to the influx of people. Money business is harder this year than last year, but it cannot stop us from celebrating the season, Freeman Zayee, a teacher told the Observer.

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Published by the Liberian Observer Corporation (LOC), 23 McDonald Street, P.O. Box 1858, Monrovia, Liberia; Tel: 06 812-888; 06 578476; and 06 472772; Printed by the Observer Printing Press; Bai S. Best, Marketing Manager; Lindiw Khumalo Yasiah, Business Strategist; Publisher & Managing Director, Kenneth Y. Best.

TUESDAY, DEC. 17, 2013indd 1

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VOL. 16. NO. 39 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2013 PRICE: LD 40

INSIDE THIS EDITION

EDITORIAL
The ULs Moment of Truth
See Pg. 4

Ode to Mandela
See Pg. 4

COMMENTARY

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Global Witness Identifies Lapses in Liberias Oil Sector

By Joaquin Sendolo
citizens, there are still lapses that need to be corrected if it (oil) would be a blessing to Liberians. According to the group, there is no clear-cut definition of who constitutes a beneficial owner in the act, and it fears that without a defined beneficial owner, companies could report that they are owned by holding-companies or trusts. A definition stating that the beneficial owner or a company is, the natural person (s) who directly or indirectly ultimately owns or controls the corporate entity could be used for the draft act, Global Witness suggests. Global Witness also observes that the act created by

www.liberianobserver.com

LOCAL NEWS
Serve as Light in Darkness
See Pg. 3

HEALTH
Lofa County Scores High in Maternal and New Born Health
See Pg. 5

Grand Bassa Targets US$200K

By Keith Morris from Buchanan
rand Bassa County needs a little over US$200,000 to jump-start an Educational Trust Fund, according to the countys Superintendent, Etweeda Cooper.

lobal Witness, a watch-dog group for the worlds natural resources, says that while the petroleum act of Liberia may have some strength to make the expected oil profitable to

Contd on pg. 13

-Simon Freeman Tells Lofa Students

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Mr. Simon Freeman (See story on Page 13)

Do Not Despise Your Birthright

See Pg. 8b

EDUCATION

Council of Churches Speaks on Pressing National Issues

-Murder of Saah Gbollie, Ellen Corkrum, Lofas Church & Traditional Saga Highlighted

Contd on pg. 13

Grand Bassa Co. Supt. Etweeda (Sugars) Cooper

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