UNICCO Digest: 2003

Here is a collection of all the Digest articles from 2003.

Liberia peace force reaches rebel towns

December 31, 2003 - BBC
United Nations peacekeeping troops in Liberia have advanced into two major rebel-held towns for the first time.
(Full Story)

Liberia 'not safe for refugees'

December 30, 2003 - BBC

Most parts of Liberia are still too dangerous for the hundreds of thousands of refugees to return home, a United Nations official says.
(Full Story)

Libya: Tough gateway to Europe

December 30, 2003 - BBC

Libya's proximity to Italy means it has long been a destination for migrants from sub-Saharan Africa seeking a better life.
(Full Story)

Uproar over Kenya leader's decree

December 30, 2003 - BBC

Members of Kenya's ruling coalition have rebelled against the president's plans to scrap its constituent parties.
(Full Story)

Nigeria ministers on bribe charge

December 30, 2003 -BBC

Three former ministers and two officials have been charged with corruption in connection with a $214m contract to produce identity cards.
(Full Story)

Liberia: UN Troops Enter Lurd Territory At Second Attempt

December 29, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

UN peacekeeping troops set up their first base within territory controlled by the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD)
(Full Story)

UN Peacekeepers Move Into Rebel Area for First Time

December 29, 2003 - United Nations (New York)

The UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) has made its first military move into an area controlled by the Liberians United for Reconciliation
(Full Story)

Benin air crash dead flown home

December 29, 2003 - BBC

The bodies of 77 Lebanese victims of a Christmas air crash in the West African state of Benin have arrived in Lebanon on a French military plane.
(Full Story)

Papal envoy shot dead in Burundi

December 29, 2003 - BBC

The Vatican's ambassador to Burundi has been shot dead in an ambush the army has blamed on the country's rebels.
(Full Story)

UN warns Liberian rebel grouping

December 27, 2003 - BBC

The United Nations has warned Liberia's Lurd rebels not to prevent the latest deployment of peacekeepers..
(Full Story)

Overloading blamed for air crash

December 27, 2003 - BBC

Lebanon says overloading may have caused Thursday's plane crash in Benin that killed over 130 people, many of them Lebanese residents of West Africa.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: LURD blocks UN deployment to Tubmanburg

December 26, 2003 - UN NEWS Service

MONROVIA, 26 Dec 2003 (IRIN) - The LURD rebel group has prevented UN peacekeepers from entering the town of Tubmanburg,
(Full Story)

UN peacekeepers in Liberia set to expand into rebel strongholds

December 26, 2003 - UN NEWS Service

The United Nations peacekeeping force in Liberia will deploy troops to three rebel strongholds in the next few days and should have most of the country covered by the end of January, the Force Commander said today
(Full Story)

Airliner crash kills 135 in Benin

December 26, 2003 -BBC

At least 135 people were killed as a plane plunged into the sea off the West African state of Benin on Thursday.
(Full Story)

Liberian rebels deny UN peacekeepers passage to begin disarmament

December 25, 2003 - Agence France-Presse (AFP)

MONROVIA, Dec 25 (AFP) - UN peacekeepers were denied passage Thursday into rebel territory in Liberia to lay the groundwork for a campaign to disarm fighters from the west African state's main rebel group, a rebel commander said.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Unmil Extends Deployment As More Troops Arrive

December 24, 2003 -United Nations High Commission for Refugees

The UN peacekeeping force in Liberia will deploy troops to the rebel strongholds of Buchanan, Tubmanburg and Gbarnga in the next few days
(Full Story)

Madagascar's ex-PM jailed

December 24, 2003 - BBC

Madagascar's former prime minister has been sentenced to 12 years hard labour and fined $7m for abuse of office.
(Full Story)

Ivorian rebels to rejoin cabinet

December 22, 2003 -BBC

Rebels in Ivory Coast say they will return to a power-sharing government they left in September.
(Full Story)

COTE D IVOIRE: Rebels announce their return to government

December 22, 2003 - IRIN NEWS

ABIDJAN, 22 Dec 2003 (IRIN) - Rebels occupying the north of Cote d'Ivoire said on Monday they had agreed to return to the country's government of national reconciliation, three months after they walked out in protest at President Laurent Gbagbo's failure to implement fully a peace agreement signed in January.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: FAO appeals for $2m for seeds and tools

December 22, 2003 - IRIN NEWS

ABIDJAN, 22 Dec 2003 (IRIN) - United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has appealed for US $2 million of aid to urgently supply 700 tonnes of rice seeds and tools to 70,000 farming families so they can start growing their own food.
(Full Story)

GUINEA: Little enthusiasm for election with guaranteed outcome

December 22, 2003 - IRIN NEWS

CONAKRY, 21 Dec 2003 (IRIN) - Guineans voted peacefully but without much enthusiasm on Sunday in a presidential election whose guaranteed outcome is the return of the head of state, Lansana Conte, for a further seven years in power - if failing health allows him to survive that long.
(Full Story)

Confusion in Washington: Who Runs the Liberian Embassy (Part III)

December 21, 2003 - The Perspective

"I am not aware of any letter of recall sent to Mr. Abdullah Dunbar and when we get back home, I will look into the issue and find out who wrote such a letter," the Minister of Foreign Affairs said when he spoke to us from Accra, Ghana where he was attending the annual ECOWAS Summit.
(Full Story)

Displaced Liberians Returning Home

December 19, 2003 -United Nations High Commission for Refugees (Geneva)

In Liberia, the relocation of internally displaced persons (IDPs) started this morning from the SKD stadium, 15 kms east of Monrovia. We expect some 1,500 IDPs should be relocated today to six.
(Full Story)

Warring Parties Formalise Demands for More Jobs in Government

December 19, 2003 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The three warring parties in Liberia have formalised a joint demand for more top jobs in the country's transitional government, pushing aside the nominees of several unarmed political parties and civil society organisations.
(Full Story)

Grand Gedeans ask Faction Leaders to Honor Peace Accord

December 18, 2003 - Press Release

The Grand Gedeh Association in the Americas, Inc. was shocked by news of the three warring factions to the Liberian conflict walking out of the inaugural meeting of the National Commission for Disarmament, Demobilization, Rehabilitation and Reintegration.
(Full Story)

December 18, 2003 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi saw off 1,800 peacekeepers on Wednesday who are being deployed to war-torn Liberia.
(Full Story)

Reconstruction Conference On Liberia to Convene in February

December 17, 2003 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations and the US government will host an international donors conference in New York on February 3 and 4 to seek funding for the reconstruction of Liberia, a senior UN official in Liberia said on Wednesday.
(Full Story)

Nigeria's fatal anti-bullet test

December 17, 2003 - BBC

A traditional healer in Nigeria has died after an anti-bullet charm he prepared failed a potency test.
(Full Story)

Healing Sierra Leone's scars

December 17, 2003 - BBC

Former Focus on Africa editor Robin White gives his impressions of a country trying to rebuild itself since the end of civil war in 2002.
(Full Story)

Unmil Seeks Cross Border Cooperation to Stem Arms Flow

December 16, 2003 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) said on Wednesday it was talking with the authorities in neighbouring countries to prevent Liberian combatants from crossing the border with their weapons to escape disarmament.
(Full Story)

Registration of 7,000 IDPs Begins

December 16, 2003 - Unitted Nations High Commission for Refugees (Geneva)

UNHCR teams in Liberia will today start the registration of some 7,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in SKD Stadium, 15 kms east of Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Why Nigeria Won't Hand Over Taylor for Trial, By Speaker

December 16, 2003 - Vanguard (Lagos)

SPEAKER of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari yesterday gave reasons why Nigeria will not handover the former Liberian President, Mr. Charles Taylor for trial by the international war tribunal, sitting in Sierra Leone.
(Full Story)

Sierra Leone: UN Mission Steps Up Border Patrols Against Infiltration From Liberia

December 16, 2003 - United Nations (New York)

The United Nations Mission in Sierra Leone (UNAMSIL) has stepped up around-the-clock air, land and river patrols along the West African country's borders with Guinea and Liberia to prevent illegal infiltration resulting from efforts to disarm former combatants in Liberia's civil wars.
(Full Story)

Hope for better malaria vaccine

December 15, 2003 - BBC

Human trials of a new type of malaria vaccine are planned for next year after encouraging results in mice.
(Full Story)

Liberia disarmament 'too popular'

December 15, 2003 - BBC

The United Nations has ordered a pause in the Liberian disarmament process after more fighters wanted to hand in their weapons than was anticipated.
(Full Story)

UNMIL Suspends Disarmament Wednesday

December 15, 2003 -United Nations (New York)

The disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration (DDRR) program which commenced on December 7, 2003 with former Government of Liberia combatants at the Camp Scheiffelin Military Barracks is expected to be temporarily suspended by the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL).
(Full Story)

Sierra Leone: UN Mission Steps Up Border Patrols Against Infiltration From Liberia

December 15, 2003 -United Nations (New York)

A private United Kingdom based military firm, Northbridge Services Group, has indicated its intention to capture former Liberian President Charles Taylor and deliver him to United Nations war crimes tribunal in Sierra Leone.
(Full Story)

Dr. Nya Kwiawon Taryor Calls for Peace, Unity in Nimba County

December 12, 2003 - UNICCO Digest

When we unite as a people, we are made strong.
When we unite as a people, strong success is sure.
(Full Story)

Liberian Child Soldiers Still Make Trouble Without Guns

December 12, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

When relief workers set up Jembe refugee camp in Sierra Leone to house people fleeing from civil war in neighbouring Liberia, it never occurred to them that children would become the biggest headache.
(Full Story)

UK Firm Seeks to Kidnap Taylor

December 12, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A private United Kingdom based military firm, Northbridge Services Group, has indicated its intention to capture former Liberian President Charles Taylor and deliver him to United Nations war crimes tribunal in Sierra Leone.
(Full Story)

Massive Turn Out for Disarmament Following US$75 Offer

December 12, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The US$75.00 initial incentive offered by the United Nations Mission in Liberia(UNMIL) has rejuvenated enthusiasm for the disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration(DDRR) program for more than 40,000 combatants.
(Full Story)

Ivory Coast TV attack 'repulsed'

December 11, 2003 - BBC

The US$75.00 initial incentive offered by the United Nations Mission in Liberia(UNMIL) has rejuvenated enthusiasm for the disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration(DDRR) program for more than 40,000 combatants.
(Full Story)

Massive Turn Out for Disarmament Following US$75 Offer

December 12, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)
The US$75.00 initial incentive offered by the United Nations Mission in Liberia(UNMIL) has rejuvenated enthusiasm for the disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration(DDRR) program for more than 40,000 combatants.
(Full Story)

Ivory Coast TV attack 'repulsed'

December 12, 2003 - BBC

The US$75.00 initial incentive offered by the United Nations Mission in Liberia(UNMIL) has rejuvenated enthusiasm for the disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration(DDRR) program for more than 40,000 combatants.
(Full Story)

Firm seeks Charles Taylor bounty

December 11, 2003 - BBC

A private UK-based military firm says it is looking for an investor to fund an operation to seize indicted former Liberian President Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

Holding the Factions Accountable

December 11, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

IN ADDITION TO the destruction of properties and the disruption of the disarmament process this week, at least one woman has reportedly been
(Full Story

Reps' Panel Wants Taylor Sent to Interpol

December 11, 2003 - Daily Champion (Lagos)

IHOUSE of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs has asked the Presidency to hand over ex-Liberian President, Mr. Charles Taylor, to the International Police Organisation (INTERPOL) immediately.
(Full Story)

Disarmament Day One: Lessons Learn

December 11, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

appears that anything that could have gone wrong on the first day of disarmament did go wrong. A large number of disgruntled militias belonging to the defunct Government of Liberia were seen on the ELWA
(Full Story)

What the Warlords Say

December 11, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The last weekend in November assumed a disquietude with the news that warring factions representatives walked out of a meeting with United Nations officials at which time issues related to disarmament, demobilization
(Full Story)

Lawlessness Creeping in Monrovia: Nigerian Ambassador Car Damaged, Money Exchanger Victimized

December 11, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Lawlessness is again creeping into Monrovia as several combatants of the defunct government of Liberia have been brandishing their weapons and at the same time harassing innocent civilians.
(Full Story)

Unmil Blamed for Disorder -Youth Group Says Disarmament Key to Regional Stability

December 11, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

A local youth group, National Youth Movement for Transparent Elections (NAYMOTE) says it holds the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) accountable for the wave of recent disorder and destruction which characterized the primary phase of the disarmament program in Liberia
(Full Story)

Unmil Strength Under Test As Fighters Go On the Rampage; New Disarmament Schedule Released

December 11, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The strength of the United Nations Mission in Liberia(UNMIL), and the popularity of the UN Secretary General Special Representative Jacques Paul Klein are being tested by fighters of the Government of exiled President
(Full Story)

Nine Shot Dead in Monrovia Riots

December10, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan expressed his concerns today about disturbances in Liberia
(Full Story)

UN Secretary-General Expresses Concerns At Disturbances in Liberia

December10, 2003 - United Na tions (New York)

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan expressed his concerns today about disturbances in Liberia since the formal launch at the weekend of the West African country's disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and rehabilitation (DDRR) programme.
(Full Story)

Clashes erupt in Liberian capital

December10, 2003 -BBC

At least nine people have been killed in the Liberian capital, Monrovia, in the worst violence since United Nations peacekeepers arrived in August.
(Full Story)

Combatants Open Fire in Paynesville in Demand for Cash

December 9, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Hundreds of combatants loyal to the former Government of exiled President Charles Taylor on Monday staged a protest in the Paynesville suburbs of Monrovia with sporadic gun fire into the air.
(Full Story)

Former Fighters in Second Day of Riots, UNMIL Offers Initial Payment

December 9, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Hundreds of former Liberian government fighters angry that they were not given cash in exchange for guns at the start of disarmament, rioted for the second day in the capital Monrovia, firing sporadically into the air and setting off panic across the eastern suburbs of Paynesville and Sinkor.
(Full Story)

Be Careful Who You Elect - Klein Cautions Liberians

December 9, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Although General and Presidential elections scheduled for October 2005 may seem far ahead, the United Nations Mission in Liberia (NUMIL) has cautioned Liberians to be careful who they choose to lead them.
(Full Story)

Chinese Advanced Team Due Tomorrow for Peacekeeping Operations

December 9, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

A 60-man advanced team from the People's Republic of China is expected to arrive here tomorrow on board three large aircrafts.
(Full Story)

Human Rights Observer Wants Tradevco Re-Opened

December 9, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Liberia Human Rights Observer has called on the Central Bank of Liberia to prevail on the Tradevco Management to reopen its doors to the public.
(Full Story)

Rebels Attack Japanese Journalist, Notebook Confiscated

December 9, 2003 - Media Foundation for West Africa (Accra)

On December 5 2003, Kenji Kato, a reporter for the Japanese 'Yomuri Shimbun' newspaper who is on assignment in Liberia, was assaulted by rebels of the Liberia United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD).
(Full Story)

Problems Persist

December 9, 2003 - Cameroon Tribune (Yaoundé)

Hundreds of soldiers handed in their weapons on Sunday at the official launch of a UN-sponsored disarmament programme in Liberia.
(Full Story)

Political Parties Want War Crimes Tribunal - for Warring Factions

December 8, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Registered Political Parties in the Country have called on the United Nations to set up a War Crime Tribunal in Liberia in order to check human rights abuses and crimes against humanity allegedly committed by warring factions.
(Full Story)

Lurd Sabotages DDRR Attempts --Says Jacques Klein, But

December 8, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

UN Special Representative Jacques Klein yesterday alleged that attempts to set up cantonment sites in LURD control areas was sabotaged by that faction, but the Chief of Staff of LURD, one Gen. Sheriff countered that his organization does not know who to disarm to and the site for the disarmament of its fighters.
(Full Story)

Hundreds of Fighters Hand in Guns As Disarmament Starts

December 8, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Hundreds of Liberian fighters handed in their guns to United Nations peacekeepers at Schieffelin camp, 35 km southeast of the capital, Monrovia, as the formal disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of an estimated 40,000 combatants got underway.
(Full Story)

Former Government Fighters Riot During Demobilisation

December 8, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

A day after the United Nations-supervised disarmament of Liberian fighters started, former government fighters on Monday shot in the air, looted shops and beat up people in the eastern Paynesville suburbs of the capital, Monrovia, in a riot over money.
(Full Story)

From Nigeria, Charles Taylor Continues His Plundering of Liberia, Diverted All Maritime Funds--UN Panel

December 6, 2003 - New Democrat

The full extent of how Charles Taylor orchestrated a massive stealing ring in wide ranging of schemes in his near 6-years rule is slowly being documented.
(Full Story)

UN Panel on Liberia’s “Partners in corruption”: How Taylor & Co. Plundered the Economy

December 6, 2003 - New Democrat

The UN Panel of Experts on Liberia has discovered wide-ranging theft of funds under exiled and indicted war criminal former President Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

Charles Taylor: Federal Government Dares Interpol

December 5, 2003 -Daily Trust (Abuja)

The federal government has stated categorically that it would not hand Charles Taylor who is on asylum in Nigeria over to Interpol after the police body issued a global notice for the arrest of the former Liberian president.
(Full Story)

UNMIL Retrains First Batch of Liberian Police

December 5, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) on Friday completed the training of 20 Liberian police officers and deployed them alongside UN police in various areas of the capital, Monrovia
(Full Story)

Ivorian rebels 'to give up arms'

December 4, 2003 - BBC

The president of Ivory Coast has said rebels in the north of the country will begin disarming later this month.
(Full Story)

Charles Taylor wanted by Interpol

December 4, 2003 - BBC

International police body Interpol has issued a global notice for the arrest of former Liberian President Charles Taylor, currently in exile in Nigeria.
(Full Story)

LURD Drops Threat to Hold Up Disarmament

December 3, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Liberia's main rebel movement, Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD), has dropped its threat to hold up the process of disarmament until its demand for more top jobs in government has been met.
(Full Story)

Army Announces Programme On Liberian Operation

December 3, 2003 - Daily Trust (Abuja)

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Alexanda Ogomudia, has said the army is planning strategic operations to ensure maximum peace and security in Liberia.
(Full Story)

ICRC Uses Airstrip to Relaunch Operations in Lofa County

December 2, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The International Committee of the Red Cross said it has rehabilitated the airstrip in the northern town of Voinjama near the frontier with Guinea in order to support a series of new health and water projects in Lofa county.
(Full Story)

ICRC Uses Airstrip to Relaunch Operations in Lofa County

December 2, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The International Committee of the Red Cross said it has rehabilitated the airstrip in the northern town of Voinjama near the frontier with Guinea in order to support a series of new health and water projects in Lofa county.
(Full Story)

UN Launches Disarmament, But Rebels Hold On to Guns

December 2, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations formally launched a disarmament campaign in Liberia on Monday, with two of the three warring factions insisting that they would not hand in their guns until a row over government jobs was settled.
(Full Story)

UN Mission Kicks Off Disarmament Programme in Liberian Capital

December 2, 2003 - United Nations (New York)

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) today formally launched its programme of disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration (DDRR), which it hopes will bring security and hope to the war-ravaged West African country.
(Full Story)

Brumskine Calls for Governor's Resignation

December 1, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Presidential hopeful Cllr. Charles Brumskine says the continued presence of Mr. Elie Saleeby as Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia violates the spirit and intent of the Accra Accord and as such, he should resign.
(Full Story)

Int'l Firm to Audit Maritime, Others

December 1, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

An international firm is expected is to conduct audits for five key revenue generating agencies of Government.
(Full Story)

Jacques Klein Flies to Guinea

December 1, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

United Nations Secretary General Special Representative to Liberia Jacques Paul Klein yesterday flew to the Guinean Capitol of Conakry, Soren Seraydarian, the Deputy to Jacques Klein told this reporters at the regular weekly briefing on Wednesday.
(Full Story)

Parties Must Resume Talks Immediately -US Ambassador Urges

December 1, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Hours after representatives of warring parties walked out of the meeting on disarmament, United States Ambassador John William Blaney called on them to immediately resume the talks on disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration (DDRR) with the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL).
(Full Story)

UN Executive Calls Zero Tolerance -On Violence Against Women

December 1, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

THE United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Executive Director Thoraya Ahmed Obaid has called for a massive and systematic response to the massive and systematic violations of women's human rights.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: US envoy asked to intervene in disarmament dispute

November 28, 2003 - IRIN NEWS

MONROVIA, 28 Nov 2003 (IRIN) - Gyude Bryant, the leader of Liberia's transitional government, has asked US ambassador John Blaney to persuade the former warring parties in the country to allow a UN-supervised process of disarmament to start as planned next week, a senior government source said on Friday.
(Full Story)

Dozens of arrests in Guinea army

November 27, 2003 - BBC

Dozens of soldiers are reported to have been arrested and detained in several locations in Guinea's capital, Conakry.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Warring factions walk out of disarmament talks

November 27, 2003 - IRIN NEWS

MONROVIA, 27 Nov 2003 (IRIN) - The three warring parties in Liberia walked out of talks on disarmament with the United Nations on Thursday after demanding dozens more government jobs in return for handing in their guns.
(Full Story)

'Faulty plane' killed Zambia team

November 27, 2003 - Daily Champion (Lagos)

An official report into the 1993 plane crash which killed 18 members of Zambia's football team has blamed a mechanical fault in the left engine.
(Full Story)

Taylor's Asylum Blocks Return of Abacha Loot - Senate Committee Chairman Jibril Aminu

November 26, 2003 - Daily Champion (Lagos)

CHAIRMAN of Senate Committee on foreign affairs, Prof. Jibril Aminu has declared that Nigeria's bid to retrieve millions of dollars stashed abroad by the late Head of State, Gen. Sani Abacha may fail.
(Full Story)

Handover Taylor to UN - Senate Foreign Relations Chairman Jubril Aminu Tells Obasanjo

November 26, 2003 - Daily Trust (Abuja)

The chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Professor Jibril Aminu, has urged the federal government to hand the former Liberian president, Mr Charles Taylor, over to the United Nations tribunal to face war crime charges.
(Full Story)

Bryant’s $150,000 vs. The EU’s $100,000

November 25, 2003 - New Democrat

Liberia’s managing director of its electricity company recently told the BBC it would take three years to provide electricity for Monrovia regardless of funds available.
(Full Story)

Obasanjo Throws Taylor’s Fate on Bryant

November 25, 2003 - New Democrat

Nigeria’s President Olusegun Obasanjo says he is prepared to turn exiled former Liberian Charles Taylor over trial if the transitional regime in Monrovia requests, according to US National Public Radio.
(Full Story)

Peace Hasn't Stopped Gunmen Abusing Civilians - Amnesty

November 25, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Amnesty International has warned that three months after the signing of a peace agreement in Liberia, gunmen are still killing and raping civilians and driving them from their homes, despite the presence of a United Nations peacekeeping force in the country.
(Full Story)

140 Irish Troops Join UN Mission in Liberia

November 25, 2003 - Vanguard (Lagos)

AN advance team of 140 Irish troops has arrived in Liberia to join the UN mission to the war-ravaged West African state, a UN spokeswoman said yesterday.
(Full Story)

UN Survey Finds 249,000 Living On the Edge in Monrovia

November 24, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

A UN survey of living conditions in the Liberian capital Monrovia shows that a quarter of a million people, impoverished and made homeless by war are living precariously, with most eating just one meal a day.
(Full Story)

Liberian Leader Discusses Border Security With Gbagbo

November 24, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Liberia's transitional leader, Gyude Bryant, held talks with President Laurent Gbagbo of Cote d'Ivoire on Monday about security along the two countries' troubled border.
(Full Story)

Taylor: a Dinosaur Reduced to an Ant

November 24, 2003 -Weekly Trust (Kaduna)

Two events happened in the African continent in the month of August that could not be wished away as mere coincidence. Two Africans, thousands of kilometres apart into two distinct settings and unrelated cultureS, had their destinies interwoven by fate.
(Full Story)

Monrovia Gets Mains Electricity for First Time in 10 Years

November 24, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Children danced in the streets of the Liberian capital Monrovia on Friday night and cars flashed their blinker lights in celebration after mains electricity was restored to part of the city for the first time in 10 years.
(Full Story)

The missing medics in Botswana's Aids battle

November 22, 2003 - BBC

The International Monetary Fund has resumed aid to Kenya after a three-year gap and approved a loan of $250m.
(Full Story)

IMF unfreezes key funds for Kenya

November 22, 2003 - BBC

The International Monetary Fund has resumed aid to Kenya after a three-year gap and approved a loan of $250m.
(Full Story)

A Prominent Nimba Citizen Warns Liberian Speaker George Dweh

November 22, 2003 - Commentary

George Dweh, stop the misinformation and halt your groups from carrying on the mayhem in Nimba County and other parts of Liberia..
(Full Story)

UNICCO MINNESOTA SUPPORTS UNICCO'S POSITION ON DEVELOPMENTS IN NIMBA

November 22, 2003 - Postion Statement

We, the members and officers of UNICO (United Nimba Citizens Council) Minnesota Chapter, United States of America, have received with grave concern numerous reports of continuous hostilities by armed factions in Liberia, specifically in Nimba County
(Full Story)

Genocide book reveals West's failure

November 21, 2003 - BBC

The BBC's Mark Doyle, who covered the genocide in Rwanda, reviews Shake Hands with the Devil, by Lieutenant-General Romeo Dallaire, Commander of the United Nations peacekeeping force in Rwanda during the 1994 genocide, during which an estimated 800,000 people were killed.
(Full Story)

LURD Rebels, Militias Clash in Kpain - Displaced Flee to Ganta

November 21, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Militias loyal to former President Charles Taylor and rebels of the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) have reportedly clashed around the northen townships of Kpain, Nimba County.
(Full Story)

COTE D IVOIRE: Gbagbo-De Villepin to talk peace in Gabon

November 21, 2003 - Irin News

ABIDJAN, 21 Nov 2003 (IRIN) - Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo and France’s foreign minister, Laurent de Villepin are due in Libreville, Gabon, on Friday to try to hammer out an agreement on how best to restore peace and stability to the country.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Catholic church wants a war crimes court for lawless fighters

November 20, 2003 - Irin News

MONROVIA, 20 Nov 2003 (IRIN) - The Liberian Catholic Church founded Justice and Peace Commission (JPC) has said a war crimes court should be established to prosecute armed Liberian groups for gross human rights abuses committed after the signing of the country’s peace agreement on 18 August in Ghana
(Full Story)

Catholic Archbishop Francis Warns Against Silence In Liberia

November 20, 2003 - The Perspective

Catholic Archbishop Michael Kpakala Francis has called on Liberians to desist from the culture of silence. He said, as we approach the new year, Liberians must speak without fear to change the trend of events unfolding in the country.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UN appeals for $137 m for war ravaged Liberia

November 20, 2003 - Irin News

MONROVIA, 20 Nov 2003 (IRIN) - The United Nations in Liberia asked donors on Thursday to provide US $137 million in 2004 to support efforts by humanitarian agencies to reverse the impact of a 14-year civil war that has ravaged the West African country .
(Full Story)

Diarrhea Kills 10 in Nimba - 25,000 IDPs Flee Fighting

November 20, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Amidst the upsurge of fighting in Northern Liberia, there are reports that at least 10 persons have died, not from bullets, but due to the outbreaks of diarrhea in Nimba County.
(Full Story)

Halt Logging for 10 Years - Lawmaker Recommends

November 19, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A member of the Transitional Legislative Assembly (TLA) has recommended that a moratorium be placed on logging activities in the Country for at least ten years to enable the Liberian Government assess its bio-diversity programs.
(Full Story)

On US$250,000.00 Check Controversy: 'Man of God' Speaks Out Today

November 19, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The egg could be burst today as Executives of the Liberia For Jesus (LFJ) are once again under pressure.
(Full Story)

Lebanese Business License Revoked

November 19, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Ministry of Commerce has revoked the Business Registration Certificate of the International Associates Services, a Lebanese-owned transport agency.
(Full Story)

Dutch Navy Ship to Support Peacekeepers

November 19, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

A Dutch navy ship, the Rotterdam, arrived in Liberia on Tuesday on a three month mission to provide support for the deployment of United Nations peacekeepers by sea into rural Liberia, the ship commander said.
(Full Story)

Concerned Nimba Citizens Warn Liberian Rebels

November 18, 2003 - Press Release

We, the citizens of Nimba County residing in the Americas, are distressed and disheartened by the consistent and persistent news of genocide and the systematic destruction of our cities, hometowns, and villages by the rebel forces in Liberia.
(Full Story)

Arthur B. Dennis Condemns Renewed Armed Hostilities in Nimba”

November 18, 2003 - Press Release

A prominent Nimba citizen residing in the United States has strongly condemned the recent renewed armed hostilities in Nimba between the former government militia and the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL).
(Full Story)

How Much is Charles Taylor Worth?

November 18, 2003 - Daily Champion (Lagos)

In order to obtain the actual happening of the pressing humanitarian situation and the reported atrocities and fighting in the embattled county of Nimba, Central Liberia, The INQUIRER Foreign News Editor, Josephus Moses Gray, last Friday ventured into that troubled part of the country to get accounts of the true picture of the general situation on the ground.
(Full Story)

South Africa Funds Taylor's Asylum With N140m

November 18, 2003 - Daily Champion (Lagos)

In order to obtain the actual happening of the pressing humanitarian situation and the reported atrocities and fighting in the embattled county of Nimba, Central Liberia, The INQUIRER Foreign News Editor, Josephus Moses Gray, last Friday ventured into that troubled part of the country to get accounts of the true picture of the general situation on the ground.
(Full Story)

Liberian Journalist Probes the Humanitarian Crisis in Nimba County

November 18, 2003 - The Perspective

In order to obtain the actual happening of the pressing humanitarian situation and the reported atrocities and fighting in the embattled county of Nimba, Central Liberia, The INQUIRER Foreign News Editor, Josephus Moses Gray, last Friday ventured into that troubled part of the country to get accounts of the true picture of the general situation on the ground.
(Full Story)

U.S.-Africa Ties, Boosted by Money for Liberia, Face New Complications Over Nigeria Sanction

November 18, 2003 - Allafrica.com

When Congress unexpectedly added $200 million in humanitarian assistance for Liberia to the Iraq bill adopted earlier this month, proponents hoped the action would signal a renewed U.S. commitment to Liberia that would be welcomed throughout Africa.
(Full Story)

Saying No To America’s $2M Bounty

November 17, 2003 - New Democrat

In the days of old, perhaps during the reins of Julius Caesar, the evils that men did was said to have been interred with their bones, but in this age of electronic wizardry and globalization, the evils that men do tend to robustly haunt them, even to their graves.
(Full Story)

Saying No To America’s $2M Bounty

November 17, 2003 - New Democrat

In the days of old, perhaps during the reins of Julius Caesar, the evils that men did was said to have been interred with their bones, but in this age of electronic wizardry and globalization, the evils that men do tend to robustly haunt them, even to their graves.
(Full Story)

Garlawulo Under Probe for Defending Taylor

November 17, 2003 - NEWS (Monrovia)

The leadership of the National Transitional Legislative Assembly(NTLA) has been mandate by that body to probe one of its colleagues, Francis Garlawulo, for defending exiled President Charles Taylor before the United Nations-backed Special Court in Sierra Leone.
(Full Story)

Help Maintain the Early Impression

November 17, 2003 - NEWS (Monrovia)

FEW DAYS FOLLOWING the French Government's pronouncement that it would "hardly" ask Liberia to repay debts owed it, the United States Government last week went a step further by granting a waiver of the Brook Amendment on Liberia.
(Full Story)

Adjust Operating Cost Downwards - DHL Tells Airport Management

November 17, 2003 - NEWS (Monrovia)

One of the world's leading express and logistics providers, DHL has called on the authorities of the Roberts International Airport (RIA) to adjust the operating cost downwards to encourage companies like it utilize the Airport more frequently.
(Full Story)

UNMIL Commander Orders Militias Disarmed Today

November 17, 2003 - NEWS (Monrovia)

The Force Commander of the United Nations Mission In Liberia (UNMIL) L./Gen. Daniel Opande has directed his troops to disarm more than 300 militias loyal to former President Charles Taylor along the Monrovia Buchanan highway.
(Full Story)

Lawyer Warns Against Voting for Rice

November 17, 2003 - NEWS (Monrovia)

The Executive Director of the Center for the Protection of Human Rights Attorney Dempster Brown has warned Liberians against exercising their franchise in return for rice.
(Full Story)

LPMC Wants Ex-Combatants to Serve As Buying Agents

November 17, 2003 - NEWS (Monrovia)

Liberia Produce Marketing Corporation (LPMC) Managing Director Isaiah A. Teasley, has said the entity would welcome ex-combatants to serve as buying agents during the current purchase season which has just started.
(Full Story)

UMIL Outlines Plan for Combatants

November 17, 2003 - NEWS (Monrovia)

United Nations Mission In Liberia's Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Operation and Rule of Law Souren Seraydarian has said that the process to disarm, demobilize, reintegrate and rehabilitate the combatants would deviate from that of 1994.
(Full Story)

US Lifts Restrictions On Liberia - Resumes Bilateral Links

November 17, 2003 - NEWS (Monrovia)

The United State Government has lifted bilateral aid restrictions on Liberia.
(Full Story)

Commercial Vehicles Venture to the North And Southeast

November 17, 2003 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Commercial vehicles were making their first trips into previously inaccessible areas of northern and southeastern Liberia, opening up parts of the country which had been cut off for nine months by intensive fighting between government forces loyal to former president Charles Taylor and rebels.
(Full Story)

US Denies N260m Ransom On Taylor

November 14, 2003 - Daily Trust (Abuja)

The US has denied that it plans to offer a $2m (about N260m) bounty for the capture of Liberia's exiled former leader, Charles Taylor after a Bill approving an $87bn aid package for Iraq and Afghanistan included a reward for the arrest of "an indictee of the Special Court for Sierra Leone".
(Full Story)

African Development Bank Approves a Humanitarian Emergency Grant of $500,000 US in Favour of Liberia

November 14, 2003 - Accra Mail (Accra)

The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank (ADB) approved in Tunis on Tuesday, 11 November 2003, a humanitarian emergency grant of 500,000 US dollars in favour of Liberia.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UNMIL disarms former government fighters in Buchanan

November 14, 2003 - IRIN

ABIDJAN, 14 Nov 2003 (IRIN) - Hundreds of Liberian militia men loyal to former president Charles Taylor were being disarmed by UN peacekeepers near the port city of Buchanan on Friday after they clashed with rebel forces on the road to the capital Monrovia, a military spokesman for the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) said.
(Full Story)

Nailing Rebel Leaders for Continued Fighting

November 14, 2003 - New Democrat

Ongoing mayhem in Nimba County, where 10,000 people have been displaced, and the unstoppable anarchy other parts of the country, in which rebels and fugitive President Charles Taylor’s militias have resumed their looting sprees, indicate a fundamental flaw in the agreement that propelled rebel chiefs and politicians to power.
(Full Story)

Can Bryant Survive Endemic Corruption Virus?

November 14, 2003 - New Democrat

Charles Gyude Bryant, in his inaugural address, promised greed and corruption would be a thing of the past, and that his regime is designed to serve Liberians if others before it have not.. These were unusual words in a country that has made its peace with stealing in government at every level.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UN police chief outlines plans to revive Liberian force

November 13, 2003 -IRIN

MONROVIA, 12 Nov 2003 (IRIN) - Mark Kroeker, the commander of a United Nations police force charged with totally revamping Liberia's discredited law enforcement agencies, said on Wednesday he would conduct a comprehensive assessment of the country's policing needs before deciding how to proceed.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UN says no amnesty for war crimes after 8 October

November 13, 2003 -IRIN

MONROVIA, 12 Nov 2003 (IRIN) - The deputy head of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) said on Wednesday that he had warned the country's warring factions that violations of the August peace agreement would not be tolerated and there would be no amnesty for war crimes committed after 8 October.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UNMIL tells fighters to return looted vehicles

November 13, 2003 -IRIN

MONROVIA, 13 Nov 2003 (IRIN) - The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) has once more demanded that armed groups in the country return vehicles and other equipment looted from relief agencies during recent fighting.
(Full Story)

Renovation Works Begin At Capitol
…China Pledges Support

November 13, 2003 - The Perspective

As renovation works begin at the Capitol, the People’s Republic of China has pledged its preparedness in providing supply of office materials to enhance the process.
(Full Story)

Fighting In Buchanan

November 13, 2003 - The Perspective

Reports that filtered in the capital from the port city of Buchanan yesterday, gave a sketchy account of fighting in that political seat of Grand Bassa County.
(Full Story)

Fighters Terrorizing Bong Residents

November 13, 2003 - The Perspective

Fighters of the Liberian crisis are said to be terrorizing and subjecting residents of Bong county to severe hardship and untold sufferings.
(Full Story)

US denies Charles Taylor bounty

November 13, 2003 - BBC

Washington denies it has plans to offer a $2m bounty for the capture of Liberia's exiled former leader, Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

Sirleaf to Chair Commission on Good Governance: 'We Can't Slip Back'

Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf

November12, 2003 - Allafrica.com

As part of the Liberian peace process agreed to during negotiations earlier this year in Ghana, Gyude Bryant, who chairs Liberia's interim government, has asked Ellen Johnson Sirleaf to head a 'commission on good governance' to help monitor the transition.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Relief activities resume in Buchanan after shoot-out

November 12, 2003 - UN OCHA Integrated Regional Information Network

MONROVIA, 12 November (IRIN) - Relief agencies resumed plying the road to Liberia's second city Buchanan on Wednesday after a shootout between former government fighters and rebels on Tuesday forced them to suspend activities for 24 hours.
(Full Story)

Liberia: 10,000 displaced by skirmishes in Nimba County

November 12, 2003 - UN OCHA Integrated Regional Information Network

MONROVIA, 12 November (IRIN) - Relief agencies resumed plying the road to Liberia's second city Buchanan on Wednesday after a shootout between former government fighters and rebels on Tuesday forced them to suspend activities for 24 hours.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UN sending aid to displaced civilians in Saclepea

November 11, 2003 IRIN NEWS

MONROVIA, 11 Nov 2003 (IRIN) - The United Nations plans to send an aid convoy carrying food,blankets and other relief items to Nimba County in north-central Liberia on Thursday to help more than 10,000 people have been displaced from their homes by recent fighting, Abou Moussa, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Liberia, said.
(Full Story)

Peace a tough sell in rural Liberia

November 11, 2003 - BBC

A view of Tappeta City today - BBC

The commander of the United Nations peacekeepers in Liberia has promised to send troops back to Nimba County in the north-east after visiting there at the end of last week.
(Full Story)

Liberia in The Eyes of Others: The Land of Simple Minds, Greedy Politicians and “Undesirables” in Govt: The ICG Report

November11, 2003 - New Democrat

The Brussels-based International Crisis Group’s (ICG‘s) latest Liberia report is revealing for its findings, recommendations, observations and perception of Liberians along with their uncertain future.
(Full Story)

Grand Gedeh Assoc. urges warring factions to honor the peace agreement

November11, 2003 - Press Release

The Grand Gedeh Association in the Americas, Inc. was shocked by news of the three warring factions to the Liberian conflict walking out of the inaugural meeting of the National Commission for Disarmament,
(Full Story)

We'll Resist Kidnap Attempt On Taylor, Says Presidency

November11, 2003 - This Day (Lagos)

The presidency yesterday said it will regard as violation of territorial integrity of the nation any attempt by the United States government to sponsor a kidnap attempt on the person of former Liberian President Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

Donors Urged to Support Liberia

November 11, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The United Nations system in Liberia has underlined the need for a strong and concerted donor support for Liberia in order to ensure peace and sustained humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in the Country.
(Full Story)

Things Falling Apart At the Capitol

November 11, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

It appears that the political marriage that existed between the former Government of Liberia, Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy(LURD) and the Movement for Democracy in Liberia(MODEL) is breaking up at the National Transitional Legislative Assembly(NTLA).
(Full Story)

Liberia: 10,000 displaced by skirmishes in Nimba County

November10, 2003 - UN OCHA Integrated Regional Information Network

SACLEPEA, LIBERIA, 10 November (IRIN) - At least 10,000 civilians fleeing skirmishes between former government fighters and MODEL rebels in Nimba County in north central Liberia, have sought shelter in the relatively unscathed town of Saclepea, relief workers said on Monday.
(Full Story)

Hungry wait for Liberian peace

November 9, 2003 - BBC

Our world affairs correspondent, Mark Doyle, who has reported from Liberia many times in recent years, has returned there to see how ordinary people are coping with the aftermath of the 14-year civil war.
(Full Story)

Sao Tome's way to oil wealth

November 9, 2003 - BBC

A former Portuguese colony off the west coast of Africa, Sao Tome is one of the world's smallest and poorest countries. But as our correspondent Barnaby Phillips discovered, it is about to become a much more important place.
(Full Story)

Liberian Peacekeepers Find Dead Bodies in Deserted Towns in Nimba

November 8, 2003 -The Associated Press

TAPPETA, Liberia - The first U.N. peace missions to Liberia's rebel-held far east have found deserted towns emptied of all but looting insurgents, and terrorized civilians under rebel grip or lying rotting, dead, in the bush.
(Full Story)

Security Beefed Up Around Taylor in Calabar

November 8, 2003 -Vanguard (Lagos)

Security has been stepped up around former Liberian leader Charles Taylor's home in Calabar after the United States slapped a two million dollar bounty on his head, a source in his camp said yesterday.
(Full Story)

US 'offers Charles Taylor bounty'

November 8, 2003 - BBC

Security has been tightened around the compound in eastern Nigeria of the exiled former Liberian leader, Charles Taylor, following rumours the United States has posted a $2m bounty for his capture.
(Full Story)

Don't Undermine Liberianization Policy

November 7, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2003, it leaked to this Paper that the Office of the Chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia(NTGL) is in the process of concluding a capital intensive contract with ZYTEC ENGINEERING LIMITED, A Ghanaian firm to supply, install and program all the computers that the Executive Mansion requires.
(Full Story)

I've No Regrets for Taking Up Arms -Foreign Minister-Designate

November 7, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The man who is expected to articulate Liberia's foreign policy to the international community, rebel leader Thomas Nimley Yaya, says he has no regrets taking up arms to "liberate and defend" the Liberian people from the hands of individuals (including former President Charles Taylor) who suppressed them over the years.
(Full Story)

To Supply, Setup Computers

November 7, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

In his Inaugural Address as Chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL) Charles Gyude Bryant assured that the Liberianization policy would be the fulcrum of his domestic economic program. He also pronounced that transparency and accountability would be adhered to, and that there would be no more "business as usual".
(Full Story)

U.N. Commander Tells Liberians to Halt Fighting

November 7, 2003 - Washington Post

TAPPITA, Liberia (Reuters) - The U.N.'s top soldier in Liberia Friday urged fighters in the volatile north to lay down their guns and stop fighting as he toured the West African nation's lawless interior.
(Full Story)

War Criminals Cannot Be Pardoned Unconditionally

November 7, 2003 -The Perspective ( A letter)

Kindly allow me to be a part of the ongoing debate, by publishing my conterview to that of Mr. Jonathan J. Williams, published on your site on November 6, 2003 under the caption: In Support Of A Truth And Reconciliation Commision
(Full Story)

A Symposium: On Paradoxes, Autocracy and the Betrayal of a Nation

November 7, 2003 -The Perspective

Samuel K. Doe [1980-1990]: We came to power on April 12, 1980 to extinguish political autocracy.
(Full Story)

US Offers Reward Money For Capture of Former Liberian Leader

November 7, 2003 - Voice of America

President Bush has authorized payment of $2 million in reward money for the capture of exiled former Liberian President Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

UN maintains sanctions on Liberia

November 7, 2003 - BBC

The United Nations Security Council has decided to keep sanctions on Liberia, three months after the end of the devastating civil war
(Full Story)

UNICCO Decries Attacks and Destruction in Nimba County

November 6, 2003 - UNICCO PRESS RELEASE

The United Nimba Citizens' Council (UNICCO) is horrified by attacks on unarmed citizens resulting in deaths and massive destruction in Nimba County at the hands of forces belonging to the Movement for Democracy in Liberia
(Full Story)

Liberia's Taylor accused of looting funds in exile

November 6, 2003 - Reuters

UNITED NATIONS, Nov 6 (Reuters) - Former Liberian President Charles Taylor absconded with government money and has tried to loot revenues since he went into exile, says a U.N. panel monitoring sanctions against the West African nation.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Leader Apologizes for Role

November 6, 2003 - World AP Africa

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone - The head of Liberia (news - web sites)'s interim government apologized Thursday for his country's role in fueling a 10-year war in Sierra Leone — a gesture toward mending relations after the exile of indicted war criminal and ex-President Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

WHY ARE WE FIGHTING?

November 6, 2003 - LIMANY (Commentary)

Nations tend to see the other side’s war atrocities as systemic and indicative of their culture while their own are justified or the acts of stressed out combatants-James Bradley.
(Full Story)

Interim Leader Lifts Ban On Star Radio

November 6, 2003 - Media Institute of Southern Africa (Windhoek)

The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) and the Media Foundation of West Africa (MFWA), as a joint activity, will henceforth issue alerts, statements and appeals to highlight media freedom and wider human rights violations in West Africa.
(Full Story)

Klein Warns Against Continuing Skirmishes

November 6, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General for Liberia, Jacques Paul Klein, has warned Liberian warring factions against continuing to fight each other and committing atrocities against civilians in Nimba county.
(Full Story)

UN Peacekeepers Open Major Highway to the North

November 5, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

United Nations peacekeepers in Liberia have opened the main highway leading from the capital, Monrovia, to Sanniquelle, the provincial headquarters of Nimba county in northern Liberia near the border with Guinea and Ivory Coast, the UN's Force Commander General Daniel Opande said.
(Full Story)

U.N. to Rebuild Liberian Police Force

November 5, 2003 - The Associated Press

The United Nations plans to rebuild Liberia's police force in a bid to root out corruption and help the African nation recover from war and political upheavals, the U.N. envoy to Liberia said Wednesday
(Full Story)

UN Mission Head Klein Urges New Government to Abolish Army

November 5, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Jacques Klein, the head of the United Nations mission in Liberia, urged the country's transitional government on Wednesday to abolish the national army, saying soldiers only "play cards and plot coups."
(Full Story)

Guinea 'armed' Liberia's rebels

November 5, 2003 - BBC
New York-based watchdog Human Rights Watch has accused Guinea of supplying heavy weaponry to rebels in Liberia.
(Full Story)

Looted Liberia grinds to a halt

November 4, 2003 - BBC

Massive looting of public and private buildings during months of fighting in the Liberian capital, Monrovia, is preventing the new power-sharing administration from functioning properly.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Security Challenges

November 4, 2003 - International Crisis Group (Brussels)

Liberia faces its best chance for peace in years, but the country's prospects now depend on bold UN action. With three peacekeeping missions along the coast of West Africa (Sierra Leone, Côte d'Ivoire and now Liberia), the UN is in a unique position to drive events.
(Full Story)

SECRET KILLINGS IN LURD-CONTROLLED AREAS

November 4, 2003 - Sahara Village.com

Liberia's decade of civil war seems over, but any one venturing outside of areas under the control of the multi-national United Nations peacekeeping forces, faces the reality of a living hell in rebel land.
(Full Story)

UN fury over new Liberian clashes

November 4, 2003 - BBC

The top United Nations official in Liberia has made a blistering attack on government and rebel forces engaged in fighting in the east.
(Full Story)

Split Over Gay Bishop May Evolve Slowly

November 3, 2003 -Washington Post

Anglican leaders moved closer Monday to a permanent break with the U.S. Episcopal Church over its first openly gay bishop, but the anticipated split within the U.S. denomination will evolve more slowly as conservatives create a network of like-minded dioceses and parishes.
(Full Story)

Fighting Reported in North Liberia - Officials

November 3, 2003 -Washington Post

MONROVIA (Reuters) - Fresh fighting has broken out between government forces and Liberia's smaller rebel group in the north of the West African nation, military officials said on Monday.
(Full Story)

Fighting in Nimba

November 3, 2003 - BBC

United Nations peacekeepers are due to fly back to Liberia's Nimba County after finding evidence of fighting.
(Full Story)

THE JOURNEY FOR POWER STRUGGLE IN AN ACT OF ETHNIC VIOLENCE AND ATROCITY IN LIBERIA

Novermber 2, 2003 - Commentary

Political cleavages on tribal line within the Liberian ethnic
diversity appear to reproduce the expulsion, suppression or
extermination of other ethnic groups in Liberia.
(Full Story)

Lula embarks on African tour

President Lula of Brazil

Novermber 2, 2003 - BBC

The Brazilian President, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva - known simply as Lula - is beginning a week-long visit to Africa.
(Full Story)

Taylor Challenges Competence of International Court to Try Him

October 31, 2003 - Daily Trust (Abuja)

Former Liberian President, Mr Charles Ghankay Taylor, has said that the International War Crimes Tribunal in Sierra Leone, does not have jurisdiction to try him for war crimes in Sierra Leone..
(Full Story)

Taylor: Hearing On Preliminary Objections Begins Today in Sierra Leone

October 31, 2003 - This Day (Lagos)

Former Liberian President, Mr. Charles Taylor, currently facing charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity has filed a notice of preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the Special Court in Sierra Leone to try him.
(Full Story)

'Blood diamonds' deal under fire

October 31, 2003 - BBC

New measures aimed at curbing the trade in conflict diamonds have been criticised by non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
(Full Story)

Bryant Visits Conakry to Discuss Security

October 31, 2003 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Liberia as you are well aware, continues to be ravaged by civil war for the past fourteen (14) years, starting December 24, 1989 to August 11, 2003, when its former President, Charles Taylor, departed Monrovia for exile in Nigeria.
(Full Story)

Liberia After Charles Taylor: Prospects for Peace and Security in the West African Sub-Region

October 31, 2003 - New Democrat

Liberia as you are well aware, continues to be ravaged by civil war for the past fourteen (14) years, starting December 24, 1989 to August 11, 2003, when its former President, Charles Taylor, departed Monrovia for exile in Nigeria.
(Full Story)

Bishop Darlington Johnson &The Other Side of Charles Taylor

October 31, 2003 - New Democrat

The BBC’s Robin White, perhaps the best-known journalist when it comes to interviewing Charles since the 1990s, recently reminded Sierra Leone’s President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah that Taylor is a good performer” likely to change his mind about dumping him in prison for war crimes.
(Full Story)

US "No Safe Haven for War Criminals": Is The Curtain Closing-in on US Harboured Suspects?

October 31, 2003 - New Democrat

News reporst quote officials in Minnesota that a self-confessed Liberian rebel-killer has been deported after admitting he killed between 20 to 30 people during the country’s war.
(Full Story)

Taylor appeals war crimes charge

Charles Taylor of Calabar, Nigeria

October 31, 2003 - BBC

A United Nations-backed court in Sierra Leone is due to begin hearing appeals against their indictments from some of those accused of war crimes.
(Full Story )

Mother Liberia! A Tribute to Our Country

October 29, 2003 - LiberiaOrbit

Land of my birth, childhood, and nativity
(Full Story)

Rise of The Fortune Hunters

October 29, 2003 - New Democrat

Fortune hunting is now an acceptable facet of Liberian politics, be it with political groupings called parties, or rebels singing democracy they hardly appreciate or understand.
(Full Story)

Money Needed to Reconstruct Liberia

October 29, 2003 - The Perspective

have just read the article by Abdoulage W. Dukele posted on The Liberian Connection Web site intitled: The UN and Liberia: Good Intentions and Stark Realities.
(Full Story)

E-Mail Fraud Alert

October 29, 2003 - The Perspective

Criminals purporting to be relatives of African dictators have been circulating Spam e-mails since the late 90’s. These e-mails target companies and individuals.
(Full Story)

The Emerging Liberia: A Responsible Government

October 29, 2003 - The Perspective

The current standoff in Liberia between the chair of the transitional regime and the rebels threatens to derail the peace process in which the UN has placed so much faith.
(Full Story)

Corruption at the Central Bank of Liberia

October 28, 2003 - The Perspective

Accept our sincerest congratulations on your assumption of this challenging assignment. Every Liberian should be aware of what this task requires.
(Full Story)

Opposition leaders in Taylor’s Ring of Corruption?

October 28, 2003 - The Perspective

It is common knowledge that Charles G. Taylor was corrupt. Corruption is however a system, that involves many others.
(Full Story)

Liberian Leader Wants Taylor on Trial

October 28, 2003 - AP-Africa

Please accept my congratulations for your election to the chairmanship of the National Transitional Government of Liberia. The task of restoring lasting peace, national reconstruction, and rehabilitation of Liberia will require the collective good will of all Liberians.
(Full Story)

LURD Reopens Po River Bridge, Gets UN Warning

October 28, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The Liberians United for Reconciliation and Development (LURD) rebel group said on Tuesday it had lifted a three-day ban on relief vehicles moving out of Monrovia on the main road west to Tubmanburg and the Sierra Leone border.
(Full Story)

UNHCR Sends Assessment Team to Nimba County, at Last...

October 28, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The UN refugee agency (UNHCR) said on Tuesday it had sent an assessment mission by helicopter to Sanniquiellie, the rebel-held headquarters of Nimba County in north central Liberia, close to the Ivorian border town of Danane.
(Full Story)

Save Liberia: No Rewards For Bad Guys!

October 27, 2003 - The Perspective

The current standoff in Liberia between the chair of the transitional regime and the rebels threatens to derail the peace process in which the UN has placed so much faith.
(Full Story)

More confusion Over Appointments In Transitional Government In Liberia

October 27, 2003 - The Perspective

More confusion seems to be brewing as various stakeholders to the Accra Peace Agreement continue to make conflicting nominations to fill slots within the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL).
(Full Story)

A Government of Cats & Mousses & Threats to Disarmament

October 26, 2003 - New Democrat

More signs of disintegration in the formation of the transitional regime are emerging with worrisome implications.
(Full Story)

Liberian Rebels Not Ready to Give Up Arms

October 25, 2003 -Associated Press

TUBMANBURG, Liberia - Machine guns. Rocket launchers. Mortars by the crate. An hour's drive from the country's newly peaceful capital, Liberia's rebels remain locked, loaded and battle-ready at their headquarters in the bush.
(Full Story)

What Liberians Should Sow Now to Harvest in 2005

October 24, 2003 - New Democrat

Reading from the various sources of information on the reactions of Liberians to the incoming Transitional GOL, I can't but draw one conclusion: Liberians are disgusted and frustrated with what is emerging as the component of Bryant led transitional regime.
(Full Story)

The ”King” in his Falling Kingdom: LURD’s Conneh’s Dilemma

October 24, 2003 - New Democrat

Denied the presidency he dreamt, Sekou Damate Conneh, the former tax collector and used car dealer making history, is calling the shots in Monrovia. He wants Charles Gyude Bryant to be kicked out.
(Full Story)

Crying for Help: Jewel Taylor’s $30m Brother” Seeks Investors

October 24, 2003 - New Democrat

Pro-Liberian lobbyists in the US may be praying to their gods for the US Congress can approve about $200m in reconstruction, but there seems to be no shortage of money in Taylor’s family circles
(Full Story)

LURD Rebels to Pull out of Gov't?

October 24, 2003 -BBC

Liberia's largest rebel faction has demanded that the leader of the power-sharing government step down.
(Full Story)

Working With The Hand We Have Been Dealt

October 24, 2003 - New Democrat

The die is cast, the deck of cards was stacked, the aces and other face-cards have been dealt to the gun toters, right before our very eyes, as the brokers of peace sought the easy way out through appeasement, and there was virtually nothing we could do, but to take what is placed at our end of the table.
(Full Story)

A Look at War Crimes Tribunals Worldwide

December 5, 2003 -Washington Post

Iraq's Governing Council plans to create a war crimes tribunal to try members of Saddam Hussein's former regime for crimes against humanity. Some similar tribunals worldwide:
(Full Story)

Hunting the illegal arms traffickers

December 5, 2003 - BBC

As part of a UN initiative to enforce arms embargoes, weapons expert Alex Vines uncovered an illegal deal in Liberia. Here he explains why it's so difficult to stop illicit gun trafficking around the world.
(Full Story)

Aids threatens Namibian tribe's traditions

September 22, 2003 - BBC

Namibia's Himba people have over the years selfishly preserved their customs and traditions, but these same cherished values now threaten to wipe them out.
(Full Story)

Death after Kenyan wedding row

September 20, 2003 - BBC

The mother of the 25-year-old Kenyan man who married a 67-year-old woman on Friday has died after suffering suspected high blood pressure, only three days after publicly denouncing the marriage .
(Full Story)

How Charles Taylor Diverted $100m

September 20, 2003 - Vanguard (Lagos)

CHARLES Taylor, for six years the warlord president of Liberia, stole or diverted nearly $100 million of his country's wealth, leaving it the poorest nation on earth, a close review of government records and interviews with senior government officials and UN investigators shows.
(Full Story)

The United Nations Security Council has unanimously approved a force of up to 15,000 peacekeepers for Liberia.

September 20, 2003

The resolution, proposed by the United States, sets up a UN mission in Liberia to monitor last month's peace agreement between the government and rebels.
(Full Story)

A QUICK ACTION BY THE UNITED NATIONS IS VITAL TO RESTORING PEACE AND SECURITY IN LIBERIA

September 19, 2003

In spite of the defeat and ousting of the Taylor government by the international community, and the presence of the international peacekeepers on the ground, sustained peace, return of democracy and internal stability in Liberia are providing far from certain or smooth.
(Full Story)

Liberia: How to Make the Peace Deal Work

September 19, 2003 - The Perspective

Not all gutter rats were born in the gutter and therefore not all gutter rats will die in the gutter." - The Secretariat/LURD National Headquarters, Voinjama City, Lofa County, Republic of Liberia
(Full Story)

MODEL, Lift the Siege on Buchanan

September 19, 2003 - The Perspective

On yesterday, Sept. 17/03, while rushing through some news items, I came across an article critical of LURD's threat to disengaging from the on-going peace process in Liberia should it not be allowed to have it's way. This news article, which was attributed to the MODEL organization further said that LURD must accept the reality that the war on the Liberian people was over.
(Full Story)

U.N. Approves 15,000 Peacekeepers for Liberia

September 19, 2003 - Reuters

The U.N. Security Council on Friday unanimously approved some 15,000 peacekeepers for Liberia to help rebuild the West African nation and stop marauding militias, robberies and rape.
(Full Story)

US not considering sending offshore marines back to Liberia

September 19, 2003 - AP NEWS
The United States will not send troops stationed off the coast of Liberia (news - web sites) back on shore, despite clashes in the town of Kakata, 50 kilometers (30 miles) north of Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Relief Operations to Resume Throughout Southeastern Liberia

September 18, 2003 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations will resume full-scale relief efforts in rebel-controlled areas of southern and eastern Liberia after the country's new Transitional Government is sworn in on 14 October, Moses Okello, the head of the UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) in Liberia said on Thursday.
(Full Story)

Taylor Forming Alliance with MODEL to Sell Buchanan's Iron Ore Stockpile?

September 18, 2003 -The Perspective

An unscrupulous scheme tele-guided by Charles Taylor from Calabar, Nigeria, is underway to sell 800,000 metric tons of iron ore stockpiled at the Port of Buchanan for a staggering amount of 5.6 million dollars and convert same to the personal use of him and his cohorts.
(Full Story)

UN sends food to tens of thousands for first time in months

September 17, 2003 - UN NEWS Service

The United Nations has sent food to tens of thousands of people in the rebel-held Liberian city of Buchanan for the first time since heavy fighting erupted between the government and rebels earlier this year, but hundreds of thousands more in the West African country have received no humanitarian aid for months.
(Full Story)

Can the New Liberian Transitional Government Succeed?

September 17, 2003 - The Perspective

If everything goes as planned, on October 15th, 2003, Mr. Gyude Bryant, the Chairman of Liberian Action Party will be inaugurated as the 5th transitional leader of Liberia since 1990.
(Full Story)

Taylor Breaks Asylum Rules - FG Reads Riot Act

September 17, 2003 -Daily Champion (Lagos)

FOLLOWING the alleged meddlesomeness of the former Liberian President, Mr. Charles Taylor, in the affairs of the war-torn country, Federal Government yesterday warned him to abide strictly by the agreements on which it offered him asylum in Nigeria
(Full Story)

Mercy mission to Liberian city

September 16, 2003 - BBC

MODEL soldiers in Buchanan

A convoy of trucks have departed for Liberia's second largest city, Buchanan, where food is urgently needed for thousands of refugees
(Full Story)

UN Action Needed to End Rights Abuses

September 16, 2003 -Human Rights Watch (Washington, DC)

Liberian government forces and rebel fighters are committing grave human rights abuses while peacekeeping forces remain inadequate, Human Rights Watch said today in a briefing paper.
(Full Story)

Ecomil Says It Will Only Deploy Troops Close to Capital

September 16, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The West African peacekeeping force in Liberia lacks the capacity to deploy throughout the rebel-held north and east of the country and will focus on strengthening its current positions nearer the capital, Monrovia, the force commander said on Monday.
(Full Story)

Top UN Envoy Calls For Sufficient Personnel And Funds To Resurrect Liberia

September 16, 2003 - United Nations (NewYork)

Seeking 15,000 United Nations peacekeepers and 900 police to bring war-shattered Liberia back from "hellish limbo," the top UN envoy for the West African country appealed to the international committee today to commit the resources and personnel needed to end the "cycle of brutality, violence, corruption and instability.
(Full Story)

Liberia Was Exploited, Taylor Emptied Treasury --Jacques Klein Tells Security Council

September 15, 2003 - BBC

The United Nations Special Representative in Liberia Jacques Klein last Friday said Liberia was exploited due to poor leadership. He said former President Charles Taylor was his own treasury, meaning whatever Liberia had went to him and when Taylor left the money also went with him adding that the new government had been left with an emptied treasure
(Full Story)

Justice Minister Taken to Task Over Death Probe of Govt Officials

September 15, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Widows of the Deputy Public Works Minister Isaac Vaye and Deputy National Security Minister John Yormie have made public, a letter under the apparent signature of Justice Minister Koboi Johnson, acknowledging receipt of an inquiry regarding the whereabouts of their husbands who had been picked up by state security officer
(Full Story)

Army chief takes over in Bissau

September 14, 2003 - BBC

General Verissimo Correia Seabre has declared himself president of Guinea-Bissau after seizing power in a coup.
(Full Story)

Peacekeepers reach Liberian port

September 14, 2003 - BBC

West African peacekeepers have moved south of the Liberian capital Monrovia, reaching the war-shattered country's second-largest city.
(Full Story)

LURD Threatens to Quit Government Over Jobs Row

September 12, 2003 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) rebel movement has threatened to pull out of a broad-based transitional government that is due to take power next month, claiming there are plans to deny it key government posts."
(Full Story)

Illiteracy Rate On the Rise - 35% Literate, War Blamed

September 12, 2003 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Education Minister Evelyn Kandakai has disclosed that out of the 2.7 million population of Liberia, only 35 percent is literate.
(Full Story)

Reminiscing the Accra Peace Talks - the Hitches, Fun, Social Interaction (part One)

September 12, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

After nearly three months of hard negotiations amongst Liberian stakeholders including parties to the armed conflict, the Accra Peace Talks finally produced the much needed results, an 'all-inclusive' post-war transitional administration headed by a Monrovia businessman Charles Gyude Bryant.
(Full Story)

From the Agreement - a Guide for Good Governance

September 12, 2003 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

At the recent Liberian peace talks in Accra, Ghana, good governance was one of key issues of discussions amongst the delegates.
(Full Story)

Malaria Cases Among Marines Climb to 51

September 11, 2003 - Washington Post

The number of malaria cases among U.S. Marines serving in Liberia rose again Thursday, with 51 showing symptoms of the illness, defense officials said.
(Full Story)

Ghana slave children go home

September 11, 2003 - BBC

Hundreds of children sold by their parents to fishermen in Ghana have been reunited with their families.
(Full Story)

Peacekeepers Deploy in Volatile Central Region

September 11, 2003 - N Integrated Regional Information Networks

Thousands of displaced civilians, who fled renewed fighting between government forces and rebels a week ago in central Liberia, began returning to their camps following the deployment of West African peacekeepers in Bong County on Wednesday.
(Full Story)

Belgian police tried over asylum death

September 10, 2003 - BBC

Twenty-year-old Semira Adamu died during attempts to expel her from Belgium in 1998.
(Full Story)

International Crisis Group Makes Recommendations to the UN Security Council

September 10, 2003 - The Perspective

As the UN Security Council prepares the mandate of the peacekeeping operation for Liberia, I welcome this opportunity to provide some ideas about the elements it needs to contain if it is to effectively help consolidate peace in Liberia and throughout West Africa.
(Full Story)

Liberia: UN Humanitarian Envoy Calls for End to Sporadic Fighting in Northeast

September 10, 2003 - United Nations (New York)

The United Nations Special Humanitarian Coordinator in Liberia today called on combatants inside the country's interior region to stop fighting, as sporadic clashes between government forces and rebel militia continue to threaten civilians and relief workers and impede aid distribution.
(Full Story)

Fighters Loot Only Referral Hospital in Central Liberia

September 10, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Government fighters who were encircled in Salala, 90 km north of the capital, Monrovia, by rebel advances south and north of their positions on Tuesday, looted vehicles and drugs from Phebe, the only referral medical center operating in central Liberia.
(Full Story)

Stop Giving Us Food, Liberians Beg Aid Agencies As Fighting Continues

September10, 2003 - Daily Champion (Lagos)

WAR-weary and starving Liberians have pleaded with international aid agencies to stop giving them stockpiles of food as the items could attract attacks at them by rebels.
(Full Story)

Aid Agencies to Access Rural Liberia Via Neighbouring Countries

September 10, 2003 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Relief agencies plan to reach- through Cote d'Ivoire and Guinea-thousands of civilians in urgent need of help in areas of war-torn Liberia that are far away from the capital, Monrovia, and difficult to reach due to widespread insecurity and bad roads.
(Full Story)

Liberia displaced to quit Monrovia

September 10, 2003 - BBC

The first groups from among at least 35,000 displaced people currently living at schools in the Liberian capital, Monrovia, are to begin returning to camps outside the city, the UN in Monrovia has said.
(Full Story)

West African Peacekeepers Fail to Deploy Outside Monrovia

September 9, 2003 - Vanguard (Lagos)

West African peacekeepers who were to begin deploying northeast of the Liberian capital Monrovia yesterday called off the troop movement, reporting clashes between government and former rebel forces in the area.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Ship Registry Comes in for Scrutiny By UN

September 9, 2003 - Business Day (Johannesburg)

LIBERIA, once the shipping world's number one flag of convenience, is coming under international pressure to clean up its maritime business as part of efforts to rebuild the country after more than a decade of civil war.
(Full Story)

Peacekeepers secure Liberian town

September 9, 2003 -BBC

West African peacekeepers in the Liberian town of Kakata say they have the situation under control, following fighting between government troops and rebels.
(Full Story)

My Impression of Jacques Klein ­ UN Special Representative to Liberia

September 9, 2003 -The News (Monrovia)

Very seldom do I hear diplomats making robust pronouncements or utterances in their line of duty, not when they had hardly settled down on their new assignments. My dominant impression therefore about heads of foreign missions to Liberia has been of pleasantries and moderate comments of caution. Most heads of foreign missions are more keen on fostering and cementing ties with the host country than wanting to risk being seen as jeopardizing relations.
(Full Story)

Premium Must Be Placed On Good Governance

September 8, 2003 -Washington Post

LIBERIANS HAVE ONCE again negotiated amongst themselves a settlement for lasting peace and stability, following six years of political and economic crisis and four years of armed rebellion against the government.
(Full Story)

Explosion in West Point - Commissioner Expresses Security Concern

September 9, 2003 -The News (Monrovia)

Charles Taylor used fear, patronage and state monopolies to control what diplomats and business leaders estimate amounted to 90 percent of Liberia's economy - everything from imported rice to diamonds, timber and lucrative shipping registry fees.
(Full Story)

Country Needs 900 International Police Officers, UN Envoy Says

September 8, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations Secretary General's Special Representative to Liberia, Jacques Klein, has said that 900 international police officers are needed to help train and rebuild the Liberian police force.
(Full Story)

Taylor: Liberian Dollars Flood Calabar

September 8, 2003 - Vanguard (Lagos)

The presence of ex-Liberian President, Charles Taylor, his enlarged family members and aides who are currently on asylum in Calabar, Cross River State capital has brought an influx of Liberian currency "Liberian dollar" into the town.
(Full Story)

Military Fund: UN Accuses Taylor of Stealing $3m

September 8, 2003 - Vanguard (Lagos)

THE United Nations special envoy to Liberia, Jacques Klein, yesterday accused disgraced former president Charles Taylor of pocketing some three million dollars given to him by an Asian country to pay the wages of his troops. An Asian government, which Klein did not name, gave Taylor three million dollars to pay his soldiers, including his elite presidential bodyguard, the Anti-Terrorist Unit (ATU), Klein said.
(Full Story)

Press conference by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Coordinator of United Nations Operations in Liberia Jacques Paul Klein - Monrovia

September 8, 2003 -UN News Center

Good morning and welcome. I want to compliment you for the good work many of you are doing to try to get the message to the public that the war is over and the various belligerent factions should honour the peace accord.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Taylor Won't Give Up Empire

September 8, 2003 -Washington Post

Charles Taylor used fear, patronage and state monopolies to control what diplomats and business leaders estimate amounted to 90 percent of Liberia's economy - everything from imported rice to diamonds, timber and lucrative shipping registry fees.
(Full Story)

Chairman Bryant appoints a thirty-member Transition Committee

September 8, 2003 - The Perspective

Gyude Bryant, the Chairman-elect of the National Transitional Government of Liberian (NTGL), has appointed a 30-member transitional committee. Chairman Gyude Bryant was selected by the Liberian warring factions to head the interim government of Liberia.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Taylor Won't Give Up Empire

September 8, 2003 -Washington Post

Charles Taylor used fear, patronage and state monopolies to control what diplomats and business leaders estimate amounted to 90 percent of Liberia's economy - everything from imported rice to diamonds, timber and lucrative shipping registry fees.
(Full Story)

Green light for Liberia deployment

September 8, 2003 - BBC

The first big deployment of West African peacekeepers outside the Liberian capital, Monrovia, is due to take place on Monday.
(Full Story)

Liberia's sad normality

September 7, 2003 - BBC

It started as a trickle. A few hundred displaced people, their belongings on their heads, trekking south towards the Liberian capital, Monrovia.
(Full Story)

MODEL Distributes "Spoils" of War?

Septermber 6, 2003 - New Democrat

The Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL), one of the three rebel groups that carved up government ministries and public corporations as spoils of war at the recent peace conference in Ghana, is said to have selected Eugene Dean Wilson, the spokesman for the rebel group, as Liberia’s Foreign Minister to serve in the incoming interim government.
(Full Story)

Profile of Moses Zlah Blah, President

President Moses Z. Blah

September 5, 2003 - New Democrat

The name Moses stands virtually synonymous in the Christendom to a redeemer. Indeed in the context of historical implications, one cannot sit by and let the recent political drama that saw the exit from power of Liberia’s once flamboyant President, Charles Taylor goes without dissecting the redemptive epitome in the names Moses and Liberia.
(Full Story)

Press Conference by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General

September 5, 2003 - United Nations, New York

Good morning and welcome. I want to compliment you for the good work many of you are doing to try to get the message to the public that the war is over and the various belligerent factions should honour the peace accord.
(Full Story)

Africans dying for 'greener' Europe

September 5, 2003 - BBC, Rabat

Sarah crossed over to Spain one month ago. Heavily pregnant, she set off at night on an over-crowded boat and spent 13 hours on a rough sea.
(Full Story)

Obasanjo, Taylor Hold Secret Talks

September 5, 2003 - This Day, (Lagos)

Exiled Liberian former president, Charles Taylor yesterday visited President Olusegun Obasanjo in his Ota, Ogun State country home amid tight security.
(Full Story)

AU Central Organ Examines Report On Somalia, Liberia

September 5, 2003 -Addis Tribune (Addis Ababa)

The Central Organ of the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management and Resolution held its 94th ordinary session at ambassadorial level in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, last Friday.
(Full Story)

Thousands Flee fresh Rebel Attack

September 5, 2003 - Daily Trust (Abuja)

Several thousands of displaced people who had been living in a string of camps near the town of Totota, 80 kilometres northwest of Monrovia, have been fleeing fighting in the centre of Liberia, heading towards the capital, Monrovia.
(Full Story)

'Why Taylor's Stay in the Country is Illegal'

September 5, 2003 - Vanguard (Lagos)

There are many reasons why Charles Taylor's stay in Nigeria is illegal and immoral. Some of the reasons are political, some moral or ethical, and others legal. I will highlight the legal reasons.
(Full Story)

Taking plastic surgery to Nigeria

September 5, 2003 - BBC

She is spreading the word about plastic surgery in Nigeria which is a largely conservative and traditional society.
(Full Story)

Fleeing Liberians urged to return

September 5, 2003 - BBC

A team from the Ecomil peace force went to the area on Thursday to investigate reports of fighting between rebels and government forces but found no evidence of the clashes, said the Ecomil chief of staff, Theophilus Tawiah.
(Full Story)

Exodus From Fighting Around Totota Continues

September 4, 2003 -United Nations (New York)

Tens of thousands of frightened civilians continued to flee on foot from a fresh outbreak of fighting aroung the town of Totota in central Liberia on Thursday.
(Full Story)

UN Rushes Emergency Aid to Over 50,000 People Fleeing Fresh Fighting in Central Liberia

September 4, 2003 -United Nations (New York)

With United Nations relief agencies rushing to provide food, clean water and other basic necessities, more than 50,000 terrified people are on the move in central Liberia, fleeing their homes amid fears of new rebel assaults on towns and villages near Totota.
(Full Story)

Peacekeepers Look Into Liberian Fighting

September 4, 2003 - World AP Africa

West African peacekeepers headed to a region north of the capital Thursday to investigate reports of new clashes that have forced tens of thousands of civilians to flee despite a peace deal
(Full Story)

Case of Missing Jetliner Unsolved

September 3, 2003 - Washington Post

After months of scouring Africa, U.S. investigators have all but concluded that the 727 jetliner that mysteriously disappeared after departing from an Angolan airport in May crashed or was taken to a remote hangar to be stripped for parts.
(Full Story)

Charles Taylor: Matters Arising

September 2, 2003 - Daily Trust, (Abuja)

Nigeria's image in the international sphere may have been redeemed a little bit with the recent granting of political asylum to former Liberian President, Mr. Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

Obasanjo Gets Hero's Welcome in Monrovia

September 2, 2003 - Vanguard, Lagos

TENS of thousands of Liberians cheered Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo as he drove through the capital yesterday, applauding a leader who has played a central role in ending the bloodshed on Monrovia's streets.
(Full Story)

Cholera Epidemic Hits New Peak As Chlorination of Wells Starts

September 2, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Info Networksl

The number of new cholera cases reported in the Liberian capital Monrovia peaked at more than 1,200 a week in mid-August, but has since started to decline, Omar Khatib, the World Health Organization (WHO) representative in the country said on Monday.
(Full Story)

Briton Released, But Thousands Still Held By MODEL

September 2, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Info Networksl

Western diplomats have evacuated the British manager of a logging company in Liberia, who was among thousands of displaced civilians prevented from leaving the rebel-held city of Buchanan.
(Full Story)

Amnesty International Seeks Taylor's Arrest

September 2, 2003 - This Day, Lagos

The Amnesty International Group has given the Federal Government an option of either ordering the immediate arrest and prosecution of the erstwhile Liberian President, Charles Taylor or hand him over to the Special Court which had earlier indicted him for war crime offences, for prosecution, adding that failure to do so would amount to a breach of its obligation under international law.
(Full Story)

Two Years for an Interim: Too Short or Too Long?

September 2, 2003 - The Perspective

According to the Accra Peace Agreement on Liberia, the Interim Government has two years within which to set the stage for elections. Some Liberians think that is not sufficient time for all that there is to be done. Well, it all depends whether or not the interim government would be working in the best interest of the Liberian people.
(Full Story)

A Conversation with Dr. Amos C. Sawyer

September 2, 2003 - The Perspective

Dr. Amos C. Sawyer
In 1979, as a professor and Dean of Liberia College at the University of Liberia, Dr. Amos C. Sawyer posed the greatest challenge - both legally and politically to the one-party system of the True Whig Party by presenting himself as an independent candidate for the office of Mayor of Monrovia. The contest never took place because of the Samuel K. Doe military coup of April 1980.
(Full Story)

General Praises U.S. Moves in Liberia

September 2, 2003 -Washington Post

Peacekeeping in Liberia, led by West African troops and supported by a relatively small U.S. force, is likely to have a lasting, positive impact on the region, a senior U.S. general said Tuesday.
(Full Story)

U.S. Seeks Missing American in Liberia

September 2, 2003 -Washington Post

The U.S. Embassy is trying to determine the fate of an American citizen of Lebanese descent missing since July in former rebel territory, officials said Tuesday.
(Full Story)

“Is Your Brother There?” The Shellinf of Monrovia

August 31, 2003 -New Democrat

Isaac Tonde will never be the same man again, even if he had fulfilled his dream of being an excellent national soccer player. All he must live with is the agony and pain in helplessness. Request to doctors to give him death instead of a fruitless life was rejected.
(Full Story)

“Is Your Brother There?” The Shellinf of Monrovia

August 31, 2003 -New Democrat

Isaac Tonde will never be the same man again, even if he had fulfilled his dream of being an excellent national soccer player. All he must live with is the agony and pain in helplessness. Request to doctors to give him death instead of a fruitless life was rejected.
(Full Story)

“Is Your Brother There?” The Shellinf of Monrovia

August 31, 2003 -New Democrat

Isaac Tonde will never be the same man again, even if he had fulfilled his dream of being an excellent national soccer player. All he must live with is the agony and pain in helplessness. Request to doctors to give him death instead of a fruitless life was rejected.
(Full Story)

The Last Looting and Vendetta

August 31, 2003 -New Democrat

The frenzy of massive looting in Liberia, with border points now swamped with cars, computers, furniture, etc., for the regional markets, targeted not only the ordinary people, but other more deserving victims— members of the clan that had institutionalised theft and looting as a national sport.
(Full Story)

Anarchy in a Divided City: "Are You Monkey?"

August 31, 2003 -New Democrat

There is no government”, is a common conclusion now in Monrovia as residents await the arrival of Gyude Bryant convoy. The city itself may be a reunited city, but not for all. Across the bridge into the rebel-held territory, the password is, “Are you Monkey?”
(Full Story)

“Mr. President’s” Extended Maritime Hand

August 31, 2003 - New Democrat

How Charles Taylor sustains his lavish lifestyle in exile is becoming an interesting concern, all because of his remaining influence on resources as the clock clicks towards 14 October when it officially ends. With his 50 mouths to feed and entertain in Calabar, every penny counts.
(Full Story)

Wave of Ivory Coast arrests

August 29, 2003 - BBC

The plot has threatened the future of a shaky power-sharing agreement supposed to end last year's civil war.
(Full Story)

Peacekeepers reach Liberian city

August 29, 2003 - BBC

Civilians and refugees lined the streets to cheer the convoy of more than 20 vehicles, 118 km from the peacekeepers' base in the capital, Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Blah's Redmption

August 29, 2003 - New Democrat

Signs of emerging from the dust of death and anarchy under Charles Taylor’s murderous feet are slowly shining, and those who doubted the all-time truth that Liberia’s woes were tied to his insatiable taste for crude wealth, should begin to accept the truth.
(Full Story)

UN Envoy in Côte d'Ivoire to Bolster Peace Process

August 29, 2003 - United Nations, New York

Continuing his tour of West Africa to help bolster Liberia's peace process, the top United Nations envoy for the war-torn country is in Côte d'Ivoire today to discuss the possibility of opening up humanitarian corridors so that desperately needed food, clean water and medicines are readily available.
(Full Story)

Banks And Sierra Leone Border Reopen

August 29, 2003 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Small signs are emerging that life in the Liberian capital Monrovia is beginning to return to normal following the signing of a peace agreement on 18 August aimed at ending 14 years of civil war.
(Full Story)

ECOWAS Urges UN to Lift Liberia Sanctions

August 29, 2003 - Allafrica.com

A senior African representative urged the UN Security Council, Wednesday to lift its sanctions against Liberia so the country's transitional government can begin to "function effectively."
(Full Story)

Transitional Gov't Chairman Rules Out War Crimes Tribunal

August 27, 2003 -Concord Times (Freetown)

The chairman of Liberia's new transitional government has warned that there is no provision under the recently signed peace agreement for a war crimes tribunal, despite longstanding demands from Liberian and international rights groups that the perpetrators of violence should be indicted.
(Full Story)

Taylor Influences Politics Through Cellphone

August 27, 2003 -Concord Times (Freetown)

Jacque Klien, UN envoy to Liberia revealed again in Freetown Sunday evening that Taylor is still influencing Liberia politics, from exile.
(Full Story)

And Now The Scavengers Descend: Mrs. Sirleaf Belated Cry

August 27, 2003 -New Democrat

Oppositiion leader Mrs. Ellen Johnson is quoted as saying the baptised Liberian peace agreement is an open door to greater theft. Looking at the tragic state of the country, with the capital littered with looted goods openly sold and rural areas in waste, the question is, what is left to steal? There is plenty.
(Full Story)

MODEL DENIES MASSACRE IN BAHN, NIMBA COUNTY

August 27, 2003 - MODEL PRESS RELEASE

MODEL wishes to categorically state that it is unaware of any massacre occurring in Bahn, Nimba County as reported by Benjamin Yeaten.
(Full Story)

US condemns Liberia fighting

August 27, 2003 - BBC

Thousands of civilians have been fleeing a new advance by Lurd rebels in north-eastern Nimba County, a stronghold of former President Charles Taylor and one of the few areas still under government control.
(Full Story)

Liberian Capital Calm But Situation in Countryside 'Precarious' - UN

August 27, 2003 - The United Nations

With a fragile peace accord holding and a slight increase in the overall security in Liberia, life is slowly returning to normal inside war-ravaged Monrovia, but the United Nations today said it remained concerned about thousands of people still struggling for survival beyond the capital city's limits - and the reach of relief agencies.
(Full Story)

Taylor’s Men Sell Liberia’s South Embassy

August 27, 2003 -New Democrat

beria’s Commissioner for Maritime Affairs, Benoni Urey, and Gerard Cooper, war crimes indicted former President Charles Taylor’s confidante, have been linked to the selling of the Liberian Government building in South Africa, according to Mail& Guardian of South Africa
(Full Story)

Liberia's women killers

August 26, 2003 - BBC l

Mortars are my favourite weapon," says the leader of a group of Liberian women rebel fighters - the Women's Artillery Commandos (WAC).
(Full Story)

unicco seeks intervention of world leaders in crisis in nimba county

August 26, 2003 - UNICCO-National

The purpose of this instrument is two-fold. First, on behalf of the citizens
of Nimba County residing in the Americas and my fellow Liberians, I take this opportunity to acknowledge your leadership in salvaging Liberia from further bloodletting..
(Full Story)

'Many dead in Liberian massacre'

August 25, 2003 - BBC

Nimba Citizens in Bahn on the run for their lives.

Liberia Broadcasting System said the attacks in Bahn, Nimba County were carried out by rebels from the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (Model).
(Full Story)

Rebels commit atrocities in nimba

August 24, 2003 -CNN

Liberian rebels have burned down villages and attacked residents in the northeast of the country, threatening to cause a new humanitarian crisis.
(Full Story)

oh if i had known..

August 24, 2003 -BBC

I have heard that Mr. Charles Taylor has resigned from
The presidency and gone in exile to save Liberia from
Further devastation; oh if I had known, I would have done
Likewise for my country; I wanted to resign and abscond
But I was misled by my own people.
(Full Story)

Another Nimba Citizen Killed?

August 24, 2003 - Blehsue

UNICCO Digest received unconfirmed reports this morning that a medical doctor of Nimba descent has been killed by the rebel forces in Buchanan City.
(Full Story)

the liberianPeace Agreement

August 24, 2003 - US Peace Institute

( Full Text of Peace Agreement)

My experience of Idi Amin

Idi Amin, one of Africa's worst dictators

August 24, 2003 -BBC

He seized power in 1971 and subjected Uganda to a reign of terror, ordering the killing of hundreds of thousands of people and expelling the country's Asian community.
(Full Story)

Sierra Leone players disappear

August 24, 2003 -BBC

The Sierra Leone team - knocked out in the group stages of the tournament - left the Nordic country without the 12 players and two officials after they failed to turn up at the airport.
(Full Story)

Nigerian neighbours welcome Taylor

August 24, 2003 -BBC

Not known as a man who shuns press attention, he is keeping a low profile and the affluent district where he and his entourage have been provided with new homes is heavily protected by armed police units.
(Full Story)

"History" and Neutrality: Signals from The Accra Selections

August 24, 2003 -New Democrat

The western media have adopted another sound byte on Liberia’s new interim president: “he is neutral”, thus the rebels’ perfect choice for Liberia. The rebels, on the other hand, say he has "no history" with them. So they like him.
(Full Story)

Praise Mongers Become Crucifiers
of The Tyrant in Absentia

August 24, 2003 -New Democrat

It is that typical Liberian syndrome—hailing a tyrant when he is standing tall as the unchallenged the provider of bread, and crucifying him when he is down. So it was with Samuel Doe. Some of the ministers, who never resigned, and never protested his barbarities, would later emerge with lengthy narratives of his evils. So it is already with Charles Taylor, less than two weeks off the scene.
(Full Story)

Bryant, The War Criminals and General Amnesty

August 23, 2003 -New Democrat

If the UN Human Rights Commission makes good on its word, then the basis for conflict with Liberia’s new interim regime is emerging. The Commission, after a report detailing horrendous human righst abuses in Liberia, ruled that there are grounds for a war crimes tribunal.
(Full Story)

unicco Minnesota's position on crimes against humanity in Liberia

August 23, 2003 - UNICCO Minnesota

We the citizens of Nimba County, Republic of Liberia, residing in the United States of America, in the State of Minnesota, out of continuous frustration and extreme disappointment over the killing of Liberians and Nimba citizens in particular over the years hereby, resolve to express our concern over these wanton killings and destruction of properties.
(Full Story)

Liberia's New Leader Wants Amnesty, Not Trials

August 22, 2003 - Reuters

Liberia's leader-to-be said on Thursday he would not pursue anyone for civil war atrocities but instead wanted a general amnesty to exorcise the ghosts of nearly 14 years of bloodshed.
(Full Story)

200 Taylor's Dependants Flood Calabar

August 22, 2003 - Vanguard, (Lagos)

NO fewer than 200 of ex-president Charles Taylor of Liberia's dependants who flew into Calabar, Cross River State, yesterday, have been diverted to Akwa Ibom State, apparently on account of the shortage of accommodation in the three lodges as well as the presidential lodge reserved for the man and his relatives.
(Full Story)

UN Team Arrives to Survey Needs of Proposed Peacekeeping Force

August 22, 2003 - The United Nations

A United Nations assessment team arrived today in Monrovia for a first-hand look at security and humanitarian conditions inside the war-wrecked Liberian capital, aiming to fine-tune requirements for a proposed UN force that would help guide the country's transitional government and support implementation of a new peace accord.
(Full Story)

Keep the heat on Taylor

August 22, 2003 - Christian Science Monitor

– Liberia may be free from its infamous president, Charles Taylor, but this indicted war criminal was not transported to where he belongs: behind bars. Instead, Mr. Taylor received a red carpet welcome and a hilltop mansion in Nigeria.
(Full Story)

The Need to Protest Against Rewarding Liberia to Criminals

August 22, 2003 - The Perspective

For nearly three decades, the people of Liberia have been plagued with civil wars and unrests that have resulted in unimaginable sufferings and atrocities.
(Full Story)

Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe Receives A. Philip Randolph/Bayard Rustin Freedom Award

August 22, 2003 - The Perspective

I am overwhelmed with joy this evening for this historic development in my life. This morning, you asked me to address your conference as the Bayard Rustin Distinguished Speaker for the 34th annual national Educational Conference of your organization and this evening,
(Full Story)

Re-Inventing The Perfidious Syndrome of The Americo-Liberians

August 22, 2003 -New Democrat

There are indications that our return to the deceitful era of the True Whigs Party is at hand. Under the regime of the “grand-old” true Whigs days, the Congo class of the Liberian society subjugated the native population into total obeisance.
(Full Story)

Peacebuilding In Liberia: Foundational Challenges And Appropriate Approaches

August 21, 2003 - The Perspective

There should be almost immediate improvement in the security environment in Liberia as a result of Charles Taylor’s resignation and departure.
(Full Story)

FG Gets 14-Day Ultimatum to Extradite Taylor

August 21, 2003 -This Day, (Lagos)

Nigeria Coalition on International Criminal Court (NCICC) has given the Federal Government 14 days within which to either extradite former Liberian President Charles Taylor to the Special Court in Sierra Leone, or start a legal action against him.
(Full Story)

Judy Bryant, President

August 20, 2003 - BBC

Liberian warlords have selected the businessman Judy Bryant as the country’s new interim leader. An obscure businessman, Mr. Bryant is a key leader of the Liberian Action Party, and has lived in Liberia under Taylor’s rule.
(Full Story)

Liberian foes choose leader

August 21, 2003 - BBC

Government and rebel delegates have selected a businessman, Gyude Bryant, to head Liberia's interim post-war administration.
(Full Story)

Political Fever Heats UP At Peace: Warring Factions to Decide Ellen, Bryant, Sherman's Fate

August 20, 2003 -The Perspective

As the political fever heats up over the battle for who leads Liberia’s transitional arrangement, representatives of the 18 political parties and civil society groups have jointly nominated three names each for both the chairmanship and vice chairmanship of the interim government. The nomination follows an election held in the conference room of the M-Plaza Hotel in Accra, Ghana.
(Full Story)

Interim President Selection Expected Today

August 19, 2003 -New Democrat

An election team of two rebel factions and the Government is poised to select the next interim leader tomorrow. Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former UN Executive, Rudolf Sherman of the True Whig Party and Judy Bryant of the Liberian Action Party have been short-listed, and the next leader will be one of the three names.
(Full Story)

Liberia: In Search of Leadership

August 20, 2003 -The Perspective

After much drama, the Liberian peace talks, which started back on June 4, 2003, with the indictment of Charles Taylor, is now in its final act. The cease-fire signed on June 17, 2003 between the warring parties and the government and broken in July is now holding, thanks to the very visible presence of ECOMIL and the US Marines; Charles Taylor is in exile in Calabar, Nigeria,
(Full Story)

The Selection Process Hits A Snag: Moniba Protests, Rebels Want Country and wimpy Interim President

August 20, 2003 -The Perspective

Former Vice President Harry Moniba, one of the unsuccessful candidates during yesterday’s voting, has sent a protest letter to Chief Negotiator Abdulsalami Abubakar, (carbon copies sent to MODEL, LURD, GOL, Chairman of ECOWAS.
(Full Story)

Liberian foes to choose leader

August 20, 2003 - BBC

Government and rebel delegates are expected to select the head of Liberia's power-sharing authority later on Wednesday.
(Full Story)

Waku Faults Govt On Asylum for Taylor

August 19, 2003 - This Day, (Lagos)

Senator Joseph Waku has said that both President Olusegun Obasanjo and his guest, former Liberian leader, Charles Taylor, should face war crime tribunals over their atrocities against humanity.
(Full Story)

The Peace Agreement Signed in ghana

August 19, 2003 -The Perspective

Peace Agreement Between The Government Of Liberia (GOL), The Liberians United For Reconciliation And Democracy (LURD), The Movement For Democracy In Liberia (MODEL) And The Political Parties Accra, Ghana, 18th August 2003.
(Full Story)

Jacques Klein: The Admired “Governor-General”

August 19, 2003 -New Democrat

When his name was announced at the ceremony marking the signing of the Accra peace agreement, the hall burst into thunderous applause. In Monrovia itself, the people now refer to him as “Governor-General”, with admiration.
(Full Story)

Peace deal brings Liberians hope

August 19, 2003 - BBC

Liberians have welcomed the signing of a peace deal between the government and the main rebel groups, which took place in Ghana on Monday night.
(Full Story)

Country May Lose America Over Taylor, Says Mr. Festus Keyamo

August 18, 2003 -Daily Champion, (Lagos)

Can Nigeria release Taylor to UN for trial at the war crimes court?
(Full Story)

The Taylor Papers: Conditions for Asylum

August 18, 2003 - This Day, Lagos

Former Liberian President, Mr. Charles Taylor, who was last week granted asylum in Nigeria, has been given a list of stringent conditions by the Federal Government under which he will stay in the country.
(Full Story)

Commercial Rice And Fuel Ships Arrive in Monrovia This Week

August 18, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Two ships carrying large commercial cargoes of rice and fuel are due to arrive in the Liberian capital Monrovia later this week, putting an end to severe shortages of both essential commodities, local importers said on Monday.
(Full Story)

Monrovia Waterworks to Resume Pumping On Thursday

August 18, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Monrovia's main water treatment plant should resume piped water supplies to western suburbs of the capital on Thursday, the European Union responsible for its rehabilitation said on Monday.
(Full Story)

Elections For Transitional Leaders In Sight

August 18, 2003 - The Perspective

West African and Western mediators seeking a political settlement to the Liberian imbroglio have released what appears to be a final draft of the comprehensive peace agreement and guidelines for the elections of a transitional administration to replace the current government.
(Full Story)

The Personality Traits Of Contestants For The Liberian Transitional Presidency

August 18, 2003 - The Perspective

The Liberian Youth Leadership Forum (LYLF) Presents The Personality Traits Of Contestants For The Transitional Presidency. Don’t Wait To Be Told. Know Them Now To Avoid Repeating Past Mistakes As You Decide Our Nation’s Future! .
(Full Story)

Peeping Through the Profiles of Aspirants for the Transitional Administration of Liberia

August 18, 2003 - The Perspective

It has been more than two months since Liberian stakeholders including representatives of belligerents had been meeting in Ghana to find an effective end to the violent phase of the country.
(Full Story)

Liberian foes sign peace deal

August 18, 2003 -BBC

The warring factions in Liberia have signed a power-sharing agreement ending four years of civil war.
(Full Story)

Power-Sharing Accord Near in Liberia

August 18, 2003 - Washington Post

Mediators said they were close to signing a power-sharing accord for Liberia on Monday, cementing progress toward peace after the resignation of President Charles Taylor and the lifting of a 10-week rebel siege of the capital.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Rebels hijack Oxfam car near Monrovia port

August 18, 2003 - IRIN, Monrovia

Liberian rebels hijacked an Oxfam four-wheel-drive vehicle at gunpoint on Saturday in an area of Monrovia that is supposed to be under the control of Nigerian peacekeeping troops, Rosemary Kadura, Oxfam's country programme manager said. .
(Full Story)

Obasanjo, Bush Have a Pact On Taylor, Says Kalu

August 18, 2003 -Vanguard, Lagos

GOVERNOR Orji Uzor Kalu of Abia State has said President Olusegun Obasanjo's resolve not to hand over former President Charles Taylor of Liberia to the United Nations for war crime trial was informed by an agreement on the issue between him and President George Bush of the United States.
(Full Story)

Cheap Propaganda Panics Nimba?

August 17, 2003 - LIMANY (LIBERIAN MANDINGOES IN NY)

Hundreds of refugees, mainly ethnic Manos and Gios, are one-by-one entering Guinea. The new arrivals say that panic has overtaken all of Nimba County – many telling of forced conscription into the remnants of Charles Taylor's army in a war many are saying that Taylor and Blah’s forces have lost.
(Full Story)

Behold The Icons of Intolerance: Scrutiny of Coming Leaders

August 17, 2003 - BBC

A little incident occurred at the Accra peacetalks recently that suggests the icons of intolerance plaguing Liberia are still being groomed.
(Full Story)

Liberia plan calls for government run by international committee

August 17, 2003 -Nation & World

Almost everyone here says Liberia is a failed nation, and has been for many years. Until 72 hours ago, no one had known quite what to do about it. (Full Story)

Rebels Intransigence Over Jobs:
The Plague of ULIMO-K &J Resurfaces

August 17, 2003 -New Democrat

It seems the much expected signing of a peace agreement to facilitate the installation of an interim administration is becoming a failed dream.
(Full Story)

Behold The Icons of Intolerance: Scrutiny of Coming Leaders

August 17, 2003 - BBC

The UK's former foreign secretary Lord Owen has revealed he suggested assassinating Idi Amin when he was in government.
(Full Story)

Deal raises hope for Liberia aid

August 17, 2003 - BBC

Food aid is starting to get through to Monrovia
The Liberian Government has signed an agreement with two rebel groups giving aid organisations access to all parts of the country.
(Full Story)

Ready to go help liberia? us is looking for liberians to go home, sign up today..

August 15, 2003

The U.S. government is compiling a list of qualified Liberian technocrats interested in returning home on a short-term basis to help rebuild their country.
(Full Story)

Taylor Doesn't Deserve Asylum in Nigeria - NCP

August 15, 2003 -This Day, Lagos

The National Conscience Party (NCP) has berated the federal government over its decision to grant political asylum to embattled former President Charles Taylor, stressing that Taylor's humanitarian track record was enough to deprive him the present status accorded him by the government.
(Full Story)

With Charles Taylor Gone, Who is Next?

August 15, 2003 - Daily News, Harare

THE image of Charles Taylor being frog-marched off the stage of Liberian politics by a group of senior African leaders will remain with me for a long time.
(Full Story)

The Taylor Assylum: Repeating the mistakes of History

August 15, 2003 - Vanguard, Lagos

Charles 1 occupies a special position in the history of England. He started out as a well beloved king, one in whom destiny reposed a lot of confidence. He turned a despot and ended up beheaded.
(Full Story)

Invite Qualified Liberians to Participate in Interim Government

August 15, 2003 - The Perspective

Political parties, the belligerent forces and the interest groups at the peace conference must invite qualified Liberians to participate in the interim government that is being formed in Ghana.
(Full Story)

Liberian Peace Talks To Be Transferred To Monrovia?

August 15, 2003 - The Perspective

Intense discontentment is said to be brewing amongst delegates attending ongoing Liberian peace negotiations at the M-Plaza Hotel in the Ghanaian capital, Accra. Liberian stakeholders, mainly representatives of the 17 opposition political parties are diametrically opposed to reported plans by the ECOWAS Mediation Team to transfer the peace talks to Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Exorcising Taylor’s Cursed Ghost: The Debate on What After Anarchy

August 15, 2003 - New Democrat

The debate over the post-Taylor period is taking shape with some fascinating prescriptions. There are talks of a West African government to be imposed.
(Full Story)

Liberia food supplies secured

August 15, 2003 - BBC

Rebel forces have handed control of the port in Liberia's capital, Monrovia, to West African peacekeepers.
(Full Story)

Idi Amin seeks kidney donor

August 14, 2003 - BBC

The ailing former President of Uganda Idi Amin Dada is seeking a kidney to keep him alive, according to his son, Hashim Amin.
(Full Story)

Uganda's fight against poverty

August 14, 2003 - BBC

Uganda's economic growth has been impressive in the past, but a recent slowdown has raised fears that people will remain trapped in poverty.
(Full Story)

US investors eye up Libya

August 14, 2003 - BBC

United Nations sanctions against Libya are expected to be lifted in a matter of days.
(Full Story)

Rebels hand over Liberian port

August 14, 2003 -CCN

Liberian rebels have officially handed over the capital's looting-ravaged port to a Nigerian-led peacekeeping force after 200 U.S. troops arrived to support the operation.
(Full Story)

Liberian Rebels To Hand Over Port

August 14, 2003 - Washington Post

U.S. Marines and Nigerian troops are scheduled to accept control of Liberia's main seaport from rebel forces on Thursday, finally opening this famished and sickly capital to waiting international relief supplies, according to West African and U.S. officials.
(Full Story)

U.S. to Send 200 Troops To Liberia

August 14, 2003 - Washington Post

The Pentagon plans to send 200 more troops ashore in Liberia to help West African peacekeepers, a move that will triple the number of U.S. military personnel in the country, defense officials announced yesterday.
(Full Story)

US troops set to land in Monrovia

August 13, 2003 - BBC

Some 200 American troops will move ashore in the Liberia capital, Monrovia, if the rebels honour their pledge to withdraw from the port area on Thursday, US officials have said.
(Full Story)

Africa’s Saddest Moment: Endorsing Charles Taylor’s Crimes

August 13, 2003 -New Democrat

It was hard to believe, but I soon faced the reality. That African rulers could sit and watch, with satisfaction, Charles Taylor’s performance as he ended, for now, his horror campaign in the region, was amazing.
(Full Story)

Aid priorities in Liberia

August 13, 2003 - BBC

Now that peacekeeping troops are in Liberia and aid agencies are gearing up their operations, the first priority will be the basic human needs: water, food, shelter and clothing.
(Full Story)

Hungry Liberians storm port

August 13, 2003 - BBC

Thousands of desperate Liberians have rushed into the main port area in the capital to loot food despite rebel attempts to stop them.
(Full Story)

History will not be kind to Mr. Taylor because he deserves its condemnation

August 12, 2003 - The Perspective

In one of the statements he made shortly before leaving Liberia to go into exile, former Liberian president, Charles Taylor, said that history would be kind to him. This self-assessment is another example of Mr. Taylor's misjudgment, or perhaps another illustration of his delusion of grandeur.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Another Chance to do Good

August 12, 2003 - The Perspective

The demise of the Taylor regime has been expected from the day it was inaugurated into office. A friend with a cynical mind once said that the best way to get rid of Charles Taylor was to give him power, then he would make every possible mistake and would ultimately work himself out of power. And indeed, it worked.
(Full Story)

... Obasanjo, Bush, Mbeki, Others React

August 12, 2003 -This Day, Lagos

World leaders including Nigeria's President Olu-segun Obasanjo, US President George Bush, Thabo Mbeki of South Africa, Joaquin Chissano of Mozam-bique and the Namibian government yesterday praised the eventual step-down from power by Liberian embattled leader, Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

U.S. Team Crosses Liberian Lines for Rebel Meeting

August 12, 2003 - Washington Post

A U.S. team including the commander of a task force sitting in warships off Liberia crossed the front line Tuesday for talks on ensuring peace and getting humanitarian aid to flow, U.S. officials said.
(Full Story)

Liberian Rebels Reject Rule of New Leader

August 12, 2003 - Washington Post

Famished Liberians on Tuesday shrugged off the departure of former President Charles Taylor, as any joy at the ex-warlord's downfall was tempered by hunger in the rebel-besieged capital and reports of fresh killings.
(Full Story)

Charles Ghankay Taylor, Defiant And Passionate To The End

August 12, 2003 - Washington Post

Charles Taylor's resignation from the presidency of Liberia and his departure into exile yesterday removes the architect of West Africa's instability from office but may not end his broad regional influence.
(Full Story)

Taylor's new Nigerian home

Taylor's new Mansion in Nigeria

August 11, 2003 - BBC

Liberia's President Charles Taylor - who stepped down and handed power to his vice-president on Monday - has been offered asylum by the Nigerian Government.
(Full Story)

Charles Ghankay Taylor, Defiant And Passionate To The End

August 11, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Outgoing Liberian president, Charles Ghankay Taylor, left power and his capital Monrovia on Monday, after handing over power to his successor and vice president, Moses Blah.
(Full Story)

The UN Rings Alarm Bells of Justice on Liberia’s War Criminals

August 11, 2003 -New Democrat

Peter Beinart, in a rare article (New Republic) on how Liberia descended into an unstoppable abyss, The Armies of Compassion) says African crisis are treated out of the realm of justice
(Full Story)

“God Willing, I will be Back”: Taylor Leaves in Style

August 11, 2003 -New Democrat

It is difficult to imagine a similar media and television coverage for any president of Charles Taylor’s calibre. The show of grief at the airport as Taylor, diminutive amongst security men shielding him, convinced some journalists Liberians were losing their angel, with the conclusion, according to CNN, that he has immense support in Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Defiant Taylor Bows Out in Liberia, Moses Blah Sworn In As Interim Successor

August 11, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Charles Taylor, the former Liberian rebel leader and recently indicted war crimes suspect, stepped down as president of Liberia on Monday and handed power to his vice president, Moses Blah.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Blah to Stay Until October, Ghana Says

August 11, 2003 -Washington Post

Liberia's president-to-be Moses Blah will remain in power until October before handing over to an interim administration, Ghana's President John Kufuor said on Monday.
(Full Story)

Taylor Assails U.S. in Farewell Speech

August 11, 2003 -Washington Post

In what he billed a farewell address, Liberian President Charles Taylor tonight accused the United States of engineering his demise and challenged President Bush to spend "one, two, three billion" rebuilding the nation he is leaving a shambles.
(Full Story)

Major Events in Liberia Since Independence

August 11, 2003 -Washington Post

Key events in Liberian history beginning with independence in the 19th century.
(Full Story)

Taylor leaving 'to end bloodshed'

August 10, 2003 - BBC

Charles Taylor has told the people of Liberia he will sacrifice his presidency to stop the bloodshed in the country.
(Full Story)

Taylor Rejects Nigeria, May Opt for Libya

August 9, 2003 - The Perspective

For the past two months President Charles Taylor and his supporters have been finding ways to relieve him of the burden of appearing before the UN backed Special Court in Sierra Leone for charges against him for his role in the Sierra Leone in the Sierra Leoneon civil war.
(Full Story

Vice President of Liberia Prepares to Take Control

August 9, 2003 - New York Times

He was trained as a mechanic and then as a guerrilla fighter, alongside West Africa's most famous warlord, Charles G. Taylor. He served as the disciplinarian in Mr. Taylor's rebel army and then as ambassador to Libya. He was appointed vice president in 2000, but then was imprisoned for 10 days last June, accused of taking part in a coup attempt.
(Full Story)

Taylor Rejects Nigeria, May Opt for Libya

August 9, 2003 -Allafrica.com

President Charles Taylor of Liberia may have finally turned down the asylum offer from Nigeria following raging opposition to his coming to the country.
(Full Story)

As Liberian Refugees Settle Down Juwara Warns of Taylor-Jammeh Connection

August 8, 2003 -Washington Post

The controversial leader of the National Democratic Action Movement (NDAM) has warned of what he called "an unholy alliance" between President Jammeh and the discredited Liberian leader Charles Taylor, who faces an international indictment for war crimes in Sierra Leone.
(Full Story)

U.N. Maps Goals in Liberia

August 8, 2003 -Washington Post

The United Nations is preparing an ambitious new plan to overhaul Liberia's key governing institutions, rebuild its ruined infrastructure and create a force of about 15,000 U.N. peacekeepers with a mandate to pacify the country's warring factions and arrest President Charles Taylor if he fails to leave the country in the coming weeks.
(Full Story)

Liberian Rebels Raise Stakes in Broken Capital

August 8, 2003 -Washington Post

Liberia's rebels added tough new conditions for opening Monrovia's desperately needed port on Friday as West African peacekeepers faced the challenge of reuniting the hungry and broken city.
(Full Story)

Liberian Rebels Vow to Fight Taylor Ally

August 8, 2003 -Washington Post

Rebel leaders said they will not allow any ally of President Charles Taylor to take power after the embattled leader named his vice president as his successor.
(Full Story)

Taylor Went To Libya For Arms, Sources Say

August 8, 2003 -Washington Post

President Charles Taylor flew to Libya last week during a pitched battle for this capital city and returned with a cargo of ammunition and arms, according to individuals in Monrovia with knowledge of the flights.
(Full Story)

Believing a “Psychopathic Lair:” Taylor’s Tragic War Crimes Comedy Continues As Kabbah Nods

August 7, 2003 - New Democrat

Do you believe that Charles Taylor will do what he says he will do?” “Yes, I believe he will do what he says he will do…” Do you believe he will carry out what he says he will carry out?” Yes….”
(Full Story)

Joy as Liberia peace force arrives

August 7, 2003 - CNN

West African troops arrive to begin an international rescue mission in the war-torn West African nation of Liberia. The country has been wracked by an intermittent, 14-year civil war, which has continued despite an agreement by Liberian President Charles Taylor to step down and go into exile.
(Full Story)

Liberia's President Choosing Successor

August 7, 2003 - Washington Post

Arguing voices echo through the halls of Liberia's bullet-scarred Congress. Behind closed doors, lawmakers haggle over who should succeed warlord-turned-president Charles Taylor, a choice of two longtime Taylor allies.
(Full Story)

Liberians cheer peacekeepers

August 7, 2003 - BBC

West African peacekeepers have started patrols in the capital, Monrovia, for the first time since arriving at Liberia's main airport on Monday.
(Full Story)

Hungry Liberians seek rebel port

August 6, 2003 - BBC

Government fighters have fired shots in the air to prevent hundreds of Liberians crossing into the rebel-held port area of the capital, Monrovia, to look for food.
(Full Story)

Liberia Asks World Court to Annul Taylor Charges

August 6, 2003 - Washington Post

Liberia has asked the World Court to quash a war crimes indictment against President Charles Taylor brought by a U.N.-backed court in Sierra Leone, his lawyers said on Wednesday.
(Full Story)

Liberia Fights on Despite Incoming Troops

August 5, 2003 - Washington Post

Guns at the ready, Nigerian soldiers leapt out of helicopters and raced to positions around Monrovia's airport, the first of a long-awaited force hoping to quell fighting between rebels and government forces in Liberia.
(Full Story)

Rights Activists Worried By African Peacekeepers

August 5, 2003 - Washington Post

As the first unit of Nigerian peacekeepers touched down in Monrovia today to try to halt Liberia's civil war, human rights advocates are criticizing the legacy of the organization that sent them.
(Full Story)

The children of Jungle Fire go into battle - on a diet of drugs

August 4, 2003 - The Guardian-UK

First the drugs, then the bullets and then the battle. Jungle Fire battalion knew the routine and lounged on the abandoned market stalls, waiting for the marijuana and crack cocaine to kick in.
(Full Story)

Liberian joy as peace troops land

August 4, 2003 - BBC

More than 100 West African peacekeepers have received a heroes' welcome after arriving in Liberia with the goal of ending two months of bloody clashes in the capital, Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Taylor warned of losing exile offer

August 3, 2003 - BBC

The United Nations special envoy to Liberia has warned that if the country's President, Charles Taylor, delays his departure too long he could lose the chance of escaping into exile.
(Full Story)

Jacques Klein: “Psychopathic Killer” Taylor May Forfeit Peace Role

August 3, 2003 - New Democrat

UN Special Representative to Liberia, Jacques Klein, referring to war crimes indicted President Charles Taylor as "a psychopathic killer” and an “amateur ” amongst “dictators”, has warned he will loose any role in the Liberian peace process he keeps delaying his departure from the country.
(Full Story)

Liberian rebels stand firm

August 3, 2003 - BBC

The main rebel group in Liberia has said it will not give up its positions until President Charles Taylor leaves the country.
(Full Story)

Liberian Leader Sets Date, and New Terms, for Exit

August 2, 2003 - New York Times

President Charles G. Taylor, defying a deadline imposed by West African officials and imposing what appears to be yet another condition for his departure, announced today that he would leave office in nine days, but demurred on what is arguably the more crucial test of peace: when and how he would leave the country.
(Full Story)

Liberia leader delays departure

August 2, 2003 - BBC

The Liberian President, Charles Taylor, has agreed to step down on 11 August - a few days later than expected.
(Full Story)

Quit now, accept asylum in Nigeria

August 1, 2003 - Allafrica.com

WEST African leaders yesterday told Liberian President, Mr. Charles Taylor, to prepare to step down and go into exile in Nigeria next week . The sub-regional leaders also agreed to begin deploying a peacekeeping force to war-torn nation by Monday.
(Full Story)

Taylor's Family Seek Refuge in Gambia

August 1, 2003 - Allafrica.com

The Gambia is hosting the immediate family of Liberia's beleaguered president Charles Taylor, as his government's grip on Monrovia hangs precariously in the balance in the wake of the rebels' penetrating thrust towards the city centre.
(Full Story)

Date set for Liberia force

Liberians happy about peace keepers coming

July 31, 2003 - BBC

The first peacekeepers, some 1,500 troops, are to deploy in Liberia at the start of next week, West African leaders have announced in Ghana.
(Full Story)

West African Troops Pledged for Liberia

July 31, 2003 - Comcast.net

Pushed by the United States, West Africa's leaders broke a deadlock Thursday and announced the first troops of a long-promised peace force would be deployed to Liberia's bloodied capital within days. Tens of thousands of Liberians spilled into Monrovia's streets, celebrating the arrival of an advance military team.
(Full Story)

U.S. Asks U.N. for Liberia Peace Force

July 30, 2003 -Washington Post

The United States asked the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday to authorize a multinational force to help implement a cease-fire in war-ravaged Liberia then replace it with U.N. peacekeepers by October .
(Full Story)

Advance team arrives in Liberia

July 30, 2003 - BBC

The fact-finding mission - consists of officers from the United States, Britain and five West African countries - flew in from neighbouring Ghana as fighting between government forces and rebels continued in the capital, Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Doctor's casebook: Treating Monrovia's wounded

July 30, 2003 - BBC

Andrew Schechtman of charity Medecins Sans Frontieres has been witnessing the tragedy unfold in the Liberian capital, Monrovia. He has sent parts of his diary to BBC News Online.
(Full Story)

UN to Undertake Liberia Nation-Building

July 30, 2003 -New Democrat

The UN Secretary General Special Representative to Liberia, Jacques Klein, has said that the UN would undertake a programme of “nation-building” once stability returns. Meanwhile, UN Secretary General has asked the Security Council for an “immediate mandate” that would allow the deployment of Nigerian peacekeeping troops.
(Full Story)

Dozens killed in Liberia battle

July 30, 2003 - CNN

Dozens of civilians have been killed as fighting continues between rebels and Liberian government forces for control of the West African country's second-largest city of Buchanan.
(Full Story)

Feared S. Leone rebel chief dead

July 30, 2003 - CNN

The late Foday Sankoh, RUF Leader

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone -- Feared Sierra Leone rebel leader Foday Sankoh, the man behind a bloody 10-year rebel terror campaign, has died in U.N. custody at a hospital in the capital, Freetown.
(Full Story)

Hearing Liberia's Pleas

July 29, 2003 - New York Times

The bankruptcy of America's policy toward Africa is evident now in Liberia, a lovely and passionately pro-American country with dazzling white beaches, swaying palms, the greenback for currency — plus 200,000 deaths from unending war, and mass rape that spreads AIDS.
(Full Story)

Nigerian Soldiers Leave for Liberia Tomorrow

July 29, 2003 - This Day, Lagos

Nigerian soldiers are billed to arrive Liberia tomorrow, as part of the first batch of a peacekeeping force for the embattled country, The Executive Secretary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Mr. Mohamed Chambas has said.
(Full Story)

Equatorial Guinea's "God"

July 28, 2003 - BBC

State radio in the tiny west African state of Equatorial Guinea has hailed the nation's leader as "the country's God".
(Full Story)

nohn kidau sends conf. updates

Nohn at conf. probably tired now...

July 29, 2003 - UNICCO Info Bureau

I know that you are wondering why this conference has lasted this long. To address the questions, I will start by telling you what is most needed to stop the madness in Liberia now.
(Full Story)

Equatorial Guinea's "God"

July 28, 2003 - BBC

State radio in the tiny west African state of Equatorial Guinea has hailed the nation's leader as "the country's God".
(Full Story)

'Mercenary' in South Africa court

July 28, 2003 - BBC

A former French army officer has appeared in court in South Africa charged with recruiting mercenaries to fight in the recent civil war in Ivory Coast.
(Full Story)

Eyewitness: Monrovia 'living hell'

July 28, 2003 - BBC

Kate Wright and her daughter are among some 250,000 refugees in the Liberian capital, Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Liberia's second city falls to rebels

July 28, 2003 - BBC

Both government forces and rebels have confirmed that the port city is in the hands of the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (Model) - Liberia's second largest rebel force.
(Full Story)

Family plan for Idi Amin's funeral

General Idi Amin of Uganda, one of Africa's dictators

July 28, 2003 - BBC

One Ugandan newspaper is reporting that plans are under way for a massive funeral in the northern Ugandan town of Arua.
(Full Story)

UPDATE 4-Fighting in Liberia rages on three fronts

July 28, 2003 - The Guardian

Heavy gunfire rang out across Liberia's capital on Monday as rebels and forces loyal to President Charles Taylor battled for key bridges while fighting erupted in two strategic cities outside Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Liberian rebels reject US appeal

July 28, 2003 - The Guardian

Liberian rebels rejected a US appeal to pull back from the capital Monrovia yesterday as renewed fighting endangered the plan to send in peacekeepers this week. .
(Full Story)

Liberian rebels push across key bridge towards Monrovia's airport

July 28, 2003 -ABC

Advancing Liberian rebels have pushed across a key bridge north of the capital Monrovia as the US ambassador said President Charles Taylor had agreed to honour a buffer zone further north.
(Full Story)

Liberian rebels escalate attacks

July 28, 2003 -BBC

Rebel troops have renewed their assault on the Liberian capital, Monrovia, with heavy fighting around two key bridges.
(Full Story)

Signing the Peace Agreement NOW Will Pave the Way To Peace and Stability in Liberia

July 28, 2003 - The Perspective (Editorial)

Since June 4 Liberian stakeholders, which include the Taylor regime, rebel factions and political parties, assembled in Ghana to put together an interim political arrangement that would stop the human tragedy unfolding in Monrovia. On June 17 the parties signed a cease-fire agreement with provisions committing the parties, among other things, to choose an interim governing body within 30 days that will run the country until elections are held.
(Full Story)

Fighting Rages as Weary Liberians Forage for Food

July 28, 2003 - Washington Post

Heavy gunfire rang out across Liberia's capital Monrovia Monday as rebels attacked Double Bridge on a route that cuts toward the home of the embattled president, Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

U.S. Urges Liberian Rebels to Retreat

July 28, 2003 - Washington Post

The U.S. ambassador to Liberia appealed to rebels today to pull back from the capital and allow food and other aid into the city, which is crowded with hungry refugees, as shelling around the rebel-held port killed at least 16 civilians.
(Full Story)

U.S. Urges Rebels to Pull Out of Monrovia

July 28, 2003 - Washington Post

Shells slamming into tin-roof homes killed at least 16 civilians in Liberia's war-battered capital and the U.S. Ambassador appealed to rebels to lift their bloody eight-day siege of Monrovia to allow food and aid into the city .
(Full Story)

Liberian Rebels Announce Cease-Fire

July 23, 2003 - Washington Post

West African defense chiefs struggled to finalize the details of a peacekeeping force for war-battered Liberia, as rebels announced a cease-fire and aid groups warned that many people in the capital were running out of food.
(Full Story)

Liberian Civil War - Nigeria Deploys 2,000 Troops

July 23, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Nigeria is contributing 2000 troops to an ECOWAS peacekeeping force to be deployed to Liberia as shelling and fierce fighting entered the fifth day yesterday, claiming about 600 civilians, even as the ECOWAS military chiefs said that no peacekeepers would be sent until there was a ceasefire.
(Full Story)

Rebels Refuse to Sign Liberia Peace Agreement

July 23, 2003 -Allafrica.com

Both rebel groups in Liberia said on Tuesday they would refuse to sign a draft peace agreement unless changes were made that would allow them to play a bigger role in the proposed transitional government that would organise fresh elections.
(Full Story)

Deaths mount in Liberian capital

July 22, 2003 - BBC

Shelling and fierce fighting have resumed in Liberia's capital for a fourth day, as warnings grow of a humanitarian disaster.
(Full Story)

Gambian freeze on polygamy

July 22, 2003 - BBC

President Yahya Jammeh has provoked controversy in Gambia by prohibiting Gambian men from marrying more than three wives for the next three years.
(Full Story)

Comprehensive Peace Deal Under Review At Peace Talks
-VP Blah To Act As President Until…

July 21, 2003 - Perspective

Delegates including warring and political parties and representatives of civil society groups attending the Liberian peace summit in Accra have begun reviewing the draft of the comprehensive peace agreement for Liberia. West African and Western mediators seeking peace for the country released the document Friday night.
(Full Story)

Carnage as Liberia capital shelled

July 21, 2003 - BBC

At least 90 people have been killed in a day of shelling on the besieged Liberian capital, fuelling anger towards the US for failing to send peacekeepers to stop the civil war.
(Full Story)

Rebels Try to Encircle Monrovia As Heavy Fighting Continues

July 21, 2003 -Allafrica.com

This piece tries to articulate from the domestic setting the nature of Liberia's economy, culture, colonial heritage, internal political pressure and ideological orientation of the ruling elite. On the foreign scene, it will examine Liberia's policy towards its neighbour (ECOWAS), the African continent and its place in world politics, even though in an inter-woven pattern.
(Full Story)

International Indecision As Crisis Deepens In Liberia

July 21, 2003 - Allafrica.com

The Liberian capital of Monrovia is experiencing some of its worst fighting in seven years, following a weekend of heavy bombardment as rebel forces advanced into the city center and government troops loyal to embattled President Charles Taylor fought to hold their positions.
(Full Story)

ECOWAS Troops Must Respect Human Rights

July 21, 2003 - Human Rights Watch (Washington, DC)

We are writing to you as chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to welcome your efforts to end the conflict in Liberia and to create conditions that would finally allow Liberian civilians to live in peace and security and with respect for their human rights.
(Full Story)

Liberian Capital Under Attack; MSF Treating War Wounded Civilians; One Staff Member Killed

July 21, 2003 - Medicins Sans Frontieres, New York

This piece tries to articulate from the domestic setting the nature of Liberia's economy, culture, colonial heritage, internal political pressure and ideological orientation of the ruling elite. On the foreign scene, it will examine Liberia's policy towards its neighbour (ECOWAS), the African continent and its place in world politics, even though in an inter-woven pattern.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Microcosm of a Falling Nation

July 21, 2003 -Weekly Trust, Kaduna

This piece tries to articulate from the domestic setting the nature of Liberia's economy, culture, colonial heritage, internal political pressure and ideological orientation of the ruling elite. On the foreign scene, it will examine Liberia's policy towards its neighbour (ECOWAS), the African continent and its place in world politics, even though in an inter-woven pattern.
(Full Story)

Asylum for Taylor?

July 21, 2003 -Daily Trust, Abuja

I will like to observe as insensitive, objectionable the current show of brazen political mediocrity and gross miscalculation on the part of the Federal Government to grant asylum or sanctuary to the embattled Liberian dictator and suspected war criminal Mr. Charles Gankhy Taylor..
(Full Story)

Taylor Promises 'Fight to the Last Man' as Liberia's Rebels Enter Monrovia

July 19, 2003 - BBC

Embattled Liberian leader Charles Taylor vowed Saturday to fight to the last man against a rebel onslaught as his armed opponents advanced and crossed a key bridge leading into the capital, Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Liberian rebels enter capital

July 19, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Rebel forces have entered the Liberian capital Monrovia after taking a crucial river crossing, the government says.
(Full Story)

Rebel push on Liberian capital

July 19, 2003 - BBC

Liberian rebels are again engaged in fierce fighting with government forces near the capital.
(Full Story

Welcoming America With Loaded Arms
Liberia is a place where violence is a difficult habit to outgrow.

Trophies: Young government soldiers with their chekpoint on display

July 18, 2003 - Times Magazine

The teenage soldiers at the checkpoint call their outpost 25 miles outside Monrovia the God Bless You Gate — because, says Sergeant Kofa Mailer, 17, "when you pass by this gate, God bless you.".
(Full Story)

In Torn Liberian Town, Hospital Itself Is a Fatality
By SOMINI SENGUPTA

A patient room at Ganta Methodist Hospital

July 18, 2003 - New York Times

G ANTA, Liberia, July 13 — Since the 1930's, the people of this prosperous border town had come to a stately stone hospital built by American missionaries to deliver their babies, have their eyes examined, and to be treated for everything from malaria to appendicitis to snakebites.
(Full Story

Africa's bloody wars reach turning points

June 16, 2003 - Chicago Sun-Times

DAKAR, Senegal--Prevailing wisdom pins the world's civil wars on two causes: Greed and grievances. Both are fueling Africa's two most dangerous conflicts, in Liberia and in Congo.
(Full Story)

Liberian 'advance' against rebel

June 16, 2003 - BBC

Liberian troops are driving rebels back from the outskirts of the capital towards the border with Sierra Leone, according to a spokesman for President Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

Sierra Leone junta leader 'dead'

June 15, 2003 - BBC

Sierra Leone's former military leader, Johnny Paul Koroma, has been killed in neighbouring Liberia, it has been reported.
(Full Story)

New Liberian ceasefire appeal

June 15, 2003 - BBC

The chief mediator in Liberian peace talks has appealed to the rival parties to sign a ceasefire agreement before trying to resolve political differences.
(Full Story)

Setback for Liberia peace hopes

June 14, 2003 - BBC

Liberian rebels have said they will not sign a ceasefire until President Charles Taylor steps down.
(Full Story)

Pres. Taylor Reinstates Vice President

June 14, 2003 - Allaboutliberia.com

In the aftermath of a foiled coup, President Charles Taylor today reinstated his Vice President Moses Z. Blah.
(Full Story)

Africa Subsidizing the West, Says Museveni Following Meeting With Bush

June 13, 2003 -Allafrica.com

African commodities and raw materials are processed in wealthy nations and then resold by companies and corporations in those nations at prices many times greater than what is paid to the producers, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni said Tuesday night at a well-attended reception just hours after his meeting at the White House with President George W. Bush.
(Full Story)

Team Loses Narrowly to War-Ridden Liberia

June 13, 2003 -Allafrica.com

Ethiopia's chances of reaching their first African Nations Cup final in 22 years received a blow when they lost 1-0 to Liberia in Monrovia on Sunday. The game was increasingly looking to end in a draw when Liberia's Steve Mennoh grabbed the winner with fifteen minutes left on the clock.
(Full Story)

'Hundreds killed' in Liberian clashes

June 13, 2003 - BBC

Up to 400 people have been killed in recent fighting around the capital, Monrovia, Liberia's health minister has said.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Foes Haggle as Monrovia Counts Dead

June 13, 2003 - Washington Post

Liberia's foes haggled over a cease-fire at peace talks Friday but despite a halt in fighting that cost at least 300 lives in the past week, neither President Charles Taylor nor rebels seemed ready to give in on key demands .
(Full Story)

Liberian Peace Talks Start as Taylor Warns Court

June 12, 2003 - Washington Post

Liberian peace talks got underway in Ghana Thursday as President Charles Taylor warned there could be no end to the bloodshed unless a war crimes court dropped an indictment against him .
(Full Story)

June 12, 2003 - Washington Post

Families emboldened by a lull in fighting headed back to bullet-strewn districts of Liberia's capital on Thursday, as envoys of President Charles Taylor and rebels resumed peace talks in the nearby west African nation of Ghana.
(Full Story)

Liberia Leader, Rebels Resume Peace Talks

June 12, 2003 - Washington Post

Families emboldened by a lull in fighting headed back to bullet-strewn districts of Liberia's capital on Thursday, as envoys of President Charles Taylor and rebels resumed peace talks in the nearby west African nation of Ghana.
(Full Story)

30,000 Displaced People Living in a Stadium

June 12, 2003 -Allafrica.com

The Liberian capital Monrovia remained quiet on Thursday for the second day running, but relief workers said nearly 50,000 people displaced by a rebel push into the city's western suburbs were living in extremely difficult conditions at a sports stadium and several schools.
(Full Story)

Taylor Calls for UN Peace-Keeping Force

June 11, 2003 -Allafrica.com

President Charles Taylor has called for a UN peacekeeping force to be sent to Liberia to maintain a proposed ceasefire between government forces and rebels besieging the capital Monrovia.(Full Story)

Taylor Discusses Ceasefire, Transition of Power With US Ambassador

June 11, 2003 -Allafrica.com

Liberian President Charles Taylor held crisis talks with the US ambassador on Tuesday about calling an immediate ceasefire in the civil war, which has seen rebels advance into the western outskirts of the capital Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Taylor Agrees Truce, Mediator Says

June 11, 2003 -Washington Post

Liberia's President Charles Taylor agreed Wednesday to halt hostilities against rebel forces after a meeting with West African diplomats, paving the way for peace talks in Ghana to start in earnest.
(Full Story)

NIMBAIANS IN AMERICA CALL ON GOL TO RELEASE ALL PRISONers AND SEEK PEACEFUL END TO CRISIS

June 11, 2003

We the members of UNICCO have received the disturbing news that the Vice President of the Republic of Liberia, Deputy Director of National Security of Liberia, Deputy Minister of Public Works, and a number of other officials of the Government of Liberia are being held prisoner at an unknown location in Liberia by the Liberian Government; that no clear information is forthcoming from the Liberian Government regarding the charges for which they are being held; that their condition in the prison, and how long they will be held is uncertain. This situation has created panic among Liberians in Monrovia and in the United States, especially among Nimbaians.
(Full Story)

Mediators Head to Besieged Liberia

June 10, 2003 -Washington Post

TCivilians took advantage of a lull in explosions around Liberia's besieged capital to stock up on food Tuesday, as a West African team headed to the country to try to broker a truce in fighting threatening the government of President Charles Taylor.
(Full Story)

Gunfire Shakes Liberia Capital, Peace Mission Due

June 10, 2003 -Washington Post

The sound of gunfire reverberated through Liberia's capital Tuesday ahead of a last-ditch mission by West African mediators to try to avert a bloody showdown for the city.
(Full Story)

As Fighting Intensifies in Monrovia
Pres. Taylor Assures Citizens of Maximum Protection

June 9, 2003 -Allaboutliberia.com

President Charles Ghankay has assured Liberians that despite the
intensification in fighting in the over-populated city of Monrovia, government will protect lives and properties of citizens and residents.
(Full Story)

Liberians Fleeing Rebel Attacks on Capital Seek Shelter at U.S. Embassy

June 8, 2003 -Washington Post

Explosions and machine-gun fire echoed in Liberia's besieged capital today as President Charles Taylor's forces fought rebels pressing on the outskirts, sending tens of thousands of desperate residents to seek sanctuary at the U.S. Embassy
(Full Story)

Which Way to take Now? my view point about the political crisis in liberia

June 7, 2003

Which came first in the Liberian crises, the violence or the retaliation? This may sound like today’s solemn version of the old saying’ “chicken or the egg” riddle. But it is no riddle, it is a real thought based on the ideological environment of the political crises in Liberia. On April 12, 1980, it certainly felt like the violence came first. It is almost sure within all the violent crisis in Liberia, that the perpetrators who make the attack see their own actions as retaliation for earlier violence.
(Full Story)

TO HECK WITH LIBERIA!
Howard Dean falls into the liberal 'humanitarian' trap

June 7, 2003 - Antiwar.comt

Of all places for the U.S. to intervene militarily, why oh why does it have to be Liberia?
(Full Story)

Gunfire Echoes in Liberia's Frightened Capital

June 7, 2003 -Washington PostThe sound of gunfire echoed through Liberia's capital Monrovia on Sunday, keeping the terrified West African city on edge after President Charles Taylor's forces said they had held off a rebel assault
(Full Story)

Taylor defies calls to quit Liberia

June 7, 2003 -BBC News

Charles Taylor also pledged to drive back rebels who have advanced to within six kilometres (four miles) of the centre of the capital, Monrovia
(Full Story

Taylor Says Coup Foiled As He Proposes More Concessions and Fighting Intensifies

June 6, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Twenty-four hours after the United Nations-backed Sierra Leone Special Court indicted President Charles Taylor on war crimes, the Liberian leader announced that his government had foiled a coup attempt, sponsored by foreign powers.
(Full Story)

After A Failed Coup Liberia’s Vice President Resigns

June 5, 2003 - Allaboutliberia.com
Liberia’s Vice President Moses Zah Blah has resigned after a failed coup against President Charles Ghankay Taylor Wednesday
(Full Story)

Taylor defies calls to quit Liberia

June 7, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Charles Taylor also pledged to drive back rebels who have advanced to within six kilometres (four miles) of the centre of the capital, Monrovia
(Full Story)

Taylor Says Coup Foiled As He Proposes More Concessions and Fighting Intensifies

June 6, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Twenty-four hours after the United Nations-backed Sierra Leone Special Court indicted President Charles Taylor on war crimes, the Liberian leader announced that his government had foiled a coup attempt, sponsored by foreign powers.
(Full Story)

Liberian rebels 'moving on capital

June 5, 2003 - BBC News

Rebels in Liberia are reported to have entered the suburbs of the capital, Monrovia, as President Charles Taylor struggles to hold on to power.
(Full Story)

Vice President quits as Taylor claims coup attempt

June 5, 2003 - IRINnews.org

MONROVIA, 5 Jun 2003 (IRIN) - A day after his indictment by a UN-backed Special Court for war crimes, Liberian President Charles Taylor told reporters in the capital, Monrovia, that he had foiled a coup attempt, accepted the resignation of the Vice President and would ask his entire cabinet to resign next week.
(Full Story)

In Furtherance Of His Commitment To Peace: Taylor Dissolves Cabinet Shortly

June 5, 2003 - Allaboutafrica.com

In the aftermath of a failed attempt by a Sierra Leone War Crimes Court to apprehend Liberia’s President Charles Taylor for his alleged role in the Sierra Leonean crisis, the Liberian leader in a rather unexpected move renewed his pledge to step aside for peace.
(Full Story)

If I Stand in the Way of Peace,' I'll Quit, Says Taylor

June 5, 2003 - Yahoo News

With reports circulating that Liberian President Charles Taylor had been indicted by a United Nations-backed tribunal, the 55-year old former warlord made an unexpected offer to step down at the end of his term.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Taylor Says Mulling Stepping Down

June 4, 2003 - Yahoo News

ACCRA, Ghana (Reuters) - Liberian President Charles Taylor, indicted on Wednesday for war crimes in Sierra Leone, said he would consider stepping down at the end of his term next year if this helped bring peace to his own war-riven country.
(Full Story)

Taylor Indictment Advances Justice; Liberian President Must Be Arrested

June 4, 2003 - Human Rights Watch, New York

Liberian President Charles Taylor should be arrested by the government of any country he travels to, now that his indictment has been announced by the Sierra Leone Special Court, Human Rights Watch said today. The Liberian president was attending peace talks in Ghana when the indictment was "unsealed."
(Full Story)

Liberian rebels, government begin landmark peace talks in Ghana"

June 4, 2003 - AFP

ACCRA (AFP) - Liberian President Charles Taylor and rebels fighting his regime were due to begin peace talks in Ghana to end a four-year war that has rocked west Africa and fuelled a humanitarian crisis.
(Full Story)

Taylor at Accra Peace Talks: "Honourable Exit or Extended Mandate?"

June 4, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Liberian political leaders and activists are arriving here in the Ghanaian capital to take part in what could be the country's most important peace effort since the outbreak of war in the country in 1989.
(Full Story)

Give Younger Generation A Chance for Peace -Says President Taylor"

June 3, 2003 - Allaboutliberia.com

With a day to the official opening of the Akosombo peace talks on Liberia, The Liberian Leader Charles Ghankay Taylor departed Monrovia today for Accra, Republic of Ghana..
(Full Story)

UN-Backed Court Takes Custody of Alleged Body of Former Rebel Leader

June 2, 2003 - United Nations

Officials from the United Nations-backed Special Court for Sierra Leone have taken custody of the body reported to be that of indicted war criminal Sam Bockarie and are set to conduct an independent forensic examination to confirm its identity and determine the cause of death.
(Full Story)

Akosombo Peace Conference Will Be Enforced, Contact Group Assures Citizens

June 2, 2003 - The News, Monrovia

With the international community infusing funds for the Akosombo meeting, it is apparent that the global community may vigorously enforce the outcome of the peace conference of Liberian stakeholders slated for June 4.
(Full Story)

Liberia 'too unsafe for aid'

May 30, 2003 - BBC News

A peace force must be deployed to Liberia before humanitarian aid can be delivered to hundreds of thousands of displaced people, a United Nations official has said.
(Full Story)

Six FM Stations shut down

May 30, 2003 - Media Foundation of Africa

The government of Liberia has shut down six amateur FM radio stations operating in Bong County, central Liberia, and Margibi County, some 40 kilometres east of the capital, Monrovia. The stations affected include: Y-FM, Bright FM, Jet 89.9, The Voice of Kakata, and the Voice of YMCA.
(Full Story)

Rebels Agree to Halt Advances, Contact Group Discloses

May 30, 2003 - The News, Monrovia

The International Contact Group on Liberia has said forces fighting to unseat the Government of Liberia have agreed to halt their advances on Government positions.
(Full Story)

President Taylor to Only Attend Opening of Peace Talks

May 28, 2003 - UNIRI Networks

A week to proposed talks between the Liberian government and rebels in Ghana, President Charles Taylor has said he will only attend the formal ceremony and named a junior minister as the government's chief negotiator
(Full Story)

Preliminary Talks Held With Rebel Group in Sierra Leone

May 27, 2003 - UNIRI Networks

TThe facilitator of proposed peace talks aimed at ending Liberia's civil war held preliminary talks with one of the country's two rebel movements in Sierra Leone on Monday, but the other failed to show up.
(Full Story)

Government Accuses UNHCR of Rebel Support

May 27, 2003 - The News, Monrovia

The Government of Liberia has accused the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) of supplying rebels of the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL) with food at the Port city of Harper
(Full Story)

U.S. Urges Americans to Leave Liberia

May 26, 2003 - Yahoo News

MONROVIA, Liberia - The United States urged Americans to leave the rebellion-torn West African nation of Liberia, citing the spread of fighting.
(Full Story)

Two Ships Seized in Harper to Evacuate 3,500

May 21, 2003 - Allafrica.com

Forces loyal to Liberian President Charles Taylor commandeered two cargo ships in the southeastern port of Harper, which fell to rebels at the weekend, and used them to evacuate about 3,500 people, relief workers said on Wednesday.
(Full Story)

Taylor Rejects Power Sharing, Rules Out Interim Gov't, Will Attend Peace Talks

May 21, 2003 - Allafrica.com

President Charles Taylor has rejected suggestions for an interim government and power sharing with rebels.
(Full Story)

Greenville Paralyzed ...Superintendent, County Officials Flee

May 21, 2003 - Allafrica.com

The coastal town of Greenville in southeastern Liberia has been almost deserted. It appeared that the provincial town was 'paralyzed' as fears of an imminent rebel attack on the town heightened.
(Full Story)

US Wants Prosperity for Liberia - Diplomat Reassures Commitment

May 21, 2003 - The News

The Charge d' Affairs at the United States Embassy Mr. Christopher Datta has reiterated his Government's desire in helping to find lasting peace aimed at quelling the vicious circle of violence that has ravaged Liberia over the years. But he said only Liberians can find that solution by dialoguing and solving their problems together.
(Full Story)

Liberian Refugees Head for Ivory Coast

May 19, 2003 - Washington Post

ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast - Refugees, many paddling dugout canoes, were streaming from Liberia into Ivory Coast on Monday, part of a massive 10,000-person exodus in 48 hours to escape fighting in a major new rebel push there, the U.N. refugee agency said.
(Full Story)

U.N. Official Blasts Liberia's Leader

May 18, 2003 - Washington Post

CONAKRY, Guinea - The U.N. refugee chief on Sunday blamed Liberia and warlord-turned-president Charles Taylor for the conflicts and refugee crises roiling West Africa and said in unusually blunt terms that Taylor should be forced out.
(Full Story)

UN-Backed Court Questions Circumstances of Rebel Leader's Death

May 16, 2003 - Afro News

Senior officials from the United Nations-backed Special Court for Sierra Leone said today that new information about the killing of former rebel fighter Sam Bockarie, including the alleged involvement of Liberian President Charles Taylor, raises questions about the circumstances of his death earlier this month.
(Full Story)

UN Official Says Civil War May Engulf Monrovia If No Ceasefire

May 16, 2003 - Allafrica.com

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned that Liberia's civil war could engulf the capital Monrovia, where half a million people are already in a desperate situation, unless President Charles Taylor and rebel forces can be persuaded to negotiate an early ceasefi
(Full Story)

Liberian refugees stream into neighbour countries

May 15, 2003 - Afro News

Judging by the stream of refugees arriving Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea and Sierra Leone, Liberia is at the brink of radical change. .
(Full Story)

UN-Backed Court Seeks Proof of Former Rebel Leader's Death

May 14, 2003 - Allafrica.com

The top investigator for the United Nations-backed war crimes court in Sierra Leone has again called on President Charles Taylor of Liberia to hand over the body of slain warlord and indictee Sam Bockarie, and repeated his demands for the arrest and transfer of fugitive rebel commander Johnny Paul Koroma.
(Full Story)

Investigators Call for Bockarie's Body, Demand Koroma's Arrest and Transfer

May 13, 2003 - Special Court, Press Release

Office of the Prosecutor Demands Bockarie's Body for Identification; Calls on Taylor to Arrest and Transfer Koroma Alive to the Court.
(Full Story, Allafrica.com)

Editorial Comments

May 10, 2003

The United Nimba Citizens’ Council, UNICCO, was founded by farsighted men and women with the view of fostering unity, economic prosperity and academic excellence for the benefit of Nimba Citizens. We must take off our hats to these fine citizens whose collective ideas have created one of the most respectable organizations in the Liberian community.
(Full Story)

Sierra Leone Confirms Death of Warlord

May 9, 2003 - Washington Post

Sierra Leone officials have confirmed the body of a man killed by Liberian troops was that of warlord Sam Bockarie, President Ahmed Tejan Kabbah said Thursday.
(Full Story)

Guerrilla Boss Reported Killed in Liberia

May 8, 2003 - Washington Post

Sam Bockarie, one of the most feared guerrilla fighters to emerge from more than a decade of overlapping wars in West Africa, was killed yesterday in a shootout with Liberian soldiers, the Liberian government announced.
(Full Story)

Power Sharing, Security Important for Stabilization Force, US Envoy Outlines

May 8, 2003(Allafrica.com). Monrovia: United States Ambassador to Liberia John W. Blaney has said there would have to be a deal on the question of power and security issues before considering a deployment of a stabilization in Liberia. Ambassador Blaney told a news conference in Monrovia Tuesday that a stabilization force in itself will not accomplish anything much if it does not have a clearly defined mission.
(Full Story)

Sam Bockarie Died a Wanted Man

May 8, 2003 (BBC Africa)

Sierra Leone warlord Sam Bockarie will be remembered for allegedly advocating a particularly horrific tactic of war: the deliberate and widespread practice of hacking off the limbs, lips and ears of his victims. The Revolutionary United Front (RUF) - the rebel group of which Mr Bockarie was a general - also received world attention for its systematic rape of women and abduction of thousands of children who were forced to fight. (Full Story)

MY WORLD, MY WORLD, FROM AN AFRICAN VILLAGE

May 8, 2003 - When I was a child growing up in the Sub-Saharan African Village, I thought my village was the world. A world full of milk and honey. I dreamed of this beautiful world without hatred, without evil, without war, and without tears. I was surrounded by nature full of beautiful trees, beautiful animals, love and compassion.
(Full Story)

Liberians Urged not to Repeat the Mistakes of the 1980s and 90s

April 17, 2003 - We, the Manos, Krahns, Mandingoes, and Dans of Grand Gedeh and Nimba Counties residing in the Americas, standing together as one family, appeal to our people at home in Liberia and elsewhere in the West African Sub-region to work together in search of a solution to the Liberian conflict. Let us not repeat the mistakes of the 1980s and 90s by allowing others to use us in their bid to seize or maintain power.
(Full Story)

UNICCO Site is Getting a Facelift

March 25, 2003 - Within the next three weeks, the site will look different and a bit better than what is is now. While this update is going on, we ask you to exercise patience. There will be no updates until the final work is done.

Special Assembly Meeting in Atlanta

Feb 22, 2003 - UNICCO members and officers from across the country will be meeting this weekend in Atlanta. This meeting, according to the National Chairlady, will be for just one day, Saturday, February 22, 2003.
(Full Story)

UNICCO Elects New Leaders

Feb 5,2003 - In early September of every two years, UNICCO elects its new leaders nationally. This year's elections was held in Rhode Island. The elections was quite interesting because for the first time, candidates were flying across the country to campaign. Some candidates visited the traditionally populous chapters like Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Minnesota, Georgia, New Jersey, and New York.
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UNICCO Digest is Back

FEB, 5, 2003 - UNICCO Digest, the newsletter of the United Nimba Citizens' Council, is back again. Thanks to the new leadership of UNICCO, through its chair-lady, Mrs. Mai Yuan. Her administration is interested in helping to bring the organization's mouth piece back.
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© Copyright 2003 UNICCO DIGEST.

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