UNICCO Digest: 2004 Archive:

Here is a collection of all the Digest articles from Jan - September 2004.

The Death of Yormie, Vaye: Accused Threatens to Sue FORUM Editor

September 28, 2004 - The Perspective

Gone are the painful and dreadful moments when two prominent sons of Nimba County and former Deputy Ministers in the Charles Taylor regime, Isaac Vaye and John Yormie met their brutal end, but at
Full Story

US Investments Bedrock for US-Liberia tie

September 28, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

A top US official has stressed the need for Liberians to learn to make money legally in the private sector by harnessing its enormous investment potential.
Full Story

Broken alliances

September 28, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

From the word, ‘go,’ the transitional government headed by Charles Gyude Bryant has been in trouble with warring faction leaders. At first some thought the government may phase out before reaching its first birthday.
Full Story

UNICCO CONDEMNS ALLEGED RECRUITING IN NIMBA COUNTY- press release

September 26, 2004 -UNICCO Digest

The United Nimba Citizens' Council, UNICCO, based in the United States of America has learned with grave concern rumors about recruitment of individuals to engage in insurrection against the government of the Republic of Guinea.
Full Story

Following Appeal By Acting Chairman Johnson Dock Workers Hold Back Strike Action

September 24, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The circumstances that led to the collapse of normal operations at the Freeport of Monrovia on Monday may not be repeated at least for now.
Full Story

Tackle Corruption At Zero Tolerance

September 24, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Concerns are mounting about the lack of transparency and accountability on the part of the all-inclusive Transitional Government of Liberia, especially in the management of public funds.
Full Story

Catholic Church Abhors Economic Injustices Under Transitional Government

September 24, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Catholic Archdiocese of Monrovia has expressed abhorrence over the unprecedented wave of social and economic injustices being perpetrated against the Liberian people under the National Transitional Government of Liberia.
Full Story

Presidential Candidates Not To Spend More Than US$2M For Campaign

September 24, 2004 -Allafrica.com

The National Election Commission(NEC), has disclosed that presidential candidates for the presidency in the 2005 General and Presidential should not expend more than US$2million during the campaign season.
Full Story

Actg NTGL Chairman Authorizes Disbursement of Funds for Reconditioning of damaged roads, drainage

September 24, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Acting Chairman Wesley Momo Johnson has expressed serious concerns over the decline in revenue generation in the country.
Full Story

Catholic Church Abhors Economic Injustices Under Transitional Government

September 24, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Catholic Archdiocese of Monrovia has expressed abhorrence over the unprecedented wave of social and economic injustices being perpetrated against the Liberian people under the National Transitional Government of Liberia.
Full Story

Catholic Church Takes Issue With NTGL

September 24, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The Catholic Archdiocese of Monrovia says it is deeply concerned about the unprecedented wave of social and economic injustices being perpetrated against the Liberian people under the Charles Gyude Bryant-led National Transitional Government of Liberia.
Full Story

Bryant Defends NTGL

September 24, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Chairman of NTGL, Charles Gyude Bryant, has vindicated his government on a number of issues for which he has been blamed in the past, comfortably finding scapegoat in the media and individuals who he said espouse the Pull Him Down mode of politics.
Full Story

NPP Fights Against Disintegration

September 23, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The mass resignation of leading members of the former ruling National Patriotic Party (NPP) has now claimed the attention of the rank and file of the party membership with the members striving not to allow its disintegration.
Full Story

City Hall Workers On Go-Slow - Demand 3 Months Salary Arrears

September 23, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Workers of the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) have commenced a go-slow action in demand of three months salary arrears.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Taylor loyalist recruits Liberians to fight in Guinea - ex-combatants

September 22, 2004 - IRIN

GANTA, 22 Sep 2004 (IRIN) - Tragen Wantee, a comrade-in-arms of former Liberian President Charles Taylor, has been recruiting former members of Taylor's armed forces for the past two months in order to launch an insurrection in neighbouring Guinea, former combatants in the Liberian frontier town of Ganta said.
Full Story

Afro-Americans To Gain Automatic Liberian Citizenship?

September 21, 2004 - The INQUIRER (Monrovia)

A group under the banner, "Concerned Afro-Americans for Liberia", wants the reinstatement of Article IX of Liberia's first constitution, dated January 5, 1839.
Full Story

Corruption Alive in Liberia, Says Amb. Jacques Klein

September 21, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General in Liberia, Ambassador Jacques Paul Klein says corruption appears to be very much alive within the National Transitional Government of Liberia(NTGL).
Full Story

Corruption Alive in Liberia, Says Amb. Jacques Klein

September 21, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General in Liberia, Ambassador Jacques Paul Klein says corruption appears to be very much alive within the National Transitional Government of Liberia(NTGL).
Full Story

Liberia On IMO's Black List for Not Applying Strategic Security Code

September 21, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

There are reports that Liberia is among 16 countries that have been 'black listed' by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for failing to implement the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
Full Story

Weah to Run for Presidency

September 21, 2004 - Vanguard (Lagos)

Former African and World Footballer of the Year George Weah is considering a bid for the presidency of Liberia
Full Story

" I Take Responsibility "

Prince Johnson Says of Doe’s Death
-Sets Pace for True Confession and Apology
-Urges Carter Camp, Lutheran Church, Death-Squads Leaders Forward

September 21, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

When Liberians met in Accra to chart the destiny of this country following more than a decade of warfare that is pitched on bad governance, hatred and prejudice, they realized that peace and reconciliation would not be achieved unless they followed true confession, acceptance of responsibility, and apology.
Full Story

Government Lacks Transparency Says Jacques Klein

September 20, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Special Representative of the Secretary General and head of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), Ambassador Jacques Klein, says the Transitional Government of Liberia lacks transparency in the management of public funds.
Full Story

Nimba Citizens End Reconciliation Tour Highlight Forgiveness

September 20, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A group of Nimba County citizens under the banner of the Nimba County Reconciliation and Reunion Campaign (NCRRC), over the weekend ended a series of reconciliation meetings among citizens of the county.
Full Story

Scramble for Jobs Affects Govt.'s Operations - UNMIL

September 20, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) says that the ongoing scrambling over lucrative in the government and in government agencies is also impeding the effective functioning of the Liberia National Transitional Government (LNTG).
Full Story

GHANA: Kufuor faces old opponent in his bid for a second term

September 15, 2004 - IRIN

ACCRA, 15 Sep 2004 (IRIN) - President John Kufuor of Ghana faces presidential and parliamentary elections in December with two distinct advantages under his belt: four years of solid economic achievement and the fact that he beat his main rival, opposition leader John Atta Mills, at the previous poll in 2000.
Full Story

SENEGAL: Locusts eat houses as well as crops and pasture

September 15, 2004 - IRIN

TENEYE, 15 Sep 2004 (IRIN) - In the far north of Senegal, swarms of voracious locust larvae are not just devouring crops and pasture. They are also munching their way through the straw huts of local farmers.
Full Story

Liberia: Bryant Appeals for $44m to Complete DDR And Send IDPs Home

September 15, 2004 - IRIN

Liberia appealed to donors on Tuesday to urgently provide US$44 million of promised aid to complete the disarming of former combatants and start moving people displaced by civil war back to their villages.
Full Story

Helplessness Or Confidence Crisis - The Case of Lawlessness and Police's Lukewarm Response, Bryant Passes The Buck

September 15, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

NTGL Chairman, Gyude Bryant, has conceded his administration's inability to adequately respond to the spate of violence that has been rocking the foundation of the Monrovia neighbors and has passed the buck to the peacekeepers.
Full Story

Row Over DDRR Implementation

September 15, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

According to Dr. Jarbo, the NCDDRR is finding it almost possible to convince the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) that Liberians are capable of managing the DDRR Program
Full Story

Are We Crucifying The Law For Expediency

September 14, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Your Excellency: Twice in less than a month, the Supreme Court of Liberia served a Writ of Prohibition both on your government and the authority of the Chinese company, Qingdao Trading Group Corporation, to halt all activities related to the loading and shipping of iron ore from the Port of Buchanan until issues raised by a petitioners' petition were addressed.
Full Story

Thugs, Riotous Vandals - Two Dead, Property Damage In Monrovia Violence

September 14, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Yesterday's riot was apparently provoked by an incident at the Waterside area where a Fulani businessman was reportedly attacked by armed robbers.
Full Story

Supreme Court Order Violated Again? - Chinese Ship To Depart With More Iron Ore

September 14, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Another Chinese ship, DUBAI Faith, which docked at the Port of Buchanan last Thursday and completed loading tons of iron ore over the weekend, is poised to depart Liberia shortly, reports said here yesterday.
Full Story

Calm Returns to UL Campus

September 13, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The University of Liberia (UL) has been in a state of uneasy calm since the unceremonious departure of Ben Roberts who was accused of mishandling the affairs of the institution.
Full Story

Highlights of UNICCO National Assembly Meeting in Chicago

Miamen Wopea, UNICCO National Chairman

By Yini Guva A. Sahn

September 12, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

Nimba citizens converged on the Windy City, Chicago, on September 3, 2004 for what has become a tradition for UNICCO, one of Africa’s Grand Old Associations in Diaspora, it’s National Assembly Meeting.
Full Story

Liberians Must Grow Food, Not Receive Food, WFP Rep. Urges

September 9, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Country Representative of the United Nations World Food Program (WFP), Joshau Bagirisha says he wants for every Liberian to grow food and not to be at the receiving end.
Full Story

Elections Or Reforms - Which One First?

September 9, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The transitional political process put together by various stakeholders in the Ghanaian capital calls for a national transitional government that will exercise civil authority and oversee disarmament with support of UNMIL, institute relevant governance and electoral reforms, and conduct general and presidential elections by October 2005.
Full Story

Over 100 Schools Destroyed in Nimba - Students' Education in Limbo

September 9, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Thousands of children of school-going age in the northern County of Nimba are being denied opportunity to pursue education due to the massive destruction of public and private schools there.
Full Story

As Bryant Visits Gbarnga, Gompa Cities: Ex-Combatants Raise Issue About DDRR

September 8, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

A group of former combatants of the former GOL, yesterday staged a peaceful demonstration in Ganta, Nimba County during the visit of NTGL Chairman Charles Gyude Bryant.
Full Story

What is in the Iron Ore Agreement?

September 8, 2004 - IRIN

The National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL) in recent time, has come under criticism from the public including the media, over the agreement authorizing a Chinese firm to buy a stockpile of iron ore from the port of Buchanan, Grand Bassa County.
Full Story

Liberia: Disarmament Finally Begins in Lofa County

September 8, 2004 - IRIN

The United Nations opened a new disarmament centre for former fighters of the LURD rebel group at Voinjama in the remote northwest of Liberia on Wednesday, but reiterated that it would wind up its nationwide disarmament programme by the end of October.
Full Story

Deputy Minister Doubts 2005 Elections

September 7, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A Deputy Minister in the all-inclusive Transitional Government of Liberia has viewed with pessimism the holding of next year's general and presidential elections amidst assurances by international stakeholders that the process is irreversible.
Full Story

Ex-Govt Generals Under 'Attack' As Unmil Rejects Unarmed 'Combatants'

September 8, 2004 - The NEWS( Monrovia)

As the DDRR process continues in Nimba County, militia Generals of the defunct Government of exiled former President Charles Taylor have alleged that they have come under attacks by their former fighters.
Full Story

Policeman Brutalizes ANALYST Reporter

September 7, 2004 - The Analyst

A reporter of The Analyst, J. Nathaniel Daygbor, Jr. was last Tuesday a victim of police brutality when a police officer assigned to the Finance Minister Lusine Kamara attacked and brutalized him.
Full Story

NTLA supports restraints on expenditure

September 7, 2004 - The Analyst

Since its inauguration on August 14 last year, one problem that has been haunting the transitional government is poor fiscal management.
Full Story

Liberia: DDR Commission Rejects October Deadline for Completing Disarmament

September 7, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

A government commission overseeing the disarmament of former combatants in Liberia has rejected a UN statement that the process must end in October. It said on Monday that the campaign must go on for longer in order to mop up all the weapons still held by the warring factions in remote areas of the country.
Full Story

Halliburton Says Officials Spoke of Nigeria Bribes

September 2, 2004 - Reuters

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Halliburton Co., once run by Vice President Dick Cheney, said an internal probe found information suggesting that members of a consortium it helps lead considered bribing Nigerian officials to win business.
Full Story

Bishop Francis Attends Mass In Wheel Chair

September 2, 2004 - The Analyst

The vocal prelate of the Catholic Church of Liberia, Archbishop Michael Francis, quietly slipped out of public life early this year after he reportedly suffered from stroke
Full Story

29-Man Lone Star Delegation Off To Zambia

September 2, 2004 - The Analyst

A 29-Man Lone Star delegation has left Monrovia for Lusaka, Zambia to honor its international pairing against the Mighty Chipolopolo, the national team of Zambia in the2006 African-World Cups qualifiers this weekend.
Full Story

Militia On Extortion Spree - Nimba Marketers Accused GOL Fighters

September 2, 2004 - The Analyst

With disarmament yet to take firm roots in rural Liberia, reports of harassment of civilians by former militia fighters who are awaiting disarmament continue unabated
Full Story

U.S. freezes assets of 28 Liberians, others

-Fawas, Yeaten, Kaddieyatu, Jewel Included
-Allen, Others Face Double Jeopardy

September 1, 2004 - The Analyst

In December 2003 and March 2004, the United Nations Security Council issued two resolutions decreeing the freezing of assets of former president Charles Taylor, members of his immediate family, and his associates.
Full Story

China Commits 20Million Yen

- To Rehabilitate Foreign Affairs, SKD & Health Ministry

September 1, 2004 - The Analyst

The government of the People’s Republic of China is to provide 20Million Chinese Yen for the rehabilitation of three key institutions, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Health and the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex. Ellis Togba reports
Full Story

Iron Ore Deal Was Legal

September 1, 2004 - The Analyst

The ongoing confusion over whether a Chinese vessel legally took off with a 14-year old stockpile of iron ore on Saturday caught the attention of authorities at both the National Port Authority and the Ministry of Justice.
Full Story

TQ Harris’s Strategic Food Reserve for Liberia – My concern

By MacArthur Paye-Bayee

August 31, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

The last time I addressed an issue on this website; some feeble-minded apologist personalized the discussion and hurled insults at me, calling me names, including bigot and all that. However, if we are to maintain sanity in discussing issues that affect all of us Nimbaians, yea Liberians, there has to be a line of demarcation between issues and personality.
Full Story

NTGL, UNMIL's Inaction Troubles Green Advocates - Calls For Mass Citizen's Action

August 31, 2004 - The Analyst

The Association of Environmental Lawyers of Liberia (Green Advocates) has described as "unacceptable" what it called inaction on the part of NTGL Chairman Gyude Bryant and the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General (SRSG) and head of the UN Military Mission to Liberia, Jacques Klein.
Full Story

Governance Reform Commssion Ready for Business - Mass Participation Envisaged

August 31, 2004 - The Analyst

Liberian stakeholders who converged in Accra to chart a political course to normalcy and democracy were unanimous on one thing: there can be no normalcy in Liberia unless governance is reformed fundamentally.
Full Story

NEC Wants 10-Year Residency Clause Suspended

August 31, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The National Elections Commission of Liberia(NEC), has recommended to the National Transitional Legislative Assembly, the suspension of the controversial Article 52 of the Liberian constitution which bans presidential aspirants who have not resided in the country ten years prior to the holding of an elections from contesting.
Full Story

Confidence Crises Delay Donor Pledges - Says INHRC Chairman Brown

August 31, 2004 - The Analyst

The Chairman of the Independent National Human Rights Commission, Atty. Dempster Brown, has disclosed that donors are dragging their heels in remitting pledges to Liberia because of confidence crisis.
Full Story

Poor Africa’s Foreign Coup Paymasters

August 31, 2004 - New Democrat

The arrest of Mark Thatcher, son of ex-British Conservative Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, on allegations he financed mercenaries bound for Equatorial Guinea but nabbed in Zimbabwe, may have gone unnoticed in many quarters. At first, the impression was that the “evil” Robert Mugabe was at it again, arresting innocent men.
Full Story

Charles Taylor and Guinea’s Gathering Storm of War

August 31, 2004 - New Democrat

UN reports of secret recruitment of child soldiers to fight in Guinea, and the linking of the gathering war storm to exiled and indicted war criminal Charles Taylor, should be of no surprise. Taylor blames Guinea’s illing ruler Lansana Conte for his woes and inevitable fall.
Full Story

Supreme Court Halts Iron Ore Shipment, 'Illegality' Suspected, Govt, Concerned Parties Cited

August 30, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Supreme Court of Liberia has issued a Prohibition, ordering that no consignment of Iron Ore or any ship/vessel containing ore be permitted to leave the port of Buchanan, in Grand Bassa County pending a conference between conflicting parties.
Full Story

E.U. Representative Frowns On NTGL's 'Lavish Spending'

August 30, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The representative of the European Union has warned Liberia's power-sharing government of consequences if it does not "manage the country's economy wisely", reports said Thursday.
Full Story

Government Denies US$10m Chopping - How Genuine Is The Denial

August 30, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Whether the Liberian government officials have placed millions of dollars in escrow account from the sale of iron ore to a Chinese firm or converted same into private accounts is the debatable issues at stake.
Full Story

Chinese Ship Escapes With Iron Ore

August 30, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Nine out of very ten Liberians will agree that the bottom-line of the nation's woes is the lack of rule of law, transparency, and impunity - the lack of good governance, in international diplomatic parlance.
Full Story

An Argument For No Postponement Of Liberian 2005 Elections

By Rev. Dr. Napoleon L. Divine

August 28, 2004 - The Perspective

have not often written on this medium but have of late felt impelled to do so, in the interest of suggesting an alternative viewpoint to a notion that is growing in popularity, for the postponement of the 2005 Liberian national elections. I ask for your kind attention to some arguments why I believe that this notion may not be prudent and might not serve our nation’s best interest.
Full Story

Ezekiel Pajibo Speaks on Disarmament, Sanctions and the Peace Process
(Interview)

August 27, 2004 - The Perspective

As a student leader in the 1980s, he ran into problems many a times with the military government of Samuel Doe who went as far as jailing and sentencing him and a few other students to death by firing squad. He spent eighteen years in exile and returned last year to live in Liberia.
Full Story

Presidential Aspirant Flouts UN Protocol?

August 27, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Cllr. Winston Tubman, a Liberian diplomat, who represents the United Nations Secretary General, Kofi Annan in Somalia as Special Representative, has been accused of flouting the protocol of the United Nations.
Full Story

NCDDRR Warns Ex-Combatants, Threatens To Arrest, Prosecute Violators

August 27, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The recent violent protest carried on by ex-fighters of the three warring factions has claimed the attention of the group in charge of the disarmament exercise.
Full Story

DOUBTS OF TAYLOYR’S AL-QAEDA LINKS

August 27, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Exiled former president Charles MacArthur Ghankay Taylor is wanted to face trial in neighboring Sierra Leone on a 17-count indictment for his alleged role in the decade-long civil conflict that left most of that country devastated.
Full Story

Dr. Amos Sawyer calls for the Postponement of the 2005 National Elections in Liberia

By Winsley S. Nanka

August 26, 2004 - The Perspective

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - Dr. Amos C. Sawyer, former interim president of the Republic of Liberia has suggested that Liberians extend the term of the Gyude Bryant interim government to allow for putting into place the constitutional changes necessary to make good governance sustainable in Liberia.
Full Story

Reform Lease Policy

Editorial

August 26, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

A LOCAL DAILY reported yesterday that the Ministry of Education is to shortly relocate to an abandoned building once used as medical facility by the Government of Liberia more than two decades ago.
Full Story

Malu Faults Taylor's Asylum At NBA Summit

August 26, 2004 - The Vanguard (Lagos)

FORMER Chief of Army Staff and ex-ECOMOG commander, General Victor Malu, yesterday faulted asylum the Federal Government gave to former Liberian Leader, Mr Charles Taylor, saying there was no justification for it given the number of Nigerians Taylor ordered killed, both as a rebel leader and president of Liberia.
Full Story

UNMIL Pats Supreme Court On The Back But Sees Problems In Court System

August 26, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The United Nations Missions in Liberia (UNMIL) has expressed satisfaction over the functioning of the Supreme Court of Liberia. The Head of the UNMIL Legal and Judicial Support Division, Alfred Fofie said the UNMIL is convinced that the Supreme Court of Liberia can deal with a full case load with sound judgments in each of the cases per term.
Full Story

Gov't Issues Ultimatum To Illegal Miners

August 26, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Sapo National Park in Sinoe, South-eastern Liberia is said to be on the verge of “none-existence.” There are reports that residents of the county are occupying the national shrine and destroying its assets.
Full Story

SOLDIERS THREATEN STREET VIOLENCE AGAIN

August 26, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Accra Peace Agreement (CPA) called for cease fire, disarmament, demobilization, and rehabilitation of ex-fighters, restructuring of the security forces that include the police and military, and then elections.
Full Story

In ULAA election, Arthur Watson won the votes, Morris Koffa got the honor

By AB DOLLEY

August 25, 2004 -LIMANY

The candidacy of Arthur Watson and Georges Wuo was on Sunday, August 22, declared winner of the highly contested presidential and vice presidential elections of the Union of Liberia Association in America, ULAA, in NJ, bringing an end to the long leadership crisis that has plagued that organization for the past two years.
Full Story

CSM-L Debunks Draft Budget

August 25, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The National Budget covering the period August 2004 to July 2005 is presently before the National Transitional Legislative Assembly (NTLA) for thorough perusal, approbation and subsequent passage
Full Story

Ghanaian Security Besieges Budumburam Camp

August 25, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Budumburam refugee camp in Gomoa, Central Accra, Ghana, has been home to thousands of Liberians who had escaped insecurity due to 14 years of warfare in Liberia. Notwithstanding the refugee status of the residents, the camp has been the subject of intermittent security suspicion and searches that turned out 100 per cent of the time to be futile.
Full Story

Conteh Calls for Unity -In UL Prexy Crisis

August 23, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The newly appointed University of Liberia President, Dr. Al-Hassan Conteh, has called on the University faculty and students to put aside their differences and join forces to move the University forward to higher heights.
Full Story

Al-Qaeda, Charles Taylor Partners in Blood Diamonds

August 23, 2004 - New Era (Windhoek)

Former Liberian president Charles Taylor sold conflict diamonds to known al-Qaeda operatives that may have been used to finance the September 11 attacks on the United States, according to a confidential report from the UN-backed war crimes court in Sierra Leone.
Full Story

Nimba Youths Lash At Superintendent

Accuse Him Of Anti-Peace Propaganda
By Mensiegar Karnga, Jr.

August 19, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Concerted efforts by well-meaning sons and daughters like Cllr. Cooper W. Krauh, Sheik Kafumba Konneh and others to preach the gospel of reconciliation and genuine forgiveness among Nimbaians to bridge the gap of mistrust and antagonism necessitated by years of brutal civil conflict appears far-fetched.
Full Story

Discontentment On UL Campus - Faculty Boycott Classes

August 19, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Discontentment has brewed at the University of Liberia (UL) over the appointment of Dr. Alhasan Conteh as the new president of the nation's highest learning institution.
Full Story

65,000 Fighters Disarmed, 20,000 Weapons, 5 Million Ammunition Collected

August 19, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The head of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) retired American Airforce General, Jacques Klein has given an 'impressive' report about the disarmament of more than 65, 000 former fighters.
Full Story

No Confrontation With Assembly's Speaker, Bryant Says, Flies to Sierra Leone

August 19, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Chairman of the Transitional Government, Gyude Bryant says there's no confrontation between him and the Speaker of the Transitional Legislative Assembly (NTLA), George Dweh.
Full Story

British Group Proposes Emergency Power Supply

August 18, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

A group, known as British Engineering Services (BES) has proposed to provide between five and seven mega watts of electric power to the greater Monrovia area at no charge to Government to meet the urgent power need of residents, businesses.
Full Story

Truth Commission Wants Cases Heard From 1979, Presents Draft Act to Govt

August 18, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Perpetrators of massacres, sexual offences, murder, economic crimes, extra-judicial killings, and all incidents of gross human rights abuses and violations, whether isolated or part of a systematic pattern from January 1979 up to the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), should face investigation, the TRC draft act says.
Full Story

Liberia: UN Extends Disarmament to Birthplace of Country's Long Civil War

August 18, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) has brought its efforts to restore peace to the very region where the prolonged civil war first began 15 years ago, launching its latest disarmament and demobilization program in the strife-torn West African country's remote Nimba county.
Full Story

Liberia is 'Sick' And Needs Healing, Methodist Pastor Tells Students

August 17, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Director at the Department of Evangelism of the Liberia Annual Conference/United Methodist Church Rev. Jerry Kulah has told a student congregation that the nation is sick and needs healing. The Director at the Department of Evangelism of the Liberia Annual Conference/United Methodist Church Rev.
Full Story

LIBERIA: A shattered nation on a long road to recovery

August 17, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 17 Aug 2004 (IRIN) - Liberians, impatient for better times ahead, have begun the slow process of rebuilding their country, shattered by 14 years of intermittent civil war that ended one year ago.
Full Story

DDRR Punctures Again

August 17, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The United Military Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) announced late last month that it was shutting down disarmament sites in the Montserrado, Bomi, Margibi, Grand Bassa and parts of Bong County.
Full Story

Ex-Combatants Stage Protest in Commercial District of Vai Town

August 17, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Normal traffic and business activities in the commercial district of Vai Town yesterday came to a temporary standstill as disgruntled ex-combatants staged a protest action in the area.
Full Story

8 Persons Eyeing Nimba County Superintendentship

August 17, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

With the apparent delay in the appointment of a superintendent for their county, reports say eight eminent Nimbaians have expressed their desire to become the Superintendent of Nimba County during this transitional period
Full Story

Cape Mountinians Lash At Caucus Commend Bryant

August 17, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Citizens of Grand Cape Mount County say their attentions has been drawn to what they called "demonic plans" by individuals claiming to be "Cape Mount Legislative Caucus."
Full Story

Magistrate Fayiah Violated My Immunity

August 17, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Representative of Montserrado County, Julius Parker says Monrovia City Court Judge Joseph Fayiah has violate his Legislative immunity when he went to his gas station to insult him and his workers.
Full Story

Attention for Africa Not Easy In an Election Year - Donald Payne (Interview)

August 16, 2004 - Allafrica.com

The following exchange with Rep. Donald M. Payne (Democrat - New Jersey) is one of an ongoing series of conversations about Africa policy in the next U.S. presidential administration that AllAfrica is publishing during the current American election campaign.
Full Story

Amnesty Urges Nigeria to Surrender Taylor

August 16, 2004 - Concord Times (Freetown)

Amnesty International has called on African Union (AU) member states to urge Nigeria surrender Charles Taylor to the UN backed Special Court for Sierra Leone.
Full Story

Bryant Makes US$100,000.00 Pledge Raises Hopes At Cuttington College

August 16, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The Chairman of the Transitional Government of Liberia, Gyude Bryant, has pledged US$ 100,000.00 to assist in returning the Cuttington University College (CUC) to its main campus in Saukoko, Bong County.
Full Story

Finance Takes Over Balance of Trade Calculation

August 16, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The Transitional Government has accepted an advice from experts of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding the determination of the Country's volume of trade
Full Story

Rwandan soldiers arrive in Sudan

August 15, 2004 - BBC

Rwandan troops have arrived in Sudan to help protect African Union (AU) ceasefire monitors in the war-ravaged western region of Darfur.
Full Story

Germany admits Namibia genocide

August 14, 2004 - BBC

Germany has offered its first formal apology for the colonial-era massacre of some 65,000 members of the Herero tribe by German troops in Namibia.
Full Story

Donor Shortfalls Threaten Emergency Food Pipeline for Liberia, UN Warns

August 13, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

Faced with the danger of a break down in its food pipeline in Liberia, the United Nations emergency feeding agency says it needs additional confirmed contributions through the end of the year and is considering regional purchases to avert a shortfall next month.
Full Story

Between Taylor And the United States(Opinion)

August 13, 2004 - Concord Times (Freetown)

Since the UN backed Special Court for Sierra Leone unsealed an indictment against former Liberian President Charles Taylor a year ago, much noise has been made requesting the extradition, to Sierra Leone, of the former Liberian warlord to answer charges regarding his involvement in one of Africa's most dangerous civil conflicts.
Full Story

"Once a Liberian, Always a Liberian"? Fact Versus Fiction

By Theodore T. Hodge

August 13, 2004 - The Perspective

In a recent piece posted by one Charles Alake Williams, the theme was the birthrights of Liberians. The question posed was, "Why are Liberians being forced to give up their birthrights when they become citizens of another country?"
Full Story

Court Rules in LUP Case

August 13, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Few days after a newspaper carried a story in which it was stated that "Brumskine may quit LUP", a more dramatic event has followed.
Full Story

Former RIA Boss Disassociates From NPP Celebration

August 12, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

A stalwart of the former ruling National Patriotic Party (NPP) and Managing Director of the Roberts International Airport (RIA), Mr. Randolph Cooper says he had nothing to do with festive celebrations of the departure of the exiled President, Charles Ghankay Taylor.
Full Story

Liberia's Olympic Team Off to Athens As Gov't Gives US$16,000

August 12, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The country's team to this year's Olympic games which is scheduled to officially kick-off tomorrow in Athens, Greece left the country yesterday.
Full Story

More Revelation On Al Qaeda-Liberia Links

August 12, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Until recently, Charles Taylor's direct links with the notorious al-Qaeda terrorist movement was considered part of international conspiracy to discredit and topple his government. Taylor himself alluded to such scheme and did not only call for proof from his accusers but also proffered to help the Bush administration bring al-Qaeda suspects to justice.
Full Story

"Withdraw Cllr. Cherue’s Appointment"
...Civil Society Organizations Urge Bryant

August 12, 2004 - The Perspective

The Civil Society Organizations of Liberia (CSOs) has called on Chairman Gyude Bryant to swiftly withdraw the appointment of Cllr. Frederick Cherue as Board Chairman of the Liberia Petroleum Refinery Corporation and "desist from consistently undermining the spirit and intent of the Accra Agreement."
Full Story

Liberian Women Raise Crucial Issues With Bryant
...Say Culture of Impunity Continuing=

August 12, 2004 - The Perspective

A cross-section of Liberian women under the banners of "Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace" and "Women in Peace Building Network(WIPNET)", have recommended five crucial issues with NTGL Chairman Charles Gyude Bryant to facilitate the smooth implementation of the Liberian peace process; as Patrick K. Wrokpoh reports.
Full Story

Opposition Builds Against Taylor's Asylum in Nigeria

August 11, 2004 - The Vanguard (Lagos)

ONE year after he fled Liberia to take up political asylum in Nigeria, former warlord and war crimes suspect, Mr. Charles Taylor is an increasingly isolated and hated figure in his adoptive home.
Full Story

Executive Mansion Reacts, Says Missing Arms Allegation False

August 11, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Executive Mansion has sharply reacted to reports that there has been disappearance of a "sizable amount" of arms from the Executive Mansion, as alleged by NTLA Speaker, George Dweh
Full Story

Sudan faces new atrocity charges

August 11, 2004 - BBC

Pro-government militias in Sudan are still attacking civilians despite pledges by Khartoum to end the violence, a human rights group says.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Rebels dig in at rubber plantation

August 10, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 10 Aug 2004 (IRIN) - More than 1,000 former fighters of the LURD rebel movement are holed up in Liberia's second largest rubber plantation and are refusing to turn in their guns to UN peacekeepers, a member of Liberia's transitional parliament said on Tuesday.
Full Story

Usaid-Funded Radio Program Advances in Southeastern Communities

August 10, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Mercy Corps community radio team arrived in Maryland last week on a month-long deployment to set up two radio community stations in the Harper and Pleebo cities.
Full Story

Media Women Frown On 'Food for Sex'

August 10, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The Liberian Women Media Action Committee (LIWOMAC) has frowned on reports that young girls and teenagers have been targeted at displaced camps by aid workers for "food for sex".
Full Story

Goodridge to Contest Presidency?

August 10, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

According to credible sources, many of these citizens said they feel that the former information minister can be a good candidate and is one who is determined to move the country from its present backward state.
Full Story

Where Are the Jobs?

August 10, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

A prominent Liberian, Mr. Edward T. Slangar has reacted sharply to recent claim by United Nations Secretary General's Special Representative to Liberia, Amb.Jacques Paul Klein, that UNMIL has 300 jobs for grabs but was yet to receive applicants for the vacancies.
Full Story

Easing the Economic Problems(Opinion)

By William A. Brown, Jr.

August 10, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

There are enormous economic hardships in Liberia. Some of the major root causes, including high prices of commodities on the Liberian market, are the new tariff laws on customs duties and charges, bureaucratic rules, and the indiscipline attitudes displayed by managers in Government ministries and agencies.
Full Story

Elections Commission Begins Inspection of Political Parties

August 9, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The National Elections Commission (NEC) Monday commenced the inspection of headquarters of all registered political parties in the country.
Full Story

Bin Deploys At 2 Strategic Points

August 9, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization has finally deployed at two strategic entry points in its strife to take full control of country's borders.
Full Story

Taylor Wanted for Terrorism

August 9, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

I recent legal wrangling in which the government of Nigeria again strongly opposed the extradition of former Liberian president, Charles G. Taylor, to Sierra Leone to face charges for atrocities allegedly committed against the people of that country may have led many to the conclusion that the issue had hit dead end.
Full Story

Ivorian rebels rejoin government

August 9, 2004 - BBC

Ivorian opposition ministers and rebels have attended their first cabinet meeting after a four-month boycott
Full Story

Forrmer Liberian leader allegedly aided Al Qaeda

August 5, 2004 - Herald Tribune

WASHINGTON: The senior Al Qaeda operative captured in Pakistan last week met Charles Taylor, who was president of Liberia at the time, in the years before and after Sept. 11, 2001, and received refuge from the former U.S. ally while planning further terrorist operations, according to U.S. intelligence officials and United Nations investigators.
Full Story

Liberia: Government Seeks Foreign Investment to Revive Mains Electricity

August 6, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 6 Aug 2004 (IRIN) - The government of Liberia is seeking a private overseas investor to help restore mains electricity to the capital Monrovia at an estimated cost of US$14 million, Joseph Maya, the managing director of the state-run Liberia Electricity Corporation said.
Full Story

Dweh Threatens War, If - Gen. Opande Wheeled Sekou Away - Duala Residents Run Helter-Skelter -What Is Afoot

August 5, 2004 - The Inquirer(Monrovia)

The chairmanship of the rebel Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) has been the most hotly contested seat in contemporary Liberian maverick politics since Aicha Keita Conneh conspired against her husband (Sekou Damate Conneh) to divest him of it early this year.
Full Story

Debate Over al Qaeda's Connection to West Africa's Diamond Trade Takes New Turns

August 5, 2004 - Allafrica.com

The arrest of a Tanzanian fugitive in Pakistan last week, release of the 9-11 Commission report in Washington and a forthcoming finding by a war crimes tribunal in Sierra Leone have rekindled the debate over what role, if any, west African diamonds played in financing the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Security fears and poor infrastructure will limit repatriation of refugees

August 4, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 4 Aug 2004 (IRIN) - Concerns over security in some parts of rural Liberia and the battered state of the country's infrastructure will limit the number of refugees able to return home from neighbouring West African countries later this year, the UN refugee agency UNHCR has warned
Full Story

Liberia: Leadership Battle in Lurd Leads to Fighting On Streets of Monrovia

August 4, 2004 - IRIN

A long-running power struggle for the leadership of the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) rebel movement has spilled over into violence on the streets of the capital Monrovia, forcing UN peacekeeping forces to send in tanks and step up street patrols.
Full Story

Bryant Agrees to Consult Former Factions'; Rep. Plans Regular Cabinet Meetings

August 3, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The Chairman of the Transitional Government, Gyude Bryant, has consented that he would hold transparent consultations and dialogue with the various former warring factions serving in the power-sharing government, Information Minister Dr. C. William Allen has disclosed.
Full Story

Don't Use Nimba As Breeding Ground for Insurrection, Citizens Urged

August 3, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Nimba County citizens through out the country have been cautioned to ensure that their county is not manipulated any more and used as a 'breeding ground' for insurrection by selfish individuals.
Full Story

UNMIL Has 300 Jobs, But No Applicants, Jacques Klein

August 3, 2004 - The Inquirer(Monrovia)

The United Nations Secretary General's special representative to Liberia, Ambassador Jacques Paul Klein has disclosed that UNMIL has 300 jobs for grabs but was yet to receive applicants for the vacancies.
Full Story

As Audit in Public Sector Progresses: Govt Places Ban On Proxies

August 3, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Individuals serving as proxies have been banned from collecting checks written on Government's accounts belonging to their relatives and friends as well as the dead among others.
Full Story

As Ex-Gol Generals Collect Thousands of Dollars: Immigration Boss Set Precondition ---Wants Militias Removed for Deployment

August 3, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Former GOL Generals in Nimba County are paying themselves L$25,000.00 monthly from customs fees at the Ganta Custom Post bordering Guinea.
Full Story

Former American Peace Corp Volunteers Expected

August 3, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

A six-man delegation of former American Peace Corp Volunteers is expected here Wednesday to undertake several productive ventures including helping to train teachers.
Full Story

Penalize Detractors of Peace Lurd Executive Urges Unmil

August 3, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

An Executive of the former warring faction Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy Mr. Zoe Pennue has called on the United Nations Mission in Liberia to deal with anyone who presses to undermine the peace process.
Full Story

Former GOL Speaks Out

August 3, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Officials of the former Government of Liberia (GOL) serving in the National Transitional Government of Liberia yesterday called a news conference to speak out on issues of national concern; as Throble K. Suah reports.
Full Story

Dutch Businessman Proposes Port Reconstruction

August 3, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Mr. Noppen who is Chairman of PIMEX, the Nile Dutch Shipping (NDS) agency in Liberia, said the proposed reconstruction program would make the port of Monrovia par excellence to other
Full Story

UNHCR Holds Regional Meeting In Monrovia

August 3, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees(UNHCR), yesterday opened its regional repatriation meeting in Monrovia.
Full Story

Need to Down-size Civil Service Stressed

August 3, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The need to down-size the country's Civil Service has been stressed recently at a workshop under the aegis of the Civil Service Agency(CSA).
Full Story

UN Official Hails Work of Chinese Peacekeepers in Liberia

August 2, 2004 -UN News Service (New York)

As part of celebrations marking Chinese Army Day, a senior United Nations official in Liberia has paid tribute to the "commitment and dedication" of Chinese peacekeepers working in the war-ravaged West African country.
Full Story

Sudan army's anger over UN 'war'

August 2, 2004 - BBC

Sudan's army says the UN resolution on the conflict in Darfur is "a declaration of war" and threatens to fight any foreign intervention. .
Full Story

Mass graves found in Ivory Coast

August 2, 2004 - BBC

The UN's Ivory Coast mission says three mass graves containing at least 99 bodies have been found near the northern rebel-held town of Korhogo.
Full Story

Taylor's pet lioness rescued

July 30, 2004 - BBC

Ma Juah, former Liberian President Charles Taylor's abandoned pet lioness, is flying to a new home in a South African lion sanctuary.
Full Story

ICGL, ECOWAS: Budge Not, Lest We Perish

July 30, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia) (OPINION)

IN OUR JULY 29 banner story, we quoted several Liberians as describing the ongoing ECOWAS-sponsored meeting on Liberia as "a gathering storm" that is likely to impact negatively on the gains made thus far in the Liberian peace process.
Full Story

On Mission To Clean-up -Dr. Korto Diagnoses Liberia's Problems; Says There Are Too Many Wrongdoings, Societal Ills

July 30, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

A Presidential aspirant and staunch member of the Liberia Action Party (LAP) now seeking the party's candidature, Dr. Joseph Korto, says he is in for the presidency of Liberia to clean-up.
Full Story

Barclay Joins Rescue Mission

July 30, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

For Liberian Presidency "I feel like you feel." These were words of Dr. James Kollie Barclay when he declared his intention to contest Liberian presidency. Like his other ambitious compatriots, Dr. Barclay said he has come to rescue Liberia and Liberians from poverty, illiteracy and abuses amongst others.
Full Story

Gbarnga, Voinjama Under Threat

July 30, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

LURD's Splinter Groups Threaten Shootout, If the mediators in the Liberian peace process - ECOWAS and ICGL - gave in to factional demands early this week for a meeting to review the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA).
Full Story

No breakthrough on Ivory Coast

July 30, 2004 - BBC

Thirteen African presidents have ended a meeting in Ghana with a promise to continue talks on Friday on the deadlocked Ivory Coast peace process.
Full Story

'Please, Forgive Us' Ex-Combatants Plead

July 30, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

To demonstrate their sincerity about taking up arms no more, thousands of ex-combatants under the banner of Liberian Ex-combatants Anxious for Development (LEAD) paraded through the streets of Monrovia
Full Story

US cuts 'sanctions' in Sudan text

July 30, 2004 - BBC

The US has reworded a draft UN resolution on war-ravaged Darfur to rally support for pressure on Sudan, accused of backing Arab militias there.
Full Story

Engage the Chinese Offer

July 29, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

A significant news item missed the headlines last week, apparently because many reporters were overwhelmed by the US$1.2 million gesture to the Liberian Government.
Full Story

Inquirer Suspends Activities of Lurd Leadership

July 29, 2004 - Inquirer (Monrovia)

According to paper's Editorial Department, its decision to suspend the publication of LURD's activities is due to the glaring feud within the group's executives and leadership.
Full Story

US bans Ghanaian state airline

July 28, 2004 - IRIN

Ghana Airways has been banned from flying to the United States with immediate effect.
Full Story

LIBERIA: West African leaders to review peace process in Accra

July 28, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 28 Jul 2004 (IRIN) - West African leaders will review Liberia's year-old peace deal at a summit in Accra on Thursday, after a series of wrangles between the country's former warring factions and Gyude Bryant, the civilian head of the transitional government, diplomats said.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Where are the weapons? Is disarmament really working?

July 28, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 28 Jul 2004 (IRIN) - The United Nations has poured 15,000 peacekeepers into Liberia and more than 54,000 former combatants have been disarmed, but UN officials admit that not everyone is handing in a weapon and vast tracts of the West African country remain inaccessible to UN patrols.
Full Story

"There Are Plans To Kill Me" ...Says Presidential Aspirant

July 28, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

One of the more than 30 presidential aspirants for the 2005 general and presidential elections, Mr. Cornelius Hunter, has disclosed that there have been several attempts on his life by people he believes to be his political opponents.
Full Story

T. Q. Harris Pays Tribute to Pres. Bush, Others

July 28, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

PA Liberian presidential aspirant in next year's poll has paid tribute to United States' President George Walter Bush, Jr. as a true friend of Liberia, "whose definite action is bringing the 14-year chapter of violence to a close"; reports Throble K. Suah
Full Story

Sierra Leonean President Apologizes to Liberians

July 27, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

President Kabbah said while it is true that the Chairman of the transitional government in Sierra Leone Charles Gyude Bryant made an open apology to Sierra Leoneans when he visited that country earlier this year for the participation of Liberians in the 10 years civil war in that country,
Full Story

Taylor: Court Summons Refugee Commission's Boss

July 27, 2004 - This Day (Lagos)

A Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday ordered the Federal Commissioner, National Refugee's Commission and two other agencies that may have been involved in the process leading to the granting of political asylum to former Liberian President, Mr. Charles Taylor to appear before it.
Full Story

"They Are All Rogues"

July 27, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The pastor of the First Baptist Church in Oldest Congo Town, Rev. Joseph G. Johnson says Liberian men, especially officials of government, who are living above their monthly incomes are noting but "bunch of rogues".
Full Story

Re-echoing Orator's Call

July 27, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

In view of the prevailing improved security situation in the city, the official program for this 157th Independence Day 's celebration ended yesterday with the appropriate activities which were climaxed with the national oration delivered by seasoned educator and administrator Sister Lauren Browne at the Barclay Training Center in Monrovia.
Full Story

On Anniversary of Liberia's Independence, UN Envoy Sees New Chapter Ahead

July 26, 2004 -UN News Service (New York)

As Liberia marked the 157th anniversary today of its independence, the top United Nations envoy for the West African nation congratulated it on the progress made since the end of a bloody decade-long civil war last year.
Full Story

Europe threatens Sudan sanctions

July 26, 2004 - BBC

The European Union has urged the United Nations to threaten Sudan with sanctions over the violence in Darfur.
Full Story

White House Announces Freeze on Assets of Charles Taylor and Aides

July 24, 2004 - The White House (Washington, DC)

President George W. Bush froze the assets of former Liberian President Charles Taylor, his family and top aides effective July 23, 2004. The text below is the Executive Order Blocking Property of Certain Persons and Prohibiting the Importation of Certain Goods From Liberia.
Full Story

GUINEA-LIBERIA: Refugees criss-cross a fluid and volatile border

July 22,2004 - IRIN

NZEREKORE, 22 Jul 2004 (IRIN) - Tens of thousands of Liberians who have registered as refugees in neighbouring Guinea are abusing their status by crossing the border to trade their food rations and prepare their eventual return before returning to their camps for the next handout, aid workers said.
Full Story

LIBERIA: UN probes cross-border arms smuggling

July 21, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 21 Jul 2004 (IRIN) - UN peacekeepers are investigating reports of smuggling arms and the movement of combatants across Liberia’s international borders, General Joseph Owonibi, the deputy force commander of the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) disclosed on Wednesday.
Full Story

Sub-Saharan Africa poverty grows

July 20, 2004 - BBC

Nigeria's biggest fraud case has been dismissed after the judge said he had no jurisdiction to hear it.
Full Story

Sub-Saharan Africa poverty grows

July 20, 2004 - BBC

Sub-Saharan Africa is the only region where the number of people living in abject poverty has grown over the past 20 years, says a United Nations report
Full Story

Sudan plans Darfur refugee return

July 20, 2004 - BBC

Sudan's authorities are planning to move Darfur's displaced civilians from the camps where they have sought refuge back to their villages.
Full Story

Five U.S. Professors for UL, Presidential Aspirant Discloses

July 20, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Mr. Hunter in an interview with The INQUIRER recently, said the five professors are willing to render their services to the University of Liberia free of charge.
Full Story

Intellectuals Stick to Issues and They Know the Value of Human Dignity!

By J. Marsilius Flumo

July 19, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

The purpose of this piece is to express my chagrin at Mr. James Kollie’s response to Mr. Bai Gbala’s article (Decentralization Of Political & Administrative Power In Liberia).
Full Story

Towards National Unity, the Liberian Press as the “instrument of hate”

By Etags R. Reeves

July 19, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

As a frequent visitor to the New Democrat and other Liberian websites, I am deeply disappointed that Mr. Kamara of the New Democrat and some Liberian intelligentsia are telling the Liberian story from a single pair of eyes.
Full Story

Lone Star Under-17 Off To Gambia

July 19, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

According to the Chief Scribe of the Liberia Football Association(LFA), Mr. Yanqueh S. Borsay, the tournament is in commemoration of the 10th celebration of the military coup staged by the incumbent Gambian Leader, Yaya Jammeh against the constitutional government of Sir Jawara.
Full Story

Political Parties Get IRI's Support, Sign Capacity-Building Agreement for Elections

July 19, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Registered political parties are due to be assisted by the United States-based International Republican Institute (IRI).
Full Story

U.S. Ambassador Urges Political Parties

July 19, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The U.S. Ambassador to Liberia, John William Blaney III has admonished the 18 registered political parties in the country to work hard and make the nation's interest foremost; as Charles Crawford reports.
Full Story

Price of Rice Increased

July 19, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Addressing a news conference recently, Commerce and Industry Minister Samuel Wlue said, the government was constrained to increase the price of rice by US$1.50.
Full Story

Peace Will Remain Elusive If...

July 19, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Episcopal Bishop Edward W. Neufville says as long as sin continues to be committed by mankind in Liberia, peace would continue to remain elusive.
Full Story

Security Council Supports Ecowas' Moves To Prevent Coup d' Etat

July 19, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The United Nations Security Council Mission that visited the West Africa sub-region recently, says it welcomes the initiative of ECOWAS and the UN office for West Africa to identify ways of preventing coup d' etat and other unconstitutional means of seizing or holding state power.
Full Story

Surveyors Warned Against Unscrupulous Activities

July 16, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The Chairman of the Surveyors' Licensing and Registration Board of the Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy has warned surveyors against unscrupulous activities regarding land surveying. In his induction speech on Wednesday, the Board's Chairman, Julu M. Johnson, Sr., said all land
Full Story

Chayee's Body Flown to Grand Gedeh: the Final Journey of a 'Strategist'

July 16, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The remains of the former Managing Director of the National Port of Authority (NPA), Chayee Doe has been flown to his home town of Tuzon, Grand Gedeh County, in southeastern Liberia.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Elections Commission needs US$ 12 million for 2005 poll

July 16, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 16 Jul 2004 (IRIN) - Liberia needs donors to help it find more than US$12 million so it can conduct elections in October 2005 and return to democracy after a long and bitter civil war, the head of the National Elections Commission said on Friday.
Full Story

BBC reporters freed in Cameroon

July 16, 2004 - BBC

Cameroonian authorities have released two BBC journalists arrested in the disputed region of Bakassi
Full Story

EQUATORIAL GUINEA: US Senate probe reveals massive theft of oil revenue

July 16, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

DAKAR, 16 Jul 2004 (IRIN) - A US Senate investigation into lax controls on money laundering at a Washington bank has revealed the misappropriation of at least US$35 million of oil revenues
Full Story

COTE D IVOIRE: UN human rights team lands as political stalemate continues

July 16, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

ABIDJAN, 16 Jul 2004 (IRIN) - A United Nations commission has landed in Cote d'Ivoire to investigate human rights abuses during the fistfour months of civil war that followed a September 2002 rebellion in the world's top cocoa producer, a UN official said on Friday.
Full Story

SUDAN: African Union mediating talks on Darfur

July 16, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

NAIROBI, 16 Jul 2004 (IRIN) - The Sudanese government was holding closed-door talks on Friday in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, with mediators from the African Union (AU), according to Hamid Algabid, t
Full Story

Special Court Rules Out Charles Taylor's Arrest

July 16, 2004 - Concord Times (Freetown)

Special Court Registrar, Robin Vincent has said that though a prepared cell awaits the arrival of former Liberian President, Charles Taylor to Freetown, the Court will not allow Taylor into its detention facility until it is proven that he was not brought in through illegitimate means.
Full Story

Joy at Somali hospital reopening

July 16, 2004 - BBC

The Somali capital's biggest hospital has reopened after 14 years.
Full Story

Africa seeks Darfur breakthrough

July 16, 2004 - BBC

African mediators are trying to break the deadlock between the Sudan government and two rebels groups and end the conflict in the Darfur region.
Full Story

UN probes abuses in Ivory Coast

July 16, 2004 - BBC

A United Nations commission has arrived in Ivory Coast to investigate human rights abuses.
Full Story

SUP Calls for Audit Findings

July 15, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Student Unification Party (SUP) of the University of Liberia has expressed concern about delay in making known the findings of the Auditing Committee set up by Chairman Charles Gyude Bryant.
Full Story

Special Court Has No Jurisdiction Over Liberia'

July 15, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Mr. Robin Vincent at the end of a two-day visit to Liberia, told local and international journalists yesterday that the special court was established to try those who committed alleged atrocities in Sierra Leone and to also demonstrate the rule of law.
Full Story

The Causes of Liberia's Under-Development

July 15, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Conflict in itself is not peculiar to any nation-state, rather universal. The major issue is not getting into conflict(s), but the ability to manage such conflict and not repeating said event.
Full Story

Bennie, NTGL Deadlock On Accusations

July 15, 2004 - The News(Monrovia)

The Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Charles Bennie, alleged during a "reunion of all progressives" program held at the Monrovia City Hall on June 21, 2004,
Full Story

Soldier Found Dead in Monrovia

July 15, 2004 - The News(Monrovia)

Residents of Gblowein Community in Logan Town woke up to a terrifying scene Wednesday Morning when a personnel of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) was found dead.
Full Story

Freeport Acquires US$375,000 Toplift From WFP

July 15, 2004 - The News(Monrovia)

The Management of the National Port Authority (NPA) has acquired a US$375,421.00 Toplift along with spare parts from the World Food Program (WFP) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Full Story

Nigerians challenge Taylor asylum

July 14, 2004 - BBC

A Nigerian court has allowed two men to challenge the granting of asylum to former Liberian leader Charles Taylor.
Full Story

Nigerians challenge Taylor asylum

July 14, 2004 - BBC

A Nigerian court has allowed two men to challenge the granting of asylum to former Liberian leader Charles Taylor.
Full Story

Ex-Niger premier denies Iraq link

July 14, 2004 - BBC

Niger's former prime minister has said that Iraq did not try to buy uranium, contradicting claims made in the build-up to the invasion of Iraq.
Full Story

UK slams Kenya's 'new corruption'

July 14, 2004 - BBC

The UK high commissioner to Kenya has launched a scathing attack on President Mwai Kibaki's government's record on tackling corruption.
Full Story

Darfur security 'deteriorating'

July 14, 2004 - BBC

The United Nations' top emergency relief official has warned that the security situation in Sudan's Darfur region is becoming more difficult.
Full Story

Zimbabwe 'returning to stone age'

July 13, 2004 - BBC

The introduction of ox-drawn ambulances is a sign that President Robert Mugabe is taking Zimbabwe back to the stone ages, the opposition says.
Full Story

Fears for Sudan Islamist's health

July 13, 2004 - BBC

The wife of Sudan's opposition Islamist leader Hassan al-Turabi says she is worried about his health after almost two weeks on hunger strike.
Full Story

Zimbabwe 'returning to stone age'

July 13, 2004 - BBC

The introduction of ox-drawn ambulances is a sign that President Robert Mugabe is taking Zimbabwe back to the stone ages, the opposition says.
Full Story

Abuse of Resources Fueled Civil War Says Klein, Assures Liberians of an Eye On Govt

July 13, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The head of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), Ambassador Jacques Klein says the abuse of natural resources distribution and management helped to fuelled a devastating civil war for 15 years in Liberia.
Full Story

US Gov't Provides Assistance to UL

July 13, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The U.S. Government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has provided 3 grants to re-open the University of Liberia Monrovia campus.
Full Story

FORHD Predicts Electoral Upheavals

July 13, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

There is general agreement amongst Liberians and friends of Liberia that the Liberian decade-long civil upheaval is the direct result of misrule propped up by blatant disregard for human rights and economic mismanagement.
Full Story

Liberian Police Training Begins, More Ex-Combatants Disarm, UN Says

July 13, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

The head of the United Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) and the chairman of the West African country's transitional government have launched a training programme for new police and a repair project at the university's law school, the mission said today.
Full Story

Overprotecting the Former Enemy

By James Seitua

July 10, 2004 - The Perspective

Nigerian army general Victor Malu consistently grilled the Liberian media for alleged biased reporting against Charles Taylor shortly before the 1997 general and presidential elections
Full Story

This is the Harvest:" Ordinary Liberians Cope With Another Cycle of Corruption in Gyude Bryant’s Liberia

By William E. Allen, Ph.D.

July 10, 2004 - The Perspective

Liberians have a way of describing evil that appears to make it sound less immoral. I was reminded of this social phenomenon last Sunday during a transatlantic telephone conversation with the wife of a friend who lives in Monrovia.
Full Story

Sudan, Chad discuss Darfur crisis

July 10, 2004 - BBC

The president of Sudan is meeting his counterpart from neighbouring Chad to discuss the Darfur refugee crisis.
Full Story

Fighting Corruption in The New Liberia

By Jonathan Williams

July 9, 2004 -New Democrat

Liberia, Africa’s oldest independent country, America’s dream, received one of the highest levels of assistance ever given to Sub-Sahara Africa by America in the early to mid-eighties, a little over $500 million dollar.
Full Story

GUINEA: More attacks on rice trucks despite gov't moves to restore calm

July 9, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

CONAKRY, 9 Jul 2004 (IRIN) - Despite efforts by Guinean President Lansana Conte to diffuse tensions over rising rice prices, gangs of angry youths attacked food trucks in the capital Conakry on Thursday night, forcing police to shoot into the air to disperse the crowd, witnesses said on Friday.
Full Story

Liberia: Spanish Company to Search for Offshore Oil

July 9, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 9 Jul 2004 (IRIN) - Liberia's transitional government has given Spanish oil giant Repsol a licence to explore for offshore oil near the country's western border with Sierra Leone, officials said on Friday.
Full Story

Assembly Leaves Taylor's Issue With Int'l Community, Cites 'Lack of Jurisdiction'

July 9, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Members of the National Legislative Assembly (NTLA) say the issue of Taylor's extradition should be a matter for the international community to handle and not the Assembly.
Full Story

Chairman Bryant Must Resign and Leave Town

By John S. Morlu, II

July 8, 2004 - New Democract

am sure that many Liberians share my sentiment that I am embarrassed and saddened by the repeated nature of corruption, waste and blatant financial mismanagement in Gyude Bryant’s administration. engaged in corruption
Full Story

LIBA Concerned About Gov't Contracts to Foreigners

July 8, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The LIBA prexy emphasized that under the Liberianization Act, Liberians have the right to obtain huge contracts from government as a way of empowering citizens in the business sector.
Full Story

Reform Commission Against Appointment of County Authorities Now

July 8, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

According to the report submitted to plenary yesterday by the Commission's chairperson, Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf along with other members, the commission shall table two critical issues that are related to Good Governance in the country.
Full Story

Model Forsees Problem As Disarmsment Expected to Begin Today in Zwedru

July 8, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Addressing reporters at his Finance Ministry office yesterday, Mr. Bleaju Boi said though MODEL is in line with ensuring total peace in the country, the announcement and arrangements made by UNMIL to close the Buchanan
Full Story

Deal for Oil Search Signed With Spanish Firm

July 8, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

The National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) and one of Spain's oil giants, REPSOL, have signed a "Production Sharing Contract" for the purpose of granting exploration rights for crude oil within Liberia's deep water offshore blocks.
Full Story

UN May Seek Liberian Government Help Over Taylor's Trial

July 7, 2004 - IRIN

The international community may seek the co-operation of the Liberian government in the bid to secure the release of exiled Charles Taylor for trial at the UN backed war crimes court in Sierra Leone.
Full Story

Guinea: Ethnic Tensions Threaten to Explode in Southeast

July 7, 2004 - IRIN

An influx of arms and idle gunmen from Liberia threatens to inflame ethnic quarrels in the Forest Region of southeastern Guinea, leading to further violence and instability in this remote region, government officials, aid workers and human rights activists in the area said.
Full Story

Inside Revenues Collection in Liberia

July 7, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Case of Immigration First The prolonged suffering of the people and the no-money excuse are good reasons for one to be concerned about the revenue generating capacity of government. This concern is heightened in the wake of allegation of the government's revenue intake being at US$7m amidst the lack and struggle for social service.
Full Story

US, Nigeria Negotiate Taylor's Arrest 'He Must Be Held Accountable for His Crimes'

July 1, 2004 - This Day(Lagos)

The United States government has begun negotiations with Nigeria on the possibility of arrest and repatriation for trial, at the International Criminal Court in Sierra Leone, of former Liberian president, Mr. Charles Taylor.
Full Story

US$180m Donors' Pledge Fulfilled --- Bryant Discloses

July 1, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The Liberian Government disclosed Wednesday that US$180 million from the US$520 million in pledges made by donors is available. The money is intended to jump start Liberia's reconstruction.
Full Story

Tubmanburg No More Rebel Territory Ex-Commander Tells Ex-Combatants

July 1, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Tubmanburg, Bomi County has been totally relinquished to the Transitional Government and the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL).
Full Story

Stephen Paye is Freed But Still Needs Help

June 29, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

Please be informed that although we want our brother Stephen Paye to be freed, we have heard soon after posting the previous announcement on this day, that he is not yet totally free of the court ramifications and therefore will have to go through court hearings to vindicate his good name once and for all.
Full Story

To Have Sanctions Lifted: Govt Must Have Control, Security Council Delegation Says

June 25, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Although the visiting United Nations Security Council delegation says the economic argument for the lifting of sanctions on Liberia is clear, the sanctions would not be lifted until the Government can establish sufficient control over its economic resources.
Full Story

Liberia: Taylor Will Not Go Unpunished, UN

June 25, 2004 - IRIN

Former Liberian leader, Charles Taylor, who was indicted for war crimes by the Special Court in Sierra Leone last year, will not go with impunity for crimes committed, said Emyr Jones Parry, head of a UN Security Council delegation touring West Africa.
Full Story

Investigate Sanction Victims - Assemblyman Urges UN, Govt

June 25, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The United Nations and the National Transitional Government of Liberia have been called upon to go beyond the travel ban on Charles Taylor's associates by investigating them.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Disarmament to extend close to Ivorian border, Bryant

June 24, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 24 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - The head of Liberia's transitional government, Gyude Bryant, said a programme to disarm former combatants would extend to eastern Liberia, close to the border with Cote d'Ivoire, before the end of the month.
Full Story

Civil Society Establishes Branch in Buchanan

June 24, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Civil Society Movement of Liberia (CSM-L) is on the move and gradually expanding its tentacles across the country, perhaps to make it a formidable force in the advocacy for social justice. The CSM-L now has a branch in Buchanan, Bassa County, which is one of the largest counties, and original counties of Liberia.
Full Story

Soldiers Sell Stolen Grenades in Liberia

June 23, 2004 - Standard Times (Freetown)

As the hardship in the country continues unabated, the strains on the people have begun to show, as security officials stand accused of stealing grenades for sale in Liberia.
Full Story

European Commission Cheers Up Rural Farmers, Supports Seed Rice Project At Suacoco

June 23, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

In a bid to respond to the critical needs of community development and the reintegration of war-affected persons into the Liberian society, the European Commission says it will fund a project for seed rice multiplication for rural farmers in Suacoco, Bong County.
Full Story

We Will Make LPP Competitive - New Chairman Declares

June 23, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The newly inducted Chairman of the Liberian People's Party (LPP), Dusty Wolokollie says one of the basic objectives of the new leadership is to make the party viable and competitive in the ensuing general and presidential elections.
Full Story

In Planning Ministry's Compound: UN Troops Diffuse Bomb

June 23, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The rapid response unit of the Irish contingent of the United Nations peacekeeping troops averted a possible tragedy Tuesday when they diffused a bomb after it was discovered at the back of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs in Monrovia
Full Story

UL Professors Oppose Board's Request to Control Accounts

June 23, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

More than 200 professors at the State-owned University are diametrically opposed to the exclusive control of funds raised by the institution.
Full Story

In Planning Ministry's Compound: UN Troops Diffuse Bomb

June 23, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The rapid response unit of the Irish contingent of the United Nations peacekeeping troops averted a possible tragedy Tuesday when they diffused a bomb after it was discovered at the back of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs in Monrovia.
Full Story

Chairman Bryant Missed a Golden Opportunity in Eradicating Corruption (Letter)

By James B. Freeman
Former Ambassador

June 22, 2004 - The Perspective

Please allow me to comment on three articles that The Perspective carried on 18 June 2004...
Full Story

Liberia’s Transitional Government Buys Luxurious Vehicles For Lawmakers

June 22, 2004 - The Perspective

Amidst abject poverty, misery and hardship besetting the greater Liberian population, the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL) with what is believed to be the approval of Chairman Charles Gyude Bryant, has paid deaf-ears to public outcry and proceeded to purchase luxurious vehicles worth over United States two million dollars for members of the First Branch of transitional government.
Full Story

Tipoteh's Decades Leadership Ends

June 22, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The long time leadership of outstanding politician, Dr. Togba Nah Tipoteh as Chairman of the Liberian People's Party (LPP) has finally come to an end with the election and subsequent induction of a new corps of leaders.
Full Story

Liberians 'Wallop In Darkness', Says FOHRD; Calls For Stay of Sanctions

June 22, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Forum for Human Rights and Democracy (FOHRD), the pro-democracy and human rights advocacy group in the country has expressed surprise that tens months after Liberians solved the leadership question in Accra, they are still stooping under the burden of poverty, due to corruption in high places.
Full Story

Charles Bennie Asked to Prove Allegations About Us$7m

June 22, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia

The Chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL), Charles Gyude Bryant, has appointed a committee chaired by Vice Chairman Wesley Johnson, to speedily inquire from the Commissioner of Customs, Charles Bennie, the basis of claims and allegations attributed to him by the Chronicle and Diary Newspapers.
Full Story

Chayee Doe's Remains to Be Flown Home Sat.

June 22, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

However, family members and citizens of Doe's Grand Gedeh County residing in the United States are planning a large turn-out and send-off during a night of wake-keeping on Friday, June 25 at the famous 62nd Street Springfield Road Hall in Philadelphia from 8:00p.m. till
Full Story

UN Security Council Mission Arrives Thurs.

June 22, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The Security Council's mission to Liberia is aimed at supporting the National Transitional Government in its efforts to rebuild the country and establish conditions for free and fair elections next year.
Full Story

June 22, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The ministers of the Gospel in their press statement issued on Monday at the offices of the Liberian National Olympic Committee (LNOC) on Benson Street, addressed several issues including what they say is partiality in the UN Travel Ban List and in the freezing of
Full Story

Gospel Leaders Question UN Travel Ban List

June 22, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The ministers of the Gospel in their press statement issued on Monday at the offices of the Liberian National Olympic Committee (LNOC) on Benson Street, addressed several issues including what they say is partiality in the UN Travel Ban List and in the freezing of
Full Story

COTE D IVOIRE: Gbagbo says willing to talk ahead of UN visit

June 22, 2004 - IRIN

ABIDJAN, 22 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - President Laurent Gbagbo took to the airwaves saying he was ready to hold talks to revive the stalled Cote d'Ivoire peace process, just hours before a delegation from the United Nations Security Council arrived in the country.
Full Story

LIBERIA: UN peacekeepers extend reach towards Ivorian border

June 22, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

MONROVIA, 22 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - United Nations peacekeepers extended their reach in Liberia on Tuesday, for the first time taking up positions in Maryland County near the Ivorian border, UN officials confirmed.
Full Story

LIBERIA: UN peacekeepers extend reach towards Ivorian border

June 22, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

MONROVIA, 22 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - United Nations peacekeepers extended their reach in Liberia on Tuesday, for the first time taking up positions in Maryland County near the Ivorian border, UN officials confirmed.
Full Story

Charles Taylor Out, But More Taylors Still In

June 21, 2004 - The Perspective

The disgraceful departure of Charles Taylor from the Liberian presidency never ended his culture of theft and death he so artistically inculcated into his cronies. Some of these loyalists, now government officials by circumstance who in normal situations cannot pass for messengers, are the ones who are working with the government so that the government won’t work.
Full Story

Reintegration Takes New Turn as Ex-Combatants To Revert To Regular Training

June 21, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation, and reintegration (DDRR) programme of the UN Military Mission to Liberia (UNMIL) was set forth last December 7 with a clear modus operandi.
Full Story

Taylor Suffers Double Setbacks

June 21, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Special Court organized by the United Nations in Sierra Leone to try individuals who played the greatest role in the maiming of civilians and other non-combatants in the Sierra Leonean decade-long civil upheaval has been trying since last June to arraign former president Charles Taylor for his part
Full Story

LIBERIA: HIV/AIDS prevalence surveys six to 12 months away

June 21, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 21 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - It will be at least six months before urgently needed surveys can be carried out to make an accurate assessment of the HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in post-war Liberia, according to the country's National Aids Control Program (NACP).
Full Story

UNHCR Renews Hope for Children, Elders, Celebrates World Refugee Day

June 21, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

On the occasion marking World Refugee Day, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has spoken of the need to resettle millions of people driven by conflicts or create a situation that would make them feel at "home".
Full Story

Court Holds 'Analyst' Editors In Contempt

June 21, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Managing Editor and Publisher of The Analyst, Stanley Seakor, News Editor Gibson W. Jerue and Sub-editor Ellis Togba, are expected to appear before Magistrate Joseph Fayiah of the Monrovia City Court today at 11:00 a.m. to show cause why they should not be held in contempt for an article in which the Magistrate felt injured.
Full Story

Government Assures Investor of Good Environment

June 21, 2004 - The Analyst(Monrovia)

The Liberian government has assured those desiring to invest in Liberia of a good investment environment in the country.
Full Story

No Genuine Commitment to Accountability and Transparency in NTGL

June 21, 2004 - The Analyst(Monrovia)

Member, Contracts & Monopolies Commission Quoting Chairman Bryant's final remarks in his June 3rd Address to the UN Security Council in which he failed to convince the Council members to lift sanctions on timber and diamonds, one can readily rationalize that the failure to convince is due to
Full Story

Cripple People On Taylor's Back

June 18, 2004 - The Analyst(Monrovia)

Two Nigerians, whose arms were cut off by rebels during the Sierra Leonean civil war, have filed a joint suit in an Abuja court seeking former Liberian President Charles Taylor's trial for war crimes before a United Nations-backed court in Sierra Leone.
Full Story

Liberian Officials sell Ambassador’s Residence at 52 Whatley Avenue, London SW20

June 18, 2004 - The Perspective

As if it is not enough, another property of the Government of Liberia has been sold in London apparently with the full knowledge of the power that be in Monrovia. Historically, this is the third time that properties of the Liberian government have been sold in the City of London.
Full Story

Peace Process Rocks: LURD Pushes For Review, Says Bryant is Incompetent

June 18, 2004 - United States Department of State (Washington, DC)

If sustainable stability is not brought to war-ravaged Liberia, the region is "doomed," U.N. special envoy to Liberia Jacques Klein said June 17.
Full Story

Liberia Key to Stability of West Africa, U.N. Envoy Says

June 18, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

According to one of the Acting leaderships of LURD, former spokesman Charles Bennie, LURD wants the peace process reviewed in the face of what he calls the incompetence exhibited by the Bryant-led transitional leadership.
Full Story

Attempt to 'Hijack Rubber Plantation in Maryland?

June 18, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

A new campaign by certain individuals within the transitional government circle seeking to "hijack" the rubber plantation in Pleebo, Maryland County, to the detriment of the war weary citizens of the area has been uncovered.
Full Story

Bryant Urges Liberians to Work for Peace

June 18, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The Liberian leader was speaking during a tete-a-tete with journalists to brief them on his recent trip to the United States. He said the gathering was necessary because of too many speculations about his recent visit to the U.S.
Full Story

Peacekeepers Revamp Government Hospital in Tubmanburg

June 17, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The Pakistani contingent of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) has rehabilitated the Government Hospital in Tubmanburg, Bomi County.
Full Story

Bryant Asks for US $60m in Addition to America's Pledge

June 17, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The Chairman of the power-sharing government in Liberia has told officials of his government that he has appealed to the Government of the United States to provide an additional US$60 million to enable the Transitional Government rehabilitate major social services that were destroyed during the 14-year civil war.
Full Story

Liberian Educator Detects Clogs in Electoral System, Proposes Primaries

June 16, 2004 - IRIN

A United States-based Liberian educator has described the current Liberian electoral system as unnecessarily complicated such that it encourages electoral imbalances.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Former child soldiers want education

June 16, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 16 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - Most of the 2,800 former child soldiers who have turned over their weapons and demobilised during Liberia's current disarmament exercise, tell the carers appointed to look after them that they want education to help them to rebuild their future.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Curfew imposed in Gbarnga after ethnic fighting

June 16, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 16 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - One person was killed and four were wounded in ethnic clashes between the Kpelle and Mandingo communities on Monday in the central Liberian town of Gbarnga at the weekend, relief workers said.
Full Story

Education-Liberia: Civil War Leaves School System in Tatters

June 16, 2004 -Inter Press Service (Johannesburg)

The Day of the African Child, celebrated Wednesday, is a sober occasion for Liberia, where fourteen years of intermittent civil war have undermined the education system on which many of the country's children depend.
Full Story

Liberia: Security Council Issues List of Individuals Whose Assets Are to Be Frozen

June 16, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

The United Nations Security Council has issued a list of associates of former Liberian President Charles Taylor, including his immediate family, whose assets are to be frozen under a resolution adopted earlier this year.
Full Story

No Genuine Commitment to Accountability and Transparency in NTGL

By Dusty Wolokolie
Member, Contracts & Monopolies Commission

June 16, 2004 -The Perspective

Quoting Chairman Bryant’s final remarks in his June 3rd Address to the UN Security Council in which he failed to convince the Council members to lift sanctions on timber and diamonds, one can readily rationalize that the
Full Story

MODEL Denies Harassing Civilians

June 15, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL) combatants in Maryland County have totally denied news reports that they are harassing citizens and people of the county.
Full Story

NEC Warns Against Use of State Funds To Run Any Individual's Campaign During Electoral Process

June 15, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

In the wake of claims in some quarters that some political aspirants have already begun receiving and spending state funds on political campaign activities for the pending elections, the National Elections Commission(NEC) says it will not hesitate to institute punitive action against anyone or group found engaged in such acts; as Patrick K. Wrokpoh reports.
Full Story

Hearing in Taylor's Asylum Case, July 1

June 15, 2004 -This Day (Lagos)

A Federal High Court, Abuja yesterday made an order directing that service of further processes in the suit challenging the asylum granted former Liberian President, Mr. Charles Taylor be sent to him through substituted means.
Full Story

Bryant's Appeal Trip

June 15, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

When a father of a deprived family makes a trip out of home to secure some handout from a usual generous friend, expectations are bound to be high amongst the needy family.
Full Story

Human Rights Group Demands Compensation From US, UN

June 15, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Human Rights Watch For Women and Children is demanding compensation from the United States of America and the United Nations if they can not ensure that those who committed crimes against humanity in Liberia and the Mano River basin are brought to justice so as to discourage the culture of impunity.
Full Story

Prince Johnson Sympathizes With Doe Family

June 15, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

"I call to extend condolences to the Doe family on behalf of my family for the sad news of the passing of Mr. Cheayee Doe, who I learned died in the United States of America."
Full Story

Dilemma of Diamond Sanction

June 15, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

In his address to the Security Council of the United Nations, the Chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL), Gyude Bryant, insisted that his administration has met the minimum requirement for the lifting of diamond sanction on Liberia.
Full Story

Admit Your Guilt - Assemblyman Wesseh Tells Warlords, Others

June 15, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

A member of the National Transitional Legislative Assembly (NTLA), and long time human rights advocate, Mr. Conmany Wesseh is calling on warlords and those who helped to flame the Liberian civil war to "admit their guilt" at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that is being be set up.
Full Story

NIGERIA: Amputees seek to have Taylor tried for war crimes

June 15, 2004 - IRIN

ABUJA, 15 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - Two Nigerians whose arms were cut off by rebels during Sierra Leone’s civil war, have filed a joint suit in an Abuja court seeking former Liberian President Charles Taylor’s trial for war crimes before a United Nations-backed court in Sierra Leone.
Full Story

SIERRA LEONE: Hinga Norman rejects jurisdiction of Special Court

June 15, 2004 - IRIN

FREETOWN, 15 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - Sam Hinga Norman, the former leader of a pro-government militia group in Sierra Leone, said on Tuesday that he rejected the right of a UN-backed Special Court to try him for war crimes and urged its judges to disregard any prosecution evidence brought before them.
Full Story

COTE D IVOIRE: UN mission to launch radio station next week

June 15, 2004 - IRIN

ABIDJAN, 15 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - The United Nations Mission in Cote d’Ivoire (ONUCI) will launch its own radio station early next week as part of its efforts to bring about peace and reconciliation in the divided country, members of the team setting up the radio said on Tuesday.
Full Story

I Did Not Beg For Mercy - Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Clarifies

June 15, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The standard bearer of the Unity Party, Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, says she has never begged anybody for doing wrong.
Full Story

There Are Positive Signals for Lifting Sanctions - Bryant Tells Congregation

June 14, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The head of the Transition Government of Liberia, Gyude Bryant says there are positive signals that some of the sanctions imposed on Liberia would be lifted this year following a request he made to the UN Security Council.
Full Story

For Possible Lifting of Sanctions On Liberia:UN Team Coming in 90 Days

June 14, 2004 - The Inquirer(Monrovia)

Contrary to claims in some quarters that the NTGL Chairman Charles Gyude Bryant's mission to the UN headquarters to meet with the Security Council relative to the lifting of the sanctions on the country was unsuccessful,
Full Story

War Crimes Tribunal Possible for Liberia, UN Expert Says

June 14, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

A United Nations human rights expert has stated that although a Truth and Reconciliation Commission is established in Liberia, the establishment of a war crimes tribunal in the country cannot be ruled out.
Full Story

I'm Not Prepared to Undermine Govt - Sekou Damate Conneh Says

June 14, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The National Chairman of the Liberian United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD), Sekou Damate Conneh says with less than two years left for the Transitional Government, he is not prepared to undermine it.
Full Story

LIBERIA: No census before elections, commission says (EDITORIAL)

June 14, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Upon his arrival Sunday from the United States where he addressed the United Nations Security Council, the Chairman of the Transition Government, Gyude Bryant said there were positive signals that the timber and diamond export ban imposed on Liberia would be lifted this year
Full Story

LIBERIA: No census before elections, commission says

June 14, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 14 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - Liberia has no time or money to conduct a population census before elections in October 2005 that are due to return the country to democracy after a long and bitter civil war, Frances Johnson-Morris, the head of the National Elections Commission, said on Monday.
Full Story

JUST WHO ARE WE? (Poems)

By J. Marsilius Flumo

June 8, 2004 Posted 11 June 04) - UNICCO Digest

Just who are we when appearance is everything?
We have to have it when others have it
Full Story

BURKINA FASO-GHANA: New rail line planned to link Burkina Faso to the coast

New Railine for Burkina Faso - pretty cool

June 11, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

ACCRA, 11 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - Trains could soon be running from landlocked Burkina Faso to the Atlantic ports of Ghana following the the construction of a planned US $750 million railway line to take the pressure of rapidly growing freight traffic off Ghana's battered roads
Full Story

Liberian Arrested With Gun, $20,000 Cash At Philadelphia's Philly Airport

June 11, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

A man stopped over the weekend at the Philadelphia International Airport after security check led to the discovery of what happened to be a gun, but it further turned out that he was carrying much more than first thought.
Full Story

Keeping Sanctions On Liberia Will Help Cement Peace, Security Council Says

June 11, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Despite appeals from the top United Nations envoy for Liberia and the West African country's National Transitional Government (NTGL) for the lifting of embargoes on diamonds and timber, the United Nations Security Council today said maintaining sanctions longer would help cement the peace process.
Full Story

Liberia: UN Maintains Diamond And Timber Sanctions

June 11, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The UN Security Council has ruled that peace in Liberia is still too fragile for sanctions on diamond and timber exports to be lifted, dashing the hopes of Liberia's transitional government, which had called for an end to the export embargo.
Full Story

Diamond Pits, Machines in Nimba, Lofa; 'Blood Diamonds' Still Trading?

June 11, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

With the nation's economy virtually operating at the lowest ebb in more than a decade, and with the need for ready cash to meet the humanitarian and reconstruction needs of the population becoming acute,
Full Story

UN Renew Sanctions - Security Council Says Liberia Still Fragile

June 11, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

More than a decade of civil strife has reduced Liberia to naught: basic infrastructure and social services have been damaged leaving a population which international statistics contends is living on less than US$1.00 per day per family on the average
Full Story

Liberia: Back to school, but there are no chairs, no roof

June 10, 2004 - Relief Web

SANNIQUELLE, 10 June (IRIN) - Shut down for a year by civil war, schools in Nimba county in northern Liberia are finally starting to reopen. But pupils are taught in wrecked classrooms with no roof to keep out the rain. They are forced to bring their own chairs from home to sit on. And their teachers have yet to receive a salary.
Full Story

Students Roar At Model, Ambassador Klein

June 10, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Members of the Maryland University Student Association (MUSA) at the University of Liberia say they are flabbergasted, disappointed and troubled by the continuous brutal acts that are being perpetrated against the peaceful and armless citizens of Maryland County.
Full Story

UNMIL Repairs Bridges, Roads

June 10, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

According to Lt. Col. Rashid, commander of the UNMIL Pakistani Engineering Company that undertook the rehabilitation work, 18 dilapidated bridges in Grand Cape County were rehabilitated to give the people of the area free access to other places in the county.
Full Story

UN Panel Cracks Taylor's "Zoe Bush"

June 10, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Only a few non-Liberians may disagree that the underlining causes of Liberia's civil conflict are the misuse of power in the face of massive inequity in the distribution of the nation's wealth derived from taxes and natural resources - timber, diamond, iron ore, gold, etc.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Back to school, but there are no chairs, no roof

June 10, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

SANNIQUELLE, 10 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - Shut down for a year by civil war, schools in Nimba county in northern Liberia are finally starting to reopen. But pupils are taught in wrecked classrooms with no roof to keep out the rain. They are forced to bring their own chairs from home to sit on. And their teachers have yet to receive a salary.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Chayee Doe dies after being named LURD leader

The late Chayee Doe (Courtesy of IRIN)

June 10, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 10 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - Chayee Doe, the younger brother of former Liberian president Samuel Doe, has died two days after being named the new leader of the country's main rebel group, Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD), family sources said on Thursday.
Full Story

LURD Leader's Life in Danger
...Friends and family turn to God for help

June 9, 2004 - LIMANY

Philadelphia, June 8 (SIS) - The current managing director of the Freeport of Monrovia, Mr. Chayee Doe, has been hospitalized at the Christiana Hospital in the state of Delaware, United States of America, in critical condition. The best efforts of brain surgeons at the hospital have failed to diagnose his problem or revive him
Full Story

Bad Elections Led to 14-Year Conflict - Vice Chair Calls for Credibility

June 9, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

The Vice Chairman of the Transitional Government, Mr. Momo Wesley Johnson has told a gathering of political parties, civil society groups and representative of ECOWAS that the bad conduct of elections in the country was a key factor responsible for 14 years of armed conflict.
Full Story

LURD Chairman Speaks From Senegal

June 9, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Barely seven days after the military command of the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) announced the indefinite suspension of their Chairman, Sekou Damate Conneh, the man who was reportedly suspended has been speaking to journalists downplaying the suspension and terming it as a "joke".
Full Story

Nimbaians Count Corpses of Taylor's 'Revolution'

June 9, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

By the middle of 1985, it was clear that the marriage of convenience between the Krahns and Gios/Manos that culminated into the violent overthrow of more than a century of settler hegemony and dominance in Liberia was teetering to breaking point.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Child soldiers too scared to go home - relief agencies

June 8, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 8 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - Child soldiers, uprooted from their families and plunged into Liberia's civil war, are lingering in temporary camps because they are too scared to return home and insufficient facilities have been created to cater for them, child protection agencies and a government commission said.
Full Story

SIERRA LEONE: Judges reject Norman's right to conduct own defence

June 8, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

DAKAR, 8 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - Sierra Leone's former interior minister Sam Hinga Norman, on trial for crimes against humanity during the country's brutal 10-year civil war, lost his battle to defend himself singlehandedly on Tuesday and said he would now rather stay locked in his cell than attend proceedings.
Full Story

COTE D IVOIRE: Helicopter gunships attack as 20 die in ground clashes

June 8, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

ABIDJAN, 8 Jun 2004 (IRIN) - Helicopter gunships have been used to attack rebel positions for the first time in nearly a year after 20 people died in clashes between government troops and unidentified attackers on the frontline with the rebel-held north of Cote d'Ivoire, a military spokesman said on Tuesday.
Full Story

Civilians still bearing the brunt of war, Annan says

June 7, 2004 - UN NEWS Center

7 June 2004 – Civilians continue to bear the brunt of armed conflicts, and sexual violence – especially against women and girls – is increasingly used as a weapon of war, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan says in a report released today.
Full Story

Ex-Combatants to Face Treason Charges, If... - Deputy Internal Affairs

June 7, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Deputy Minister for Administration at the International Affairs Ministry, Mr. Jerry Gonyon says plans are underway to level charges against any ex-fighter who will be in possession of arms right after the DDRR process in the country.
Full Story

Horror Tales of Taylor's Revolution

June 7, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The stay of Liberia's controversial rebel and civilian leader for more than a decade, now exiled in Nigeria, Charles G. Taylor, has been the bone of contention since last November when the UN-backed Special War Crime Tribunal in Sierra Leone demanded his extradition to face criminal charges for his role in the Sierra Leonean civil war that spanned well over a decade.
Full Story

Liberia’s sanctions are holding, UN report says

June 7, 2004 - UN News Center

7 June 2004 – A United Nations expert panel on Liberia has found no proof of weapons-smuggling into the West African country after August 2003 or of diamond- and timber-smuggling out, and the imposed sanctions contributed significantly to ending the country’s armed conflicts over a 14-year period.
Full Story

New Deal Movement Responds to Tom Kamara

By J. Marsilius Flumo

June 7, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

The purpose of this piece is to share my thoughts about the remarks attributed to Dr. George K. Kieh pertaining to the use of violence to bring about change. The remarks which Dr. Kieh is reported to have made at an Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA)-sponsored
Full Story

Liberia: Bryant Pleads for End to Timber And Diamond Ban

June 7, 2004 - IRIN

Gyude Bryant, the Chairman of Liberia's transitional government has pleaded to the UN Security Council to lift an embargo on diamond and timber exports to help the struggling company rebuild its shattered economy after 14 years of civil war.
Full Story

UNICCO ELECTS NEW LEADERS

June 4, 2004 -UNICCO DIGEST

Mr. Miamen Wopea prevailed in the most highly contested elections in UNICCO' s history by defeating his formidable opponent, Mr. Andrew Wongeh, of the Pennsylvania Chapter by a sizeable margin.
Full Story

The Providence Island - A forgotten or Abandoned Heritage?

June 4, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Arts and Culture today is looking at a very important cultural heritage- The Providence Island, which was originally called the Dozoa Island.
Full Story

Uncertainty Mars UL Reopening

June 4, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Uncertainty has developed over the reopening of the State-owned University of Liberia (UL), despite the May 31st schedule set by the Administration for the resumption of classes.
Full Story

LURD Military Hi-Command Suspends Conneh

June 4, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Military High Command of the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD), involving "generals" and frontline commanders, has announced the suspension of the Chairman of the organization, Mr. Sekou Damate Conneh.
Full Story

Court Accepts Review of Taylor's Asylum

June 4, 2004 -This Day (Lagos)

A Federal High Court, Abuja, has accepted to review the asylum status of former Liberian President Charles Taylor currently residing in Nigeria.
Full Story

Not for Profiteering

June 4, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia) - EDITORIAL

JUST YESTERDAY, THE National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL), issued a statement announcing an increase in the pump price of petroleum products on the local market.
Full Story

Another Cash Offer for the Arrest of Killers

June 4, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Some Liberian American Military veterans in the United States of America are offering US$10,000 for the arrest and prosecution of the killer(s) of John Auffery, an American who was recently murdered in a local hotel last month.
Full Story

Sanctions Violations and Lack of Reform Hinder Liberias Reconstruction

Press Release

June 4, 2004 - Global Witness (London)

Logging industry still poses potential threat to regional security.
Full Story

Liberian Refugee Crisis Deepens in America: Appeal to President

June 4, 2004 - National Immigration Campaign (Boston)

US Humanitarian Crisis: America Denies Refugees Access to Basic Necessities: Work: Food, Clothing & Shelter
Full Story

Government Increases Gas Price

June 4, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

It has been an off and on issue with the hording and arbitrary increase in the price of gasoline on the Liberian market. But now it seems that time is ripe for such action and so the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL) has taken what could be considered as "appropriate steps".
Full Story

NGOs Under Spotlight

June 4, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Both local and international non-governmental organizations operating in the country may be nearing the end of the road if they were not operating as they should and do not redefine their scopes of operations in keeping with their statues.
Full Story

Liberia Protected Terrorists, Court Told

June 4, 2004 - The Nation (Kenya)

Al-Qaeda suspects in the bombings of the US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania in 1998 took refuge in Liberia after the attacks.
Full story

Handle It With Extreme Care(Editorial)

June 4, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

TODAY, IMPORTERS OF petroleum products are expected to meet with the management of the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) to discuss a number of issues relative to the petroleum industry in the country.
Full story

MOPAR Wants More Support to Lnp

June 4, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

A local peace and civil rights advocacy group, MOPAR/Liberia, is calling on the NTGL to provide more logistical and financial assistance to the Liberian National Police(LNP).
Full story

Rebels 'still hold DR Congo town'

June 4, 2004 - BBC

Rebel fighters have not honoured a pledge to pull out of the town of Bukavu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, UN officials say.
Full story

US navy 'plans W Africa exercise'

June 4, 2004 - BBC

A US defence official says the US navy is planning an unusual task force deployment off the West African coast.
Full story

Libya supplies US with oil again

June 4, 2004 - BBC

Libya has cemented its return to the international mainstream by resuming its former role as a supplier of oil to the US.
Full story

S Leone awaits catalogue of horror

June 3, 2004 - BBC

Important as the trials are to the future of Sierra Leone, the statements that will be made within this hastily-built courtroom will reveal some of the worst of human nature.
Full story

UN Debates Liberian Sanctions Today

June 3, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

Dangers of lifting diamond and timber embargo too soon As the United Nations Security Council meets today to discuss Liberia, the international development agency ActionAid has called for the UN to continue its embargo on Liberian diamonds and timber until key conditions are met.
Full story

NEC Seeks Clarification On Electoral Matters, Says CPA Silent On Crucial Issues

June 3, 2004 -The News(Monrovia)

The political transition leading to democratic constitutional rule is already on course. During this period, Liberians are expected to elect a new President in October 2005, following 14 years of instability.
Full story

Scandal At the Capitol

June 3, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Because coalition governments grow out of conflicts or political alliances, they are presumed to be better fitted for crisis management.
Full story

DR Congo's shameful sex secret

June 3, 2004 - BBC

Please note that the names of the girls interviewed have been changed to protect their identities.
Full story

S Leone war crimes trials begin

June 3, 2004 - BBC

The first trials of suspects accused of committing atrocities during Sierra Leone's civil war have started.
Full story

UN Warns Commission Lacks Staff Capacity, Resources, for Credible Polls

June 2, 2004 - New Democrat

The United Nations warns that the current elections commission, as constituted, lacks the staff capacity and resources to conduct credible election in October 2005. In the Secretary-General’s report released on 26 May, it says the process will require much international assistance to succeed.
Full story

Report: Dismal African Economy 'Disaster'

June 2, 2004 - AP

By TERRY LEONARD

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa - A report released Wednesday by the World Economic Forum (news - web sites) called Africa's stagnating growth the worst economic tragedy of the 20th century.
Full story

Donors' Confab Commitment Consumed - Ellen Observes

June 2, 2004 - The News(Monrovia)

The Chairman of the Governance Reform Commission (GRC) Mrs. Ellen-Johnson Sirleaf, says "extreme politicking" in governmental circles has consumed the commitment made at the Donors' Conference to reconstruct war-ravaged Liberia
Full story

Ecowas Keen On Liberia's Elections, Invites NEC Chairman To Abuja

June 2, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Chairman of the National Elections Commission (NEC), Cllr. Francis Johnson-Morris has been invited to Abuja, Nigeria by the Executive Secretary of ECOWAS, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambers.
Full story

Foreign Ministry Reacts - Describe Statement as Unacceptable

June 2, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has sharply reacted to call by the Secretary General of the Liberian Unification Party (LUP), Mr. Cletus Sieh for Ambassador Lin Songtian of the People's Republic of China to reveal names of presidential candidates who he said are attempting to solicit funds from his government for campaign purposes.
Full story

Chinese Experts Coming to Assess hydro Plant

June 2, 2004 - The Perspective

It has been disclosed in Monrovia that a team of Chinese experts are expected in the country to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the Mount Coffee Hydro plant; as Timothy T. Seaklon reports.
Full story

Al-Qaeda Suspects Hid in Liberia After Embassy Attacks, AP Says

June 2, 2004 - Bloomberg.com

Al-Qaeda suspects in the bombings of the U.S. embassies in Kenya and Tanzania in 1998 took refuge in Liberia after the attacks, the Associated Press reported, citing a United Nations court investigation.
Full story

Murder Links

June 2, 2004 - The Analyst(Monrovia)

The Menace Of Security Aiding Criminals -A Caveat To Mark Kroeker. It is proverbially said that the "monkey will not leave its black hands behind." That adage seems to find a better place in the Liberian social, political and economic terrain, as what the spoilers left behind are still rearing their ugly heads even in the presence of international stabilization forces and police services
Full story

Govt Must Not Renege (Editorial)

June 2, 2004 - The News(Monrovia)

Civil servants have been reassured that as of next July, Government would begin settling their salary arrears and benefits. This reassurance was made amidst a two-day "stay home" strike action organized by the Civil Servants Association of Liberia (CSAL).
Full story

Brumskine Detects Manipulation in LUP

June 2, 2004 - The News(Monrovia)

Presidential hopeful, Cllr. Charles Brumskine of the Liberia Unification Party has reportedly said there are individuals who have resorted to manipulate the party due to fright.
Full story

H'rights Education Needed for Better Change - JPC Asst. Director

June 2, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

The Assistant National Director of the Catholic Justice Peace Commission (JPC), Onesimus Banwon, has observed that Liberia needs a change for the better and one way to achieve this was by educating the citizens on their basic rights and corresponding responsibilities.
Full story

Stability Returning to Liberia But Challenges Remain - UN Report

June 1, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

United Nations troops have made steady progress in stabilizing Liberia and are now deployed almost throughout the country but challenges remain as the country attempts to consolidate peace, Secretary-General Kofi Annan says in a report released today.
Full story

Liberian Ex-President Taylor Subject to Proceedings Before UN-Backed Court

June 1, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

The Appeals Chamber of the United Nations-sponsored Special Court for Sierra Leone has ruled that the former Liberian President Charles Taylor is subject to its criminal proceedings even though he was in office at the time of his indictment in March 2003.
Full story

The United Nations Must Maintain the Sanctions Imposed on Liberia until After the 2005 Elections

By Winsley S. Nanka

June 1, 2004 - The Perspective

Media reports from Liberia indicate the interim Liberian head of state; Charles Gyude Bryant has departed Liberia for the United States to address the United Nations Security Council on June 3, 2004. According to the reports, Charles Gyude Bryant would persuade “the United Nations Security Council to lift the sanctions imposed on Liberia diamond and timber industries.”
Full story

UPP Wants Presidential Aspirants in Gov’t Resign

June 1, 2004 - The Perspective

The United People’s Party (UPP) has urged presidential aspirants currently serving in government to immediately resign their posts. The party said as the 2005 election approaches, it has observed the emergence of a troubling electoral behavior that has the potential to make the political playing field un-level.
Full story

FDA Seeks Lifting of Sanctions on Timber

by Martin C. Benson

June 1, 2004 - The Perspective

The Managing Director of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), Mr. Dean Eugene Wilson has extended an appeal to the United Nations Security Council(UNSC) to lift the sanctions on Liberia’s timber sector.
Full story

Stability returning to Liberia but challenges remain - UN report

June 1, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

United Nations troops have made steady progress in stabilizing Liberia and are now deployed almost throughout the country but challenges remain as the country attempts to consolidate peace, Secretary-General Kofi Annan says in a report released today.
Full story

Bryant’s, “Becoming The Problem,” Asked Conte to Back Sherman: Financial Times

May 31, 2004 - New Democrat

Barely eight months into office, the businessman Charles Gyude Bryant's honeymoon with the foreign media that cheered him on is ending. The Financial Times (London) says the concern in Liberia now is that Bryant is becoming the problem, not the solution, and that the country needs more international attention before it falls apart. . In its May 28 article headlined: DIVIDE-AND-RULE TACTICS IN MONOROVIA
Full story

Civil Society Organizations of Liberia Launch a Three-Month Campaign Against Impunity in Liberia

Press Statement issued on May 27, 2004

May 31, 2004 - The Perspective

At one hundred and fifty seven years today since the independence of Liberia, one would draw the logical conclusion that Liberia is amongst the world’s civilized nations bearing the touch light of democracy propelled by the rule of law. But this is unfortunately to the contrary.
Full story

Taylor loses war crimes appeal

May 31, 2004 - BBC

Former Liberian President Charles Taylor has lost his appeal against being prosecuted for war crimes.
Full story

LIBERIA: Food assistance dispatched to hungry Lofa, WFP

May 28, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The stay of Liberia's controversial rebel and civilian leader for more than a decade, now exiled in Nigeria, Charles G. Taylor, has been the bone of contention since last November when the UN-backed Special War Crime Tribunal in Sierra Leone demanded his extradition to face criminal charges for his role in the Sierra Leonean civil war that spanned well over a decade.
Full Story

We Will Re-Arm Our Soldiers If... - MODEL Commander In Nimba Threatens

May 27, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

A Commander of the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL), in Nimba County, simply referred to as Col. Thomas Gaye, has threatened to rearm members of the faction under his command if the disarmament process continues to be drag on.
Full story

No Regulation, No Standard

May 27, 2004 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Lack of regulation and standards in the collection of taxes in the border town of Luogatuo is said to have created uncontrollable and illicit tax collection by fighters of the former Government of Liberia (GOL).
Full story

LIBERIA: Police identify four suspects linked to US civilian killing

May 26, 2004 - New Democrat

MONROVIA, 26 May 2004 (IRIN) - Liberia’s police said on Wednesday they had identified four suspects linked to the stabbing to death of an American civilian two days ago, adding that a four thousand dollar bounty has been offered for information leading to their arrest and prosecution.
Full story

Some Men Behind Charles Taylor's Criminal Bank Accounts

May 26, 2004 - New Democrat

Reference is herewith made to your article Taylor’s Foreign Accounts Emerging With Emmanuel Shaw as Conduit .All of the accounts you mentioned are accounts that the three "Big Bosses" at LBDI in Monrovia know about. They are the ones always involved in effecting illegal transactions on behalf of unscrupulous Liberians.
Full story

Taylor’s Foreign Accounts Emerging With Emmanuel Shaw as Conduit

May 25, 2004 - New Democrat

A umber of bank accounts of exiled former President Charles Taylor are surfacing, with Global Witness revealing an unsigned letter by Emmanuel Shaw, now advisor to interim leader Charles Gyude Bryant, authorising payments into Taylor’s overseas accounts. Global Witness, in uncovering the accounts, noted
Full story

LIBERIA: Member of top US military delegation murdered

May 25, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 25 May 2004 (IRIN) - A member of the United States Government 34-man military delegation in Liberia to help set up a new national army, has been murdered at the Mamba Point Hotel in the diplomatic enclave of the Liberian capital, Monrovia, just yards away from the official residence of the US ambassador.
Full story

LIBERIA: Government warns refugees against voluntary repatriation

May 25, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 25 May 2004 (IRIN) - Liberia’s government warned refugees scattered across West Africa against returning home, saying they should wait in their country of asylum until the official UN-backed repatriation programme begins in October.
Full story

Liberia: Member of Top US Military Delegation Murdered

May 25, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

member of the United States Government 34-man military delegation in Liberia to help set up a new national army, has been murdered at the Mamba Point Hotel in the diplomatic enclave of the Liberian capital, Monrovia, just yards away from the official residence of the US ambassador.
Full story

FAWE/UNICEF Launch Girls’ Magazine

May 25, 2004 - The Perspective

The Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE), in collaboration with UNICEF, has for the first time in Liberia, launched a Girls’ Voices Magazine project; as Morrison O.G. Sayon reports.
Full story

Immigration Bureau launches Search for Smuggler

May 25, 2004 - The Perspective

The security division of the Bureau of Immigration & Naturalization (BIN) has launched a massive search for a Lebanese/Sierra Leonean who attempted to smuggle 11 truck-loads of assorted merchandise into the country from neighboring Sierra Leone.
Full story

Ex-combatants Stage Violence Protest On Monrovia-Gbarnga Highway

May 25, 2004 - The Perspective

Several ex-combatants from two belligerents groups including former Government of Liberia (GOL) and the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) on 22 May went on a rampage in Totota and its environs, on the Monrovia-Gbarnga highway demanding their DDRR benefits.
Full story

Over 33,6000 Ex-combatants Disarmed To UN Peacekeepers In Liberia

May 25, 2004 -The Perspective

Despite the United Nations Mission in Liberia or UNMIL’s failure to extend its authority across the 15 political sub-divisions of Liberia, a West African nation devastated by 14-year of bloody war, the high command of the UN mission has revealed that it has so far disarmed over 33,600 ex-combatants.
Full story

New Form of Transport in Nimba ---Due to Deplorable Roads

May 22, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

The deplorable road network in Nimba County is reportedly posing problems for commuters and has created a new form of transport.
Full story

Anniversary Wishes and Salutation UNICCO's Founding Fathers, Pioneers and Veterans

By Philip Diah-Kpodo

May 22, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

I wish to salute the founding fathers of UNICCO both dead and alive for their heroic role in perceiving the idea. As we celebrate the Silver Jubilee of this organization (25th anniversary), let’s reflect on our successes and
Full story

Inspectorate Centralized At Labor Ministry

May 20, 2004 - The NEWS(Monrovia)

The Minister of Labor, Lavala Supuwood, has revealed that the Division of Inspectorate, which he said had been fragmented over the years, is now centralized.
Full story

Liberians Refugees Stranded At Sea Have Been Sighted, UN Says

May 20, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

Hundreds of Liberian refugees in Nigeria had organized their own repatriation, but when their boat developed engine trouble near Côte d'Ivoire and failed to show up as scheduled, United Nations agencies pitched in to help.
Full story

UNMIL Uncovers Arms Cache

May 18, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Following a tip-off by civilians in the mining town of Bong Mines in Margibi County, the UNMIL contingent in Kakata has reportedly uncovered a cache of deadly weapons.
Full story

Court Officials Want Security Protection As Suspects Resist Arrest

May 18, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The County Attorney in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, G. William Kai Sr., has appealed to the Transitional Government and United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) to provide the court with security officers to enable them arrest and prosecute individuals alleged to have committed hideous crimes in the County.
Full story

Govt Must Act Now to Avoid Rice Scarcity

May 18, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The price of rice, Liberia's staple is skyrocketing on the world market. Research has shown that a metric ton of rice, which sold for USD225.00 in November 2003, USD245.00 in February and USD280.00 in April
Full story

Restorative And Retributive Justice: Where do we stand?

May 18, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

It was a silent Thursday afternoon when few of my cousins and I decided to return home from Kakata, Margibi County. We had spent almost five months in that part of the country during the 1990 crisis. The journey was long but we were convinced that getting to town would have made up for all of our weariness.
Full story

Pres. Conte Warns Aicha

May 18, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The President of the sisterly Republic of Guinea, Lasanah Conte has reportedly warned his Spiritual Leader, Madam Aicha Conneh against muddling the peace process in Liberia in the wake of attempts by her to advocate and campaign for the removal of the Minister of Finance, Mr. Lusinee Kamara.
Full story

Lurd Military Command Insists On Kamara Removal

May 18, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Military High Command of the rebel, Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) has agreed to back the proposed replacement of its nominee in the Transitional Government of Liberia, Mr. Lusinee Kamara
Full story

ELECTION CHALLENGES AND EXPECTATIONS

May 18, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The National Elections Commission which is mandated to supercede Liberia's second transition elections is seemingly webbed in financial and logistical ropes.
Full story

NGO CONTRACTS FOR FIGHTER'S SERVICES

May 18, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Former fighters in the Liberian civil conflict are ensuring their "We are finished with war" determination by engaging in meaningful efforts as a way of enhancing the ongoing DDRR exercise which is slowly but surely enveloping the entire country.
Full story

Revamp Of Forest Development Association

May 18, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA), Mr. Ignatius Clay has disclosed that the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL) has approved the release of more than a quarter million United States dollars for the capacity building efforts of the entity.
Full story

COTE D IVOIRE: Gbagbo throws opponents out of government

May 18, 2004 - IRIN

ABIDJAN, 18 May 2004 (IRIN) - President Laurent Gbagbo said on Tuesday that he wanted some ministers to leave Cote d'Ivoire's broad-based national reconciliation government and was suspending the
Full story

LIBERIA: WFP warns it is running out of cash to feed needy Liberians

May 18, 2004 - IRIN

DAKAR, 18 May 2004 (IRIN) - The UN World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Tuesday that it was running out of cash to feed hundreds of thousands of displaced and vulnerable people within Liberia and Liberian refugees in neighbouring Sierra Leone and Guinea. The agency warned that it might have to cut their rations from July.
Full story

LIBERIA: One person killed in riot by former combatants, UN

May 18, 2004 - IRIN

Mark Kroeker, Head
UN international Police, Liberia

DAKAR, 18 May 2004 (IRIN) - One person was killed and three or four others were injured during a riot by 500 former combatants in the Liberian capital Monrovia on Monday, according to Mark Kroeker, the head of the UN international police force in Liberia.
Full story

Riots meet U.N. disarmament plan in Liberia

May 18, 2004 - CNN

Former Liberian fighters have rioted in the capital, Monrovia, amid confusion about the UN's disarmament programme.
Full story

Women Want 30 Percent Slots in Public Positions

May 17, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Liberian women have called on the Government, and the National Legislative Assemble through the National Elections Commission to ensure a provision of minimum slots of 30 percent for women in all elected and appointed public positions in Country.
Full story

Lofa Will Be Disarmed - LURD's Lofa Executives Assure

May 17, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

It has come to the attention of members of the Executive Committee, front line commanders and the fighting men and women of LURD hailing from Lofa County that there is a diabolical plan by few individuals within LURD
Full story

Bryant Rejects LURD's Request But Group Announces 'Non-Cooperation' With NTGL

May 17, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The on-going internal squabble within the LURD group and recent outbursts of NTLA Speaker George Dweh have begun to raise questions about the intentions and role of Speaker George Dweh in the search for lasting peace by Liberians and the international community.
Full story

Bryant Rejects LURD's Request But Group Announces 'Non-Cooperation' With NTGL

May 17, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The head of the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL), Chairman Charles Gyude Bryant has rejected a call for the replacement of Finance Minister Lusinee Kamara; as Timothy T. Seaklon reports.
Full story

Impeach Him

May 17, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Long before the outbreak of hostilities which were initiated by Charles Taylor in the late 1980's, the name George Dweh had become synonymous with controversy and political impropriety.
Full story

Uganda to Send Troops to Liberia

May 14, 2004 -The Monitor (Kampala)

The Minister of State for International Affairs, Maj. Tom Butime, confirmed the new development to The Monitor on Wednesday. He, however, said Uganda was waiting for the UN team to interview the sold
Full story

Eye On The Ballot Box

May 14, 2004 -The Perspective

This topic came about when I read the very eloquent and historically charged piece of article posted on April 30th., 2004 at www.theperspective.org with the caption: "Inaugural Address Delivered by Cllr. Frances Johnson-Morris, Chair of the National Elections Commission (NEC) of Liberia".
Full story

Report from Ghana: How Liberians live on the Refugee Camp at Buduburam

May 13, 2004 -New Democrat

I recently visited the Liberian refugee camp at Buduburam in Ghana, as a member of the Liberian Professionals In Rhode Island, Inc: a local nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting recently arriving refugees with orientation and adjustment
Full story

UNMIL Declares Many Areas Safe for Civil Administration

May 13, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), has declared several areas in the country reasonably safe for civil administration and for humanitarian organizations to go in to carry out their operations.
Full story

Teahjay Joins Presidential Race

May 13, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Former Deputy Information Minister for Administration in the discredited Taylor Administration, J. Milton Teahjay, has reportedly announced his intention to run for president comes October 2005.
Full story

LURD's Military Showdown Underway

May 13, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Executive Committee" Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum To Chairman Bryant To Remove Minister Kamara, But Chairman Conneh Backed by Top Fighters Says That's 'A Joke'
Full story

We Don't Have Guns Anywhere - Ex-combatants Tell First Lady

May 13, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Former combatants at one of the many cantonment centers have told Liberia's interim First Lady, Mrs. Rosalyn Bryant that they have given the guns in their possession to the UNMIL Peacekeepers.
Full story

Eye On The Ballot Box

May 13, 2004 -The Perspective

The recent installation of the new National Election Commission (NEC) is a welcome sigh of relief for all advocates of a free and fair electoral process. The acceptance speech by the chair, Cllr. Morris, reaffirmed the upward mobility of a reborn nation. Her resolve to a system reformation, and the insistence on compliance with elections laws by all parties is a welcome posture.
Full story

Now that Saleeby is Gone, Who’s Next?

May 13, 2004 -The Perspective

At long last, Elie Saleeby, the Lebanese-Liberian who has been at the center-stage of corruption allegations at the Central Bank of Liberia, has caved in to pressure and resigned the post of Executive Governor of the nation’s monetary agency.
Full story

LURD Gives Bryant Ultimatum

May 13, 2004 -The Perspective

The High command of LURD has written Chairman Bryant calling for the replacement of the finance Minister. The movement gave the Chairman 24- hour to act or they will stop their fighters from disarming.
Full story

Liberia’s Central Bank Governor Resigned Under Pressure, Asked Not To Leave Liberi

May 12, 2004 -The Perspective

Amidst mounting pressure, the Executive Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia, Elie Saleeby has resigned from the lucrative position. Mr. Saleeby, a close associate of the deposed Liberian President
Full story

Pakistani Troops Saving Lives in Lofa in the Absence of Govt And NGOs

May 12, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The living conditions of thousands of war-affected people residing in the former rebel strong-hold of Voinjama, Lofa County are increasingly becoming unbearable in the absence of civil authority and humanitarian organizations.
Full story

Liberia: Unmil Says 26,000 Disarmed So Far

May 12, 2004 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) said on Wednesday said nearly 26,000 fighters had been disarmed so far by international peacekeepers, but with the disarmament programme yet to extend into rural areas, the total number likely to come forward was still unknown.
Full story

Singapore Frustrates Taylor, Cronies - Orders Freezing of Assets

May 12, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The United Nations Security Council, in a proactive Resolution 1532 (2004) designed early this year to prevent exiled former president Charles Taylor from using his ill-gotten wealth to work against the peace process in Liberia
Full story

Liberia’s Central Bank Governor Resigned Under Pressure, Asked Not To Leave Liberia

May 12, 2004 -The Perspective

Amidst mounting pressure, the Executive Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia, Elie Saleeby has resigned from the lucrative position. Mr. Saleeby, a close associate of the deposed Liberian President Charles Taylor and the first Minister of Finance of the Taylor
Full story

Finally, Elie E. Sealeeby is Gone

May 12, 2004 -The Perspective

One of the most controversial persons of the transitional government, Mr. Elie E. Sealeeby, the Governor of the Central Bank has finally exited the political scene by abruptly resigning on May 11, 2004. Since the induction of the Bryant administration and
Full story

Under IMF's Pressure: Saleeby Booted Out of CBL -Board Member Charles Greene Takes Over As Executive Governor

May 12, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Ellie Saleeby, the man who presided over the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), the nation's highest monetary institution amidst controversies and allegations of impropriety has finally been hurried through the back door on the insistence of a visiting IMF delegation to Liberia.
Full story

US Defense Dept. Dedicates Several Clinics in Liberia

May 11, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

In its strive to help rebuild Liberia, the United States Department of Defense has begun dedicating several clinics constructed under its humanitarian assistance project in the country.
Full story

Don't Conceal Heavy Weapons, Independent Commission Appeals to Factions

May 11, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

In the wake of reports that some warring factions in the recent armed conflict are surreptitiously transporting heavy weapons into neighboring countries, the National Human Rights Commission of Liberia (NHRCL) is calling on the warring factions not to conceal any weapons in their possession.
Full story

WFWP Delegation Meets Bryant

May 11, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

A high power delegation of the Women's Federation for World Peace has arrived in Liberia on an assessment mission, a Family Federation for World Peace and Unification-Liberia (FFWPUL-L) said in a release signed May 6 by its president Rev. Augustine S. Arkoi.
Full story

Top Ex-GOL Commanders Disarm

May 11, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

In a major disarmament ceremony yesterday, the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) Sector 1 Commander, Brig. Gen. Festus Okonkwo, received personal automatic weapons from Minister of Defense Daniel
Full story

Liberian Women Discuss

May 11, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

IThe women of Liberia having been victimized for the past 14 years as a result of the civil conflict, have now resolved to chart a new course which they believe will end the violation of their basic rights and the deprivation of women from the political process.
Full story

Payment of Salary Areas Begin July

May 11, 2004 - The NEWS(Monrovia)

In a major move intended to address the issue of civil servants' salary arrears, the Chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL), C. Gyude Bryant has instructed the Director of the
Full story

H'rights Commission 'Uncovers' 3 Deaths

May 10, 2004 - The NEWS(Monrovia)

The Independent Human Rights Commission says it would ensure that perpetrators of killings are brought to book.
Full story

H'rights Commission 'Uncovers' 3 Deaths

May 10, 2004 - The NEWS(Monrovia)

The Independent Human Rights Commission says it would ensure that perpetrators of killings are brought to book.
Full story

Liberia Presses for Oil Search, Two Companies Invited

May 10, 2004 - The NEWS(Monrovia)

More than 50 years after the first attempt to search for oil came to an abrupt halt, Liberia has again embarked on similar initiatives leading to the exploration of crude oil in the country's deep water offshore.
Full story

From Inside LURD Meeting: Sekou Conneh Defeated for Finance Post, Soko Sackor Tipped

May 10, 2004 - The NEWS(Monrovia)

At the end of a 12-hour meeting of the Executive Committee of the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD), the group's Chairman Sekou Damante Conneh's desire for the Minister of Finance post to replace incumbent Lusinee Kamara was defeated by the LURD National Executive Committee (NEC).
Full story

Nimba Citizens Identify With Doe's Family

May 10, 2004 - The NEWS(Monrovia)

Nimba County citizens residing in Monrovia have identified with the family of the late President Samuel K. Doe on the occasion of his 54 birth anniversary on Thursday, May 6, with a call for forgiveness and reconciliation among the Krahn, Gio and Mano tribes.
Full story

Presidential Candidates to Debate Liberia’s Future

May 7, 2004 -The Perspective

The United Nations is striving to restore genuine peace and decency to Liberia's political future while potential Liberians, seemingly capable of taking charge of the country's political future, are devising ways and means to democratically stabilize the country as the October 2005 timetable for national democratic elections draw nearer.
Full story

Editorial Beware of “Investors!”

May 7, 2004 -The Perspective

ON TUESDAY, A statement emanated from the office of NTLA Speaker George S. Dweh expressing grave concern over the number of licenses granted to GSM companies without careful assessment and scrutiny.
Full story

NRP Backs Election Commission’s Recent Position

May 7, 2004 -The Perspective

The National Reformation Party(NRP) says it welcomes with profound joy and utmost satisfaction recent pronouncement by the National Elections Commission (NEC) imposing a ban on premature political campaign activities which in fact has sometime now been unfolding in the country.
Full story

Who’s Undermining FDA

May 7, 2004 -The Perspective

Wonder will never cease. Despite cogent efforts by the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) in its reforms programs, credible reports say there are frantic moves within the international corridor of power to hijack
Full story

Finance Minister Under Pressure

May 7, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The NEWS has credibly learned that the Minister of Finance, Luseni Kamara could resign soon as factional politics heats up within the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) to which he belongs.
Full story

Liberia’s Mining Minister Threatens to Resign Over Bribery Allegation If Proven Guilty

May 7, 2004 -The Perspective

Mr. Jonathan Mason, Minister of Lands, Mines and Energy in the Liberian transitional government has threatened to resign his post in the Liberian transitional government if proven guilty that he bribed MODEl to occupy the ministerial position.
Full story

Diamonds, Not Gold, Lands, Mines And Energy Minister Points Out

May 7, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy has pointed out that the United Nations Security Council's mineral export ban on Liberia affects diamonds and not gold and other minerals.
Full story

ECOM Recognizes Leaders Elected At Regular Conventions, Meets Political Parties

May 7, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

The Elections Commission is gradually addressing the turmoil that had characterized the political climate of post-war Liberia, announcing series of measures that will stabilize the arena in preparation for a level playing field in 2005.
Full story

Guinea, Ivory Coast Press for Taylor's Trial to End Impunity

May 7, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

Pressuring is mounting again for the former Liberian President Charles Taylor to face trial at the UN-backed war crimes tribunal in neighboring Sierra for allegedly committing crimes against humanity.
Full story

All Liberians Must Have the Choice to Vote in the 2005 Elections

May 5, 2004 -The Perspective

Mr. Harry A. Greaves, Jr., the Economic Affairs Adviser to Interim Liberian Head of State Gyude Bryant, stated that Liberians of dual-citizenship may not participate in the 2005 national elections in Liberia because “our constitution (the constitution of Liberia) does not allow dual-citizenship,”
Full story

Liberia: UN Launches Recruitment Drive for New Police Force

May 5, 2004 - IRIN

Liberia's transitional government and the United Nations launched a drive on Wednesday to recruit and train a new police force, whose 3,500 officers would be untainted by accusations of human rights abuse.
Full story

ECOM Employees Asked to Resign If They Are Partisans

May 5, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Chairman of the National Elections Commission, Cllr. Frances Johnson Morris, has called on employees of the Commission who are members or sympathizers of political parties to resign immediately from such parties or consider themselves as committing electoral offense.
Full story

Bryant's Sister in Labor Scandal - 39 Employees' Fate in Limbo - Snubs Jpc, Journalists

May 5, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Had teachers and support staff of the erstwhile prestigious Mesurado International School known that they would be disrespected, abused, abandoned, and pushed around for their just salaries and incentives,
Full story

Prince Johnson Helps Liberian Refugees

May 4, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Former warlord-turned-Evangelist Prince Yormie Johnson is said to be rendering some assistance to hundreds of suffering Liberian refugees living in Nigeria, who are said to be in desperate mood to return home.
Full story

Bryant Returns to the Mansion

May 4, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Chairman of NTGL, Gyude Bryant, has finally decided to make the Executive Mansion his official dwelling place as an alternative to returning to Mamba Point.
Full story

Subject: Go Home, Sir

May 4, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Your Excellency: We understand that last Thursday night, something happened that caused you to leave home unceremoniously. As we went to bed last night, our information is that you are in the home of your landlord and refusing to return home for security reason.
Full story

Bryant Runs Away From Home, Wife, Diplomats On Edges

May 4, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

According to the Christian holy book, the Bible, Satan the evil one, is a roaring lion seeking whom it may devour, and it appears that this enemy of God has entered the home of the first family trying to put asunder what Jehovah has united.
Full story

U.S. Will Help Liberian Economy - Amb. Blaney

May 4, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The diplomatic, social and economic relations between the governments of Liberia and the United States have been strained for some time now, and it became worst during the regime of the former Liberian dictatorial president Charles Taylor.
Full story

National Transitional Government of Liberia in Diamond, Gold Deal

May 4, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

A seven-man United Nations Sanctions Monitoring Committee established pursuant to UNSC Resolution 1521 (2004) has been in the country since the middle of last month.
Full story

Dr. Tipoteh Decries Lack of Justice, Lapses in DDRR

May 4, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

Dr. Togba Nah Tipoteh happens to be one of the respectable politicians Liberians can still boast of because of his undoubting and unwavering commitment to turning from war to peace, according to many pensive followers of the political waters at stake.
Full story

UNHCR Saddled With Financial Challenges

May 4, 2004 -The Analyst (Monrovia)

The United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) is one of the agencies of the United Nations meeting the needs of millions of people around the world who are one way or the other uprooted from their abodes by wars and perturbing occurrences.
Full story

GHANA: Bodies of six executed under Rawlings handed to relatives

April 30, 2004 - IRIN

ACCRA, 30 Apr 2004 (IRIN) - Ghana’s National Reconciliation Commission (NRC) on Thursday handed over the exhumed remains of six persons executed in 1986 for attempting to overthrow the military government then led by President Jerry Rawlings.
Full story

LIBERIA: Disarmament Official Estimates 60,000 Combatants

April 30, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 30 Apr 2004 (IRIN) - The head of Liberia's disarmament commission Moses Jarbo estimates that about 60,000 combatants expected to be disarmed, substantially more than the 40,000 projected by the United Nations.
Full story

Half of Liberian fighters disarm

April 30, 2004 - BBC

Some 19,000 former Liberian combatants have handed in their weapons, the United Nations mission there says.
Full story

USAID’s Saving-Hand for Rural Liberia

April 30, 2004 - New Democrat

The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has signed a US$28m aid package with the transitional regime for rural Liberia
Full story

UN opens last phase of Liberian disarmament amid questions over missing guns

April 30, 2004 - Agence France-Presse

MONROVIA, April 30 (AFP) - The UN opens the latest phase of its efforts to disarm Liberia's 45,000 combatants on Friday, seeking to redeem itself after a disastrous start to the process in December which forced a five-month delay in the campaign central to rebuilding the west African state after 14 years of relentless war.
Full story

Symptoms of Guilt: Warlords’ Cries Against a War Crimes Tribunal

April 30, 2004 - New Democrat

With disarmament proceeding as planned, Liberia’s warlords are beginning to show signs of fear of what many around the world demand—a war crimes tribunal. Indeed, any dream of peace without justice remains a mere dream soon to fall apart.
Full story

George Dweh Vindicates Charles Taylor, Wants Truth Comm., Not War crimes

April 30, 2004 - New Democrat

The Speaker of the transitional assembly has called on Liberians to stop blaming Charles Taylor, indicted for war crimes, for the years of war that led to national collapse. George Dweh,
Full story

Ecom Talks Tought Against Presidential Aspirants - Gives Them 48-hour Ultimatum

April 29, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The Election Commission of Liberia has warned political parties and interested individuals against premature electioneering in the country, threatening to institute drastic action against violators
Full story

More On Armed Robbery in Ganta

April 29, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

More revelations on the constant acts of lawlessness coupled with the recent wave of armed robbery in Nimba County have been made.
Full story

Diamond Fields Announces Acquisition of Diamond and Gold Projects in Liberia

April 29, 2004 - Diamond Fields International, Ltd. (New Release)

Diamond Fields International Ltd. (DFI: TSX) is pleased to announce that it has obtained two mineral reconnaissance licenses in Liberia, one of which is a diamond prospect, the other a gold prospect.
Full story

Liberia: UN Urges Refugees to Wait for Repatriation Programme

April 29, 2004 - IRIN

The head of the United Nations refugees agency (UNHCR) in Liberia, Moses Okello, has urged more than 300,000 Liberian refugees scattered across West Africa not to return home, but wait for a UN-organised repatriation exercise scheduled to begin in October.
Full story

U.N. Peace Keeping Force Disarmed Over 18,000 Ex-combatants in Liberia

April 29, 2004 -The Perspective

The on-going disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration (DDRR) program aimed at disarming ex-combatants of the three belligerent groups including the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL), Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy in Liberia (LURD) and
Full story

“Barbarism or Civilization: Which Way Liberia?”

April 29, 2004 -The Perspective

This essay is a critical account about some of the underlying causes of the breakdown of order and civility in the Liberian society. It is also a narrative about the reasons for hope and a possibility of social transformation in a land of false starts and second chance
Full story

Harry Greaves on Cars, Elections and Government

April 29, 2004 -The Perspective

A few weeks ago, some Liberian websites carried the news that the transitional government had spent some US$3 million dollars to purchase cars for members of the 76-person transitional legislature through Lebanese businessman George Hadda
Full story

Flaws Discovered in Budget, Director Fails to Appear for Hearing

April 28, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The US$23.5 million fiscal budget that was submitted to the NTLA by the Budget Bureau and later passed by that body with an increment of US$1.6 million, has backfired with the Bureau failing to adhere to the increment.
Full story

Brumskine Storms Buchanan

April 28, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The Council of Chiefs, Zoes, Elders and citizens of Grand Bassa County went gay over the weekend during Cllr.Charles Brumskine's 3-day visit to the county.
Full story

Govt Reaffirms Commitment for 2005 Elections, Assures of Upholding Press Freedom

April 27, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Information Minister Dr. C. William Allen has reaffirmed the Transitional Government's Commitment to hold elections in 2005 in keeping with the Accra peace Accord.
Full story

Student Leader Appeal to Gov't

April 27, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

A student leader is calling on the National Transitional Government of Liberia to speedily address the legitimate plight of the teachers of the Monrovia Consolidated School System.
Full story

Verney Sherman Breaks Grounds for Latrine

April 27, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Presidential hopeful, Cllr. H. Varney G. Sherman on last Saturday broke grounds for the construction of a 3-pit latrine in the PHP community.
Full story

Nigeria Backs Elections Timetable, Wants Govt Support for Press Freedom

April 27, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Nigerian Government says it supports the election timetable contained in the Comprehensive Accra Peace Accord to ensure that general and presidential elections are held according to scheduled in October, 2005
Full story

Transitional Govt Seeking CPA Firm

April 26, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The Special presidential committee on salary arrears of the National Transitional Government of Liberia is seeking the services of reputable Certified Public Accounting (CPA) firms for payroll audit services.
Full story

Liberia: Bring Out Hidden Weapons, Says UN Force Commander

April 26, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The commander of the United Nations Peacekeeping force in Liberia, General Daniel Opande, has warned fighters of Liberian warring parties not to hide weapons during the war-torn country's disarmament programme.
Full story

Another Man Petitioned for the Presidency

April 26, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

With more interest in the Presidency, the list of presidential aspirants continues to grow.
Full story

Liberia: Japanese Government Announce US $3.6 M for Child Soldiers

April 26, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The Japanese government has announced a US $3.64 million emergency aid grant for the disarmament and reintegration of an estimated 15,000 Liberian child soldiers, according to a spokesman in the capital Monrovia on Monday.
Full story

UN Mission Continues Disarmament of Ex-Rebels in Liberia

April 26, 2004 -UN News Service (New York)

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) continues to disarm and demobilize ex-fighters from the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) rebel group, collecting weapons over the weekend from about 270 former combatants.
Full story

Guinea, Liberia Renew Ties

April 23, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The "good neighborliness" ties between Liberia and Guinea since the incumbency of the C. Gyude Bryant-led National Transitional Government Of Liberia, was made manifest yesterday when the new Guinean Ambassador
Full story

Africa wants bigger say at IMF

April 25, 2004 - BBC

Many African Finance ministers are in Washington for the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.
Full story

LIBERIA: Airlift of refugees stranded in Mali starts on Saturday

April 23, 2004 - IRIN

DAKAR, 23 Apr 2004 (IRIN) - The UN refugee agency UNHCR has said it will start an airlift on Saturday to fly home a group of 229 returning Liberian refugees who have been stranded in Mali since early March.
Full story

LIBERIA: Food security situation better than expected - WFP

April 23, 2004 - IRIN

DAKAR, 23 Apr 2004 (IRIN) - The food security situation in the interior of Liberia is serious, but less alarming than previously feared, according to the UN World Food Programme (WFP).
Full story

Kenya's struggle with an ugly past

April 23, 2004 - BBC

In the months since President Daniel Arap Moi stepped down, the country has been attempting to re-invent itself, and disturbing allegations of institutional corruption, bribery, and even murder have been surfacing.
Full story

Mass execution' in western Sudan

April 23, 2004 - BBC

Dramatic new allegations have been made about a massacre allegedly committed by pro-government forces in western Sudan.
Full story

Liberia: UN Envoy And Sports Star Visit Disarmed Child Soldiers

April 23, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

The head of the United Nations mission in Liberia, Jacques Paul Klein, and a UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) Goodwill Ambassador, Liberia
Full story

Over 1,800 Combatants Disarmed To UN Peacekeepers In Liberia

April 23, 2004 - The Perspective

Latest statistics released by the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) on the on-going disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration (DDRR) shows that a total of 1,873 out of an estimated 60,000 combatants have so far been disarmed since the resumption of the DDRR exercise.
Full story

A Look at Washington’s Concerns and Accolades

April 22, 2004 - New Democrat

The US has shown more concerns and done more for developments in Liberia since it began plummeting into the abyss of chaos. Regular warnings, money and statements have certainly done well to tell the actors, many of them still using America as their home, that big brother is watching.
Full story

MCSS Students Disrupt Classes At 2 Catholic Schools

April 21, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

In continuation of their protest action, students of the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS), yesterday stormed the campuses of the St. Mary and St. Edward's Catholic Schools in Duala and Logan Town respectively.
Full story

Find a Solution to the Crisis

April 21, 2004 - The Inquirer (Monrovia) - Editorial

On Monday, the National Transitional Government of Liberia(NTGL), through Chairman Charles Gyude Bryant, ordered the immediate release of 19 students of the Monrovia Consolidated School System(MCSS) from further detention..
Full story

Rebel MODEL’s Game of Numbers

April 21, 2004 - New Democrat

The ethnic-Krahn dominated rebel group, Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL), says it still has 15,000 fighters all over the southeast, its home and stronghold along the border with Cote d’Ívoire
Full story

UN Invites Uganda for Liberia Peace

April 21, 2004 - New Vision (Kampala)

The United Nations Secretary General, Koffi Annan, has written to Uganda government asking to provide military observers in the war-torn Liberia, reports Grace Matsiko.
Full story

US Welcomes Progress in Liberia

April 21, 2004 -The White House (Washington, DC)

The United States welcomes the recent progress in Liberia. Despite difficult circumstances, Chairman Bryant and hi
Full story

New Deal’s Presidential Hopeful Declines Appointment to the Governance Reform Commission, Cites Potential Conflict of Interest, among Other Reasons

April 21, 2004 - The Perspective

George Klay Kieh, Jr., presidential hopeful for the New Democratic Alternative for Liberia (New Deal Movement) political party has declined his appointment to the Governance Reform Commission by Interim Liberian
Full story

Liberian Studies Association: Shining a Light on Liberia’s Ills

April 21, 2004 - The Perspective

For many years, sessions of Liberian Studies Association (LSA) have dealt with the crisis the country has been faced with for almost a quarter of a century when guns became the ultimate political tool and the name of the
Full story

Liberian fighters hand in arms

April 21, 2004 - BBC

Hundreds of fighters from the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (Model) have surrendered their arms to United Nations peacekeepers.
Full story

Schools Resume in Ganta As Returnees Pick Up the Pieces

April 20, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

As calm gradually returns to the commercial town of Ganta, Nimba County, there are reports of resumption of academic and commercial schools there.
Full story

Gov't Restores Students' Freedom

April 20, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

The Government of Liberia, through the Justice Ministry, has dropped charges against the 19 students of the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS) who were charged with 'riot and failure to disperse' following a violent street demonstration a fortnight ago.
Full story

Students Must Call Off 'Violent' Demonstration

April 20, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

Students of the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS) met last Friday and resolved to stage a "violent Demonstration" today, if their "demands" to have charges dropped against 19 of their colleagues were not met by the Government.
Full story

UNMIL Prevents Mcss Students' Demonstration

April 20, 2004 -The Inquirer (Monrovia)

An attempt by students of the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS) to embark on a protest action was prevented yesterday by UNMIL soldiers of the Nigerian contingent. The students early yesterday morning
Full story

Funds Flow in for Emergency UN Refugee Work in Liberia, But More Still Needed

April 20, 2004 - UN News Service (New York)

Following an urgent appeal last week for more funds to prepare for the return of an estimated 150,000 Liberian war refugees this year, the
Full story

ICGL Warns Parties of Misguided Attempts, Says Presidential Elections Unchangeable

April 20, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The positive note on which the disarmament of combatants resumed last week has prompted definite and strong comments from the International Contact Group on Liberia (ICGL), indicating that the date for the return to constitutional democratic governance remains unchangeable.
Full story

LIBERIA: Men, women and children disarm in MODEL stronghold

April 20, 2004 - IRIN

BUCHANAN, 20 Apr 2004 (IRIN) - Men women and child fighters from the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL) lined up peacefully to hand in their weapons on Tuesday as the UN peacekeepers opened a second disarmament camp in the port city of Buchanan.
Full story

Dr. KORTO CALLS FOR NEW POLITICAL VALUES, ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES IN LIBERIA

April 19, 2004 - UNICCO Digest (Letter)

I bring you greetings and through this medium, to share some views and concerns relative to the best interest of our party and the building of viable democracy in Liberia
Full story

LIBERIA: Bitter LURD fighters say their leaders betrayed them

April 19, 2004 - The Perspective

GBARNGA, 19 Apr 2004 (IRIN) - Former fighters of Liberia’s LURD rebel movement say they are happy enough to hand over their guns to UN peacekeeping troops, but many grumble that they have been forgotten and abandoned by their own political leaders.
Full story

Do not repeat the mistakes of the past!

April 19, 2004 - The Perspective

What Liberians and the international community see as the most important phase of the peace process in Liberia is now underway, the disarmament and demobilization of the thousands of former factions.
Full story

Life in Monrovia (Part VI): At the NPP Headquarters

April 19, 2004 - The Perspective

As we entered the compound on Tubman Boulevard, two young men leisurely sitting on a half-broken bench jumped to their feet to salute Matt.
Full story

The real story of Liberia (Old, but interesting)

Rabbi A. James Rudin

August 8, 2003 - Jewsweek

UNICCO chairlady addresses liberian gov't

April 17, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

Terrorism Worries Obasanjo, Liberian Leader

April 16, 2004 - This Day (Lagos)

President Olusegun Obasanjo and the Chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia, Mr. Charles Byrant, have in a joint communique, expressed concern over the increasing incidence of international terrorism and terrorist acts.
Full story

Liberian fighters handing in arms

April 15, 2004 - BBC

The long delayed disarmament process in Liberia has resumed after a two month information campaign.
Full story

1.5 Million Dollars Foreign Exchange Reserve Missing at the Central Bank of Liberia

April 14, 2004 - The Perspective

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) declared that in 2003 the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) failed to account for a $1.5 million decline in the foreign exchange reserve of Liberia. The foreign exchange reserve declined in 2003 from $1.8 million to $300,000.
Full story

Ellen Johnson -Sirleaf Raises Alarm Over Deep Corruption In Liberia

April 14, 2004 - The Perspective

The Standard-Bearer of the Opposition Unity Party and Chairman of the Good Governance Reform Commission, Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, has spoken out against the alarming rate at which corruption continues to
Full story

Shooting Incident: LURD Rebels Loot NGO Facilities, EU Rep. Warns Against Lawlessness

April 14, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Uneasy calm has returned to the central Liberian town of Gbarnga following reports of heavy shooting at the weekend by rebels of the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD).
Full story

Criminals Plunder Forest Resources, Activists Recommend Reforms

April 14, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

AFor the last 14 years, the international community and the people of Liberia have accused successive administrations and belligerent forces of plundering the natural resources to perpetrate their war.
Full story

Liberian Govt Okays Seizure of Taylor's Assets

April 14, 2004 - This Day (Lagos)

AChairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia, (NTGL), Gyude Bryant has lent support to the United Nations decision to confiscate the assets of former President Charles Taylor for use to rebuild the war torn country.
Full story

Assemblyman Choked With Criminal Mischief

April 14, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Assemblyman Isaac Mannah along with three of his collaborators has been charged with criminal mischief by the Magisterial Court of Monrovia.
Full story

'We Will Never Risk Passengers' Lives' Satgur Air's Director Says, As Transport Gives Approval

April 14, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

One of the brains behind the Satgur Air Transport Corporation (SATGUR AIR), Mr. Upjit Sachdeva (Jetty) has assured that his airline "will never put the lives of passengers at risk", implying that his aircraft was airworthy.
Full story

Charles Taylor: Any Substance in His Appeal?

April 13, 2004 - This Day (Lagos)

For six years, Sierra Leone lost about 75,000 of her citizens to the savage hands of war. Acknowledgment must however be given to the UN who played a major role in bringing about peace to that war torn country
Full story

UNDP Helps Demobilize Fighters And Backs Reform in Liberia

April 12, 2004 -UNDP (New York)

UNDP is helping Liberia's transitional government demobilize former fighters, provide job training and assistance for small businesses in communities to which they are returning, and promote public sector reform.
Full story

Liberia: Bryant Says He Wants Taylor to Stay in Nigeria

April 12, 2004 -UNDP (New York)

Liberia's transitional leader, Gyude Bryant said on Monday that his government wanted former Liberian president Charles Taylor to remain in exile in Nigeria until it handed over to a new elected administration in October 2005.
Full story

LIBERIA: Armed factions want fighters trained immediately after they disarm

April 12, 2004 - IRIN

According to Agence France Presse (AFP) quoting reports from Monrovia, former rebel leader Prince Y. Johnson left Liberia on Friday, April 7 to return to Nigeria. Prince Johnson became famous during the early years of the
Full story

Prince Y. Johnson is Back to Nigeria

April 12, 2004 - The Perspective

MONROVIA, 12 Apr 2004 (IRIN) - A new row has broken out between Liberia's three armed factions and the United Nations over how the disarmament of their estimated 40,000 to 50,000 fighters will be carried out, just as the programme is about to restart.
Full story

Rehabilitation of a Nation: Liberia’s Path to National Recovery-The Need to Utilize the Services of Liberian Professional Psychotherapists

By Kpangbala W. Sengbe

April 9, 2004 -UNICCO Digest

As the war in Liberia has been declared over after fourteen years of blood letting, the nation is now in a position to regroup and move forward in a fashion that will lead to total resettlement of internally displaced people
Full story

'European dream is a nightmare'

April 9, 2004 - BBC

Mamadou Diallo, from Guinea, had always dreamt of going to Europe. After spending years trying to get a visa, he finally went last year. But the conditions he saw other migrants living in were so bad, he went back home. He told his story to BBC News Online.
Full story

Statement By Ellen Johnson Sirleaf at the National Bar Association First Quarterly Assembly

April 9, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Mr. President Officers and Members of the Liberian National Bar Association, Government Officials and Representatives of International Organizations here present, Ladies and Gentlemen
Full story

Liberia: UN Troops Extend Deployment, Ready for Disarmament

April 9, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

UN peacekeeping forces in Liberia have deployed troops for the first time inside Lofa county, a former rebel stronghold in the northwest, and in the coastal towns of Greenville and River Cess.
Full story

Uncertainty Looms, Factions Accused of Being Reluctant

April 9, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Despite recent pronouncements by the Chairman of the Transitional Government, Gyude Bryant, that the disarmament exercise will resume on April 15, 2004, there are indications that the date could be changed, as there are seven more days left.
Full story

Liberia-Nigeria: Exiled Taylor Deserted By Followers As Hard Times Bite

April 9, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

When former Liberian President Charles Taylor arrived in Nigeria in August 2003 to begin life in exile, it was with great fanfare.
Full story

Ellen Sirleaf Lays Out Bed-Rocks for Prospects, Calls for Honesty in Public Service

April 9, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Unity Party Presidential hopeful Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf says a successful disarmament program, a serious re-look at the economic, social and political system as well as the need for good governance are the bed rocks for future constructive changes in Liberia.
Full story

Govt Takes Students to Court As Authorities Negotiate Their Release

April 9, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The visiting delegation from the United Nations Electoral Assistance Division of Political Affairs and the Constitutional Court of South Africa has reminded Liberians that the October 2005 Presidential and General Elections date remains unchanged.
Full story

2005 Elections Date Remains Unchanged - Int'l Electoral Team Says

April 9, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The visiting delegation from the United Nations Electoral Assistance Division of Political Affairs and the Constitutional Court of South Africa has reminded Liberians that the October 2005 Presidential and General Elections date remains unchanged
Full story

Govt Takes Students to Court As Authorities Negotiate Their Release

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Deputy Minister of Education for Administration now Acting Minister of Education, Dr. Marcus Dahn, has disclosed that the Ministry of Education along with the MCSS was negotiating to secure the release of students arrested during last Friday demonstration, but he did not provide d
Full story

Rural People Were Exploited, Seminar Participants Concurred

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The need for rural dwellers to benefit from their resources has been stressed. Deputy Managing Director at the Forestry Development Authority (FDA)
Full story

Presidential Contenders Blamed for Destruction, Clergyman Warns Liberians to Be Mindful

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A Liberian clergyman has cast blamed on some presidential contenders for being responsible for the death and destruction that left the nation paralyzed during the 14-year armed conflict
Full story

Brumskine On Elections 2005 - Int'l Electoral Assessment Team Arrives

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Counselor Charles Brumskine has told an international electoral assessment team to Liberia that the electoral process in Liberia would be most successful if the international community plays a larger role in its organization and supervision.
Full story

Don't Abuse People's Right ---Bryant Tells Deputy Ministers

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The head of Liberia's power-sharing Government, Gyude Bryant has told deputy ministers of his administration not to use their position to abuse the rights of the Liberian peopl
Full story

Liberian From U.S. Complains of Frustration

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Some Liberians have begun returning from the Diaspora to contribute towards the nation-building process. But one of such persons, Alfred Karley, has complained of frustration alleging that the Government was unwilling to accommodate him.
Full story

Female Pastor Equates Corruption to Time Bomb

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A female prelate has equated the unmitigated practice of rampant corruption by Liberian public officials to a time bomb, which could explode if not adequately addressed by the National Transitional Government.
Full story

Govt, UNDP Sign Agreement, Open Disarmament, Governance Trust Fund

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Transitional Government and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Thursday signed three project documents for the reconstruction of the country and the consolidation of peace.
Full story

Court Opens Taylor's Treasury

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The private safe of exiled former President Charles Taylor was opened yesterday at the Temple of Justice upon orders of the Criminal Court "A", but nothing was found in it by the UN Peacekeepers.
Full story

University Targets Us$1.5m to Restore Hope

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

In a bid to reopen and revamp the University of Liberia, the administration, through its Faculty Senate and Council is expected to launch a fund-raising rally to raise at least US$1.5m.
Full story

Civil Servants Abandon Stay-Home Protest

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Civil Service Association of Liberia has rescinded its decision to stage a three-day stay-home action, which should have begun on Monday.
Full story

Liberian, UN Police Enhance Coordinati

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

It is not clear whether the procedure requiring personnel of the Liberia National Police (LNP) to sign a waiver before riding vehicles belonging to the international Civilian Police (CIVPOL) has been quashed.
Full story

Let's Keep Our Demonstrations Peaceful

April 8, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Public School Students last week took to the streets of Monrovia to demand Government's prompt attention in addressing the plights of teachers of the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS).
Full story

Liberia beefs up budget

April 7, 2004 -News24.com

Monrovia - Liberia's transitional legislature has passed the budget recently submitted to it by interim leader Gyude Bryant.
Full story

BURKINA FASO: Ouali admits wanting to topple President Compaore

April 7, 2004 - IRIN

OUAGADOUGOU, 7 Apr 2004 (IRIN) - The alleged mastermind of a foiled coup plot, army captain Luther Diapagri Ouali, admitted to a military court on Wednesday that he had seriously considered "removing President Blaise Compaore from his seat" in order to bring social justice to Burkina Faso.
Full story

LIBERIA: Bryant sets 15 April as new target date for start of disarmament

April 2, 2004 - New Democrat

MONROVIA, 2 Apr 2004 (IRIN) - Gyude Bryant, the Chairman of Liberia’s transitional government, has set 15 April as the target date for restarting the country’s disarmament programme, which has been stalled for nearly four months
Full story

Prince Johnson in Hiding After Claiming Attempts by Samuel Doe’s Brother to Kill Him

April 2, 2004 - New Democrat

Former warlord Prince Johnson says he is hiding following an attempt by Cheayee Doe, brother of late President Samuel Doe to kill him on Thursday.
Full story

Prince Johnson Complains Of Assassination Plot, Goes Into Hiding

April 2, 2004 - The Perspective

Despite of his persistent appeals for Liberians to put behind the ugly past, forgive each others, reconcile their differences and move ahead with the fragile peace process, the man blamed for the gruesome murder of
Full story

For War And Crimes Against Humanity: Pressure Mounts for Taylor's Surrender

March 31, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Pressure is being mounted at home for the surrender and subsequent trial of former President Charles Taylor at the UN-backed special court in Sierra Leone for his alleged complicity in war crimes and human rights abuses in that country.
Full story

Direct Chinese Support to the People ---Brumskine Urges Amb. Songtian

March 31, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A Presidential hopeful, Cllr. Charles Brumskine Monday held discussions with the Chinese Ambassador accredited to Liberia, Lin Songtian, with specific requests for the generosity of the Chinese people to be directed at the people themselves.
Full story

The U.S. Should Take a Two-Way Approach

March 31, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia) Editorial

The United States Government yesterday threatened that it will suspend entry into the United States of public officials of Liberia who it would find to be corrupt along with their dependents as well as those who corrupt them.
Full story

US Govt Threatens Corrupt Officials With Entry-Visa Denial

March 31, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The United States Government has threatened that it will suspend entry into the United States of public officials of Liberia whom it finds to be corrupt along with their dependents as well as those who corrupt them.
Full story

Mentality Toward Farming Must Change

March 31, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Resident Representative in Liberia of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Mr. S. Thiru Gnana Sambanthar over the weekend made some salient points to the effect that Liberia can become self-sufficient in food production within five years.
Full Story

Seek Those Who Took Risks Not Opportunists, Liberians Cautioned

March 31, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Information Officer of Friends Of Brumskine (FOB), says 85 percent of people who are now roaming around Monrovia and its environs declaring their intention for the Presidency should not be taken seriously by the Liberian people.
Full Story

Support Mounts for Girl With Bullet in Head

March 31, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Several Liberians and their foreign counterparts on Monday pledged more than US$1,000 toward the Fund Drive of little Selvia George who has been living with bullet in her head for seven months.
Full Story

Ex-Militia Man Charged With Murder Following Lover's Death

March 31, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Monrovia Magisterial Court, under the jurisdiction of Joseph Fayiah, has charged ex-militia man Joe Young, Jr. with murder for allegedly flogging his spouse, Josephine Munah Doe to death.
Full Story

Suspect Bleeds From Mob Attacks

March 31, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Information reaching this Paper says a man suspected of being "heart man", identified as John Fayiah, was severely flogged on March 25, 2004 by angry mob at the Maimu Displaced Camp #1, in Bong County.
Full Story

Suspect Bleeds From Mob Attacks

March 31, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Information reaching this Paper says a man suspected of being "heart man", identified as John Fayiah, was severely flogged on March 25, 2004 by angry mob at the Maimu Displaced Camp #1, in Bong County.
Full Story

Sudanese Islamist leader arrested

March 31, 2004 - BBC

Sudan's authorities have arrested the opposition Islamist leader Hassan al-Turabi over an alleged plot to overthrow President Omar al-Bashir.
Full Story

Liberia stowaways reach Argentina

March 31, 2004 - BBC

Four Liberian teenagers are being treated for malnutrition after an incredible 16-day voyage to Argentina inside a ship's anchor compartment.
Full Story

Prince Johnson, Ready to Face a War Crimes Tribunal, Joins LAP for the Late Jackson F. Doe

March 30, 2004 - The Perspective

For the past few days, I have pondered over a more candor way of responding to Mr. Theodore Hodge's blatant attacks on Mr. Prince Johnson for his expressed intent to become an office holder in Liberia. In his article
Full Story

Four Newspaper Editors And Staff Summoned

March 30, 2004 - Media Foundation for West Africa (Accra)

The Civil Law Court in Monrovia, capital of Liberia, has issued a writ of summons on the management and staff of four newspapers, namely, the National Chronicle, Monrovia Guardian, The Forum, and The Heritage.
Full Story

Notorious Liberian warlord returns home

March 30, 2004 - Mail and Guardian Online

One of Liberia's most notorious warlords returned home after more than a decade in exile, asking forgiveness on Monday for "whatever wrong" he may have done.
Full Story

Prince Johnson's Actions are not worse than the Actions of Those Active in Politics Today

March 27, 2004 - The Perspective

For the past few days, I have pondered over a more candor way of responding to Mr. Theodore Hodge's blatant attacks on Mr. Prince Johnson for his expressed intent to become an office holder in Liberia.
Full Story

Lonely leaders get their own helpline

March 27, 2004 - BBC

World dignitaries are gathering in southern England to help launch a diplomatic "brain-tank".
Full Story

Trials to begin on anti-HIV gel

March 27, 2004 - BBC

Large scale human trials of two gels designed to combat the Aids virus are being planned by British scientists to be carried out in Africa. .
Full Story

Gbagbo's offer of talks spurned

March 27, 2004 - BBC

The opposition in Ivory Coast has rejected President Laurent Gbagbo's call for talks, after days of deadly clashes in Abidjan.
Full Story

Prince Yormie Johnson For Senator, For President?

March 27, 2004 - The Perspective

I read an article by Moses Jolayemi about Prince Johnson’s planned return to Liberia with great sadness and perplexity.
Full Story

LIBERIA: US gives US$ 50 million for former combatants

March 26, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 25 Mar 2004 (IRIN) - The United States government has said that it has earmarked about US$ 50 million to assist former Liberian combatants and communities as part of the country's disarmament, demobilisation, rehabilitation and reintegration programme (DDRR).
Full Story

US Amb. Blaney Wants Corrupt Officials Fired

March 26, 2004 - New Democrat

United States Ambassador to Liberia John Blaney, has condemned rising corruption within the transitional regime,
Full Story

The Role of Salary Reform in Eradicating Corruption In Liberia

By: Joseph Barchue- Birmingham, Alabama

March 26, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

Liberia has spent the past 14 years trying unsuccessfully to gain world attention on its inherent problems, finding a possible solution and incorporating that solution into a functioning society
Full Story

Teachers Found With Fake Online Degrees Recognized by Liberia

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. - A county school board may demand that six teachers repay nearly $30,000 in pay raises they received after obtaining fake degrees from an online school in Liberia.
Full Story

UNMIL Sets Up Anti-Human Trafficking Unit

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A Unit intended to crack down on human trafficking and assist victims has been created at the United Nations Missions in Liberia (UNMIL). The Unit is known as the "Trafficking in Persons Unit (TPU).
Full Story

Liberian Churches On Ritualistic Killings

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Liberian Council of Churches says it is dismayed over the wave of alleged ritualistic killings in the Country.
Full Story

The Public Must Help to Verify 'Heart Man' Activities

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

There have been increasing reports of alleged "heart-man" activities in Monrovia and its environs. These reports have become alarming such that some individuals have recommended measures to protect citizens and residents against the criminal act.
Full Story

Petrol Company, Retailers Differ Over US$30,000 Requirement

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Disagreement has emerged between the Management of the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) and the Liberia Retailer Association of Petroleum Products (LRAPP) over requirement for the importation of petroleum products which includes a US$30,000 non-refundable fee
Full Story

Supreme Court Quashes Taylor's Petition Orders Judge to Give Ruling

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Petition for a Writ of Prohibition filed by lawyers representing exiled former President Charles Taylor has been thrown out by Supreme Court's Chamber Justice Francis Korkpor.
Full Story

Abuses, Suffering in Rivercess Methodist Monitor Reports

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The fourteen years of civil war has wrecked every fabric of the Liberian society, and the humanitarian situation in most part of the country has degenerated amidst increasing poverty, especially among rural dwellers
Full Story

Declare Position On Good Governance ---Political Parties Challenge

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Political parties in the country have been challenged to formulate and publicize their official position on good governance.
Full Story

Security Men Must Keep Out of Politics -- NSA Director Cautions

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Security personnel in the country have been called upon to keep out of politics in order to discharge their duty in accordance with the laws.
Full Story

Liberians Must Take Over Retail Sector to Raise Living Standard, Brumskine Urges

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Presidential hopeful Charles Walker Brumskine says his vision for Liberians to take over the retail sector of the economy has with it an interest in seeing the foreign partners taking more grasps at the industrialized and export-import sectors.
Full Story

Foreign Minister Holds Govt Responsible for Riot

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Foreign Minister Thomas Yaya Nimley says the power-sharing National Transitional Government of Liberia should take responsibility for last week riot in the port city of Buchanan.
Full Story

Inmates in Appalling Condition ---GSA Boss Observes

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Director-General of the General Service Agency (GSA), Edward T. Farley has appealed to Government to release all inmates at the Central Police Cell who have not been charged.
Full Story

Army Restructuring Process Begins

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The process to restructure the once abandoned Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) has begun with a three-day consultative workshop currently being held at the Monrovia City Hall.
Full Story

Following 'Riot' in Buchanan: 3 Killed, Several Wounded

March 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

At least three persons are said to have died following a riot involving fighters of the rebels Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL) and civilians in the Port City of Buchanan on Saturday.
Full Story

Johnson, Liberia's Warlord, Leaves On Sunday

March 25, 2004 - This Day (Lagos)

Leader of the defunct Independent Patriotic Front of Liberia (INPFL) Prince Yormie Johnson, is going back to Liberia, the country he left 11 years ago.
Full Story

Liberia: Security Tight Around University After Day of Violence

March 25, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Police and UN peacekeeping troops took up positions around the University of Liberia campus in the capital Monrovia on Thursday following
Full Story

Charles Taylor’s ex-Chief of Staff in kidnapping

March 25, 2004 - The Ghanaian Chronicles

The Togo government on Sunday night told journalists here that it has taken the decision to place General Benjamin Yeaten, Chief of Army Staff of ex-Liberian President Charles Taylor, under temporary house arrest until his official status and real identity have been established.
Full Story

The UN, Bryant or the Warring Factions: Who is in Charge in Liberia?

March 24, 2004 - The Perspective

The death of a civilian in Buchanan at the hands of rebel fighters while the UN troops were present in the city raises some serious questions
Full Story

Alert hits German leader's tour

March 24, 2004 - BBC

German President Johannes Rau has cancelled a visit to Djibouti because of a "concrete threat of an attack".
Full Story

Ex-Congo colonel denies torture

March 24, 2004 - BBC

A former Congolese colonel on trial in the Netherlands has denied crimes against humanity in DR Congo during the civil war in the 1990s.
Full Story

Ivorian rivals prepare for demo

March 24, 2004 - BBC

Opposition and rebel politicians in the Ivory Coast say they are determined to march on the commercial capital, Abidjan, on Thursday.
Full Story

Liberian exiles urged to return

March 23, 2004 - BBC

Liberia's Justice Minister Kabinah Janeh has called on Liberians living in the US to return home.
Full Story

Nigeria offers exile to Aristide

March 22, 2004 - BBC

Former Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide has been offered a temporary exile in Nigeria following a request by a group of Caribbean states.
Full Story

Bush pushes for Sudan peace talks

March 22, 2004 - BBC

President George W Bush has urged the Sudanese government and rebel leaders to bring the country's peace process to a successful conclusion.
Full Story

Billy's journey: Crossing the Sahara

March 22, 2004 - BBC

Mamadou Saliou "Billy" Diallo is one of the many millions of people living in the developing world, whose lifelong dream has been to seek his fortune in the West
Full Story

One killed in clashes in Liberian port city: UN

March 21, 2004 -APF

MONROVIA, March 21 (AFP) - Serious violence erupted at the weekend in the Liberian port city of Buchanan, where a civilian was killed and several others injured, the commander of UN peacekeeping forces said Sunday.
Full Story

Liberian Rebels on Shooting Rampage in Port City

March 20, 2004 - Washington Post

MONROVIA (Reuters) - Fighters from Liberia's smaller rebel faction fired in the air in their stronghold of Buchanan on Saturday, apparently to vent their frustration at a delayed United Nations disarmament program, residents said.
Full Story

Bryant's Men on New UN Travel Ban List

March 20, 2004 - New Democrat

The UN Security Council has issued a new list of Liberians banned from leaving the country, on it some members of the Charles Gyude Bryant team such as Emmanuel Shaw, who the Council describes as “a former
Full Story

Bryant Plans to Hang-on for 4 Years: Radio Veritas

March 20, 2004 - New Democrat

Charles Gyude Bryant has embarked upon a plan to extend his rule for 4 years, two years more than stipulated in the Accra Agreement that brought him to power, according to the Catholic radio station Veritas in Monrovia.
Full Story

Security increased in Ivory Coast

March 20, 2004 - BBC

Security measures have been stepped up in Ivory Coast's commercial capital, Abidjan, this weekend.
Full Story

Quit threat at Somali peace talks

March 20, 2004 - BBC

A powerful group of leaders at the Somalia peace talks has threatened to withdraw, accusing regional mediators of interference.
Full Story

A school named after Elizabeth Blunt in Liberia

March 20, 2004 - BBC

When the Liberian civil war started in 1990, I was the West Africa correspondent..
Full Story

Oil Wealth Trickles Into Chad, but Little Trickles Down

March 19, 2004 - Washington Post

Five Months After Opening of Pipeline to Cameroon, Locals Await Benefits and Crime Rate Rises
Full Story

Airlift Aristide: A Flight to Exile

March 19, 2004 - Washington Post

Stranded in Africa, Haiti's Ousted Leader Inspires Friends to Dash to His Rescue
Full Story

COTE D IVOIRE: EU deplores rise in political tension

March 19, 2004 - IRIN

ABIDJAN, 19 Mar 2004 (IRIN) - The European Union has called on all political forces in Cote d'Ivoire to avoid any acts liable to worsen the socio-political situation following a rise in tension in the West African nation.
Full Story

Pan-African parliament launched

March 19, 2004 - CNN

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (Reuters) -- The 53-member African Union (AU) launched a pan-African parliament on Thursday, hoping to provide a new forum in which to battle perennial problems of war, poverty and disease.
Full Story

Ellen Talks Tough, Expects Prompt Actions From Govt

March 19, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Liberia's foremost female politician, Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, has told the Transitional Legislative Assembly that the Governance Reform
Full Story

China On Liberia's Reconstruction As Bryant Meets Amb. Songtian

March 19, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The head of Liberia's power-sharing government, Gyude Bryant Thursday visited the Embassy of the People's Republic of China at Congo Town
Full Story

Liberia: UN Presents New List of People Banned From International Travel

March 19, 2004 -United Nations (New York)

The United Nations Security Council, acknowledging political changes in Liberia following the departure of President Charles Taylor,
Full Story

For Alleged Subversive Activities: 1,500 Liberians Trapped in Guinea - Embassy Source Explains

March 19, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Deputy Internal Affairs Minister for Administration, Chief Jerry Gonyon yesterday said he was appealing to the President and Government of Guinea for the release of more than 1,500 Liberian Refugees
Full Story

Is Anyone Guilty of War Crimes In Liberia

By: T. Q. Harris

March 19, 2004 -UNICCO Digest

Because the proper recording of Liberian history has been given a low priority, many key questions regarding critical national issues are left unanswered.
Full Story

After Charles Taylor, Get Moammar Kaddafi… and Blaise Compaoré

By Abdoulaye W. Dukulé

March 19, 2004 -The Perspective

According to the Paris-based magazine Jeune Afrique, authorities in Mali arrested twenty young Liberians two weeks, accusing them of being "mercenaries".
Full Story

The remittance lifeline

March 19, 2004 - BBC

It is no secret these days that the funding of development has gone private.
Full Story

Guide to SA opposition parties

March 19, 2004 - BBC

As the general election approaches, it is not an easy time to be an opposition party in South Africa.
Full Story

No Rwanda flight recorder link

March 19, 2004 - BBC

The UN says tests on a flight recorder found last week suggest that it is not from the plane that crashed in Rwanda, triggering the country's 1994 genocide.
Full Story

Experience is the Best Teacher: a Call At Gyude Bryant's Call

March 17, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

THE MULTIPLICITY OF political parties and presidential aspirants in preparation for the pending 2005 general and presidential elections is of grave concern.
Full Story

Movie Star Speaks of Plans to Upgrade the Movie Industry

March 17, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A Liberian Movie Star Mendea E. Martin has spoken of plans to up-grade the movie industry in the country.
Full Story

Public School Teachers Told to Be Patient for Salary Arrears

March 17, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Teachers of the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS) have been urged to be calmed and patient as issues surrounding their salary arrears were being treated with urgency and care.
Full Story

UNMIL Braces for Disarmament, Tubmanburg's Cantonment Site Nearing Completion

March 17, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Preparations to begin the collection of weapons from more than 60,000 fighters in the Liberian conflict are nearing completion at one of the cantonment sites in Tubmanburg, Bomi County, about 60 kilometers west of Monrovia.
Full Story

Mob Flogs Photo Journalist

March 17, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A senior photo journalist at the Ministry of Information, Abu Donzo has been reportedly flogged in the commercial town of Ganta, Nimba County by mob alleged to be former government militias.
Full Story

Telecom Workers Place Hold On Go-Slow Action

March 17, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

It seems clear that workers of the Liberia Telecommunication Corporation (LTC) who had threatened a go-slow action as the result of an alleged misapplication of funds intended for the settlement of their two-month salaries have put a hold on their plan.
Full Story

Restriction on Press freedom and Reckless Spending, Again? What is going on in Liberia?

By Tiawan S. Gongloe

March 15, 2004 - New Democrat

In incurring expenditure, we should consider whether what we are about to pay for will really contribute to our national progress and happiness, or whether we merely wish the object because others have it.
Full Story

Taylor to sue over house search

March 15, 2004 - BBC

Exiled Liberian leader, Charles Taylor, has filed a lawsuit against the Liberian justice minister over a search of his house in the capital, Monrovia.
Full Story

The men behind the 'Guinean plot'

March 12, 2004 -BBC

BBC News Online looks at what is known about the alleged mercenaries being held in Zimbabwe and Equatorial Guinea.
Full Story

UN council freezes Taylor's funds

March 12, 2004 -BBC

The United Nations Security Council has passed a unanimous resolution to freeze the assets of the exiled Liberian leader, Charles Taylor.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Suspected yellow fever cases in 8 out of 15 counties

March 12, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 12 Mar 2004 (IRIN) - Suspected yellow fever cases have appeared in eight of the 15 counties in Liberia, three of them along the border with Guinea and Cote d’Ivoire, a senior official of World Health Organisation (WHO) revealed in the capital, Monrovia
(Full Story)

Liberia team finds no signs of secret training in Nimba

March 11, 2004 -Reuters

SANNIQUELLIE, Liberia, March 11 (Reuters) - A government team probing reports that hundreds of fighters were secretly training in northeast Liberia said on Thursday it had found no evidence so far, but that the region was awash with weapons.
(Full Story)

Newspaper Ordered Closed

March 10, 2004 -Media Foundation for West Africa (Accra)

The government of Liberia has ordered the closure of the 'Informer' newspaper.
Full Story

LIBERIA: UN humanitarian coordinator complains of lack of resources

March 10, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 10 Mar 2004 (IRIN) - The humanitarian assistance received thus far for Liberia is not enough to cover its people’s needs and a crisis could ensue if the shortfall is not addressed before the coming rainy season, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Liberia, Abou Moussa, warned on Tuesday.
Full Story

Chairman Gyude Bryant's Transitional Government Spent Over Three Million US Dollars On Vehicles

March 10, 2004 - The Perspective

In the face of the nation’s ailing economy coupled with the suffering of the Liberian people, the National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL) chaired by Charles Gyude Bryant spent over 3 million United States dollars on vehicles between the period of October 14, 2003, to March 2004.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Sierra Leonean war crimes investigators begin searching Taylor’s properties

March 8, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 8 Mar 2004 (IRIN) - The UN-backed Special Court set up to try those considered most responsible for war crimes in Sierra Leone has begun carrying out investigations in Liberia: a team of investigators began searching residences of ex-president Charles Taylor on Friday.
Full Story

Special Court Raids Executive Mansion

March 8, 2004 - Concord Times (Freetown)

In a bid to get further evidence to rope former Liberian President Charles Taylor with charges of war crimes in Sierra Leone, Special Court Prosecution Investigators, UNMIL, International Police (Interpol) and Liberian Officials ...
Full Story

Libya blamed for W Africa wars

March 8, 2004 - BBC

The chief prosecutor at the UN's new court for Sierra Leone has accused the Libyan leader of being behind the past decade of war in West Africa.
Full Story

Haiti's Aristide defiant in exile

March 8, 2004 - BBC

Haiti's exiled president, Jean-Bertrand Aristide, has insisted he remains the elected head of his country.
Full Story

Zimbabwe 'seizes US cargo plane'

March 8, 2004 - BBC

A US-registered cargo plane with 64 suspected mercenaries on board has been impounded in Harare, Zimbabwe says.
Full Story

Libya ships out last WMD parts

March 7, 2004 - BBC

Libya has sent all its known remaining nuclear weapons-related equipment to the US as part of a disarmament deal.
Full Story

Trouble at Gabon president's school

March 5, 2004 - BBC

It is normally vibrant with pupils in classrooms and the yard, but the students and teachers are now at home
Full Story

U.N. Resolution Would Freeze Taylor Assets

March 5, 2004 -The Associated Press


UNITED NATIONS - The United States has drafted a U.N. resolution to freeze the assets of exiled Liberian leader and indicted war criminal Charles Taylor.
Full Story

Ultimatum for Sierra Leone Refugees in Guinea And Liberia

March 5, 2004 - Standard Times (Freetown)

The United Nations High Commission for Refugees has announced that come June this year all their support for Sierra Leonean refugees reluctantly refusing to come will stop.
Full Story

Bishop seeks SA Mugabe sanctions

March 5, 2004 - BBC

A Zimbabwean archbishop has called for South Africa to cut off electricity supplies to make President Robert Mugabe hold talks with the opposition
Full Story

Koffa is election issue in Liberia
Wake lawyer advised candidate

March 4, 2004 - Newsobserver.com

ZEBULON -- An investigation into a former Zebulon town manager has become a presidential campaign issue -- in Liberia.
Full Story

PROJECT PROPOSAL FOR THE RECONSTRUCTION OF LIBERIA

By: Joseph Barchue
University of Alabama at Birmingham

March 4, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

A Robust Highway Network of Roads, Overpasses and Bridges.
Full Story

LIBERIA: Study of sexual abuse during civil war under way

March 3, 2004 - IRIN

DAKAR, 3 Mar 2004 (IRIN) - The United Nations and World Vision are conducting a joint survey of sexual violence committed during the last four years of Liberia’s civil war which will be submitted to the country’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
(Full Story)

Liberian Lawmakers Spent US$478,384.00 On Foreign Trips

March 3, 2004 - The Perspective

Financial report released in Monrovia recently by the National Transitional Legislative Assembly (NTLA) Committee on Ways, Means and Finance has revealed that despite prevailing financial constraints and abject
(Full Story)

14,000 Sierra Leonean Refugees Return to Freetown Tuesday

March 2, 2004 - Concord Times (Freetown)

United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) Information man in Kenema, Sulaiman Momodu has informed Concord Times that the last phase of Sierra Leonean refugees in Liberia will be returned to the country today, Tuesday.
(Full Story)

Your Contribution to Liberia Reconstruction Proposal

By Dr. Arthur T. Siaway

March 1, 2004 - UNICCO Digest

These are some ideas we are trying to propose for implementation using the grants being awarded by donors to Liberia. Please add to this and return the package to me as soon as possible. The final draft must be in by March 11, 2004.
(Full Story)

Obsession With the Presidency - Wrong Focus for A New Liberia

By William G. Nyanue

March 1, 2004 - The Perspective

With the departure of Charles Taylor for exile in Nigeria, the signing of a peace accord to end fighting, the inauguration of an interim government, and the deployment of United Nations peace keeping troops in many parts
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Catholic bishop says warlords should quit government

March 1, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 1 Mar 2004 (IRIN) - The Roman Catholic church in Liberia has said the country’s former warlords should not serve in the transitional government that is..
(Full Story)

UN to Resume Land Repatriation of Sierra Leonean Refugees From Liberia

March 1, 2004 - United Nations (New York)

After a nearly two-year halt because of heavy fighting, the United Nations refugee agency will tomorrow resume the repatriation over land of some 13,000 Sierra Leoneans from Liberia
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Government probes report of military training in Nimba

March 1, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 1 Mar 2004 (IRIN) - A team of government officials will head for Nimba County in north central Liberia on Tuesday to investigate reports that military training activities are taking place close to the border with Cote d’Ivoire, the transitional government said in a statement.
(Full Story)

UN to Resume Land Repatriation of Sierra Leonean Refugees From Liberia

March 1, 2004 - United Nations (New York)

After a nearly two-year halt because of heavy fighting, the United Nations refugee agency will tomorrow resume the repatriation over land of some 13,000 Sierra Leoneans from Liberia
(Full Story)

Reagan Approved Plan to Sabotage Soviets-
Book Recounts Cold War Program That Made Technology Go Haywire

February 27, 2004 - Washington Post

In January 1982, President Ronald Reagan approved a CIA plan to sabotage the economy of the Soviet Union through covert transfers of technology that contained
(Full Story)

Powell Puts Pressure on Haitian Leader To Resign

February 27, 2004 - Washington Post

Secretary of State Colin L. Powell yesterday questioned Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide's ability to rule effectively in remarks that aides said were designed to urge Aristide to resign for the good of his country.
(Full Story)

Unmil Personnel Accused of Law Breaking Commerce Minister Alerts Jacques Klein

February 27, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

Commerce and Industry Minister Samuel Wlue, has disclosed that some personnel within the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) were abusing the Duty Free Privilege granted the UN thereby breaking the laws of the country.
(Full Story)

US Diplomat Underscores Need for Foreign Investment, Says Donors' Funds Can't Do It All

February 27, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

The Deputy Chief of Mission at the United States Embassy in Monrovia, Mr. Duane E. Sams, has challenged the National Transitional Government and all Liberian stakeholders to encourage investment in the national reconciliation and reconstruction of Liberia.
(Full Story)

JPC 'Uncovers' Massacre in Bomi, Former Govt Generals Linked

February 27, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

The Catholic Justice and Peace Commission (JPC), says it has uncovered a "massacre" in the north-western County of Bomi in which hundreds of civilians were "killed"
(Full Story)

U.S. to Furnish $114M in Aid to Liberia

February 27, 2004 - AP - Africa

WASHINGTON - President Bush (news - web sites) said Wednesday that the United States was providing $114 million in assistance to Liberia (news - web sites) —
(Full Story)

Ivorian rebels delay disarmament

February 27, 2004 - BBC

Ivory Coast's former rebels will not lay down their weapons next month, as previously announced, they say.
(Full Story)

Africa sees rise in 'sex terror'

February 27, 2004 - BBC

More and more people across Africa are becoming victims of sexual terrorism, according to work presented at a high-profile sexual health conference.
(Full Story)

Powell Requests Funds for 'The Front Lines of Foreign Policy'

February 27, 2004 - United States Department of State (Washington, DC)

In a February 26 presentation, Secretary of State Colin Powell told the Senate Budget Committee that his department's programs are on the front
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Yellow Fever deaths raise fears of epidemic

February 26, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 26 Feb 2004 (IRIN) - The United Nations has warned of a possible Yellow Fever epidemic in Liberia following at least three deaths from the mosquito-borne disease.
(Full Story)

Ghana to blacklist NGOs

February 26, 2004 - New Democrat

Since the exile of indicted war criminal Charles Taylor, the country is rapidly repairing its image, rising from one known on global TV screesns for its
(Full Story)

Postal Network Accepted for Revamp--- US Postmaster General Makes Commitment

February 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Postmaster General of the United States, Mr. John Potter has reportedly pledged the United Sates Postal Services (USPS) "firm and practical" commitment to providing support in the area of equipment and training for the revitalization of Liberia's Postal network.
(Full Story)

Newspaper Staff Arrested

February 25, 2004 - Media Institute of Southern Africa (Windhoek)

On 23 February 2004, Meeky Mckay, managing editor and sales manager of "Heritage" newspaper, and journalist Homammed Kanneh were arrested on orders of the Monrovia City Court for a story which appeared in the newspaper's 16 February edition.
(Full Story)

Businessman Calls for Security Protection

February 25, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The proprietor of SACHU Traders, Mr. Kumar Karam has underscored the need for protection of foreign businesses in the country.
(Full Story)

Ghana to blacklist NGOs

February 25, 2004 - BBC

Hundreds of non-governmental organisations operating in Ghana will be blacklisted at the end of March, if they cannot provide an adequate record of their activities.
(Full Story)

Liberians return to 'safe areas'

February 25, 2004 - BBC

At least 2,000 people have crossed back into Liberia from Sierra Leone since United Nations peacekeepers deployed to the border town of Bo.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Returning refugees stream to Monrovia but end up in camps

February 24, 2004 - Ghanaian Chronicle (Accra)

MONROVIA, 24 Feb 2004 (IRIN) - Nearly 3,000 registered Liberian refugees have returned from neighbouring countries spontaneously since
(Full Story)

Our Discomfort And Declaration of Facts

February 24, 2004 - Ghanaian Chronicle (Accra)

This is a warning and advice from the Taylor´s family! On behalf of the entire Taylor family, I wish to inform all and sundry about our discomfort and displeasure in coming to Nigeria to seek political asylum after the
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UN peacekeepers deploy near Sierra Leone border

February 24, 2004 -IRIN

MONROVIA, 23 Feb 2004 (IRIN) - United Nations peacekeepers extended their deployment to Liberia’s western border with Sierra Leone at the weekend, a UN spokesman said on Monday.
(Full Story)

Thousands of Liberian Refugees to Resettle in U.S.

February 24, 2004 - Washington Post

ABIDJAN (Reuters) - Thousands of Liberian refugees who fled a 14-year civil war in the country founded by freed American slaves will be resettled in the United States, the United Nations refugee agency UNHCR said on Monday.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UN discontinues immediate $75 cash payment to disarmed fighters

February 20, 2004 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations has said categorically that it will not resume its suspended disarmament programme in Liberia until UN peacekeeping troops are fully deployed right across the West African country.
(Full Story)

Liberia: What Manner of Reconstruction?

February 20, 2004 - This Day (Lagos)

ABIDJAN, 20 Feb 2004 (IRIN) - The United Nations peacekeeping force in Liberia said on Friday that it would no longer pay cash up front to former combatants who hand in their guns once its stalled disarmament programme resumes in March or April.
(Full Story)

Liberia: UN Says No Disarmament Before Full Deployment of Peacekeepers

February 18, 2004 -UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations has said categorically that it will not resume its suspended disarmament programme in Liberia until UN peacekeeping troops are fully deployed right across the West African country.
(Full Story)

Teachers Mount Pressure On Govt, Threaten to Lay Down Chalks

February 18, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The public school system in Monrovia could face additional set backs if the plight and concerns of the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS) teachers are not promptly addressed.
(Full Story)

Life in Monrovia

February 17, 2004 - The Perspective

The first thing one notices upon arrival in Monrovia is the incredible number of people thronging the streets all day long.
(Full Story)

Tourism 'bypasses' Zanzibar's locals

February 17, 2004 - BBC

The island of Zanzibar is a paradise holiday destination, but paradise can be deceptive.
(Full Story)

Moi 'ordered' Goldenberg payment

February 17, 2004 - BBC

Ex-Kenyan president Daniel arap Moi ordered payments worth $76m to a company involved in fictitious exports, a second civil servant has alleged.
(Full Story)

Gabon acts over school of shame

February 17, 2004 - BBC

Senior staff at Gabon's largest school have been sacked after a probe revealed widespread prostitution and fraud
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UNEP calls for restoration of environment for sustainable future

February 16, 2004 - IRIN

ABIDJAN, 17 Feb 2004 (IRIN) - The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has called for the urgent restoration of public services in Liberia's shattered towns and cities to reduce pollution and improve public health.
(Full Story)

Trust Fund for Us$520 Million UN Official Explains

February 16, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A Senior United Nations official has disclosed that the US$520 million recently pledged by wealthy and powerful countries for the reconstruction of post conflict Liberia would be put into a trust fund that is going to be under the supervision of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
(Full Story)

Donors' Funds Need Robust Monitoring, H'rights Group Urges

February 16, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

A local pro-democracy and human rights organization has called for the establishment of a robust monitoring mechanism to ensure the effective and appropriate use of donor funds during the reconstruction of post conflict Liberia in order to "keep the claws of corruption" at bay.
(Full Story)

Enhance Partnership With the Media

February 16, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

THE TRANSITIONAL GOVERNMENT of Liberia, in partnership with the international community, has succeeded in attracting donors' good-will in the tune of US$520 million in order to jump start the socio -economic and political activities of the country.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Reconstruction Must Include Attention to Environment, UNEP Says

February 16, 2004 - United Nations (New York)

Liberia's water supplies, sewage systems, air and forests have been so greatly damaged by 15 years of conflict that the public now faces a grave threat to its health, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) said today.
(Full Story)

ICG Wants Presidential Powers Trimmed, Calls for Total Reform in Liberia

February 16, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

The International Contact Group based in Brussels, Belgium, is not just advocating for a new political class, the group is calling for total change in Liberia that would touch on all fabric of the society.
(Full Story)

Pact With Liberia Lets U.S. Search Ships

February 13, 2004 -The Associated Press

DAKAR, Senegal - U.S. Navy sailors may board thousands of commercial ships in international waters to search for weapons of mass destruction under a landmark pact between the United States and Liberia, the world's No. 2 shipping registry.
(Full Story)

War Wrecks Liberia Health Care System

February 13, 2004 -The Associated Press

NAIROBI, Kenya - After more than a decade of war, less than 10 percent of Liberians have access to health care and only about 25 percent have access to safe drinking water, the U.N. Environment Program said Friday.
(Full Story)

Environment 'key to new Liberia'

February 13, 2004 -BBC

Repairing the destruction 15 years of war have inflicted on its environment will be crucial to Liberia's future, a report by the United Nations says.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UN hints at further delay to start of disarmament

February 13, 2004 -IRIN

ABIDJAN, 13 Feb 2004 (IRIN) - The UN military commander in Liberia hinted on Friday that the start of a campaign to disarm the country's three warring parties would be further delayed, possibly until April.
(Full Story)

Reporter Assaulted

February 13, 2004 - Media Institute of Southern Africa (Windhoek)

On February 9 2004, journalist Mike Jabeteh of "The Analyst" newspaper was severely beaten up by a fighter of the Liberia United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) rebel group. Jabeteh bled from the ears.
(Full Story)

USDA, Zebulon police seek lawyer and missing money

February 13, 2004 - Associated Press

(ZEBULON) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture wants to find a lawyer who disappeared in December because they think he took off with almost $200,000 in government money
(Full Story)

Navy Given Right to Search Liberian Ships

February 13, 2004 - Washington Post

DAKAR, Senegal - U.S. Navy forces may board thousands of commercial ships in international waters to search for weapons of mass destruction under a landmark deal signed this week between the United States and Liberia, the world's No. 2 shipping registry.
(Full Story)

U.S. Given Right to Search Liberian Ships

February 13, 2004 - Washington Post

DAKAR, Senegal - U.S. Navy forces can board thousands of commercial ships in international waters to search for weapons of mass destruction under a landmark deal signed this week between the United States and Liberia, the world's No. 2 shipping registry.
(Full Story)

In Uganda, Terror Forces Children's Nightly Flight

February 13, 2004 - Reuters

GULU, Uganda -- Night was falling quickly. In the faded red and orange light of Africa at dusk, two 15-year-old girls, Jennifer Adoch and Susan Oyella, arms linked, backs straight, hair tightly shaved, hiked dusty trails without shoes, their feet swollen and callused.
(Full Story)

World Press Photo Award Winners

February 13, 2004 - Reuters

WORLD PRESS PHOTO OF THE YEAR - Jean-Marc Bouju, France, The Associated Press, "Iraqi man comforts his son at a regroupment center for POWs," Najaf, Iraq.
(Full Story)

U.S., Liberia Sign Ship Interdiction Agreement

February 13, 2004 - BBC

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States and Liberia have signed a ship interdiction agreement in support of a treaty that aims to prevent the movement of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons around the world, the State Department said on Thursday.
(Full Story)

Delivering a Dose of Goodwill
Hospital Sending Supplies to Liberia

February 12, 2004 - Washington Post

Maggie Johnson Obaji was 12 when she left Liberia in 1971 and came to the United States. She remembers safe and thriving cities, good schools and the well-supplied medical center where her mother, a midwife, delivered countless babies.
(Full Story)

Western Sudan rebels 'fight back'

February 12, 2004 - BBC

Rebels fighting in western Sudan say they have been on the offensive just days after the president said they had been crushed.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Environmentalists report illegal logging

February 12, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 12 Feb 2004 (IRIN) - A Liberian environmental group has reported illegal timber exports fromin the rebel-controlled southeastof the country in contravention of the UN sanctions.
(Full Story)

Rawlings appears at rights probe

February 12, 2004 -BBC

Former Ghanaian President Jerry Rawlings has testified at the commission investigating human rights atrocities.
(Full Story)

President Bush Meets Liberia's Transition Leader; Debt Issue Unresolved

February 11, 2004 - allafrica.com

President George W. Bush held a brief low-key meeting Tuesday in the Oval Office with Liberia's transition government chairman, Gyude Bryant, and assured him of firm U.S. support for the west African nation's reconstruction efforts.
(Full Story)

Liberian Leader Calls US Trip 'Highly Successful

February 11, 2004 -United States Department of State (Washington, DC)

Gyude Bryant, the chairman of Liberia's National Transitional Government, described his recent trip to the United States as "highly successful" and expressed hope that U.S.-Liberian relations will soon "enter a new and more dynamic stage."
(Full Story)

UN And Community Leaders Rebuild Police Base in Monrovia

February 11, 2004 - United Nations (New York

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) and community leaders have joined forces to renovate a police station in the Liberian capital, Monrovia, the mission said today.
(Full Story)

New Political Class Needed in Liberia Says Contact Group, Wants Taylor Audited

February 10, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Liberia has to evolve a new political class to replace those who have failed the country woefully, says the director of the Africa Program of the international contact group (ICG), Stephen Ellis, in a document titled "Rebuilding Liberia: Prospects and Perils.
(Full Story)

Taylor Hasn't Escaped Justice, Says Powell

February 10, 2004 - The Independent (Banjul)

United States Secretary of State, Gen. Colin Powell, has said that exiled Liberian leader, Charles Taylor has not escaped justice as the United
(Full Story)

Peace-Keeping Contingent Ready for Sierra Leone, Liberia

February 10, 2004 - The Independent (Banjul)

A contingent of over sixty members of the Gambia Police Force are currently on stand-by, awaiting signals from the United Nations in New York to embark on a peace-keeping mission in Liberia and Sierra Leone.
(Full Story)

Liberian Leader Thanks U.S. Churches At UN Donors Conference, Hails His Nation's Continued Resilience

February 10, 2004 - The Perspective

Mat is in his early twenties. But he has seen more battles than many veteran soldiers. "I joined the revolution in 1990, in Bong County. Prince Johnson led the first group of rebels that came to our town.
(Full Story)

Liberian Leader Thanks U.S. Churches At UN Donors Conference, Hails His Nation's Continued Resilience

February 7, 2004 - Church World Service (New York

Keep praying for us. That's what's carried us so far."
(Full Story)

Liberia Gets Aid Pledges of $520 Million

February 7, 2004 - Reuters

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - Governments and relief agencies on Friday pledged $520 million to help rebuild Liberia (news - web sites), exceeding the goal set by an international conference on the war-shattered West African nation.
(Full Story)

Donors pledge $500m Liberia aid

February 6, 2004 - BBC

The international community has pledged more than $500m to help reconstruct Liberia after 14 years of civil war.
(Full Story)

Nigeria Cannot Save Taylor - Falana

February 6, 2004 -This Day (Lagos)

Former Liberian president, Charles Taylor, who is currently on asylum in Nigeria, has been described as a man who can only postpone, but not prevent his judgment day. He is currently facing a thirty-count charge of human rights abuse against his countrymen before the International Criminal Court (ICC), set up by the United Nations Security Council.
(Full Story)

Taylor Can't Escape Justice

February 6, 2004 - P.M. News(Lagos)

Lagos lawyer, Mr Femi Falana, has declared that the deposed Liberian President, Charles Taylor, would be made to face justice soon for his role in the genocide committed against the people of Sierra Leone.
(Full Story)

Rebel Disarmament 'Irreverisble' Says Liberia Foreign Minister

February 6, 2004 - allAfrica.com

Although the rebel movements Lurd and Model will "will remain in force" until the end of Liberia's transition period, disarmament is ending their role as a military force, said Liberian Foreign Minister Thomas Nimely. "The disarmament process is irreversible," he insisted.
(Full Story)

Rebel Disarmament 'Irreverisble' Says Liberia Foreign Minister

February 6, 2004 - allAfrica.com

Although the rebel movements Lurd and Model will "will remain in force" until the end of Liberia's transition period, disarmament is ending their role as a military force, said Liberian Foreign Minister Thomas Nimely. "The disarmament process is irreversible," he insisted.
(Full Story)

Security Tops Priorities for Donor Proceeds Says USAID Official

February 6, 2004 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

At a joint pre-donor conference news briefing held at the Foreign Press Center in Washington with Liberia Foreign Minister Thomas Yaya Nimely
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: LURD leader drops demand for Bryant to go

February 5, 2004 -IRIN

MONROVIA, 5 Feb 2004 (IRIN) - 10 days after calling for Gyude’s Bryant’s removal as head of the transitional government, Sekou Conneh, leader of the LURD rebel movement, has changed his mind.
(Full Story)

Briefing - The Liberian Reconstruction Conference

February 5, 2004 -United States Agency for International Development (Washington, DC)

Following is a transcript of a briefing at the Washington Foreign Press Center by Andrew Natsios, the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, and Liberian Foreign Minister Thomas Nimely.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: LURD leader drops demand for Bryant to go

February 5, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 5 Feb 2004 (IRIN) - 10 days after calling for Gyude’s Bryant’s removal as head of the transitional government, Sekou Conneh, leader of the LURD rebel movement, has changed his mind.
(Full Story)

Conference At UN Seeks Nearly $500 Million to Rebuild Liberia

February 5, 2004 - United Nations (New York)

A donors' conference seeking almost $500 million for the next two years to help Liberia rebuild from its devastating 14-year-long civil war
(Full Story)

US to Pledge $200 Million to Liberia for Reconstruction, Says USAID Chief

February 5, 2004 - United States Department of State (Washington, DC)

The U.S. Government will pledge $200 million in reconstruction and development aid to Liberia, a country dismantled by 14 years of bloody civil
(Full Story)

Liberia's Reconstruction Needs to Be Focus of UN Meeting in New York

February 5, 2004 - The Vanguard (Lagos)

Donor governments and international financial institutions are set to gather tomorrow at United Nations Headquarters in New York for a conference on Liberia aimed
(Full Story)

Taylor Marks Birthday in Low Key Celebration

February 5, 2004 - Vanguard (Lagos)

EX-LIBERIAN President, Mr. Charles Gankay Taylor, celebrated his birthday in Calabar, last weekend.
(Full Story)

Amidst Allegations of Neglect: Rebel Leader Visits Stronghold, Surrenders Weapons Symbolically

February 4, 2004 - The News(Monrovia)

On Monday, the leader of the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD), Sekou Damate Conneh visited Gbarnga, Bong County, one of the group's strong holds, about 120 kilometers from Monrovia.
(Full Story)

Don't Replay the '97 Elections Scenario - Pro-Democracy Group Warns

February 4, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The National Youth Movement for Transparent Elections (NAYMOTE) says the setting up of various commissions, especially the Elections Commission, as prescribed under the Accra Peace Agreement is a giant step toward the final restoration of peace to Liberia.
(Full Story)

12 Bags of Opium Burned in Nimba -Police Disclose

February 4, 2004 - The Perspective

Police in Ganta, Nimba County say they have burned about 12 bags of opium.
(Full Story)

Why Damateh Wants Bryant Removed

February 2, 2004 - The Perspective

On his 100th day in power, Chairman Gyude C. Bryant held a tête-à-tête with editors of Liberian newspapers on the back porch of the Executive Mansion.
(Full Story)

Forgive Debts to Boost Recovery, Brumskine Says to Donors

February 2, 2004 -Allafrica.com

Charles Brumskine wants to be president of Liberia, but for the moment the country is governed by an interim authority that was constituted according to last year's peace accord, which brought an end to the country's civil war and the reign of Charles Taylor as president.
(Full Story)

Rebuilding Liberia: Prospects and Perils

February 1, 2004 - International Crisis Group (Brussels)

Failure to achieve security and stability in Liberia would have a violent spill-over effect in the rest of West Africa. Long-term strategies, real money and hard thinking are required if Liberia is to pull out of crisis. The 5-6 February donors conference at UN
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Villagers complain of harassment by MODEL in River Cess county

January 30, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 30 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - Villagers in River Cess county, a remote region of central Liberia, have complained of continued harassment by fighters of the Movement for Democracy in Liberia (MODEL), five months after the rebel group signed a peace deal.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Johnson Sirleaf Rejoins the Political Fray

January 30, 2004 - IRIN

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, a veteran Liberian politician and former UN official, has taken on a task which many regard as impossible - ridding her country of its deeply ingrained and all pervasive corruption.
(Full Story)

COTE D IVOIRE: Outbreak of shooting in town on Liberian border

January 29, 2004 - IRIN

BIN-HOUYE, 29 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - Heavy shooting broke out in the government-held town of Zouan Hounien on the Liberian border on Thursday, causing hundreds of residents of nearby villages to flee their homes.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Over 10,000 refugees trek home from Sierra Leone

January 29, 2004 - IRIN

ABIDJAN, 29 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - More than 10,000 Liberian refugees in Sierra Leone have returned home spontaneously since a broad-based transitional government was installed in October, the UN refugee agency UNHCR said on Thursday.
(Full Story)

Liberia: WFP Extends Food Distribution in Nimba, Plans Start in Bomi

January 28, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 28 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - The UN World Food Programme (WFP) said on Wednesday that it was extending its food distribution operation in Nimba County in north central Liberia and would start handing out rations in Bomi county, just north of the capital Monrovia, later this week.
(Full Story)

Task Force Makes Arrest In Liberian Man's Murder

January 27, 2004 - MSNBC NEWS Online

Local authorities combined forces to make an arrest in the fatal shooting of a Liberian man outside a Detroit bar on Aug. 30, 2003.
(Full Story)

Liberia’s Ruth Sando Perry Named Next Boston University African President-In-Residence

January 27, 2004 - African Presidential Archives and Research Center (Boston) PRESS RELEASE

Ruth Sando Perry, the only female African head of state in modern times, has been appointed the next Balfour African President-in-Residence at Boston University’s African Presidential Archives and Research Center
(Full Story

Annan, Powell Help Liberia Raise Money

January 27, 2004 - Vanguard(Lagos)

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan and United States Secretary of State Colin Powell will join Liberian interim leader Gyude Bryant next month.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Rebels Back Down On Call for Bryant's Removal

January 27, 2004 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 27 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - The MODEL rebel movement has backtracked on its call for the removal of Gyude Bryant as the head of Liberia's transitional government.
(Full Story)

Catholic School Attempts Resumption in Nimba

January 26 2004 - The News(Monrovia)

As UNMIL troops began deployment in Nimba County few weeks ago, the Catholic Diocese of Gbarnga announced plans to reopen the St. Lawrence Catholic School in Ganta.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Health System Faces Collapse -Chief Medical Officer Discloses

January 26 2004 - The News(Monrovia)

The Chief Medical Officer designate of the Republic of Liberia Dr. S. Benson Barh says the Country's health care delivery system is in a state of collapse and could spell danger for the population if nothing is done to salvage the situation.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Rebel factions want transitional leader replaced

January 26 2004 -IRIN

MONROVIA, 26 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - The leaders of the two rebel factions in Liberia issued a joint statement on Monday calling for the immediate replacement of Gyude Bryant
(Full Story)

'My life as a modern-day slave'

January 26 2004 - BBC

On the surface, Mende Nazer is a bright, bubbly, confident young woman, quick to break into a beautiful infectious smile, which lights up her whole face.
(Full Story)

Court Pushes for Taylor's Charge

January 26 2004 -Vanguard(Lagos)

The United Nations-backed war crimes court for Sierra Leone is to rule next week on whether an indictment against former Liberian president Charles Taylor can proceed, said court sources.
(Full Story)

COTE D IVOIRE: No fighting one year after peace accord, but still divided

January 25, 2004 -IRIN

ABIDJAN, 25 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - One year after the signing of a French-brokered peace agreement, the fighting has stopped, but Cote d’Ivoire remains a country deeply divided and reconciliation remains an elusive ideal yet to be achieved.
(Full Story)

NIGERIA: Muslim fundamentalist uprising raises fears of terrorism

January 25, 2004 -IRIN

LAGOS, 25 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - When a student-led Islamic sect launched an armed uprising last month with the aim of setting up a Taliban-style Muslim state in northern Nigeria, the authorities were swift to quell the insurrection
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Soccer star appeals to warlords to release child soldiers

January 23, 2004 -IRIN

MONROVIA, 22 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - Liberian international soccer star and UNICEF goodwill ambassador George Oppong Weah said on Thursday he would personally appeal to the leaders of the country's three armed factions to release an estimated 15,000 child soldiers serving in their ranks.
(Full Story)

Ex-Kenya leader 'switched $76m'

January 23, 2004 - BBC

Former President Daniel arap Moi ordered the transfer of $76m to a company at the heart of Kenya's biggest financial scandal, a top aide alleges
(Full Story)

UN's Liberia 'honeymoon' to end

January 23, 2004 - BBC

Haunting, rhythmic version of the Lord's Prayer was struck up as young men and women dressed in red cassocks half walked, half-swayed down the aisle singing acapella
(Full Story)

Swazi schools closed for weeding

January 22, 2004 - BBC

Swaziland's schoolboys are coming to the end of a fortnight spent weeding the king's fields, which led to the postponement of the new school term.
(Full Story)

The Guns are in the Bushes”:
Continuing Abuses in Liberia

January 22, 2004 - A Human Rights Watch Briefing Paper

We, the citizens, we are sceptical because the guns have not been taken away. They are still carrying on rape in the bushes because the guns are in the bushes, UNMIL hasn’t reached there.”
(Full Story)

SIERRA LEONE: Special Court accuses indicted militia chief of inciting civil unrest

January 22, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

FREETOWN, 22 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - The United Nations backed Special Court for war crimes in Sierra Leone has blocked all communications
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Bryant to intervene in rebel rift

January 22, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 21 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - The head of the transitional government, Gyude Bryant, is to intervene in a feud between Sekou Conneh,
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Bryant to intervene in rebel rift

January 22, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 21 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - The head of the transitional government, Gyude Bryant, is to intervene in a feud between Sekou Conneh,
(Full Story)

Liberia: Human Rights Group Critical of "Slow" Peacekeeper Deployment

January 22, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 21 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - The acting humanitarian coordinator of the United Nations in Liberia has called for a quick response to address
(Full Story)

Liberia: Human Rights Group Critical of "Slow" Peacekeeper Deployment

January 22, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Former combatants continue to terrorise civilians in the Liberian countryside where UN peacekeeping forces have not yet deployed,
(Full Story)

Namibia braces for Nujoma exit

January 22, 2004 - BBC

Junior police officers in Kenya have had their pay doubled in an attempt to raise morale and fight corruption.
(Full Story)

Huge pay rise for Kenya's police

January 22, 2004 - BBC

President Sam Nujoma works in very pleasant surroundings in the small but beautiful old State House slap bang in the middle of Windhoek just a stone throw away from Namibia's equally beautiful parliament
(Full Story)

Genocide minister gets life term

January 22, 2004 - BBC

A former Rwandan education minister has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of genocide
(Full Story)

COTE D IVOIRE: Policeman gets 17 years for killing French journalist

January 22, 2004 - IRIN

ABIDJAN, 22 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - A military court in Cote d'Ivoire jailed a policeman for 17 years on Thursday for the murder of a French
(Full Story)

UNMIL Speeds Up Deployment, Pushes Into the Southeast

January 21, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

Dr Kofi Konadu Apraku, Minister of Regional Cooperation and NEPAD, has appealed to Liberia to work hard to offset debts it owed the ECOWAS Secretariat on the community levy.
(Full Story)

UNMIL Speeds Up Deployment, Pushes Into the Southeast

January 20, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) has begun speeding up its deployment exercise throughout the Country ahead of a disarmament schedule, which is expected to resume soon
(Full Story)

Pakistani Peacekeepers Intervene in Health Crisis in Western Liberia

January 20, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

The task of the military component of United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) is not limited to peacekeeping only. The Peacekeeping operation of UNMIL is also extending medical assistance to the war-wearied people of the Country.
(Full Story)

Liberia's Case Must Be Well Articulated

January 19, 2004 -The News (Monrovia) - Editorial

Liberia's power-sharing government has prepared a development document to take to the donor conference scheduled to be held in New York, USA, from February 2-5, 2004.
(Full Story)

Maritime Wants 10% Restored, Blames Taylor's Regime for Repealing Act

January 19, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

The Bureau of Maritime Affairs (BMA) says it is appealing to the National Legislature to restore the traditional 10% entitled to the institution.
(Full Story)

Nimba Supt. Turns Down Instructions From Monrovia

January 19, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

There are indications that the Superintendent of Nimba County, Harrison Karnwea, has turned down instructions from the Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Chief Jerry Gonyon
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: UNMIL deploys 1,000 troops near Ivorian border

January 19, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

ABIDJAN, 19 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) has deployed about 1,000 troops around the rebel-held eastern Liberian town of Zwedru..
(Full Story)

Where the Donors Should Focus

January 16, 2004 - The News(Monrovia)

Editorial

THE TRANSITIONAL GOVERNMENT of Liberia will next February meet member of the Donors Community to solicit assistance intended to address the short-term needs of the Country.
(Full Story)

Action for Damage Awaits Deputy Minister

January 16, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The Lawyer of accused Tiagen Wontee, Cllr. James W. Zotaa is calling on the NTGL and UNMIL to verify accusation being made by Chief Jerry Gonyon that his Client is training some fighters in Nimba County destabilized the
(Full Story)

Liberia: Disarmament Delayed Till Late February

January 16, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations said on Thursday that the resumption of its campaign to disarm an estimated 40,000 former combatants in Liberia would be delayed by a 20 to 30 days.
(Full Story)

Uncertainty Over Disarmament Schedule

January 15, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

There are indications that the Disarmament process which was suspended by the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) last December may not resume on January 20, 2004 in keeping with the peacekeepers' schedule.
(Full Story)

FAO Provides Support to War-Affected Farmer

January 15, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has so far provided some emergency farm inputs assistance to more than 17,000 farmers in four counties as a manifestation of its willingness to resuscitate the shattered agricultural sector due mainly to the civil turbulenc
(Full Story)

No Armed Group Will Hold Us Hostage Says Vice Head of State

January 15, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Vice Chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia(NTGL) Wesley Johnson has said that no armed group will be allowed to hold the people of Liberia hostage.
(Full Story)

Arrest Gang Rapists, Women Group Demand

January 15, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Liberia Women Action Committee (LIWOMAC) is calling on the Government to take urgent action to arrest and prosecute several men who allegedly robbed and gang raped a young woman last Sunday evening around the Newport Street area.
(Full Story)

Chief Justice Cautions Judges, Others Against Unprofessional Standards

January 15, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Liberia has cautioned judges, magistrates and lawyers against deviating from judicial and professional standards in the legal system.
(Full Story)

Youth Rep. Wants Debt Waiver At University, Calls for Readjustment in Tuition

January 15, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Despite a pronouncement of a 'staggering' LD$12 million scholarship arrears owed the University of Liberia by donors and students, Liberia's Youth Representative in the National Transitional Legislative Assembly is calling for debt waiver at the institution.
(Full Story)

Angola expels diamond diggers

January 15, 2004 -BBC

The Angolan Government has expelled hundreds of illegal foreign diamond miners in a bid to control the sector.
(Full Story)

Liberia foes to discuss weapons

January 15, 2004 -BBC

Leaders of the former government and two rebel groups in Liberia are due to hold key talks with the United Nations in the capital Monrovia on Thursday.
(Full Story)

LIBERIA: Conneh's estranged wife emerges as power broker in LURD

Mrs. Aisha Conneh

January 14, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

MONROVIA, 14 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - Aisha Keita Conneh does not like to talk about her estranged husband, Sekou Damate Conneh, the official leader of Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD), Liberia's largest rebel movement. .
(Full Story)

Women Urged to Stop Trading Themselves

January 14, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Women, especially Christian women, have been cautioned against imposing extra burdens on their husbands making too much demands for money and material things beyond the financial capacity of their husbands.
(Full Story)

China Solidifies Ties With Liberia, Govt Contemplates Reciprocation

January 14, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

The Government of the People's Republic of China has solidified its ties with Liberia by reopening its Embassy near Monrovia Monday.
(Full Story)

Lawmakers Diagnose Causes of Corruption, Want Minimum Salary At L$4,000

January 14, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Whenever news of dissident training surfaces in the media, the general population is usually concerned and frightened about the devastation that could follow.
(Full Story)

Guide Against a Repeat of 1989

January 14, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Whenever news of dissident training surfaces in the media, the general population is usually concerned and frightened about the devastation that could follow.
(Full Story)

Time is Running Out for Reform Commission, Ellen Raises Concerns

January 13, 2004 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

A potential Presidential candidate in next year's elections Mrs. Ellen-Johnson Sirlief has expressed concerns over the apparent delay in constituting the Governance Reform Commission.
(Full Story)

Liberia: UN Provides Crash Training for 400 Police Officers

January 12, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

United Nations police officers on Monday began a two-week intensive course to retrain 400 Liberian policemen.
(Full Story)

Pastor's Wife On Sex 'Scandal' - Vows Not To Leave Husband

January 12, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

I won't leave my husband even if it were true; my man and I have been together for the past 21 years," exclaimed the wife of Pastor Jasper
(Full Story)

LURD Fighters Abduct Finance Official

January 12, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

The latest action by some fighters of the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) to abduct an official of the Ministry of Finance seems to be turning the Ministry into a flashpoint.
(Full Story)

Liberian refugees rescued at sea

January 10, 2004 -BBC

A Dutch naval ship has rescued more than 250 Liberians from a stricken ferry off the coast of West Africa.
(Full Story)

GSM Users Want Lone Star Expand Services Nation-Wide

January 9, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

Users of GSM phone in Liberia are appealing to the Lone Star Communication Company to extend its services to other parts of the Country and reduce the cost of scratch cards.
(Full Story)

Us$3 Million Lands in Govt Hands

January 9, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

The US$3 million grant provided by the People's Republic of China (PRC) to support the operations of the Transitional Government is finally in the coffers of the State, the Chairman of Liberia's power-sharing Government, Gyude Bryant disclosed Thursday.
(Full Story)

Rejuvenating the Liberian Economy

January 9, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

From February 3-4 in New York, the international community will be meeting to discuss its role in jump-starting the Liberian economy.
(Full Story)

The Deleterious Effects of Ethnicity

January 9, 2004 -The News (Monrovia)

Why Supreme Court Bench's Seating Was Stalled
(Full Story)

Journalists Assaulted by UNMIL Security Officer

January 9, 2004 - Media Foundation for West Africa (Accra)

Journalists Alphonso Toweh of the "Reuters News Agency", Janet Johnson of "Radio Veritas" and Gibson Jerue, reporter with the "Analyst" newspaper.
(Full Story)

UN Team Rescues 265 Liberian Refugees Stranded On Ship in Distress

January 9, 2004 -United Nations (New York)

A Dutch team from the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) has rescued 265 Liberian refugees who were returning from Ghana when their ship's engine failed and they became stranded at sea.
(Full Story)

Moses Blah Still in Full Control -- Former Vice President Refutes Reports

January 9, 2004 - The News (Monrovia)

Contrary to media reports that former President Moses Z. Blah has been replaced as head of the former Government of Liberia, Mr. John Gray, the former Vice President of the former Government, says, Mr. Blah remains in charge.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Government Seeks $200-300m From Donors for Reconstruction

January 9, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Liberia's transitional government will seek between US$200 million and $300 of foreign aid for a national reconstruction plan which will be put to donors at a conference in New York in early February, a government source said on Friday.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Lurd Commanders Want Leader Replaced By His Wife

January 8, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Forty commanders of Liberia's main rebel group, the Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy (LURD) have signed a statement calling for
(Full Story)

The Metamorphosis of Criminals

January 8, 2004 - New Democrat

When Aaron Kollie, the newsreader now Liberia's Charge’ d’Affaire in Washington, DC., unbelievably announced at a recent Liberian political
(Full Story)

COTE D IVOIRE: Six die, more made homeless by ethnic conflict in west

January 7, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

ABIDJAN, 7 Jan 2004 (IRIN) - Six people were killed on Monday in a fresh outbreak of ethnic violence in the troubled west of Cote d'Ivoire, a spokesman for the French peacekeeping force said on Wednesday.
(Full Story)

Liberia: UN Rethinks Disarmament Programme

January 7, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The United Nations said on Wednesday that it was reassessing the way it would conduct its planned disarmament programme in Liberia, following a false start in December.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Warring Parties Succeed in Demand for More Top Jobs

January 7, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The three armed factions in Liberia have succeeded in pressing their demands for more top jobs in the broad-based transitional government led by Chairman Gyude Bryant, a senior government source said.
(Full Story)

UNHCR Welcomes Deployment of UNMIL in Rebel-Held Areas

January 6, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

UNHCR welcomes the deployment of UNMIL battalions in rebel-held areas of Liberia as a positive step toward reaching people in distress
(Full Story)

Liberia: Peacekeepers Reach Tapeta And Tubmanburg

January 5, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

The UN peacekeeping force in Liberia extended its deployment to the rebel-held towns of Tubmanburg and Tapeta at the weekend.
(Full Story)

Liberia: Two Factions Disarm Their Own Fighters, Commanders Say

January 2, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Two of the three armed factions in Liberia said on Friday they had begun disarming their own fighters voluntarily, before the planned resumption of a UN-supervised disarmament, demobilisation and dehabilitation programme later this month.
(Full Story)

Haitians shoot at Mbeki's chopper

January 2, 2004 - BBC

South African President Thabo Mbeki's official helicopter has been shot at during independence celebrations in Haiti, his spokesman says.
(Full Story)

Cote D Ivoire: Liberian Woman Commands Mercenaries in Korhogo

January 2, 2004 - UN Integrated Regional Information Networks

Awa Michel, a short dark robust woman in her mid 30's, busies herself cooking rice and fish soup over two coal pots outside her house in Cote d'Ivoire's northern city of Korhogo.
(Full Story)

All opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of UNICCO.
© Copyright 2003 UNICCO DIGEST.

Subscribe to the Digest: Click here to add your name to our list of subscribers