A civil society organization, STAND, has blasted Liberia’s Independence Day Orator, Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailey for condemning the United States of America. According to a release, STAND considers as unfair the remarks made by the Dr. Pailey wherein she described the longstanding historical ties between Liberia and the United States as an “outsized influence” and a “so-called special relationship.”
The release, signed by Executive Director Mulbah K. Morlu, said the analysis by Dr. Pailey demonstrates a lack of historical understanding and disregards the religious, moral, political, economic and social benefits that this relationship has provided to Liberia.
“STAND finds it ironic that the United States, a nation that has supported Liberia throughout its pre-conflict, conflict and post-conflict periods, was subjected to such unfounded criticism. Despite providing millions in development assistance annually, the US government also opened their arms and borders to thousands of Liberians during the civil war, and has ALWAYS SUPPORTED Liberia in positive endeavors. Stand finds the Orator’s remarks both baseless and unjust towards the US,” the group said.
STAND noted that the negative characterization of US-Liberia relationship by the Orator echoes a dangerous anti-American sentiment rooted in radical ideology that fails to appreciate the extensive support the United States Government has given to Liberia, far surpassing any other development partner.
“Such rhetoric is designed to undermine the well-being of ordinary Liberians, whose livelihoods are significantly supported by U.S. development assistance. The Orator’s deliberate distortion of facts tacitly endorses bad governance in Liberia, which has led to widespread poverty, inadequate social services, underdeveloped infrastructure, and a lack of accountability,” STAND contended.
The groups asserts that America is not responsible for Liberia’s challenges; rather, Liberian leaders are primarily responsible for crafting policies to improve living standards. According to STAND, Independence Day celebration should be an opportunity for national renewal, particularly given Liberia’s divisions, as reflected in election results, wealth and income disparities.
The group stressed that the Orator’s attempt to alienate Liberia from its key international development partner on such a solemn occasion raises serious concerns. STAND questions how it is America’s fault when Liberian leaders engage in corruption, pass illegitimate concessions, mismanage resources, allow illicit drugs into the country, fail to hold criminals accountable, and neglect the hopes of citizens.
STAND named the military and healthcare through the supply of essential drugs, as key areas the United States has provided training and support. “Since 2003, the United States has spent $2.4 billion in development assistance to Liberia through the State Department and USAID. They have also provided training and capacity building for our justice system, which has repeatedly failed to address corruption and hold perpetrators accountable,” STAND said.
The civil society group urges Liberians to ignore the orator’s unfair and radical rhetoric against the United States Government, as it undermines national interests. “The United States remains our premier development partner, and the Liberian people, who are grateful for their sustained assistance, will not be misled by a transient or ‘fly-by-night’ Orator who sows discord before leaving the country,” STAND maintains. STAND apologizes to the Government and people of the United States and looks forward to maintaining a strong relationship between the two nations.
