The ruling Unity Party National Chairman, Rev. J. Luther Tarpeh, has described as “embarrassing, offensive, distasteful, and misleading,” the statement of Madam Robtel Neajai Pailey, orator of Liberia’s 177th Independence Day celebrations, suggesting that the United States has benefited more from Liberia than vice versa.
In her speech, Pailey said, “Truth be told, the United States of America has taken more from us than we have received. Liberia is nobody’s stepchild,” suggesting that U.S. policies have contributed to Liberia’s economic struggles. However, Rev. Tarpeh refuted this assertion highlighting Liberia’s longstanding sovereignty and independence since 1847.
“Madam Orator, while your speech to national leaders and ordinary Liberians was convicting and created a sense of national consciousness and call to duty, your accusation against the United States of America for the backwardness of our country is simply embarrassing, offensive, distasteful, and misleading, especially when you provide no evidence to substantiate your claim,” Chairman Tarpeh said.
He emphasized the historical ties between the United States and Liberia, pointing out that the U.S. has supported Liberia since 1862. He also noted that past Liberian governments have often prioritized personal interests over national interests, which has contributed to the country’s economic challenges.
“We have been a sovereign country for 177 years, determining our own destiny as a people and as a country. On the contrary, the United States has given us so much since 1862, but yet our past government officials chose to put personal interest above national interest,” the Unity Party National Chairman argued.
He urged Liberians, including Pailey, to take national responsibility for the country’s development rather than blaming external forces. “Why should we blame someone for our economic condition at this age? Let us all, including you, take national responsibility to build our country instead of blaming America all the time for Liberia’s economic and developmental woes,” he concluded.
Pailey’s remarks have sparked debate among Liberians, with some agreeing with her critique of U.S. influence and others echoing Tarpeh’s call for self-reliance and accountability. As Liberia reflects on its history and future, the conversation continues on how best to achieve sustainable development and prosperity.
Meanwhile, the United States Government through its Embassy near Monrovia has vowed to remain a steadfast partner to Liberia, dedicated to fostering a positive and collaborative relationship based on shared values and mutual respect.
“We look forward to continuing our work together, now and in the future, for the benefit of both nations,” U.S. Embassy near Monrovia release noted. However, the U.S. Government said Independence Day is a time for hope and unity and its CDA Rodriguez’s decision to walk out during the Independence Day Celebration in Monrovia when the Orator was speaking pointed to a measured response to the orator’s comments.
“While the orator is entitled to freedom of speech, the CDA chose to exercise her right not to listen to such remarks,” it added. The Embassy’s statement also concluded that the United States has a long history of providing foreign assistance, amounting to at least $163 million annually to Liberia. Courtesy By: Sylvester Cytric Choloplay Email: sccholoplay@gmail.com
