US Local Elections: Major Fenty Endorses Jack Evans, Evans Swaps to Obama, Kicksoff Reelection Campaign

Council member Jack Evans (D-Ward 2) at a cook out he organized to kickoff his reelection bid, also used the occasion to publicly switch his endorsement of the Democratic Party Presidential candidates from Hilary Clinton to Obama.
Evans took the stage with D.C Mayor Adrian Fenty and Council Chairman Vincent C. Gary to announce his switch. He said he decided to make the switch because his ward (Ward 2) overwhelmingly voted for Obama in the District primary, and he wants to see a Democrat in the White House.
"There is an enormous difference in having a Democrat in the White House and a Republican in the White House," Evans said to supporters at the Kennedy Recreation Center, located in the historic neighborhood of Shaw.
Evans said the venue for the kick off of his reelection bid was strategic, because it represents the challenges the city has faced over the years. The Kennedy Recreation Center, one of D.C’s historic was dedicated in 1968 by Robert F. Kennedy on behalf of his brother, John F. Kennedy following the riots in the wake of Martin Luther King's assassination. It gave a lift to the neighborhood, but after several years, the place became dormant, Evans said of the Recreation Center.
Evans described the ongoing renovation at the playground and the face lift in the surrounding environment as revitalization for the neighborhood.
Evans flanked by Mayor Fenty and entourage told supporters that his vision for the neighborhood aligns with the hope of the people of the neighborhood; that is why he is running a campaign on ‘youth and energy.” He vowed to provide the change needed to revitalized the neighborhood.

Mayor Fenty said unlike others who after getting elected become unavailable to their constituents’, Jack Evans remained accessible for 17 years.


















Copyright © Musue N. Haddad

Random Thoughts: Charles Taylor Breaks Prison, En-route to Monrovia

Dearest Mama,

Did you hear the News? Charles Taylor Broke jail and is en-route to Liberia? I am actually breathing heavily. I have been running, running to send you this telegram since I can not get through the telephone lines to Monrovia.

Mama, you are the first person to hear this news from me. Tell all of the family members and close friends to get out, but please, please whatever you do, do not go to Ghana. Given all the problems between the refugees and Ghanaians, the refugee camp outside of the capital of Ghana, Accra is not an option.

I heard that "intelligence" is keeping Taylor’s prison break a secret because they do not want to create chaos and insecurity in Liberia and the sub region. Perhaps the most important reason for keeping Taylor's escape from prison secret is to protect the image and credibility of the International prison security system and the Special Court.

Mama, do you think Taylor is on his way to Liberia? When I reflect on his last statement before his forcible exile, when he concluded that speech: “And I say, God willing, I will be back. God bless you, and save the state, ” it is obvious that Taylor first destination, whenever he is out of prison is Monrovia.

Prior to that last phrase, ( And I say, God willing, I will be back...) a vowed he made to return to Liberia, Taylor openly said that he did not want to leave Liberia, let alone the presidency that had given him the power and control he had sought for many years. In Taylor’s own word, "I am stepping down from this office of my own volition. No one can take credit for asking me to step down. I did not want to leave this country. I can say I have been forced by the world's superpower."

Also in his departure message, Taylor said, he was fulfilling an old promise: "If I were the problem, which I know you know I'm not, I would step aside ... I would become the sacrificial lamb, I would become the whipping boy that you should live."

In a solemn voice, Taylor added, "I say to you if I have injured or hurt anyone, I ask you to forgive me. Because for those of you who have injured me, I say to you today, this Sunday afternoon, I forgive you." "What is most important is that you live, and that ... there is peace. These are very, very tough times, but I hope that as the international community is here, that our friend the United States who have been the architect of this 'anybody-but-Taylor-policy' ... that they will bring all of the good for you. I wish you all of the good."

Cahrles Taylor also took time in his farewell message to lash at those he considered against his presidency: "If (the Americans) say they will do nothing as long as I am here, this further threatens your survival as a people. I can no longer see you suffer, you have suffered enough. I love you from the bottom of my heart. I will always remember you wherever I am. And I say, God willing, I will be back. God bless you, and save the state."

Mama, you remembered that fateful day Taylor steeped down, or that hot sunday Taylor forcibly left Liberia. When ever I think about the day, his speech comes to mind, I am immediately reminded that he relinqished power with the intention of returning with full force. Imagine the efforts, the risk and lives destroyed just to become president.

After I was told about the escape of Charles Taylor, I thought about two distinct incidents; his escaped in 1985 from the House of Corrections in Plymouth, Massachusetts, and his 2006 disappearance from his Seaside villa in Nigeria where he resided after forcibly sent into exile. According to the Massachusetts House of Correction where Taylor was held, on September 15, 1985, he and four inmates escaped from the jail by sawing through a bar covering a window in an unused laundry room. Eventually all four who escaped with Taylor were captured. Taylor fled the United States.Let’s look at what happened in 2006. According to a statement by the Nigerian government, Charles Taylor disappeared from exiled home on March 28. On March 29th, he Taylor was arrested while trying to cross the border from Nigeria into Cameroon.

Mama, do you think Charles Taylor is actually capable of breaking jail at the moment? If he broke jail, will he come to Monrovia to assemble his old group, or will he form another group in another area? Do you think his old guys or cronies will give him their support at this time? Lets look at the missus, will they abandon their present connection for the “Pappay”? Is he still the King for the Queens?

Mama, this news is just an April Fool. Today is April Fool, or All Fools Day. Unpack the baggage and tell me what the missus and Pappay children and buddies are doing after reading this April Fool. Were they worried to hear that "Pappay" broke jail, or sad?

always,
musue

Copyright © Musue N. Haddad

What Will Happen If the Temporary Protective Status Is Terminated?

Dearest Mama,
I have been away from this column for some time. In my absence, notes were sent by some fans. I really appreciate the Get Well notes from Kweme Cooper and Emmanuel Barpley. Let them know that the notes warmed my heart.

Mama, I also appreciate your recent visit: traveling from across the Oceans to visit me made a lot. I wish you did not have to leave. I was sad to see you depart. When you bid me farewell, I felt so sad, my heart broke. As Don Williams says, "Some broken hearts never mend," and that is how I feel about your recent departure. So, I hope you stick around as you always did over the years.

Before I can get on another subject, I was wondering whether it is because of reports circulating that those on immigration was about to deport immigration who do not have permanent status, particularly those with Temporary Protective Status? Is that the reason why you left abruptly?

Mama, those with Temporary Protective Status is not illegal immigrants. In the U.S, Temporary immigration status (TPS) is for foreign nationals currently residing in the U.S. whose homeland conditions are recognized by the US government as being temporarily unsafe or overly dangerous to return to (e.g., war, earthquake, flood, drought, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions). According to U.S Citizen and Immigration Services, TPS does not lead to permanent resident status. As the name indicates, it is temporary, granted anywhere from 6-18 months, with extensions.
When I heard that the government was considering terminating the Temporary Protection Status and returning those with such immigration status back to their countries, I feel so sad. If the U.S decides to terminate the TPS, several thousand persons will be affected. Many of those on TPS fled their individual countries because of war, conflicts, and other disasters and sought refuge in the U.S; with the hope of beginning a new life. The refugees and most of those with Temporary Protective Immigration Status were hopeful that the Temporary Protective Status given them would be extended after few years. Now, it is like some of them have just started to settle after many years of labor, and then they have to start preparing for life elsewhere. I am wondering whether all of the people on TPS will actually leave. I am asking if they will leave because if they do leave, where will they go? Will they return to their homeland - the same homeland they had fled; the homeland they have been away from for more than a decade; the homeland where some of them witnessed brutal violence; the homeland where most of their families and friends were killed; the homeland where their properties were destroyed, and their lives were threatened; most of all, their homeland where they no longer have any attachment?

Most of those on TPS have become accustomed to electricity, and other modern technology in their new settlement which is lacking in their home countries. Some of those on Temporary Protective Status have purchased homes, engaged in businesses, and other productive ventures.

In many undeveloped and war ravaged countries, not only is electricity lacking in rural areas, but modern technology is considered a luxury in large cities. In addition to the lack of electricity, internet services and telephone, most underdeveloped countries do not have adequate health care services, and safe running water.

If all of the people on TPS are returned to their respective countries, where will they sleep, where will they work?

It is a known fact that most war ravaged countries lack housing to accommodate even those presently in those countries. Take for example, Liberia. During the war, proprieties were destroyed including private and public housings, leaving most families roaming homeless. In addition to the destruction of building, hospitals in the capital city and also in the rural areas were destroyed, school building and other public and private institutions were looted and either burned or broken down. The massive destruction of public and private properties leaves many people homeless, and in abject poverty.

The United Nations High Commission for Refugees and local media reports indicate that the lack of housing and other facilities is making the resettlement of Liberians displaced in their home country and the reparation of Liberians from neighboring countries a herculean task. For example, most Liberians repatriated from neighboring countries within the West African Sub- region are making the transition in their home country: the lack of housing, jobs and health facilities.

Mama, two days ago someone sent me an e-mail asking what will happen to those who own cars, houses and those who have huge credit card debts? The person wanted to know whether those with huge credit bills will be allowed to leave the U.S without paying those debts. I have not responded to that e-mail because I really don't have the answer. I will have to find out. How can I research that without alerting the credit card companies, is another story. Mama, do you think that by accepting a credit card I will understand the policies?

Mama, if all the people on the TPS return, how will they cope with the lack of the basic social services: health care, education, daycare, etc? Talking about the different skills and education these people have acquired in during their stay in the countries that awarded the Temporary Immigration Status, how will they utilize the skills acquired to contribute meaningfully to society? How will Martha and others who are presently working as nursing assistant employ those skills in countries that lack Nursing Homes? How will Thomas and other continue to use their social work skills in countries that do not provide public assistance to those who need food stamps, low income housing facilities and cash assistance from their governments? What will Nuku and others do once they return to their respective countries and realize that they cannot use their skills to prepare taxes for individuals and families, even if those individuals were employed during the year. Kristo says he doubt that he can continue his night shift job at any of the airline companies back home. Is that true?

Mama, did you hear about the immigration proposals at the national Legislature in the U.S? I learned that several immigration enforcement bills were proposed before Congress. The proposals have some provisions in them that will affect asylum seekers, and the extensions of the time that they spend in immigration jails.
I also learn that some people were lobbying to include immigration enforcement provisions in the 2007 defense authorization bill (H.R. 5122). I will try to get information on this to send you.

Mama, until I can gather information about the credit cards issue and the bills before congress, let me leave political issues and discuss other concerns common to our wellbeing. I heard about the Lassa fever outbreak. Is it true that the fever claimed the lives of almost ten persons in our clan? I thought Lassa was no longer in our clan.

According to one health expert, Lassa is a viral hemorrhagic fever, known to be prevalent in Liberia, Guinea, Sierra Leone and parts of Nigeria. Humans become infected with Lassa from contact with rodents that are infected. The virus can also be transmitted from one human to another through direct contact with body fluids.
Mama, if people can get infected through contaminated rodents – mouse, rats, squirrels, etc, what strategies will be used by the health people in our clan to handle this issue? Imagine the number of rodents in our clan. Mouse and rats are competing with human beings for sleeping places, and food in our clan. Last week, Kotokollee said that a mouse was on the family's bed and several cockroaches were in the kitchen pots.

Given the competition for pots, pans and sleeping places between the rodents and our family back home, I wonder where the new arrivals in our clan will fit in the struggle.

Mama, I need to close this note, but before I do so, I want you to know that I have been thinking about you. When will I see you again; when will we hold hands and eat kola nuts together?

Always,
musue

Copyright © Musue N. Haddad

Sleeping With the Enemy: The Silent Destroyer

By: Musue N.Haddad

"Your spouse is considered the nicest person in the community, but when your spouse comes home, your spouse beats you; your spouse terrorizes you; your spouse degrades you, " this is one victim's illustration of the predicament of domestic violence.

Although domestic violence is largely obscured, hundreds of women including pregnant women and new mothers are slain annually in various communities in different parts of the world. In Japan, domestic violence cases jumped 17.2 percent in 2005 to a record 16,888 incidents, with nearly all of the victims being women, the National Police Agency said recently. The figure was up from the previous record of 14,140 cases set in 2004, the agency said in an annual report marking International Women Day.

In the UK, between April 2005 and December 2005 the Crown Persecution service said it dealt with 35,231 cases, according to reports at the TUC's Women's International Women's Day conference, suggesting that cases of domestic violence are increasing in England and Wales. In Sweden, assaults against women have been increasing in recent years, with 22,400 reports filed in 2003.

In Spain, the number of women killed by their partner or ex-partner has continued to increase since 2001. In France, a woman is killed by partner every four days. In the United States, 1,000 to 1,600 women die at the hands of their male partners ever year. The estimated number of deaths due to intimate partner violence in the United States does not include those women and children who die home-less on the streets avoiding batterers, according to experts. In Africa, although very few cases are reported due to cultural practices and perceptions, domestic violence is prevalent.

Although women around the world continue to break political, social, and economic barriers - Angela Merkel chosen as the first female Federal Chancellor in Germany, Ellen Sirleaf-Johnson of Liberia as the first female president in Africa, and Michele Bachelet, the first elected woman President of Chile, women and children continue to be faced with high level of violence.

"Unlike the so-called "war on terror", the "war on women and girls" is not on the global political agenda. It takes its toll in battlefields, bedrooms and backstreets - the greatest hidden human rights scandal of our times, made all the more scandalous by being present in every part of the world and in almost every aspect of life," Amnesty International said in a report published on International Women's Day.

In all countries, few domestic violence killings make headline news. Unlike Laci Peterson's homicide case which became a national headline news for some time in the United States, the deaths of other pregnant women including Yolanda Coles, eight months pregnant and shot in Richmond, Kerry Repp, 29, shot in her bedroom in Oregon, Kathleen Terry 22, run over in Idaho, Tasha Winters, 16, was shot in Indiana the day she told her boyfriend about the baby, Marilyn Hassab, 29 was stabbed to death by her husband in New Jersey, Rebecca Johnson shot in Oklahoma, and many others cases of pregnancy and homicide produced a few community local headlines and then faded.

Domestic Violence is a serious, widespread social problem in America, Africa and other parts of the world. Domestic Violence isn't just hitting, or fighting, or an occasional mean argument, according to experts. Advocates say domestic violence is the abuse of power wherein the abuser tortures and controls the victim by calculated threats, intimidation, and physical violence. Actual physical violence is often the end result of months or years of intimidation and control.

Women Empowered Against Violence, Inc. (WEAVE), an organization that provides holistic services to domestic violence victims in the District of Columbia described domestic abuse as a violence that can be criminal and includes physical assault (hitting, pushing, shoving, etc.), sexual abuse (unwanted or forced sexual activity), and stalking. Although emotional, psychological and financial abuses are not usually seen as criminal behaviors, they are forms of abuse and can lead to criminal violence. Domestic violence takes many forms and can happen all the time or once in a while.

Experts say that in most countries, there are no reliable national statistics on domestic violence because there are no efficient and effective systems to track domestic violence cases. However, in most instances, victims are ashamed or afraid to report domestic violence for fear of being judged or afraid of further reprisal from their batterers.

Margaret Tolbert –Wallace, a Registered Nurse who has interacted with several victims of domestic violence in an interview attributed the increase in domestic violence homicides to bureaucracy hitches that tend to intimidate victims and sometimes the lack of timely support for victims who seek assistance.

"Even after escaping, many victims find it easier to return to their situation either because supports are delayed or they are being judged or marginalized by society," Ms. Wallace said.

Ms. Wallace said some victims who escaped into shelters and transitional homes are sometimes faced with situations of marginalization and control. She described this situation as "a cycle of abuse," which she said ought to be removed in order for victims to have confidence that "there is a world out there that is ready to help them and not subject them to further abuse."

Family violence affects every country in the world, including even the most developed. Women in the richest and poorest level of society find it most difficult to escape violence - the poor because they have no means to escape and are afraid to reach out to institutions in society that probably would marginalize them and the rich because they have too much to lose, Margaret Tolbert Wallace said.

Samantha, (not real name) who has two children left her abusive husband. She said there is a certain level of misunderstanding when it comes to the public's perception of domestic abuse victims. According to Samantha, this comes in the form of judging the victim by asking such questions as: could it be true that such a nice person is a batterer?

While Samantha battled with the public's perception of whether her former husband was an abuser, another victim said she was always assessed critically by others: "Why didn't she leave or fight back? or disengaged from the victim by saying, "I will never accept that."

For Samantha and other victims of domestic violence, programs marking International Women's Day must highlight how victims of abuses are affected particularly children who are exposed to violence, and also educate communities on the implications of assuming that someone is the type of person that is a victim or a batterer.

The American Bar Association Commission on Domestic Violence describes both victims and batterers: "Victims may be doctors, business professionals, scientists or judges, among others. Perpetrators may be police officers, sports heroes, CEOs or college professors or lawyers".

In November 2005, the World Health Organization held its first ever study on domestic violence. In its study, the WHO reveals that intimate partner violence is the most common form of violence in women's lives - much more so than assault or rape by strangers or acquaintances. The study reported on the enormous toll physical and sexual violence by husbands and partners has on the health and well-being of women and children around the world and the extent to which partner violence is still largely hidden.

In the United States, a Resolution, [S.RES.282.IS ] introduced to the Senate in 2005 indicated that approximately 8,800,000 children in the United States witness domestic violence each year. The Resolution furthered that witnessing violence increases the risk of children developing long-term physical and mental health problems, future struggles with substance abuse. The document also highlighted that a boy who witnesses his father's domestic violence is ten times more likely to engage in domestic violence than a boy from a nonviolent home.

President George Bush signed the Violence Against Women Act of 2005 into law on January 5, 2006. The Violence Against Women Act of 2005 contains initiatives to help children exposed to violence, train health care providers to support victims of abuse, encourage men to teach the next generation that violence is wrong, and provide crisis services for victims of rape and sexual assault. H.R. 3402 is part of the Department of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2005. It also continues efforts to improve the law enforcement response to violence against women and provide supportive services, such as transitional housing, to women and children forced to leave their homes because of violence.

Samantha and other women in the United States are hopeful that the signing of the Violence Against Women Act of 2005 by President Bush is a major step towards ensuring that women and children are protected against their batterers and also against being judged and marginalized by society.


Copyright © Musue N. Haddad

Santa Claus Under Attack; Costly Gifts for Liberian officials

Dearest Mama,
How are you celebrating Christmas? Are you doing anything interesting? I want to know what you will be doing during this holiday season. For us in the U.S.A, several programs are already taking place at the community and national level in celebration of Christmas. Some of the festivities include religious programs, musical carnivals, outdoor and indoor games, family reunions, among others.

Do you know what's happening in other parts of Monrovia? Are "interest" groups sending government officials costly gifts again? Whenever, the holiday season is around, exorbitant gifts are scurried from one corner of the city to the next. The question we should ask ourselves is whether gifts such as posh car, deed to plots of land, large building, and envelopes containing stash of cash, precious stones, and other exclusive and expensive gifts are given without any strings attached? I guess our public officials need to be weary of such gifts, because the price for taking such gifts usually means compromising one or more principles, which can adversely affect a person’s integrity; and or have an effect on government’s policies, and the nation. Let our people look at it this way: anything coming from "interest" groups has strings attached. Interest groups are everywhere – they can be public and private institutions, and individuals, who will take advantage of every situation – good or bad to push their agenda. Let us beware that "interest" groups come wearing different cloaks. Christmas being the time of sharing gifts, our desperate interest groups will most definitely be at the forefront of dishing out gifts, and not just ordinary gifts, but ones that are elaborate. The presenting of large and expensive gifts is aimed at capturing the attention of the receiver.

The tradition of giving large gifts to government officials and those in powerful positions has existed in many countries, but continues to prevail in Liberia because of the country's fragile democractic system and deplorable economic situations. When a nation is faced with economic situations, while at the same time struggling to establish democratic virtues, those who have benefited from the chaos will always try to undermine the development process. These forces are what policy anlaysts refer to as 'interest groups." Interest groups usually benefit in a divided situation. They take advantage of the division: economic, political and other divisions to sell their interests to parties.

Mama, let me move away from Liberia's wild tales and look at the wild stories of Christmas.

Talking about people taking advantage of situation, I just read that some thieves in Australia took advantage of the absence of owner of a warehouse and stole several tons of Christmas food. Instead of just stealing and leaving the scene, the thieves left a note for the owner of the warehouse. They wrote "Thanks. Merry Christmas", on the wall. Now, that is just more like it: stealing from someone, and then leaving them a complimentary greeting. What an Ironic!

That is not all the news I want to share with you Mama. In this part of our world, we have Santa Claus; you call him Father Christmas in your parts of the world. Mama, Santa has come under attacks here.

One of the most recent attack on Santa came from a medical doctor. The doctor said that Santa Claus, that is Father Christmas has to slim down. The doctor said that Santa's size (big size, large stomach) doesn't make him a good role model for children. According to the the Boston Herald, acting U.S Surgeon General,Rear Adm. Steven K. Galson said, ""It is really important that the people who kids look up to as role models are in good shape, eating well and getting exercise. It is absolutely critical," the acting U.S. Surgeon General said in an interview after a presentation on obesity at the Boston Children's Musueum.
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Now, lets ask ourselves: Who is Santa? How did this story of Santa begin? Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle, or simply "Santa" is a legendary and mythical figure who, in this part of the world, is described as bringing gifts on Christmas Eves or Christmas day to children. Mama, the present new outlook of Santa Claus as a fat, jolly man or elf wearing a red coat and trouser with white cuffs and collar, and boots, became popular in the this part of our world during the 19th century.

Mama, the attack on Santa for his size is not only in America. In Australia, Santa has been banned from saying, " ho, ho, ho." Though "ho, ho, ho", was considered the laugher sound of Santa, the term "ho" is refer to whore or prostitute. So, now Santa can not say "ho, ho, ho."

For some time, Santa has not been carrying pipe. That is because, Santa was stopped from carrying a pipe in his mouth. I guess the banning of the pipe, (even though Santa did not use it for smoking) was to discourage smoking. This time around, Santa might have to join the diet regiment. Who knows the next thing that will be stripped from Santa.

Mama, the information I just provided are not all the attacks Santa has experienced for Christmas 2007. If you thought what I just told you about Santa was wild; I will then beg you to sit tight. For what I have to tell you is wacky. In Brazil, drug traffickers shot at Santa Claus. Given all the pressure for Santa to lose weight, drug traffickers in Brazil shot at Santa Claus. Santa Claus was in a helicopter, on his way to a children's party when the drug traffickers thought that it was a police helicopter, and started shooting. Had Santa been riding in his sledge, the possibility of him escaping unharmed would have been very slim.

There are more wild stories about Christmas to share, Mama, but I want to hear from you. So until I can hear from you, I wish you a Christmas and a New Year that is filled with happiness. During this holiday season, lets' remember, that though this is a season when we exchange gifts and extend best wishes to others, we must remember that each day is a gift. Therefore, our season of celebration doesn't have to stop at the end of the holidays.



Always,
musue

Copyright © Musue N. Haddad

'What Freedom Do We Seek'

How important is a person’s right to life, liberty and nationality? Does anyone have the right to curtail your freedom of thought, conscience and religion, to work, to be educated, and to take part in government? These issues are the focus of discussions and themes of programs at the United Nations, Office of the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights, local and international human rights organizations around the world in commemoration of International Human Rights Day which falls on December 10.

Simply said, the day, December 10, marks the global commemoration of International Human Rights day. It also marks the beginning of the observance of the 56th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. Liberia was one of the 48 countries that adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The declaration often called, A Magna Carta for all humanity, outlines the human rights standards the United Nations believes should be enforced by all nations. On that day in 1948, the global human rights community categorized “atrocities” as “violations” that should not be condoned but readily acted against.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, consists of wide range of rights, has stirred more that 60 human rights instruments, all of which form the international standards of human rights.

The Declaration recognizes the "inherent dignity of all members of the human family as the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world" and is associated to the recognition of fundamental rights towards which every human being seeks: the right to life, liberty and security of person; the right to an adequate standard of living; the right to freedom of opinion and expression; the right to education, freedom of thought, conscience and religion; and the right to freedom from torture and degrading treatment, among others. These are inherent rights to be enjoyed by all human beings in all parts of the world including -- men, women and children, all groups- ethic, religious, illiterate, minority groups in society. These rights are entitlements and not “gifts” to be enjoyed at the discretion or whims and caprices of anyone.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights which came into being just about three years following the founding of the United Nations accentuates the importance of human rights in promoting world peace. Unfortunately, after 56 years following the declaration of this revered document, its application remains far-fetched. The application of the document remains illusive because most governments continue to flout the laws and infringe on the rights of citizens. The breach of the laws by government is not a result of ignorance but simply because most government officials around the world find it very gratifying to terrorize and create havoc against their own people. Today, millions of people live in fear because their rights are being violated with impunity. The reckless disregard for human rights is most prominent in Africa; a continent marked by poverty, underdevelopment, high illiteracy rate, conflicts and almost all factors that hinder development of society and advancement of people.

Although Human Rights Day is observed by almost all states that adopted the human rights instruments, governments that deliberately and systematically contravene the international instruments also observe the day as a sort of propaganda strategy to continue to “white wash” their image to the outside world while at the same time unleash terror on their people.

Turkey one of the signatories of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international instruments has consistently observed International Human Rights Day. This year, 2005, Turkey like Liberia, India, Colombia, Pakistan and other countries around the world have outlined several programs as parts of the global commemoration of Human Right Day. In contrast to eloquent speeches and fanfare activities marking Human Rights Day, fundamental freedoms and human rights, particularly freedom of expression, women’s rights, religious freedoms, trade union rights, and cultural rights are violated by the Turkish government. There are also reports claiming Turkey has a zero tolerance policy against torture and ill-treatment.

The recent prosecutions of journalists Hrant Dink and Burak Bekdil, novelist Orhan Pamuk, Professors Oran and Kaboglu and publishers Fatih Tas and Razip Zarakolu are just a few of the contravention of the international conventions by the Turkish government. Several individuals are held, sometimes prosecuted and, in some cases, convicted, for expressing non-violent opinions in Turkey.

As for the Indian government, its delegation to the Office of United Nation Human Rights Commission recently vowed to uphold the declaration. In its own word, the delegation addressed the head of the Office of the United Nations Human Rights Commission, “ Mr. President, I offer on behalf of the Government and the people of India our deepest allegiance to the cause of human rights everywhere.”

Contrary to that government’s pledge, in India, torture and ill-treatment are considered common. Derechos Human Rights in its recent reports on India says, “Every year thousands of people are imprisoned for political reasons, often without charges of trials.” The report furthered that torture and ill-treatment are common, and hundreds have died in custody, adding, hundreds more are victims of extra-judicial executions or forced disappearances. The human rights group said that armed groups in India commit grave human rights violations, including killings, tortures and rapes, with impunity.

Another country that has gained prominence at the United Nations is Liberia. Liberia was a founding member of the United Nations as well as a founding member of the African Union, formerly the Organization of African Unity. Liberia is a signatory to the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights and has also been among the first state to sign most of the 60 international instruments of human rights. Over the years, successive Liberia governments have celebrated International Human Rights Day with pomp, pageantry and brilliant speeches pledging to uphold the principles of human rights.

In spite its radiant international record; Liberia has a grim and in-depth human rights record that has affected every facet of that society and its people. While President William V. S. Tubman of Liberia strongly championed the independence of Africa States abroad, dissenting views were stifled at home. Tubman breached almost every clause in the declaration and the Liberian constitution. He changed the constitution to allow himself to remain in office. President Tubman gagged the press and introduced a system of government spies to report on political activity. Tubman ruled Liberia from 1944 until his death in 1971.

Successive Liberians governments also practiced the culture of impunity and infringements on the rights of citizens. Perpetrators of abuses roam about freely and sometimes they are appeased. Impunity has therefore become an acceptable norm in Liberia. The practice of impunity and gross human rights violations is what led to the decades of war that resulted in the death of over 250,000 persons and an estimated one million refugees and internally displaced persons.

The Transitional government under the administration of Gyude Bryant is accused of blatant and widespread corruption with complete disregard for public outcries. Within the short period of his administration, Gyude Bryant administration has become famous for opened corruption and illegal possession of government properties.

Amnesty International and other human rights groups reported in 2004 of thousands cases of rape without any report of persecution. The report has been published, followed by alerts calling on the Bryant’s government to investigate. The Bryant’s administration has not initiated any investigation into the report of widespread rape. In 2004, Kofi Annan condemned rape. Annan said, “I deplore the fact that sexual and gender-based violence continue to be used as a weapon of war in African conflicts. Every effort must be made to halt this odious practice, and bring the perpetrators to justice." In spite the Secretary General’s statement, the Liberian government continues to remain silent although rape is considered a crime against humanity and a war crime.

This act of silence on crimes against humanity calls for reflection on the statement of an avid supporter of free speech, Judge Learned Hands. Hands, a famed American Judge in a statement on May 21, 1944, four years before the birth of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights said, “A society in which men recognize no check upon their freedom, soon becomes a society where freedom is the possession of only a savage few.”
As Liberia finally prepares for the inauguration of a newly elected government following almost two decades of conflict characterized by gross violations of human rights, Liberians should think about Judge Hands statements and ask themselves: “What freedom do we seek?” Do Liberians seek the freedom enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that seeks to promote global peace or a freedom where according to Franklin D. Roosevelt, “The so-called "new order" of tyranny which the dictators seek to create with the crash of a bomb.”

In order to rid the Liberian society of the practices of “special privilege for the few” and ensure that the Universal Declaration is applied, Liberians must speak out against violence. Liberians must also call for those who have committed human rights abuses to be brought to justice, including pledging to surrender former President Charles Taylor currently in exile in Nigeria to the Special Court for Sierra Leone, where he faces a 17-count indictment for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Liberians in every parts of the world and in spite their background and social status within society must take every opportunity to speak out against ethnic discrimination and inter-communal violence. Lastly but not the least, Liberians should call for the strengthening of the independence, impartiality and funding of the Independent National Commission on Human Rights, so that it can vigorously pursue human rights concerns and promote human rights education throughout the country. It is only by speaking out and calling for justice that sustainable and lasting peace can be achieved in Liberia.

While calling for justice and peace and speaking against ills, Liberians should be inspired by Clarence Darrow who was a defender of the poor and down trodden: “You can only protect your liberties in this world by protecting the other man's freedom. You can only be free if I am free.”

Liberia and Liberians can enjoy freedom, the freedom they have long wanted, the freedom their forefathers have fought for; the freedom that provides jobs for those who can work; the freedom that guarantees respect for civil liberties, freedom from fear, equal opportunity for youth and for everyone and all other freedoms in this new chapter of that country’s history by advocating that those responsible for crimes under international law to be held criminally responsible, truth established and victims obtain full reparations.

In order to have peace and justice, Liberians must remember that they are the voice of those who have been killed and also the voice of the voiceless including: R. Vanjah Richards, Dr. Stephen Yekeson, Wuo Tarpiah, Nowai Flomo, Samuel Dokie and his family, Mai Myers, Manna Zakay, Aloysious Kiah, two Nigerian Journalists Kris Imodibie and Tayo Awotusin who were killed in Liberia, the hundreds of persons who were killed during the September 11, 1998 and April 6, 1996 anarchies, those falsely incarcerated, those who have been raped and tortured, those who have been affected by violations, persons whose land and proprieties have been illegally taken. At the same time while reflecting on the victims, Liberians should also visualize the pains and agonies the perpetrators who are roaming freely have inflicted on their victims.

In commemoration of International Human Rights Day, Liberians and citizens of the world ought to reflect on peace and realized that peace is the fruit of justice, it is that moral virtue and legal accord which ensures full respect for rights and responsibilities, and the just distribution of benefits and burdens. Given the scale and nature of human rights abuses in Liberia, justice and forgiveness are both essential to healing, peace building and rebuilding process of that country. Let peace and justice prevail and let it begin with each person.

Copyright © Musue N. Haddad

Post Conflict Reconstruction: Liberia Remains Fertile for Corruption

President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf recently dismissed some members of her administration to signal to the world her position on corruption. Despite the varying responses to President Sirleaf's action - applauded by many and questioned by a few, conditions in Liberia are still favorable for corruption.

Few months ago, Mrs. Sirleaf also dismissed some members of her government. Some of those dismissed by President Sirleaf were John Morlu II, Deputy Minister and Chief Medical Officer, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. S. Benson Barh; Assistant Minister for Commerce and Industry, Aaron Mathies and James Attoh, Chairman of Civil Aviation Authority, Ministry of Transport, by President Sirleaf. The Liberian leader also endorsed the dismissal of five Finance Ministry employees, including Jesse Mulbah, Sr. Economist/MFU and Stanley T, Beh, Supervisor/ Foreign Travel Section. Others whose dismissal were recently approved by President Sirleaf were the Customs officers previously assigned to the Ganta Collectorate, Joemagaria Teld, Sr. Collector; Joseph Gbollie, Deputy Collector for Operations; and Willie A. Kaibay, Deputy Collector for Administration.

In her campaign promises, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf vowed to fight corruption and to ensure fiscal accountability and transparency within various institutions in Liberia. The recent dismissal of government employees and the transfers of other employees are therefore seen as steps in fulfilling some of her campaign promises.

Like Liberia, several post conflict societies are faced with corruption and other ills that weakens and undermines development. Corruption in itself poses serious challenge to peace, stability and development in any society. Politically, corruption undermines democracy and good governance by flouting, or even subverting formal processes. Corruption also weakens economic development by generating considerable distortions and inefficiency.

Althought the recent dismissal of those she considered corrupt members of her administration is seen as a positive step, President Sirleaf needs to institute measures that will curb and remove some of the conditions that nurture and breed corruption within the Liberian society. The preventive measures against corruption must also be parallelly initiated, simultaneously in various public institutions; they must be accompanied by stern actions against those who flout regulations aimed at curbing corrupt practices.

Professors Dr. James Lebovic and Dr. John Volpe, political scientists and political economist respectively, in a series of separate discussions described conditions that are favorable for corruption as, adverse government structures, Information deficits, Opportunities and incentives, Social conditions, Deficits of law and Imperfect Electoral Processes, among others.

Most of the conditions described by the two, Dr. Lebovic and Dr. Volpe are prevalent in Liberia. For example, the issue of adverse government structure, constitutes concentration of power in decision makers who are not accountable to the people is evidently common practice in Liberia. It is public knowledge that over the years, and even now, most of the decision makers in Liberia have not been answerable, or responsible to the public or their constitutents.

Unlike practices in Ghana and other countries in the region, and other parts of the world where decision makers feel challenge by their constitutents, and where the ethics of responsibility towards the public is regarded as significant, in Liberia; such commitments are either partly practiced or lacking. In most societies where democracy is flourishing, members of the legislature regularly visit their constituents and interact with citizens within their constitutents. By interacting with members of their contituency, elected officials become aware of the needs of the people, and therefore can adequately represent the people and put forth their request.

In Ghana, the United States, Nigeria and other countries, when there is a disaster in a rural part of those countries, the parliamentarian or member of legislature in whose region the incident occurs immediately visits the affected area; that elected official becomes familiar with the situation and then begins advocating for assistance for victims of the disaster. The contrary has been in Liberia.

Poorly paid Officials

Information Deficit was listed by Volpe and Lebovic as one of the many factors that promotes corruption. Information Deficit is clearly one of the numerous widespread problems Liberia faces. Inconsistency in information, information discrepancy, and the scarcity of information are situations that have prevailed in Liberia for many years. From the onset of that country, governments and heads of various institutions calculatingly neglected the exercising of freedom of speech and the press and also discouraged the participation of citizens in decision-making. This lack of government transparencies usually is a result of poor financial and accounting practices, which the government believes is best concealed to avoid scrutiny of its practices. Unlike Liberia, other countries around the world are exhibiting the political will in bridging the information gap within their societies. Many observers attribute the wide information gap in Liberia , largely to the dictatorial rule that Liberia has experienced since its establishment. The Liberian society has been plaqued with limitation on freedom, including freedom of speech and of the press and and other vices that have become embedded in that society- regrettably, becoming an acceptable way of life.

Professor Volpe also elaborated on an additional condition that promotes corruption: Opportunities and Incentives. The Professor of International Economics said, ‘providing opportunities and incentives are essential conditions for curbing corruption in society.” Volpe described elements associated with Opportunities and Incentives as avoiding large investments of public capital, but adopt the policy of investing appropriate capital. He discussed some aspects of Opportunities and Incentives; factors that promote corruption that are also existing in Liberia; that is, poorly paid government officials. He said, '"once government officials are underpaid, they engage in corrupt practices, and once corruption begins to take place within institutions, corruption indirectly becomes institutionalized."

As for the Professor for International Politics, Dr. Lebovic, he added two other conditions that promotes corruption. He said, 'Social Conditions and Deficits of Rule of Law' are two conditions, equally important, that can be used as yard sticks to determine the level of corrupt practices within a society. Lebovic described 'social conditions' as situations that includes the existence of a kind of ‘network' where certain self- interested persons continue to use their connections through this network to preserve their status without merit. A typical example of such networks in Liberia and the criminal network is "Taylor boys." Another network that falls under “social condition’ preserved by the old ruling class in Liberia is "Old School boys,” "The Freemasonry, " or "Members of the Masonic Temple." Another network that is continental is the "African Boys/chief Club." Members of these networks support one another loyally.

Lebovic said in a society where a larger majority of the people are illiterate, and or where there exist a larger ignorant population with little information on making political decision signifies "social conditions." Liberia is obviously a victim of "social condition." Liberia has more than 80% illiteracty rate. Moreover, most of the populace are not only without formal education, but they are also unaware of their their rights to make or participate in decision making processes.

Imperfect Electoral Process

"Discrepancy of law," is one more condition that encourages corruotion, Lebovic said. Discrepancy of law connotes break down of law and weak legal systems. Over the years, Liberia’s rule of law and its legal system have been severly corrupted, due to lack of democracy, ignorant populace, influence of the justice system by the few powerful ruling elites and manipulation of the legal system by the various social networks that continue to prevail in Liberia.

One last, but major condition, the political scientists illustrated as an added factor that influences corruption is "Imperfect electoral processes." A flawed electoral process encompasses costly political campaigns with expenses exceeding sources of political funding and the absence of adequate controls to prevent bribery, Lebovic said. He said, Imperfect electoral process can lead to ballot tampering, intimidation of voters, buying of votes and making poor electoral choices, among others situation. Putting Professor Lebovic's analysis of an imperfect electoral process into context indicates that almost all of the election processes that have taken place in Liberia have been imperfect.

Throughout Liberia's history, Liberia's elections have been marred by irregularities, malpractices, manipulation, violences and other misconducts and unprofessional practices that influenced the results of the electoral processes. A more recent example of an imperfect electoral process in Liberia was the 2005 elections. The first indicator that the 2005 electoral process would be imperfect was the participation of villians as candidates. Most of the villians are publicly known in Liberia and listed gobally as among those who have commited human rights violations abuses and economic crimes in Liberia and the West African sub-region have over the years used their networks and wealth to circumvent the laws, intimidate innocent civilians, and assaulted others they perceived as threats. It was therefore obvious that they would again use their wealth, power and networks to influence votes and the electoral process to become elected.

Another key factor that has also led to imperfect electoral processes in Liberia is the high illiteracy rate of the mass majority of the country's population. The illiterate and ignorant population were uneducated about the the electoral process, they were also unaware of their rights and responsibilities during campaigns and elections. This lack of information continues to hinder not only elections but also the democratic process in Liberia.

The Link: Elections and Corruption

Although elections does not determine democracy, it plays a key role in determining the level of corruption that could exist in a society. Elections can also be used as a yard stick to establish the level of freedom, if any, enjoyed by people, and also ascertain the advancement of people within society. Elections can therefore be seen as an echelon for several democratic tenets in a society. The link between Elections and Corruption is that, elections can be used to determine the conditions of corruption that are being established and fomented in a society; elections can also signal the determination of the people to do away with elements that promote corruption and underdevelopment within society.

As have been seen in many countries, including Liberia, Imperfect electoral processes leads to corruption. Corruption in elections and in legislative bodies reduces accountablility and distorts representation in policy making; corruption in the judiciary compromises the rule of law, and corruption in public administration results in the unfair provision of services.

More generally, corruption erodes the institutional capacity of government as procedures are disregarded, resources are siphoned off, and public offices are bought and sold. At the same time, corruption undermines the legitimacy of government and such democratic values as trust and tolerance.

Successive Liberian governments have been susceptible to political corruption, including patronage, bribery, exhortion, influencing peddling, fraud, embezzlement and nepotism. The corrupt practices in Liberia particularly, during the administration of Charles Taylor encouraged drug trafficking, money laundering, criminal prosttitution and other criminal enterprise. It is therefore hoped that the government of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf will institute measures to curb corrupt practices, and promote accountability and transparency, promote freedom of speech and the press; initiate sustainable development programs, so that Liberia can move away from a period of undervelopment to an era, where rule of law is upheld and a majority of its people can participate in decisions making processes.

Copyright © Musue N. Haddad

Bidding Farewell to Kofi Annan; Welcoming Ki-Moon

Dearest Mama,

Have you heard the news? Kofi will be turning over his office on January 1 to the new person elected to the position!

Mama, I am not talking about the Kofi in our Clan. Even though the Kofi I am talking about comes from the other side of our Clan; he works for the group that represents the whole world; the United Nations. Kofi has reached the end of the road; his term as Secretary- General is over. A South Korean former politician, Ban Ki- Moon will succeed Kofi Annan as Secretary- General of the United Nations on January 1, 2007. Ki-Moon was elected to become the new Secretary General on October 13, 2006, and sworn in on December 14, 2006. Guess what! Kofi will be turning over his office peacefully. That is the beauty of respect for rule of law; the splendor for upholding policies, and the exquisiteness for respecting and maintaining one's dignity.

Kofi Annan became the seventh Secretary General of the UN, taking over from Boutros Boutros- Ghali of Egypt on January 1, 1997. That means that Kofi Annan, the first sub- Saharan Africa person to head that post ends his ten year term on December 31, 2006.

Mama, Kofi Annan’s career as the big diplomat of the whole world has drawn scrutinizes from both his supporters and critics. One group claims that he always challenge the top Kwee people, while others insist that he was a toady. Well Mama, the best I can do in this letter is to tell you some of the complexities this soft-spoken man experienced.

Annan was really in a tough spot like most of those who found themselves in similar positions; people who are presently holding such positions; and those who will ultimately find numerous eyes watching them. Being the world’s top diplomat is a delicate position people from the developed world, countries within the middle circles, and those from the developing worlds need the diplomat’s eyes, ears, and mouth. How do you give one part of the world your eyes without turning your back to another country?

Annan’s rapport with the White House was another tricky situation if he became close to the White House on the UN reform, developing countries criticized him. Then, whenever Annan questioned the White House stance on Iraq and developmental assistance, he was condemned.

Mama, the question saturating the halls of policy organizations is whether Kofi Annan left the UN in better shape than he found it. One lady said, “I strongly believe Kofi Annan did a tremendous job as secretary general. He has built a strong foundation for his successor, Ban Ki-moon.” Another person said, “I think Kofi Annan saw more wars and disasters, including terrorism, the Iraq war, the Middle East Conflicts, etc, than any other secretary general, and he handled himself well during those difficult periods.”

One of Annan’s greatest fault as secretary General was the Iraq Oil-for-food scandal in which his son was implicated. Even though Annan was cleared of the scandal, the issue may always be raised whenever his administration as Secretary General of the United Nations is discussed.

Again, there are also those who believed that Annan concentrated much of his efforts on drawing attention to the destruction of HIV-AIDS, and persuading international businesses to help promote development. Is that positive or negative? While many will applaud Annan for highlighting the ravages of HIV AIDS, and development, critics may take exception.

Mama, I strongly believe that like most of the previous Secretary Generals of the UN, Kofi Annan tried to make improvements wherever necessary but he did not have all of the powers to carry all of them through; that is because the Secretary-General needs the support of the Security Council.

Mama, before I close this letter, I would like to inform Ban Ki- Moon that he is inheriting a United Nations that has a somewhat low morale. The enthusiasm of the United Nations saw a drastic decline particularly since 1993; at the end of the Gulf War and the sudden collapse of the peacekeeping missions in Bosnia, Somalia and other areas.

Therefore, Mr. Ki-Moon needs to be aware that given the low morale, both among staff within the United Nations and among member states of the organizations, he may experience low tolerance level among member states. I- Moon must also bear in mind that the bad mood and lack of tolerance among member states is actually a result of different interests, nothing else. For example, the UN means something different to the people of our clan than it is for the people of Toronto. UN means something else to China, while Cuba looks at the World body differently. The different eyes with which member states view the UN was really manifested when countries deliberated the UN reform document. Clearly, Ki-Moon should remember that our Clan and other poor and underdeveloped countries primary concern is development. Ki-Moon can take a look at the time when Annan introduced the Millennium Development Goals; people from our clan and communities from our part of the world were very happy. Given the different interests of member states of the UN, Mr. Ki-Moon will have to identify a common link or vision that he can use to persuading members of the United Nations and staff of the world body that they have something in common, in order to boost their spirits and basin of tolerance. I believe that by identifying a vision or commonality, Ki-Moon can then begin to build a spirit of cordiality among different members of the United Nations as a first step to asserting himself as the World's Top Diplomat.

Mama, I have to leave now to drop this mail. May the beauty of the year sprinkle and brightens every day of the 2007, and the years ahead. Happy New Year!

Always,
musue

Liberia Remains Fertile for Corruption

President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf recently dismissed some members of her administration to signal to the world her position on corruption. Despite the varying responses to President Sirleaf's action - applauded by many and questioned by a few, conditions in Liberia are still favorable for corruption.

Those dismissed recently by President Sirleaf for what her administration termed, ‘corrupt practices,’ are Deputy Minister and Chief Medical Officer, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. S. Benson Barh; Assistant Minister for Commerce and Industry, Aaron Mathies and James Attoh, Chairman of Civil Aviation Authority, Ministry of Transport, by President Sirleaf. The Liberian leader also endorsed the dismissal of five Finance Ministry employees, including Jesse Mulbah, Sr. Economist/MFU and Stanley T, Beh, Supervisor/ Foreign Travel Section. Others whose dismissal were recently approved by President Sirleaf were the Customs officers previously assigned to the Ganta Collectorate, Joemagaria Teld, Sr. Collector; Joseph Gbollie, Deputy Collector for Operations; and Willie A. Kaibay, Deputy Collector for Administration.

In her campaign promises, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf vowed to fight corruption and to ensure fiscal accountability and transparency within various institutions in Liberia. The recent dismissal of government employees and the transfers of other employees are therefore seen as steps in fulfilling some of her campaign promises.

Like Liberia, several post conflict societies are faced with corruption and other ills that weakens and undermines development. Corruption in itself poses serious challenge to peace, stability and development in any society. Politically, corruption undermines democracy and good governance by flouting, or even subverting formal processes. Corruption also weakens economic development by generating considerable distortions and inefficiency.

Althought the recent dismissal of those she considered corrupt members of her administration is seen as a positive step, President Sirleaf needs to institute measures that will curb and remove some of the conditions that nurture and breed corruption within the Liberian society. The preventive measures against corruption must also be parallelly initiated, simultaneously in various public institutions; they must be accompanied by stern actions against those who flout regulations aimed at curbing corrupt practices.

Professors Dr. James Lebovic and Dr. John Volpe, political scientists and political economist respectively, in a series of separate discussions described conditions that are favorable for corruption as, adverse government structures, Information deficits, Opportunities and incentives, Social conditions, Deficits of law and Imperfect Electoral Processes, among others.

Most of the conditions described by the two, Dr. Lebovic and Dr. Volpe are prevalent in Liberia. For example, the issue of adverse government structure, constitutes concentration of power in decision makers who are not accountable to the people is evidently common practice in Liberia. It is public knowledge that over the years, and even now, most of the decision makers in Liberia have not been answerable, or responsible to the public or their constitutents.

Unlike practices in Ghana and other countries in the region, and other parts of the world where decision makers feel challenge by their constitutents, and where the ethics of responsibility towards the public is regarded as significant, in Liberia; such commitments are either partly practiced or lacking. In most societies where democracy is flourishing, members of the legislature regularly visit their constituents and interact with citizens within their constitutents. By interacting with members of their contituency, elected officials become aware of the needs of the people, and therefore can adequately represent the people and put forth their request.

In Ghana, the United States, Nigeria and other countries, when there is a disaster in a rural part of those countries, the parliamentarian or member of legislature in whose region the incident occurs immediately visits the affected area; that elected official becomes familiar with the situation and then begins advocating for assistance for victims of the disaster. The contrary has been in Liberia.

Poorly paid Officials

Information Deficit was listed by Volpe and Lebovic as one of the many factors that promotes corruption. Information Deficit is clearly one of the numerous widespread problems Liberia faces. Inconsistency in information, information discrepancy, and the scarcity of information are situations that have prevailed in Liberia for many years. From the onset of that country, governments and heads of various institutions calculatingly neglected the exercising of freedom of speech and the press and also discouraged the participation of citizens in decision-making. This lack of government transparencies usually is a result of poor financial and accounting practices, which the government believes is best concealed to avoid scrutiny of its practices. Unlike Liberia, other countries around the world are exhibiting the political will in bridging the information gap within their societies. Many observers attribute the wide information gap in Liberia , largely to the dictatorial rule that Liberia has experienced since its establishment. The Liberian society has been plaqued with limitation on freedom, including freedom of speech and of the press and and other vices that have become embedded in that society- regrettably, becoming an acceptable way of life.

Professor Volpe also elaborated on an additional condition that promotes corruption: Opportunities and Incentives. The Professor of International Economics said, ‘providing opportunities and incentives are essential conditions for curbing corruption in society.” Volpe described elements associated with Opportunities and Incentives as avoiding large investments of public capital, but adopt the policy of investing appropriate capital. He discussed some aspects of Opportunities and Incentives; factors that promote corruption that are also existing in Liberia; that is, poorly paid government officials. He said, '"once government officials are underpaid, they engage in corrupt practices, and once corruption begins to take place within institutions, corruption indirectly becomes institutionalized."

As for the Professor for International Politics, Dr. Lebovic, he added two other conditions that promotes corruption. He said, 'Social Conditions and Deficits of Rule of Law' are two conditions, equally important, that can be used as yard sticks to determine the level of corrupt practices within a society. Lebovic described 'social conditions' as situations that includes the existence of a kind of ‘network' where certain self- interested persons continue to use their connections through this network to preserve their status without merit. A typical example of such networks in Liberia and the criminal network is "Taylor boys." Another network that falls under “social condition’ preserved by the old ruling class in Liberia is "Old School boys,” "The Freemasonry, " or "Members of the Masonic Temple." Another network that is continental is the "African Boys/chief Club." Members of these networks support one another loyally.

Lebovic said in a society where a larger majority of the people are illiterate, and or where there exist a larger ignorant population with little information on making political decision signifies "social conditions." Liberia is obviously a victim of "social condition." Liberia has more than 80% illiteracty rate. Moreover, most of the populace are not only without formal education, but they are also unaware of their their rights to make or participate in decision making processes.

'Imperfect Electoral Process'

"Discrepancy of law," is one more condition that encourages corruotion, Lebovic said. Discrepancy of law connotes break down of law and weak legal systems. Over the years, Liberia’s rule of law and its legal system have been severly corrupted, due to lack of democracy, ignorant populace, influence of the justice system by the few powerful ruling elites and manipulation of the legal system by the various social networks that continue to prevail in Liberia.

One last, but major condition, the political scientists illustrated as an added factor that influences corruption is "Imperfect electoral processes." A flawed electoral process encompasses costly political campaigns with expenses exceeding sources of political funding and the absence of adequate controls to prevent bribery, Lebovic said. He said, Imperfect electoral process can lead to ballot tampering, intimidation of voters, buying of votes and making poor electoral choices, among others situation. Putting Professor Lebovic's analysis of an imperfect electoral process into context indicates that almost all of the election processes that have taken place in Liberia have been imperfect.

Throughout Liberia's history, Liberia's elections have been marred by irregularities, malpractices, manipulation, violences and other misconducts and unprofessional practices that influenced the results of the electoral processes. A more recent example of an imperfect electoral process in Liberia was the 2005 elections. The first indicator that the 2005 electoral process would be imperfect was the participation of villians as candidates. Most of the villians are publicly known in Liberia and listed gobally as among those who have commited human rights violations abuses and economic crimes in Liberia and the West African sub-region have over the years used their networks and wealth to circumvent the laws, intimidate innocent civilians, and assaulted others they perceived as threats. It was therefore obvious that they would again use their wealth, power and networks to influence votes and the electoral process to become elected.

Another key factor that has also led to imperfect electoral processes in Liberia is the high illiteracy rate of the mass majority of the country's population. The illiterate and ignorant population were uneducated about the the electoral process, they were also unaware of their rights and responsibilities during campaigns and elections. This lack of information continues to hinder not only elections but also the democratic process in Liberia.

The Link: Elections and Corruption

Although elections does not determine democracy, it plays a key role in determining the level of corruption that could exist in a society. Elections can also be used as a yard stick to establish the level of freedom, if any, enjoyed by people, and also ascertain the advancement of people within society. Elections can therefore be seen as an echelon for several democratic tenets in a society. The link between Elections and Corruption is that, elections can be used to determine the conditions of corruption that are being established and fomented in a society; elections can also signal the determination of the people to do away with elements that promote corruption and underdevelopment within society.

As have been seen in many countries, including Liberia, Imperfect electoral processes leads to corruption. Corruption in elections and in legislative bodies reduces accountablility and distorts representation in policy making; corruption in the judiciary compromises the rule of law, and corruption in public administration results in the unfair provision of services.

More generally, corruption erodes the institutional capacity of government as procedures are disregarded, resources are siphoned off, and public offices are bought and sold. At the same time, corruption undermines the legitimacy of government and such democratic values as trust and tolerance.

Successive Liberian governments have been susceptible to political corruption, including patronage, bribery, exhortion, influencing peddling, fraud, embezzlement and nepotism. The corrupt practices in Liberia particularly, during the administration of Charles Taylor encouraged drug trafficking, money laundering, criminal prosttitution and other criminal enterprise. It is therefore hoped that the government of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf will institute measures to curb corrupt practices, and promote accountability and transparency, promote freedom of speech and the press; initiate sustainable development programs, so that Liberia can move away from a period of undervelopment to an era, where rule of law is upheld and a majority of its people can participate in decisions making processes.


Copyright © Musue N. Haddad

Random Thoughts: Tuesday is 666 - Will the World End Tomorrow?

Dearest Mama,

Is tomorrow’s date: 6-6-6 just another inquisitive number, or could it mean that the end of time is here? What I am really asking is, will tomorrow be the end of the world, or just another regular day, Mama?

Tomorrow is June 6, 2006, which mathematically means, the sixth day of the sixth month and also the sixth year of this millennium. That is 666! But something about the number 666 brings out the anxiety, and the humor in people. The peculiarity of the number started in the Book of Revelation. 666 is commonly known as the Number of the Beast in the Book of Revelation chapter 13, versus 17 -18.

I heard that many people from the clan are already getting baptized; some wearing white robes waiting to meet tomorrow as new persons. I heard that some of the money people in the clan have already gotten people to start praying for them. These people paying for others to pray for them are the ones who believe that money can influence anything; they even believe that they can bribe or fool God. In the kwee people’s place, my neighbor started wearing a very large cross since last week, and reciting prayers that were given out by some persons on the street. My neighbor’s girl friend even told my neighbor that they should stop living in sin – two days ago, they hurriedly got married. What happens if tomorrow is uneventful? This is why the people who talk to people tell people not to marry because of something, because when that thing ceased to exist, then things begin to fall apart.

Mama, do you know whether the chief is aware that tomorrow is 6-6-6? Please find out from Mr. Karmu or MaNora if the chief is worried about the coming of 666 on tomorrow. I heard that the chief has one big church that she is an active member of and some other churches she attends once in a while. Will the chief make all the churches she attend come together so she can pray with all of them? Or the churches pray for her. Will the fear of tomorrow make the chief admit and apologize to people she has wronged?

What’s about some of the big people in our clan? What are some of their moods? Will Snow confess how he got elected? Will that other big man in our clan, Mr. Brown who was living in this kwee’s people place also confess how bad he was to his woman? That man now big man back home, used to treat his woman like some kind of trash; now he is big man and he thinks that he is above every misdeed he has committed. Why should such people without morality become big people, what examples do they show? Mama, people like that must realize that when someone is nice to you and you belittle them, it doesn’t matter what position you get, what money you get, a day of reckoning always come. That man now roaming around the world, meeting with dignitaries, thinks he is king, but that day when his conscious will prick him; the day when his deeds will catch up with him, I hope it is already catching up with him before tomorrow.

As for Pappay he has always been seen as a religious person. Will the # 666 make a difference in the kinds of prayer he will have tonight? One interesting thing about the guy is he does not distinguish anything, especially when it comes to religion. Pappay said he belonged to one religion, and he had many women who also proclaimed to be a member of that religion; but he had one wife and other women from other religions. He was also associated with other religious practices. I wonder what happens when all these religious practices knock heads. Will the coming of tomorrow have any impact on Pappay’s life? Will Pappay call on the spirit of Teah Faculty to forgive him for taking his wife after Faculty died in a car crash? Teah Faculty was really working hard for Pappay. When Faculty died, his woman was pregnant. Pappay asked Faculty woman to abort Faculty’s unborn child. Pappay told Julie that if she aborted Faculty’s child, he, Pappay would marry her. Faculty’s wife, Julie aborted her dead husband’s child. Pappay did not marry her. She got pregnant for Pappay and has his child. Will the coming of "666" make Julie to reflect on the abortion of her dead husband’s child? Mama, do you think she regrets her actions?

Will Pappay and his security guys think about all the persons they have killed - John Yomie, Nowei Flomo, May Myers and many others. I am sure the fear of death will make them reflect on the killings they have carried out; the cries of their victims, their victims plead for mercy.

Mama, I heard that this whole 666 business started long ago, not just in our clan and the kwee people place, but in this whole wide world: long before I was born and long before you were even born. As we grow, we have come to see how people relate to 666. You remembered that day when the market woman, MaAnnie was hysterical after realizing that her day’s earning was $666 and she even forced you to buy a $5.00 fish for $0.25? Another drama around 666 was when Oldman Marshall and his family ran out of their house in the middle of the night because their son came out with the # 666 while solving a math problem. They immediately started thinking that their son was a follower of the Antichrist. Poor boy, they beat him up so badly.

When I asked Teacher Moses to tell me how easy one can reach 666 when solving a mathematical problem, he used all kinds of terminology. I will just write what he said, maybe you will understand it better than me: The harmonic mean of the digits of 666 is an integer: 3/ (1/6 + 1/6 + 1/6) = 6.666 is the 54th number with this property.

I called one kwee person who teaches religion to ask about this 666 business. The man said that people should not worry about tomorrow. I asked him why, he said that generally, it is hard to take Tuesday as a day of reckoning. He said generally people hate Monday, while Wednesday is a day that people generally get together. He added, ‘Friday sometimes falls on the 13th which is considered a bad omen, but Tuesdays and Thursdays don’t look like days when bad things can happen.”

I was glad this man said this, but just as I was about to leave, this book man made my head swing again. He said although the book of Revelation is not prophesying a particular end of times but the day is about the struggle of good versus evil in outer space. When this man said this, I started thinking, “suppose that fighting leave outer space and reaches earth.” I put my hand under my chin and stare into space wondering what happens if this fighting falls from the sky. I started thinking when I will see you again, Mama. Could the fighting between good and evil in space mean the end or the beginning of when we will be together? While wrecking my brain on this outer spece fighting, I thought about something - anyone who fears 666 can stand on their head and the figure will become 999. I think I will try to stand on my head and be like that until midnight. This is our secret Mama.

Will you stand on your head too? Let me know what happens tomorrow, Mama.

Always,
musue