UNICCO Digest: 2005 Archive:

Here is a collection of all the Digest articles from Jan. - Dec.
31, 2005

Oprah and Rice To lead U.S delegation for Ellen's Inauguration

December 28, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

Secretary of State Condelezza Rice will lead a high power delegation to Liberia to attend the official inauguration of president-elect Ellen Johnson Sirleaf on January 16, says the spokesman of the Liberian embassy near Washington DC.
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Small Job, Big Spending

December 28, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

With the withdrawal of the post-electoral contest filed by the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), the next step to civil rule is the installation of the Legislature and the inauguration on January 16, 2006, of the president- and vice president-elect.
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Cemenco Monopoly is Headache for Liberians: Many want to build, but can’t afford the price of cement

December 28, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

Like every Liberian in the Diaspora, Emmanuel Barcoleh of Reston, Virginia is dreaming of returning home to his beloved Liberia and building a home for he and his family.
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Will It Be Business As Usual, Where A Majority Becomes Poorer?

By J. Yanqui Zaza

December 27, 2005 - The Perspective

If the current debate about the “Transitional List” is merely about sharing economic dividends among the Liberian elites and not about correcting the economic injustices that brought us where we are in the first place, we will lose an opportunity to right the wrong.
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Africa switches to unleaded fuel

December 27, 2005 - BBC

Sub-Saharan Africa will meet a deadline to use only unleaded petrol by the end of 2005, the United Nations says.
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U.N. Travel Ban Hunts New Lawmakers-Jewel, Snowe, Dolo Fight Back

December 27, 2005 - Liberian Times.com (Monrovia)

Three newly elected members of the Liberian parliament in the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf led Government may likely forfeit a pending international parliamentary workshop scheduled to be held in the Ghanaian capital, Accra due to the U.N. travel ban imposed on them for their role played in the Liberian civil war.
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For Salary University Professors Threaten To Boycott Graduation

December 27, 2005 - Liberian Times.com (Monrovia)

Professors of the University of Liberia (UL) have threatened to boycott the institution’s commencement convocation scheduled next month, if their salary arrears are not settled.
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Air Travel Nightmare Over!-
BellView Passes Airworthiness Test- Resumes Flight To Monrovia

December 27, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Bellview was given a clean ‘Bill of Health’ after technicians of NAA and experts from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) conducted a weeklong examination of the records and airworthiness of our airlines,” our reporter quoted Mr Endiemu as saying.
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Ellen's Cabinet? A Look At the Names Out There

December 27, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

In about two weeks, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf will assume the mantle as Liberia’s head of state and Africa’s first woman president. As she prepares for her inauguration, she and her closest aides have remained mute as to who will be in her Cabinet.
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CDC Dismisses Lawyers

December 23, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Just a day after it has decided not to pursue its case at the level of the Supreme Court of Liberia, the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has made another move, which analysts say is in the right directionan independent state upon a continent of western colonies.
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Picking up the Pieces~Changing ideas & changing the way of life in Liberia

By: Ophelia S. Lewis

December 23, 2005 - Liberian Times.com

For those who desire freedom, Liberia is a land of promise, not a promised land. When Africans in their despairs were being removed from their homes by slave traders and while Africa was being divided by European powers, our tiny beloved Liberia stood alone as an independent state upon a continent of western colonies.
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TROUBLE HANGS OVER LIBERIA AGAIN!-Insurgents Next Door

December 22, 2005 - The Perspective

This paper has received credible reports that another insurrection is in the making to destabilize Liberia in spite of the international community tireless efforts to bring sanity to the country.
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New Directions In Public Policy Formulation In Liberia

December 22, 2005 - The Perspective

By: Emmanuel Dolo, Ph. D.

This paper is intended to broadly discuss public policy formulation in Liberia, describing its impact on two key sectors: healthcare and social welfare. I should note that social welfare policy can mean basic life needs such as employment, unemployment assistance, healthcare, food, housing, and many more. Also inextricably linked to social policy is the welfare of children, referred to as child welfare policy (Karger & Stoesz, 1998).
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News Analysis: An Insider’s Story - How Weah Came to his ‘Concession

December 21, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

In a scene reminiscent of the last ‘supper,’ George Manneh Weah called his most trusted lieutenants and advisors on Tuesday to break the news few in attendance wanted to hear. Weah informed his trusted inner circle that he has, after weeks of pondering decided to abandon his claim of election fraud and will not the case to the Supreme Court.
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Weah Drops ‘Elections Complaints’ in the interest of Peace -

December 21, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

MONROVIA – “The speech” finally came this morning with Liberian football legend George Manneh Weah declaring that he will not be taking his complaints of fraud and election irregularities to the Supreme Court.
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UN renews ban on arms, diamonds and timber

December 21, 2005 - IRIN

DAKAR, 21 Dec 2005 (IRIN) - The UN Security Council took just four minutes to unanimously extend bans on the sale of arms, diamonds and timber in post conflict Liberia for a further six months.
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UN establishes new body to prevent countries from sliding back into war

December 20, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

In an historic action that brings to fruition a central reform proposed by United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan and the 2005 World Summit, the Security Council and the General Assembly today acted in concert to establish a new body that aims to prevent countries emerging from conflict from falling back into chaos.
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News Analysis: ‘Concession’ Hitch: Men in Weah’s Ears Holding Out for One Last Shot

December 20, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

Back in August, 2005, Milton Teahjay announced that he was abandoning his own presidential quest to join the campaign of George Weah, then considered the candidate to beat in Liberia’s first general elections since the end of the civil war.
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Ellen, Weah in Closed Door Discussion

December 20, 2005 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

President-elect of Liberia, Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and defeated presidential candidate of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), George Manneh Weah on Saturday held major discussions behind closed door.
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Crucial Issues At Stake As Ellen Meets NTLA Members Today

December 20, 2005 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Reports say during the visit to the Assembly, Mrs. Sirleaf will hold discussion with members of that body on a wild range of issues including the smooth transfer of power.
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'Work for a Great Nation', Ellen Rallies Liberians' Support, Gets Goodwill Pledges from Int'l Community

December 20, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

On October 26 and November 23 this year, the National Elections Commission (NEC) announced, in that order, the results of the presidential and legislative elections and the presidential runoff
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Corrupt Officials May Be Prosecuted, Women Group Threatens

December 20, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

There is growing pressure on officials of the Gyude Bryant-led transition to face prosecution for alleged corruption as their time erodes away gradually.
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Weah Expected to Drop ‘Election Fraud’ Allegations in Speech Tuesday

December 19, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

After weeks of squabbles, internal and external feuding, it appears that there may be some light at the end of the tunnel for Liberia after all.
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Ending the Division! Ellen, Weah Meet At Tête-à-Tête

December 19, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Political rivalries and oftentimes the bickering that characterize them during political campaigns do not go away easily. They linger after the elections, leaving deep scars of division
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Testimonial Match’ Scandal Haunts Weah: CDC, Top Partisan Denies ‘Bounced Checks’ in France

December 19, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

MONROVIA, 16 Dec 2005 – Liberian football legend and presidential candidate George Manneh Weah has emphatically denied reports out of the French city of Marseille that he “failed to pay hotel and caterers’ bills after throwing a lavish end-of-career party this year for a host of his top footballing buddies.”
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Attempts To Destabilize Liberia By Tribalists And Opportunists

December 18, 2005 - The Perspective

By: Emmanuel Dolo, Ph. D. & Winsley Nanka, CPA

Indications suggest that George Oppong Weah and his “followers” are making systematic efforts to destabilize Liberia and subject Liberian people to untold suffering, if he is not awarded the presidency. This cunning design is being hatched by a consortium of opportunists, hustlers, tribalists and ethnic politicians.
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A critical analysis of Liberia’s attractiveness to foreign investment -

December 18, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

Envision the Liberian economic landscape in the year 2020 via the lenses of two contrasting scenarios. In the first, the country’s economy is in shambles and tattering on the brink of collapse. The unemployment rate is 95%, and Liberians can no longer afford basic necessities.
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A critical analysis of Liberia’s attractiveness to foreign investment -

December 18, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

Envision the Liberian economic landscape in the year 2020 via the lenses of two contrasting scenarios. In the first, the country’s economy is in shambles and tattering on the brink of collapse. The unemployment rate is 95%, and Liberians can no longer afford basic necessities.
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Weah’s ‘Revolution Saga’: Conspiracy Theory Rocks CDC Camp

December 15, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

An email intercepted by our investigative team, suggests an orchestrated plan by some highly-placed CDC sympathizers to create an atmosphere of confusion and chaos thereby prolonging the Weah ‘Revolution Saga’.
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U.N. Chief Annan Urges Weah, CDC to respect results

December 14, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

Reacting to friction in Liberia, Secretary-General Kofi Annan today urged supporters of George Weah, who lost a run-off presidential election to Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in November, to use legal channels – not violence – to state their case.
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Weah's 'Revolution' Saga: The Psychology of Winning at all Cost

By Dr. Emmanuel Dolo, Ph.D.
Contributing Writer

December 13, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

When I read that George Oppong Weah who was defeated in the Liberian presidential elections, had allegedly declared himself president, I was shocked by the news, but not totally surprised.
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Fifty George Weah CDC Partisans Arrested Following Rioting

December 13, 2005 - The Perspective

Police in Monrovia have arrested 50 persons in connection with a riot which took place Sunday at the headquarters of George Weah’s Congress for Democratic Change (CDC). They are suspected to be partisans of the CDC.
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Liberia To Be Self-sufficient In Food

December 13, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The government of the People’s Republic of China says its concern at this point in time is to make Liberia self-sufficient in food production. The Chinese Government’s commitment to making Liberia sufficient in food production was made by its Ambassador to Liberia, Lin Songtian.
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Imminent Chaos! Weah Claims Presidency?

December 12, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Far before the just-ended presidential and legislative elections, the unanimous chorus was that the process would set the stage for a new democratic dispensation in Liberia to end nearly two decades of violence and savagery.
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Liberia Will Turn the Corner, Says Ellen

December 10, 2005 -FrontpageAfrica.com

Harlem, New York-Liberia’s president-elect Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has called on Liberians in the U.S. to return home to help rebuild their troubled nation which has been plagued by civil war over the last fourteen years.
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Ellen U.S. Trip Update: President-Elect Making the Rounds

December 10, 2005 -FrontpageAfrica.com

Washinton, D.C.-The Liberian President-Elect Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has met several high profile officials of the United States, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund in the American Capital Washington DC.
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Gyude Bryant, Harry Greaves Trading Barbs

December 10, 2005 -FrontpageAfrica.com

An apparent war of words seems to be developing between the chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberian and his former economic advisor Harry Greaves.
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Liberian Warlord Reinvents Self As Senator

December 10, 2005 - Associated Press

MONROVIA, Liberia — With a burst of gunfire, he executed a pleading relief worker accused of profiteering. He chugged beer while his men hacked off an ousted president's ears hours before his tortured death.
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Put It To A Referendum - The Taylor Issue

December 10, 2005 - The Perspective

The world indicts Taylor. The world grants Taylor asylum through Nigeria. The world claims Taylor is a fugitive from justice. The world wants the just-elected Government of Liberia to expedite Taylor’s extradition from Nigeria to face trial in a UN court in Sierra Leone.
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MOP: Transitional team is class dominated

December 5, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

The US-based political grouping says the transitional team set up by president-elect, Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is “class dominated with crooks and same old faces.”
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MOP: Transitional team is class dominated

December 5, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

The US-based political grouping says the transitional team set up by president-elect, Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is “class dominated with crooks and same old faces.”
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Cold war in Nigeria's Presidential Villa

December 2, 2005 - BBC

Nigeria's ruling People's Democratic Party has ended a key meeting without ruling on the issue which is threatening to split the party - and the nation apart.
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Dubious Voucher Backfires

December 2, 2005 - The Analyst

With less than 44 days to the demise of the Gyude Bryant-led National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL), what seems to be a dubious voucher intended to rob government of several thousands of United States dollars has been uncovered with some top officials at the Ministry of Agriculture being linked.
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U.N. Security Council Updates Travel Ban List: Maintains Agnes Taylor, Edwin Snowe; 2 Assets Frozen

December 2, 2005 -FrontpageAfrica.com

An Alleged aide to a member of the transitional team of Liberia’s president-elect, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, and two elected lawmakers herald an updated travel ban list released by the sanctions committee of the United Nations Security Council today, FrontPageAfrica has learned.
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Ellen Aide threatens Frontpageafrica

December 1, 2005 -FrontpageAfrica.com

Amid public outcry against the composition of the transitional team approved by president-elect Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, an aide to her has accused the Frontpageafrica staff of “sensationalism” and has threatened to hunt them down.
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The World Will Give its Verdict After the Election:" History is on the Side of the 2005 Presidential Election Observers"

November 30, 2005 - The Perspective

The allegation by Mr. George Weah, the recently defeated Liberian presidential candidate, that international observers conspired to cheat for the winner, Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, is difficult for the majority of Liberians to believe. This is so because international observers have a long history of correctly assessing Liberian presidential elections.
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With Taylor’s Fate Looming, Ellen Tours West Africa Sub-region

November 30, 2005 -FrontpageAfrica.com

There is a strong chorus of disapproval from the public against the transitional team of Liberian president-elect, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. Most Liberians are decrying the composition of the team as a reemergence of the "old order" that sets to give preference to the so-called Americo-Liberians over indigenous Liberians
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Reactions to Ellen's Transitional Team: 'Reemergence of the old order' sparks public concern

November 29, 2005 -FrontpageAfrica.com

There is a strong chorus of disapproval from the public against the transitional team of Liberian president-elect, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. Most Liberians are decrying the composition of the team as a reemergence of the "old order" that sets to give preference to the so-called Americo-Liberians over indigenous Liberians.
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President-elect begins four nation peace tour

November 29, 2005 -IRIN NEWS

MONROVIA, 29 Nov 2005 (IRIN) - Seeking to shore up stability in the divided West Africa region, president-elect Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf on Tuesday launched a week-long tour of Liberia’s neighbours to discuss peace.
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Things Falling Apart: Disarray, Betrayal Within Team Weah’s Ranks

November 28, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

George Weah and a team of his CDC aides are on a tour of Africa this week. Stops in Ghana and South Africa are visit that have been long overdue. Days after it became clear that the numbers for victory was not pointing to a victory for his side, Weah began to receive calls from several African leaders, who immediately began admonishing the football legend to concede to his run-off rival, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf in the interest of peace and unity.
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The Making of an Imperial Presidency? Hallmarks and Characteristics

By Emmanuel Dolo, Ph.D.

November 28, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

Influence peddling is an established political devise within a democracy. It is used to represent the multiple interests of various constituencies: institutional actors and social/political groups. in government
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Meet Ellen's Transitional Team

November 28, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

President elect Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has appointed a thirty-one-member transition team. The team will work with the transitional government to ensure a smooth exchange of government.
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U.S. Breaks the Ice, recognizes Johnson-Sirleaf as Liberia’s Next President

November 25, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

Liberia’s historical ally, the United States of America has finally recognized Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf as the next president of Liberia.
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Bryant, Tubman Playing Peacemaker Between Weah, Ellen

November 25, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

According to reports, the chairman’s called meeting was set to be held at the Executive Mansion, but sources told the Frontpageafrica that the Friday meeting was “abruptly called off” when Weah rejected the venue and refused to attend the meeting on ground that he was not going to the Mansion.
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Weah’s CDC Chairman, Cole Bangalu in Hiding, Says He Fears for His Life

November 25, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

The man who led the grassroot campaign for George Weah’s presidential bid, Cole Bangalu, has apparently fallen out of favor with Weah. FrontPageAfrica has learned that Cole Bangalu is fearing for his life and has reportedly gone into hiding.
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14,000 ‘Slaves’ Seek Relief

November 25, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Now a lawsuit that is filed by the International Labor Rights Fund (ILRF), represented by a panel of six counsels is demanding “injunctive relief, compensatory and punitive damages, and disgorgement of all profits”. But the question on the lips of many is, “Can a US court provide such relief for black Africans against US private corporate interest, a major tax earner?”
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President-elect Sirleaf offers olive branch to rival

November 24, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

MONROVIA, 24 November (IRIN) - Liberia's president-elect Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has congratulated her challenger, soccer legend George Weah, for an "impressive showing," ignoring his charges of electoral fraud and promising to head an inclusive post-war government.
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Kudos for Ellen: What Leaders from Around the World Are Saying

November 24, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

Best wishes have been pouring in for Africa’s first woman president. From Africa to Europe and the exception of America, leaders are hailing the victory of Liberia’s Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf a watershed for African women.
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Liberian leader 'to boost women'

November 24, 2005 - BBC

Liberia's president-elect has pledged to make women across the world "proud", after becoming Africa's first elected female head of state.
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French President, Chirac, Leads World Recognition of New Liberian President

President Jaque Chirac of France

November 23, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

International commendations have begun pouring in for Africa’s first woman president in Liberia’s Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf on a day when the National Elections Commission certified the results of the Nov. 5 run-off elections. The NEC declared 59.4 percent of the vote for the Unity Party standard bearer to 40.6 percent for her rival George Weah of the Congress for Democratic Change.
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Challenges for Liberia's leader

November 23, 2005 - BBC

BBC World Affairs correspondent Mark Doyle, who was in Liberia for the post-war United Nations-backed elections, gives this analysis of the difficulties ahead for Africa's first elected woman president
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Madam President, Welcome

November 23, 2005 - Accra Mail (GHANA)

We are very happy that the Liberian Electoral Commission has confirmed Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf as the winner of the Liberian elections.
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Kromah Threatens Up Partisans

November 23, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

Defeated presidential candidate, Alhaji Kromah has warned that celebrations by Unity Party supporters over today's declaration of the party as the winner of the November 8 election could lead to chaos
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News Analysis: U.S., EU Yet To Recognize Liberia’s New President

November 23, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

The National Elections Commission today certified Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf as Liberia’s new president. Her rival George Weah’s Congress for Democratic Change has shown no sign of backing down in its quest to prove that the process was tainted by fraud, ballot stuffing and other irregularities.
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Ellen 'Skeleton Team' to Begin Work Immediately

November 23, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

President-elect Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is said to have declared she would begin work without delay following her certification as Liberia’s 23rd president by the national elections commission Wednesday.
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Can the President-elect Break Liberia’s Embedded Patronage Networks, Which Threatens Good Governance & Prosperity?

November 23, 2005 - The Liberian Times (Monrovia)

Who would have expected such good feeling in a country whose name has for a generation been a synonym for evil, ruthlessness and hopelessness? But, the freeness, fairness and peacefulness with wish the October 11th elections and the November 8th run-off election were conducted, demonstrated the will-power, determination and healing power of the Liberian people.
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"Iron Lady' named Liberian Leader

President-Elect Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf of Liberia

November 23, 2005 - BBC

Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has been declared the winner of Liberia's presidential poll, making her Africa's first elected female head of state.
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Moving Liberian Youth From At-Risk To Promise And Hope

By Emmanuel Dolo, Ph.D.

November 22, 2005 - The Perspective

As the title suggests, my aim is to discuss the elusive subject of chronic poor social development among Liberian youth. I first offer introductory remarks and raise some questions for setting the context of the discussion. The ultimate goal here is to orient readers to the subject of youth development in nations recovering from war.
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Tussle Over LIMINCO Leaves Many Wounded

November 22, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

The commercial port city of Buchanan in Grand Bassa County has been the scene of lawlessness for the past few days as the Mittal Steel Limited and C.S. (Liberia) International Investment Group Company Limited engaged each other in fierce fighting, counter-claiming ownership of the facilities of the Liberia Mining Corporation (LIMINCO) in Buchanan
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Weah Does Not Concede?

November 22, 2005 - FrontPageAfrica (Monrovia)

So frontpageafrica decided to examine the implications for the country, Johnson-Sirleaf and Manneh Weah in the event that he decided to repeat history and not concede.
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Attacks Against Journalists Regretted - CDC

November 22, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

Former presidential aspirant George Weah's Congress for Democratic Change has acknowledged wrongdoings to the Press Union of Liberia particularly its members that supporters of the party brutalized at its headquarters during and after the November 8 run-off election.
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NEC Declares Ellen 23rd President Tomorrow

November 22, 2005 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Wednesday, November 23, 2005, will certainly be a day to remember in Liberia and Africa as the National Elections Commission (NEC) is expected to formally declare Mrs. Ellen Johnson- Sirleaf, Standard Bearer of the Unity Party as winner of November 8, 2005 runoff presidential election.
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USAID Boss Grades Run-off Election, Says It's Free, Fair & Transparent

November 22, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Country Director of USAID in Liberia, Dr. Wilbor Thomas, speaking at a launch of 8 months agriculture training program by the Foundation of African Development Aid (ADA) over the weekend at the Paynesville City Hall, said the result the November 8 election reflects the will of the Liberian people, and was free, fair and transparent.
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CDC Witness Testifies From 'Hearsay' NEC Counsels Tell Hearing

November 22, 2005 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Lawyers for the National Elections Commission (NEC) have told a hearing that the sixth witness of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Sam Macramadam, did not testify from his personal knowledge, instead his testimonies were based on hearsay.
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Liberian anger as MPs keep jeeps

November 22, 2005 - BBC

Liberia's outgoing MPs have rejected criticism of their decision, in a vote, to keep their official Cherokee jeeps when they leave office.
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Farce Or Hi-Jack?

November 21, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

The Liberian people, and for that matter the entire world, had hoped that a least one week after the November run-off the country would not only be rejoicing but the new government would be setting in motion its program for national recovery, reconciliation and development.
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Ellen Seeks Corruption-Free Officials

November 21, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

Anybody who will work for the government will have to abide by that code of conduct," she told reporters Saturday in the village of Korma, her ancestral home, over 15 kilometers northwest of Monrovia, where she had traveled to thank the people "for standing behind me" in her quest for the presidency.
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Self-Interest Vs Public Good

November 21, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

When the bush war to remove the Government of President Charles Taylor, as it were with President Doe before him, was launched many ordinary Liberians argued that that was not the way to go. They opted for a reconciliation meeting where the nation would simply be called to forgiveness, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
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Burden of Proof Lies With Accuser, NEC Boss Says

November 16, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), at the end of the November 8 run-off election accused the NEC poll workers of engaging in fraudulent acts on Election Day. The CDC also accused NEC Chairperson of making statements that they believed undermined the integrity and the ability of the CDC Standard-bearer Ambassador George Manneh Weah, and therefore tilted the votes in favor of CDC opponent in the contest.
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Amb. George Manneh Weah's Nationwide Address On Alleged Election Irregularities

November 16, 2005 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

There is no doubt that the run-off election was rigged. There mere fact that we have in our possession more than thirty ballots, pre-marked for the Unity Party, forcibly taken from election officers at the polls on Election Day, and exhibited to all Liberians through both the print and electronic media are strong evidence that the run-off election was rigged
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Please Do The Honorable Thing, Weah

November 16, 2005 - The Perspective

Weah and his supporters did not complain during the first round when they led. Virtually all the opposition (including the reluctant Brumskine) accepted the results. Now, the same Elections Commission which was praised highly by the international and national elections observers is being vilified.
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NEC’s Defies CDC, Announces Final Tally - Ellen Sirleaf, 59.4%; Weah, 40.6 %

November 15, 2005 -FrontpageAfrica.com

Monrovia-Despite threats from supporters of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) to paralyze the country if the National Elections Commission (NEC) announces the final preliminary results of the run-off elections Tuesday, the Chairman of the NEC today announced the final results
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Warning over Liberia poll results

November 15, 2005 - BBC

The party of Liberian football star George Weah has warned the elections commission not to declare a winner in last week's presidential run-off
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In the Cause of the People:" Criminal Charges Hang Over George Weah?

November 14, 2005 - The Perspective

The news from Liberia after the November 8 run-off election between Weah and Sirleaf is very worrisome and I kindly ask Mr. Weah to give peace a chance by accepting the results which had been described as free, fair and transparent by observers.
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"In the Cause of the People:" Liberian Voters Plainly Reject the "Congo-Country" Divide

November 14, 2005 - The Perspective

The result of the November 8, 2005 Liberian run-off election strongly indicates that the voters' choice of Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf was made undeniably "in the cause of the people." Voters from across Liberia’s diverse cultural landscape spurned the temptation to select a candidate based solely on his or her ethnicity, or in other words, they refused to choose someone because he or she was entirely "
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The President’s Burden #1

November 14, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Liberian presidency over the last half century conjures up images of superior presidency and all the power trappings that can be mustered by ‘monarchic democracy’, of socio-economic affluence amongst the ruling elites that ignored creeping mass poverty and illiteracy, of presidential yachts, and of wasteful state banquets that played the ‘love of people’ refrains.
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Weah’s Concession Imminent

November 13, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

It took some persuasions from U.S. ambassador Donald Booth and some notable world leaders, but it’s only a matter of time before George Weah finally throws in the towel and concede to his run-off rival, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.
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African leaders hail Liberia poll

Ellen ready to change Liberia..

November 13, 2005 - BBC

Seven powerful African leaders have hailed Liberia's election as free and fair and urged anyone unhappy with the result to avoid resorting to violence.
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George Weah Must Act Honorably, Accept the Election Result

November 12, 2005 - LIMANY EDITORIAL

After months of campaign by various candidates for the leadership of the country, we have now reached the end that will crown the over all winner
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Liberia leader faces tough challenges

November 12, 2005 - BBC

The woman who looks set to be the next president of Liberia, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, says accusations of vote-rigging from her opponent, the former footballer George Weah, are absurd. Mark Doyle, who's been reporting on Liberian affairs since the country's civil war in the 1990s, is back there watching the democratic process unfold.
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Liberia tense as Weah urges calm

November 11, 2005- BBC

Hundreds of supporters of Liberian presidential candidate and football star George Weah have staged a rally in Monrovia, claiming electoral fraud.
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'Iron lady' leads in Liberia poll

Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf in the lead

November 10, 2005- BBC

Liberian presidential candidate Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf leads against George Weah with 80% of the votes counted
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CDC Alleges Fraud

November 10, 2005- The Analyst (Monrovia)

The National Elections Commission (NEC) has begun giving results of the run-off presidential election, but the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has alleged that the process was not free, fair and transparent after all.
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Dissent in the Air As Ellen's UP Appears Strong in Bassa, Nimba

November 9, 2005- FrontpageAfrica.com

If the early samplings of Liberia's run-off elections are anything to go by, Unity Party standard bearer, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf may claim victories in the two key counties that may decide who resides in Liberia's executive mansion.
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Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf: Looking Strong in Early Results

November 9, 2005- The Perspective

Liberians voted quietly yesterday in the runoff election in a bid to choose a leader who will resurrect the country after 14 years of brutal civil conflict that destroyed this West African country. Turnout was not as good as in the October 11 elections.
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Run-Off Election in Monrovia Well Organized

November 8, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

The Day is finally here. This is it. One would be surprised. The voting process around Monrovia is as smooth and orderly as possible.
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An Examination of an Assumed Rift: The Educated Versus Uneducated Liberians

By Dr. Emmanuel Dolo

November 7, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com

Over the years and most recently, during the elections season, Liberians have demonstrated significant difficulties in talking honestly about the social divisions that exist among us. The debate has become vague, hollow, and even indignant, and mounted tensions on all sides. We have put our sense of national community at immense risk and caused individuals and groups unnecessary excruciating pain.
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Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is the Best Choice

By Miamen Z.Z. Wopea

November 7, 2005- UNICCO Digest

The Liberian election is a test to all Liberians. It comes to test the many human traits that influence our behaviors and actions; our thought process, the equation of personal interest to national interest, and the degree to which we each put national interest above both personal and sectional interests.
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LIBERIA: Race on to educate voters ahead of presidential run-off

November 4, 2005 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 4 Nov 2005 (IRIN) - Town criers are walking miles from village to village, and residents are being bombarded with banners and stickers urging them to vote in Liberia's presidential run-off, as officials step up their education efforts four days before the crunch ballot.
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Presidential Debate Must Be Held (Editorial)

November 4, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

LONG BEFORE CAMPAIGNING for Elections 2005 began, before the National Elections Commission has time to formally enlist eligible voters and give them pep-talks on civic and election procedures and vet and qualify candidates for the various public offices, and before any candidate in the race
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George Weah Threatens Jounalists

November 4, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

Presidential aspirant George Weah of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) told a political rally in Nimba County Tuesday night that as president journalists "who are writing negatively" against him would pay dearly with their lives.
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George Weah: Liberia's new captain?

November 3, 2005 - BBC

George Weah, 39, is widely acclaimed as Africa's greatest ever footballer after being crowned World Player of the year in 1995.
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Illiteracy in Liberia: an Effective Political Weapon Yet Costly Socio-Political Problem

November 3, 2005 - FrontpageAfrica.com (Monrovia)

The root cause of illiteracy in Liberia and its attendant complex political problems, which have haunted the country even to this day, can be better understood through the examination of Liberia's political history.
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George Weah Linked To Rebels Group MODEL By Two Lone Star Players

November 2, 2005 - The Perspective

It has been revealed that George Weah, a flag-bearer of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) and one of the two presidential candidates in the November 8 run off election, is a supporter of the disbanded rebel group-Movement for democracy in Liberia (MODEL). But Mr. Weah has vehemently reacted to the allegations, saying that all are propaganda against him, and should not be taken for granted.
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George Weah Pulls Out Of Political Debate, Disappoints Thousands of Liberians

November 2, 2005 - The Perspective

The much awaited and final round of a live presidential debate between the two frontrunners in the first round of Liberia’s post-war elections, Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and Sports Ambassador George We has been abruptly put off by the organizers –
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CDC Grapples With Ganta

November 2, 2005 - Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

Eyewitnesses at the parade said Senator-elect Johnson hit the young man with his red sport utility vehicle, then emerged from the vehicle and proceeded to assault the man with repeated blows to the face and upper body.
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'Tight Campaign' Schedule Leaves No Room for Debate - Weah

November 2, 2005 - Allafrica.com

The standard bearer of the Coalition for Democratic Change, George Manneh Oppong Weah has said he will not be sittting down to debate his rival, Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf in the run-off battle for the presidency of Liberia.
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Why the E.U. Concept of Development in Liberia is Dangerous?

November 2, 2005 - The Perspective

LThe economic history of nations, developed and now emerging economies in Asia such as South Korea and the new economic superpower, China and even Botswana in Africa, shows that such vibrant economies were never built solely by foreigners but through true patriotic and nationalist leaderships of those countries.
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Liberians Must Choose Unity Over Division

November 2, 2005 - The Perspective

Liberia’s political landscape is again fearfully gearing for self-destruction in spite of the current deplorable condition of the country and the polarization of tribal groups, if it is true that Mr. Weah, with the advice of his political strategists, has promised to “wipe the tears of Grand Gedeans”
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Let’s Read the Writing on the Wall - Editorial (FORUM)

November 2, 2005 - The Perspective

THE RUN-OFF election which is expected to introduce the war weary people of Liberia to a new day and a new political dispensation regarding vibrant democracy and emancipation from the state of poverty, ignorance and disease among other national destructive vices takes place on November 8 with
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Sectarian Politics: Its Danger to Our Fledging Democracy

November 2, 2005 - The Perspective

Liberia is today going through new political dispensation as the people continue to demonstrate their democratic rights in electing their leaders in the ongoing election. But be as it may there appears to be political venom: Congo-native sentiment that is rearing its ugly head in our political landscape by certain politicians.
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Prominent Nimbaians Support Ellen, Say She's Qualified to Rescue Liberia

November 1, 2005 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

As the date for the runoff presidential election in the country closes in, the Standard Bearer of the Unity Party (UP) Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf continues to receive boost to her presidential bid as several prominent citizens of Nimba County pledged their unconditional and unequivocal support to her
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Charles Julu Breaks Silence

Posted on November 1, 2005

October 31, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

It has been almost six months since the candidate officially threw her hat into the ring for the Liberian presidency. And for six months she has been viewed from afar, mainly from the distance of the mix and calibre of Liberians (young and old, educated and uneducated) that follow her wherever she goes, from the distance of what she brings from history to guard and guide the present, from the distance of what critics say,
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Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, The Candidate At The Verge Of Making History

November 1, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

It has been almost six months since the candidate officially threw her hat into the ring for the Liberian presidency. And for six months she has been viewed from afar, mainly from the distance of the mix and calibre of Liberians (young and old, educated and uneducated) that follow her wherever she goes, from the distance of what she brings from history to guard and guide the present, from the distance of what critics say,
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Unity Party Says Weah Unwilling to Debate Sirleaf in Liberia's Presidential Runoff

November 1, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Unity Party says it has been informed by the International Republican Institute and the National Democratic Institute that they were canceling the November 3rd Presidential Debate because the CDC Presidential Candidate, Mr. George Weah, has failed to respond to their invitation.
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Meet The Runoff 2005 Candidates

October 31, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

This is George Manner Weah. The 39-year-old former soccer laureate who left indelible marks in the world-class game and moved on to cast light on the humanitarian landscape through the United Nations as Goodwill Ambassador, entered the quest for the Liberian presidency as the greenhorn underdog.
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Grand Gedeans Deny Media Reports

October 28, 2005 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

We want to note that that the information provided and the analysis made by telegraph and new democrat are erroneous without truth, designed to tarnish the good reputation of the people of Grand Gedeh County, and set them against the Liberian society. This kind of press propaganda has the propensity to further encourage confusion in Liberia.
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Ellen Promises to Seek Funds for Reconstruction

October 28, 2005 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

I have worked at the United Nations and the World Bank at senior levels. I have contacts at these institutions. When I'm elected, I will use my contacts at these places to get the needed assistance for the reconstruction of Liberia," Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf said.
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Ivory Coast recruiting Liberians

October 28, 2005 - BBC

The government of Ivory Coast is recruiting Liberians into its armed forces, says the international pressure group Human Rights Watch
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Armed Men Chase Former Candidate

October 28, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

A group of masked men reportedly drove to the Barnesville home of disqualified presidential candidate Marcus Roland Jones on Monday apparently to kill him, he told reporters Monday.
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Ellen Invites Weah To A Debate
Party

October 28, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

When it became apparent that there would not be an outright winner in the October 11, 2005 polls, many political analysts settled with the conjecture that political elitists would cast their support to Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf’s Unity Party while little known political weaklings throw their weights behind George Manneh Weah’s Congress for Democratic Change (CDC).
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Liberia Cannot Afford On-the-job Training For Its President: Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Should Be Elected

October 27, 2005 - The Perspective

Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf should be elected the next President of Liberia; it is the right thing to do. In addition, it is the logical, reasonable, and long-view thing to do.
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We Remain Resolute (Editorial)

October 26, 2005 - The Perspective

DETRACTOR OF PRESS freedom as well as others who are enemies the emergence of democracy of purpose, especially at this time when the Liberian nation was finding every possible outlet to stand again elected to threaten our staff upon the publication of our last week’s edition under the banner headline: Secret Hands Behind Weah’s Presidency: -George Dweh Eyes Defense, Julu Returns Soon.
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Women Organization Expresses Concern Over Inter-Tribal Politics

October 26, 2005 - The Perspective

One of the women organizations operating in the country has expressed serious concern over what appears to be “inter-tribal politics” creeping in the face of the run-off elections.
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Forum Blacklisted

October 26, 2005 - The Perspective

The FORUM newspaper has been blacklisted by affiliates and sympathizers of Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) for critically reporting on issues concerning the party.
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Forum Replies New Broom

October 26, 2005 - The Perspective

The FORUM newspaper has described the 9 October 2005 story published in the error-packed New Broom newspaper captioned: “Ellen Secret Media Meeting Exposed,” of which the paper mentioned that Madam Sirleaf met with certain media heads including The FORUM Managing Editor, Augustus Fallah at the Urban Hotel, and Mrs. Sirleaf reportedly gave each media head US$300 to write “hit messages” against George Weah of CDC as a figment of imagination on the part of the paper staff.
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Terrible Days Ahead!
- Is Tomorrow Safe for journalists?

October 26, 2005 - The Perspective

Tomorrow which is expected to glitter with press freedom, freedom of speech as well as all essential elements of democracy may drag under the dust of bad governance with dictatorship its coefficient if present trend to muzzle the press, intimidate media practitioners by officials of certain political party and the negative interpretation of stories in local
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Leave Nimba Alone”
Says Nimba County Rep. Elect

October 24, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

We note with grave concern a common opinion in Monrovia, which is shifting the emphasis of the run-off elections from a National decision to that of a Nimba-Grand Gedeh duel, with the insinuation that Nimba will make the decision on November 8, 2005
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Gedeans Dismiss Claims of Ulterior Motives in Supporting Weah

October 24, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

Some Grand Gedeans have termed as "political propaganda", totally "baseless, misleading, unfounded, ill intended, fallacious and purely diabolical in nature" reports that massive support for George Weah in their county was done for any "empowerment" the footballer may have promised
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Liberians Prepare for Run-off Race

October 24, 2005 - AllAfrica.com

With final results from Liberia's presidential and legislative elections scheduled for release on October 26, the country is preparing for a second round to choose between the two top vote getters in the presidential race, which included 22 contenders.
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LIBERIA: Figures from country’s violent past cruising to legislative posts

October 24, 2005 - IRIN NEWS

MONROVIA, 24 Oct 2005 (IRIN) - Ex-combatants accused of grisly war crimes could soon be answering to “Honorable Member,” after Liberians voted overwhelmingly to hand them seats in the country’s new parliament.
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LIBERIA: Figures from country’s violent past cruising to legislative posts

October 21, 2005 - IRIN NEWS

MONROVIA, 21 Oct 2005 (IRIN) - Ex-combatants accused of grisly war crimes could soon be answering to “Honorable Member,” after Liberians voted overwhelmingly to hand them seats in the country’s new parliament.
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Ellen Opposes War Crime Tribunal, Says No to 'Witch Hunting'

October 21, 2005 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Unity Party (UP) Standard-bearer and one of the two contenders in the November 8, 2005 run-off presidential election, Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has begun speaking on issues regarding the safety and security of ex-combatants and their masters under her regime if elected president of Liberia.
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Ellen Opposes War Crime Tribunal, Says No to 'Witch Hunting'

October 21, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

In the wake of calls for the establishment of a War Crime Tribunal to prosecute individuals for their wrong doings during the war, the Standard Bearer of Unity Party, Mrs. Ellen Johnson- Sirleaf says if elected, her government would not prosecute young people that participated in the war.
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Death Threats!

October 21, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The National Transitional Government of Liberia (NTGL), born some two years ago in Accra, Ghana, and imported to Monrovia, as a solution to a ruinous national upheaval, is lying on its deathbed in the aftermath of the conclusion of the transitional period with the ongoing electioneering activities.
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Weah's Magic Whip For Gedeh

October 19, 2005 - Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

With 98 percent of votes cast in the October 11 Liberian elections already counted, no doubt, footballer George Weah leads the field of presidential contestants. Since slightly trailing a rival contestant on the first day results were announced, the former A.C. Milan player has gone on to lead in a fashion that was not likely to change.
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George Dweh Warns Against Tribal Politics

October 19, 2005 - Analyst (Monrovia)

Suspended Speaker of the National Transitional Legislative Assembly (NTLA), Hon. George S. Dweh has warned against the use of tribal affiliation in the coming national political campaign for the run-off elections.
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Over 2000 Mandingo Refugees Attack

October 18, 2005 - Analyst (Monrovia)

In Nimba County, over 2000 Mandingo refugees attack by men believed to be ex-combatants of former Government of Liberia (GOL). According to report, the 2000 Mandingo refugees crossed from Guinea in order to vote in their respective districts.
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Elite vs. Grass Root-What will happen if there is a second round?

October 17, 2005 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

With Ellen Sirleaf’s Unity Party dragging far behind George Weah’s CDC in the vote count, Ellen only hope now is to fervently pray for a second round, at least, that seem to be the only chance for the Unity Party Standard Bearer.
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90% Down, 10 To Go
Front-Runner Still 20% Plus Behind -Legislators Already Showing Up

October 17, 2005 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Those who were pushed by crowd politics to the conclusion that the election of the next president would be a bread-and-butter issue are now adjusting their thoughts and possibly preparing for conjectures on how alliances for a run-off election will be formed
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Weah Still Leads, Ellen, Brumskine Consistent, Sherman Appears

October 14, 2005 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

Latest preliminary progressive elections results released last night by the National Elections Commission shows the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) presidential candidate, George Manneh Weah maintaining his lead.
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Bumpy Road To Capitol Hill

October 14, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The 1997 proportional representation election was all bread and butter: votes easy to cast and returns easy to tally and announce.
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Slow Election Results in Liberia Cause Confusion

October 13, 2005 -VOA

The slow release of official results from Liberia's post-war election this week is causing confusion. In the presidential race, former soccer star George Weah is leading, but with a crowded field splitting votes, it appears there might have to be a run-off between him and the second-place finisher.
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October 13, 2005 - BBC

Official results are slowly trickling in from Liberia's historic elections on Tuesday following the 14-year civil war which ended in 2003.
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Election Results

October 12, 2005 - Elections Comission (Monrovia)

Please find below the latest progressive results. Approximately three updates per day are expected until the tally is complete. Please click here if you think you are not seeing the latest figures. Note that all results are preliminary until certified as final by the National Elections Commission.
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October 12, 2005 - BBC

Preliminary results are expected this evening in Liberia's first polls since a 14-year civil war ended in 2003.
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Counting begins in Liberia poll

October 12, 2005 - BBC

Counting is under way across Liberia following voting in the first national elections since the end of the 14-year civil war in 2003.
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Peaceful Campaign Ends in Liberia

October 11, 2005 - The Perspective

For a country that has just emerged out of one of the deadliest civil wars in Africa modern history, Liberia has managed to conduct a surprisingly peaceful campaign leading to presidential and legislative elections scheduled for October 11, 2005.
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Liberia Decides Its Future Today

October 11, 2005 - The Perspective

After fifteen years of senseless civil conflict that slaughtered over 250,000 hapless people in this West African country, elections are underway in Liberia. There is a heavy turnout! Some people claimed to have even slept at the polling centers just to have a shot at being the first to vote at their respective centers in these crucial elections.
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APAD HOLDS DIALOGUE WITH SPEAKER GEORGE KOUKOU AND HONORABLE JUAH OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF LIBERIA

By Clarence Gono

October 11, 2005- UNICCO Digest

LAPAD, having perceived this view with much interest, was able to catch up with two key Liberia’s transitional government officials who were in the United States of America recently to attend a United Nations conference.
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LIBERIA: Voters queue for hours to make history in first post-war polls

October 11, 2005 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 11 Oct 2005 (IRIN) - Liberians braved long hours in the scorching sun and the pouring rain on Tuesday to have their say in elections they hope will cement peace and reduce poverty in this West African nation, ravaged for years by civil war.
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Liberians queue for historic vote

October 11, 2005 - BBC

A high turnout is predicted as voters in the West African state of Liberia queue to cast their ballots in historic polls to choose a president and MPs.
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Liberians Show Out for Historic Elections

October 11, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

MONROVIA, 11 Oct 2005 -- Liberians turned out en masse today to vote in what some have called the country's first truly democratic elections since the end of the 14-year.
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Ellen Gets ‘Massive’ American Endorsement

October 10, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

United States Congresswoman Diane Watson of California, who is also a member of the House Subcommittee on Africa, has praised Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf for “running on a reform and anti-corruption agenda and said that Mrs. Sirleaf “as been a champion of human rights and women rights for a long time.”
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Who Goes to the Mansion?

October 10, 2005 - The Liberian Observer (Monrovia)

MONROVIA, 10 Oct 2005 -- An estimated 1.3 million registered voters (out of a population of 3.5 million) will queue up to choose a president and a vice president from 22 candidates and 762 legislative candidates. More than 500 candidates are vying for 64 parliamentary seats, and about 200 for 30 senate seats.
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From Disqualified Football Candidate to Commander-In-Chief: Will Liberians Clap For This, Too?

October 10, 2005 - The Perspective

Mr. Gabriel Baccus Matthews is on record for saying that Liberia is what it is because “Liberians are people who clap for anything that is given them.” Mr. Matthews substantiated his claim by drawing attention to the arrest and detention of the late Ambassador Henry Fahnbulleh by the late President William V.S. Tubman on treason charges
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Extra Ballots Are Risk

October 10, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Director of the Liberia Democracy Watch (LDW), Cllr. Jerome Verdier has raised alarm against the printing of 700,000 extra ballots by the National Elections Commission (NEC), and says that printing of the extra ballots “runs the risk of playing into the myriad election-related conspiracy theories currently afoot”.
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LIBERIA: Observers give election preparations the thumbs-up

October 10, 2005 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 10 Oct 2005 (IRIN) - With just one day to go, international observers said on Monday they were pleased with preparations for Liberia’s first polls since the end of a devastating civil war.
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LIBERIA: Generation of war-scarred youths yearn to turn the page with polls

October 10, 2005 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 10 Oct 2005 (IRIN) - Mohamed Dukuly was grabbed on his way home from school, and flown to the frontline to fight, still wearing his uniform.
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Crucial Test As Voters Choose From a Field of 22 Candidate

October 7, 2005 - The Nation (Kenya)

Barring a last minute hitch, the October 11 poll in Liberia will present a crucial test for its citizens to right the wrongs of the past, which culminated in 14 years of unimaginable brutality.They will choose from 22 presidential hopefuls, a crowded field by any standards, who include recycled politicians, political novices and former warlords.
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Girl power takes centre stage as elections near

October 7, 2005 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 7 Oct 2005 (IRIN) - Liberia's first polls after 14 years of bloody civil war might see a woman elected president, in what would be a first not only for Liberia but also for Africa.
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Can George Weah Score On the Political Pitch As Well?

October 7, 2005 - The Nation (Kenya)

The same winning streak that made Weah a star on the soccer pitch is making him the man to beat at the elections. A star is a star is a star. George "Opong"Weah (pronounced wear), one of Africa's best known footballers and the 1985 World Footballer of the Year, is starring on another pitch.
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Former Pres. Blah Gets Doctoral Degree

October 6, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Former President Moses Blah during the week received a doctoral degree in management from the American University upon the recommendation of the faculty at Aurora in Colorado in the United States. The degree was conferred upon the former president through the Liberian Ambassador in the US directly after the commencement day.
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LIBERIA: Polls get go-ahead for 11 October after mediator ends legal spa

October 6, 2005 - IRIN

MONROVIA, 6 Oct 2005 (IRIN) - Liberia’s first elections since the end of civil war will take place as planned on 11 October after three barred candidates abandoned the fight to have their names belatedly put on the ballot papers, a top mediator has said.
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Liberian poll: The main contenders

October 5, 2005 - BBC

Liberia's 2005 presidential elections have attracted 22 candidates vying for the country's highest office. The BBC's Jonathan Paye-Layleh in Monrovia takes a glimpse at the six candidates who opinion polls have indicated are the most likely winners
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There is No reason for us to be poor,” says Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

October 5, 2005 - The Perspective

The Standard Bearer of Unity Party, Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf accorded an exclusive to the German Television station ARD at her residence on Sunday, October 2, 2005. Mrs. Sirleaf touched on a number of subjects and we have transcribed her answers to the questions posed to her by the German television crew.
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Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Continues to Exploit Nimba’s Children-General Thomas Quiwonkpa’s youngest son exploited by Ellen!

October 5, 2005 - Liberian Times

Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and Mr. Harry Yuan’s recent political maneuver in which Mr. Yuan coerced Jleteh Quiwonkpa, the youngest son of General Quiwonkpa, to pledge the Quiwonkpa family’s support to Mrs. Johnson-Sirleaf presidential ambition is once again an indication of how far Mrs. Johnson-Sirleaf and Mr. Yuan would go to achieve their political objectives.
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King George" courts the poor in Liberia poll race

October 5, 2005 - Reuters

HARPER, Liberia, Oct 5 (Reuters) - His supporters call him "King George", but Liberia's soccer millionaire and presidential hopeful George Weah is courting poor Liberians in his bid to win an election scheduled for next week.
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What does George Weah Have to Offer?

October 5, 2005 - Liberian Times

Recently there have been several articles published on-line in regards to the qualification of George Weah as a Presidential aspirant in the forth-coming Liberian Presidential elections. Mr.
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Liberian polls to go ahead on Oct 11 - US diplomat

October 5, 2005 - Reuters

A high-powered delegation from the Economic Community of West African States is due in the country this week to consult with stakeholders in the Liberian peace process
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ECOWAS Heavyweights Due

October 5, 2005 - The Liberian Obsever

A high-powered delegation from the Economic Community of West African States is due in the country this week to consult with stakeholders in the Liberian peace process
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ECOWAS Seeks Solution to Supreme Court's Ruling

October 3, 2005 - The Liberian Obsever

The two independent presidential candidates rejected from participation in next months' election are in Abuja, Nigeria, at the invitation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS
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Nimba Rolls Out Red Carpet for Ellen

October 3, 2005 - The Liberian Obsever

The Unity Party's first partisan, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, last month took a weeklong campaign tour of Nimba County, where she visited a number of towns and villages. These included the homes of the late Sam Dokie and his family, Jackson F. Doe and Gen. Thomas Quiwonkpa.
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Mittal Steel Acquires 36% of Chinese Steel Co.

October 3, 2005 - The Inquirer, (Monrovia)

Mittal Steel says it has received final approval relating to its acquisition of 36.67% of Hunan Valin Steel Tube & Wire Company for a total consideration of US$338 million.
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Prince Johnson Defends War Records

September 30, 2005 - The Liberian Obsever

Former warlord Prince Johnson, who is seeking a mandate from the people of Nimba County to serve as one of their senators in next month's general elections, has been defending his wartime records.
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Heartman, Bo-yo: The Ignorance Base Of This Criminal Ritual

September 30, 2005 - The Perspective

In Monrovia and thereabout, he is called the “Heartman”; Bo-yo”, is what he is also known as in Maryland County. But throughout Liberia, we know him as the one who kills for human body parts purportedly used in sacrifice. The sacrifice is for any of an array of selfish desires, notorious among them, sacrifice for government positions.
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Life for S Africa lion murderer

September 30, 2005 - BBC

A South African man convicted of murdering a man whose remains were found in a lion enclosure has been sentenced to life in prison.
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Focus shifts to Liberia's recovery

September 29, 2005 - BBC

With the Liberian election on 11 October being the first since the civil war ended, the focus is shifting to the challenges facing the new rulers.
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NTLA Members Still Campaigning

September 29, 2005 - The NEWS (Monrovia)

Several members of the National Transitional Legislative Assembly (NTLA) have reportedly abandoned their regular legislative functions to focus on their respective campaigns aimed at retaining themselves at the Capitol after the October 11, 2005 Presidential and Legislative Elections.
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NEC Comes Under Pressure for Printing Excess Ballots

September 29, 2005 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Several civil society organizations and political institutions have criticized the decision of the National Elections Commission (NEC) to print more than 700,000 extra ballots for the ensuing presidential and legislative elections
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NTGL Must Honor Its Rental Obligation

September 29, 2005 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

When the pages of history are written on post war Liberia, former actors in the two-year transitional government would brag that they did not leave any public debt behind. Certainly such claim would be a total fallacy and an erroneous make belief as there are glaring indications that the NTGL is very inept when it comes to settling its rental obligations to individuals and institutions whose properties it continues to occupy.
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Twenty-Two Candidates On the Rush For The Presidency

September 29, 2005 - The Perspective

In less than three consecutive weeks from now, Liberia’s eligible voters of 1.3 million people will be deciding their country’s and children’s future through what is expected to be an internationally supervised free, fair and transparent democratic elections having sailed through fourteen years of bloody civil war that destroyed ten of thousands of innocent lives and led hundred of thousands into displaced camps and foreign lands.
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Ellen Receives Massive Support in Nimba

September 29, 2005 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

Reports have it that the Standard Bearer of Unity Party, Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is receiving mammoth and enthusiastic welcome from partisans, supporters and thousands of well-wishers in that county.
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Executive Mansion Not Warlords' Paradise - Journalist Speaks

September 29, 2005 -The NEWS (Monrovia)

As Liberians approach the Presidential and Legislative Elections shortly, a Liberian journalist based in the United States has indicated that the nation is not prepared to transform the Executive Mansion into warlords' paradise or a classroom to teach the incoming president of Liberia.
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Brumskine Has His Day in Monrovia

September 28, 2005 -The Perspective

Wearing A T-shirt and surrounded by thousands of supporters, former senator Charles W. Brumskine made his entrance into an Antoinette Tubman Stadium (ATS) filled to capacity, almost in chorus, scanting his name and waving under the scorching September sun.
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Liberia Has Abundant Wealth to Sustain Itself

September 28, 2005 -The NEWS (Monrovia)


The Head of Delegation of the European Commission in Abidjan, Ambassador Friedrich Nagel says he feels embarrassed to support Liberia amidst the country's abundant wealth to sustain itself.
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LIBERIA: "We're being ignored", say voters outside the capital

September 28, 2005 - IRIN NEWS

GBARNGA, 28 Sep 2005 (IRIN) - Liberians living outside the capital are complaining about being neglected by presidential candidates, bent on pouring resources into capturing the Monrovia vote but making only fly-by-night visits to the rest of the country.
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LIBERIA: Court rulings may affect elections date, officials say

September 28, 2005 - IRIN NEWS

MONROVIA, 28 Sep 2005 (IRIN) - Liberia's first elections since the end of its civil war have been thrown into doubt by rulings from the Supreme Court, UN and election officials said on Wednesday.
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“Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Lacks the Credibility to Lead Liberia”, says Mrs. Tarloh Munah Quiwonkpa

September 29, 2005 - The Perspective

Mrs. Tarloh Munah Quiwonkpa, the widow of General Thomas Quiwonkpa says that “Mrs. Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf needs to step up to the plate and level with the Liberian people about her role in the 1985 abortive coup” that left hundreds of Liberians dead including her husband. Mrs. Quiwonkpa made the statement recently in a telephone interview with The Perspective
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Mittal Steel Repairs Highway

September 26, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Management of Mittal Steel has announced that repair work on the Ganta-Sanniquelle Highway would commence shortly. Mittal Steel is multinational conglomeration of companies with specialty in steel manufacturing that spans 14 countries around the world.
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Chinese Govt Pledges Commitment - LIBA Prexy Discloses

September 23, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The LIBA boss said the Chinese government’s invitation of 12 African countries including Liberia is intended to promote Chinese and African trade.
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I Will Eradicate Illiteracy
Weah Promises Liberians

September 23, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

The Standard Bearer of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) Ambassador George Oppong Weah says he will completely eradicate illiteracy in the Liberian Society should he be elected as president of Liberia.
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Ethiopians flee from killer lions

September 21, 2005 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

At least 1,000 Ethiopian farmers have fled their homes after 20 people were killed in a month of attacks by killer lions, a local official says.
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September 19, 2005 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The writing of the history of the nation can hardly be completed without mention of these institutions and individuals. One of such is the Grand Old True Whig Party (TWP), which ruled Liberia for one hundred and twelve years before it met its demise on the fateful morning of Saturday, April 12, 1980.
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Presidential Debate: Cunning Politicians, Ignorant Audience Sentiments Overtake Maturity

September 16, 2005 - The Analyst (Monrovia)

Scores of Liberians turned out to witness and participate in the debate, while thousands of others swarmed their radio sets to hear the aspirants unveil their packages. Some others simply gathered outside of the Pavilion and dance and sang songs.
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September 15, 2005 - BBC

The leaders of India and South Africa have called for a reform of the UN Security Council to address "the gross imbalance of power" in the world body.
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Big Presidential Debate Today

September 15, 2005 - The Inquirer (Monrovia)

The International Republican Institute in Liberia (IRI/L) and the National Democratic Institute in Liberia (NDI/L) will tomorrow host a Presidential Debate in partnership with the Press Union of Liberia (PUL).
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Mr. Tom Woewiyu – Where is Your Apolog