Sunday, February 6, 2011 marked one of the greatest events and conventions of our time. It took place in the city of Harper and the county of Maryland.
Paramount, clan & town chiefs, presidents of Kudemoweh & Nomoweh development associations, market women, young girls & boys, heads of FEMUS (Federation of Maryland University Student Associations of Monrovia & Harper) including heads of Churches, youths, potential political candidates, friends and well wishers met at the First Mass Meeting of the Numoweh & Kudemoweh chiefdoms in Harper City, Maryland County.
The Meeting is referred to as “The First Meeting.” Because it is one of its kind ever convened in most recent years. It sets the basis for reunification talks between both Numoweh & Kudemoweh chiefdoms. The talks began with series of rallies organized to raise funding in order to set the basis for working relations.
The “First” Meeting was attended by one hundred and fifty (150) persons. Potential political aspirants were also in attendance. Those potential political aspirants attending the Meeting include, Messrs. Emmanuel Walker putting up his bid from Middletown (Kudemoweh Chiefdom), Wa Kla Neufville putting up his bid from Grand Cavalla (Kudemoweh ) and George Prowd putting up his bid from Bigtown (Numoweh Chiefdom). All of the above are seeking the office of Representative of the Harper District.
Sunday, February 13, 2011, marked the Second Meeting.
A Rally was also held during the Second Meeting. Members, officials, elders, youth, men & women including friends and well-wishers of the Numoweh & Kudemoweh chiefdoms assembled at the old Jehovah Witnesses Kingdom Hall on Water Street, Harper City.
Dignitaries in attendance include, Amb. H. Dan Morais, James Norman Anderson, H. Wah Too Bedell (Customs Collector). The trio donations amount to $550 (USD) combine.
The Rally was a contest between men and women. A “king” represented all men and a “queen” represented all women. Mr. Meshach Mle Bryant sat in for men and Ms. Beatrice Wallace sat in for women.
At the end of the Rally, men won women by having more cash. Total amount collected is $24,000.00 (Liberian dollars) in physical cash and $500.00 (United States dollars) in pledges. So far, all the pledges have been collected.
Sunday, February 20, 2011, the Third Meeting was convened and concluded by the last Rally. This time, women beat the men. Ms. Beatrice Wallace sat in for women again and a ten-year old ( Papay Bryant, son of Meshach Mle Bryant) sat in for men. The ten-year old stole the show. Nobody expected a ten-year old at the Rally table. His dad, Meshach Mle Bryant, could not attend. So he sent his little son. The kid took more money in his pocket as a sign of appreciation from the audience then money placed in the cup. Instead of placing the money in the collection basket, people were fascinated over the kid. And so they gave him much of the money to encourage his bodaciousness. All in all, women won men. Total collected at the Rally is $5000 (LD) with pledges of $25,000.00 (LD).
In totality, the “First, Second” and “Third” meetings of the Kudemoweh and Numoweh Chiefdoms were very successful. From all indications, unity is at hand. Come 2011 General Elections, our people shall speak with one voice.
Thanks to Messrs. Bolton Dennis, Jacob Brewer, Robert Moore and Gleh Harmon. Without them, what could I have done? Practically little.
I am Thomas G. Bedell; I work and speak from on the ground in Liberia!
Monday, 21 February 2011
Friday, 18 February 2011
My Meetings with Mr. Emmanuel Walker (political aspirant)
Mr. Emmanuel Walker resides in the US. I too reside in the US. Both of us are in Liberia for different reasons. He’s here to explore the possibility of seeking election for the post of Representative in the House for the district of Harper in Maryland County. My visit is revolutionary - I am building human resource to be able to tackle the problems of our time and find lasting solutions to our national problems. Simply put, I'm into radical change within community empowerment.
Mr. Walker (my estimation) has been in Liberia for over six months. Based on what I know now, he wants to run for the House of Representatives of the Republic of Liberia. His possible bid will be for the district of Harper in Maryland County. Evidently, he’s attempting to take away Hon. James Biney’s job and put him on the unemployment line.
Mr. Walker and I live in the same state (Ohio).
I have been in Liberia over three years now. I have been traveling around the country for a while. Presently, I am in Maryland County. As a result, my current focus is on Maryland. I know many of my critics think I’m “bias.” From their arguments, they think I should remain tackling national issues than local. But they are not on the ground. I am. And so I know many things that they have not discovered yet. They have no clue that I have learned more than I have ever known. And so every decision I make depends on the reality on the ground - more practical than theoretical. Factually and conditionally, I now posses profound authority and knowledge on matters of social and political concerns in Liberia, particularly in Maryland County than ever before. So if anyone comes to Maryland to seek elective post and he or she doesn't find and talk with me, that person has little to gain. And that is because, he or she will not have access to practical education (hands-on) that I have under my belt over the years. If he or she doesn’t speak with me, he or she risks a lot. So if one intends to forge politics in Liberia, particularly in Maryland, I'm his or her man.
Somehow this situation almost knock Mr. Walker in the knee. But as a smart man, he quickly discovered the need to speak with me. And that save him the pain and unnecessary struggle.
On Friday, February 11, Armed Forces Day (National Holiday in Liberia), Mr. Walker placed a call to my cell phone. He asked me if he could visit with me. I agreed. And so he did. He visited with me along with his hometwown (Middletown) General Town Chief. His name is, Hon. Wilson.
Both men buzz me. And I opened the door. I welcomed them in my residence. Kola nut is usually served traditionally. And I'm aware of this by now because I have been in Liberia for a while and keep grounding with my people. But something strange happened: I did not have kola at that time. So he and I agreed, along with the Chief to postponed libation. I'm sure our Forefathers and Mothers also agreed with us. You know how they agreed? Our discussion was fruitful. Otherwise, it would have been chaotic.
Mr. Walker and I moved into the issues right away.
Mr. Walker informed me that since his arrival in Maryland, he has been misled. Was this confession new to me? No! So I wasn't surprised. He called names that betrayed his trust. But I won’t mention those name he called to me in here. Mr. Walker told me that certain individuals that I personally know had given him “bad” advice on a variety of issues including political contest ahead of him and others. I expressed my regrets for his misfortune.
Mr. Walker also asked for my advice. Why did he ask for my advice? Because I think he agrees that I have been on the ground in Liberia long enough to know the politics. So I responded in the affirmative. But I told him that my advice to him would be “free-of-charge.” We laughed and move on.
On Monday, February 14 - one day after - The First Meeting of the Kudemoweh and Numoweh Chiefdoms, Mr. Walker invited me to his residence on Marsh Street at the Barnes building.
I recall Mr. Walker displayed on that historic day when the two chiefdoms met. He displayed to the satisfaction of the audience. I remember I invited him to the Meeting. And the reason why I extended the invitation was for him to see and feel the work that I am doing on the ground in reuniting our people, even though since his arrival he refused to contact me.
At that Meeting Mr. Walker expressed strong faith in the traditions of our people. He also expressed his disappointment in the two chiefdoms - they used to be at one accord. But what happened now so much so they are at lockerhead? He couldn't figure that out. During his day both chiefdoms were united.
Mr. Walker verbally lambasted the people of the Numoweh Chiefdom for incarcerating their own children on charges of “murder.” More so, he admonished them to take proper steps in releasing them from prison.
He didn't stop there; He sent the same shot out to the Kudemoweh people accussing them A. T. Thompson's (one of theirs) incarceration. Like he did for the chiefdom, he encouraged them to immediately take steps to remedy the situation.
Mr. Walker did not back down the entire time. He kept blasting at both Chiefdoms until some of the chiefs present admitted and sought amends. Mr. Walker kept both Chiefdoms on their toes the whole time for failure to reunify their chiefdoms.
The sound of the applause Mr. Walker received in the building could have awaken Ma Lima. Well, if you did not know Ma Lima (my spelling), she was a woman who reared many kids under her roof. Jokingly we though she owned the biggest cotton tree in town. Because her house was directly beneath the Cotton Tree. And this was scary.
If anyone told you Mr. Walker was the “man“ of the day, then it is because he “stole’ the show. Mr. Wa Kla Neufville followed him up.
Mr. Neufville is also exploring the possibility of a bid for the office of Representative of Harper District, come October 2011 Election. So he and Mr. Walker are walking the same line. He spoke at the First Meeting and took both chiefdoms up to task, as well.
At the meeting with Mr. Walker( at his residence) on Marsh Street, series of issues were discussed. Among many things that were discussed are:
1) possible reunification of the two Chiefdoms,
2) The immediate release of those arbitrarily arrested and detained in March 2010,
3) The release of the youths arrested, detained and convicted in the Rocktown & Wetchukeh armed conflict,
4) Review and peruse the Grand Cavalla Convention where Ms. Helena Bedell was elected to represent the Kudemoweh Chiefdom. In that Covention vote, Mr. Walker came third,
5) Revisit the political Arrangement between the Kudemoweh and Numoweh Chiefdoms,
6) Inclusion of Diasporic Marylanders in burning issues in the County including how to upgrade a declining leadership in the County, clean a dirty city and to review corporations' failure to sign agreements beneficial to our people and county.
A lot of other burning issues were looked into. But for further discussion.
Mr. Walker’s visit and invitation reminds me of a good politician who is seeking the welfare and interest of his people. The rest of the other potential candidates failed to do so. They failed to reached out to discuss burning issues. As for James Norman Anderson and Amb. H. Dan Morais, they are seeking the office of Junior Senator. They call on me most of the time.
I believe Mr. Walker has learned a lot from me and vice versus.
Since I have no interest in elective or appointed office, I’m not under obligation to prove anything to anybody. So I work according to my Plan. All I seek is maximum result of my revolutionary work.
I promise Mr. Walker and other potential candidates my education, expertise and skills; But only if they so desire.
From what I see, Mr. Walker is heading in the right direction. I must admit; I don’t support some of his views. But he is and will make the right ripples in the process. That's what I think as a man, revolutionary and a social critic.
I see something in Mr. Walker I don't see in other potential candidates of the two chiefdoms who are seeking the office of Representative for Harper District. Maybe I am concluding too soon. And maybe, somewhere down the line, things will change for the best. i like to remain optimistic. But until then, I believe what is in a person is deeply integrated in his soul. What Mr. Walker is displaying means he has something on the inside that none of the other potential candidates have. This is based on what I see and know on the ground as a social critic.
If what I see doesn’t change in the attitude of potential candidates, I can easily conclude these potential candidates will do no better than the current leaders they are wishing to replace. If they are no bette then the guys they hoping to replace, then what's the heck?
There will be no difference at all, anyway! Then we might keep the "devils" we know than the "angels" we don't know. I hope this will not be true.
I am Thomas G. Bedell; I speak and work on the ground in Liberia.
Mr. Walker (my estimation) has been in Liberia for over six months. Based on what I know now, he wants to run for the House of Representatives of the Republic of Liberia. His possible bid will be for the district of Harper in Maryland County. Evidently, he’s attempting to take away Hon. James Biney’s job and put him on the unemployment line.
Mr. Walker and I live in the same state (Ohio).
I have been in Liberia over three years now. I have been traveling around the country for a while. Presently, I am in Maryland County. As a result, my current focus is on Maryland. I know many of my critics think I’m “bias.” From their arguments, they think I should remain tackling national issues than local. But they are not on the ground. I am. And so I know many things that they have not discovered yet. They have no clue that I have learned more than I have ever known. And so every decision I make depends on the reality on the ground - more practical than theoretical. Factually and conditionally, I now posses profound authority and knowledge on matters of social and political concerns in Liberia, particularly in Maryland County than ever before. So if anyone comes to Maryland to seek elective post and he or she doesn't find and talk with me, that person has little to gain. And that is because, he or she will not have access to practical education (hands-on) that I have under my belt over the years. If he or she doesn’t speak with me, he or she risks a lot. So if one intends to forge politics in Liberia, particularly in Maryland, I'm his or her man.
Somehow this situation almost knock Mr. Walker in the knee. But as a smart man, he quickly discovered the need to speak with me. And that save him the pain and unnecessary struggle.
On Friday, February 11, Armed Forces Day (National Holiday in Liberia), Mr. Walker placed a call to my cell phone. He asked me if he could visit with me. I agreed. And so he did. He visited with me along with his hometwown (Middletown) General Town Chief. His name is, Hon. Wilson.
Both men buzz me. And I opened the door. I welcomed them in my residence. Kola nut is usually served traditionally. And I'm aware of this by now because I have been in Liberia for a while and keep grounding with my people. But something strange happened: I did not have kola at that time. So he and I agreed, along with the Chief to postponed libation. I'm sure our Forefathers and Mothers also agreed with us. You know how they agreed? Our discussion was fruitful. Otherwise, it would have been chaotic.
Mr. Walker and I moved into the issues right away.
Mr. Walker informed me that since his arrival in Maryland, he has been misled. Was this confession new to me? No! So I wasn't surprised. He called names that betrayed his trust. But I won’t mention those name he called to me in here. Mr. Walker told me that certain individuals that I personally know had given him “bad” advice on a variety of issues including political contest ahead of him and others. I expressed my regrets for his misfortune.
Mr. Walker also asked for my advice. Why did he ask for my advice? Because I think he agrees that I have been on the ground in Liberia long enough to know the politics. So I responded in the affirmative. But I told him that my advice to him would be “free-of-charge.” We laughed and move on.
On Monday, February 14 - one day after - The First Meeting of the Kudemoweh and Numoweh Chiefdoms, Mr. Walker invited me to his residence on Marsh Street at the Barnes building.
I recall Mr. Walker displayed on that historic day when the two chiefdoms met. He displayed to the satisfaction of the audience. I remember I invited him to the Meeting. And the reason why I extended the invitation was for him to see and feel the work that I am doing on the ground in reuniting our people, even though since his arrival he refused to contact me.
At that Meeting Mr. Walker expressed strong faith in the traditions of our people. He also expressed his disappointment in the two chiefdoms - they used to be at one accord. But what happened now so much so they are at lockerhead? He couldn't figure that out. During his day both chiefdoms were united.
Mr. Walker verbally lambasted the people of the Numoweh Chiefdom for incarcerating their own children on charges of “murder.” More so, he admonished them to take proper steps in releasing them from prison.
He didn't stop there; He sent the same shot out to the Kudemoweh people accussing them A. T. Thompson's (one of theirs) incarceration. Like he did for the chiefdom, he encouraged them to immediately take steps to remedy the situation.
Mr. Walker did not back down the entire time. He kept blasting at both Chiefdoms until some of the chiefs present admitted and sought amends. Mr. Walker kept both Chiefdoms on their toes the whole time for failure to reunify their chiefdoms.
The sound of the applause Mr. Walker received in the building could have awaken Ma Lima. Well, if you did not know Ma Lima (my spelling), she was a woman who reared many kids under her roof. Jokingly we though she owned the biggest cotton tree in town. Because her house was directly beneath the Cotton Tree. And this was scary.
If anyone told you Mr. Walker was the “man“ of the day, then it is because he “stole’ the show. Mr. Wa Kla Neufville followed him up.
Mr. Neufville is also exploring the possibility of a bid for the office of Representative of Harper District, come October 2011 Election. So he and Mr. Walker are walking the same line. He spoke at the First Meeting and took both chiefdoms up to task, as well.
At the meeting with Mr. Walker( at his residence) on Marsh Street, series of issues were discussed. Among many things that were discussed are:
1) possible reunification of the two Chiefdoms,
2) The immediate release of those arbitrarily arrested and detained in March 2010,
3) The release of the youths arrested, detained and convicted in the Rocktown & Wetchukeh armed conflict,
4) Review and peruse the Grand Cavalla Convention where Ms. Helena Bedell was elected to represent the Kudemoweh Chiefdom. In that Covention vote, Mr. Walker came third,
5) Revisit the political Arrangement between the Kudemoweh and Numoweh Chiefdoms,
6) Inclusion of Diasporic Marylanders in burning issues in the County including how to upgrade a declining leadership in the County, clean a dirty city and to review corporations' failure to sign agreements beneficial to our people and county.
A lot of other burning issues were looked into. But for further discussion.
Mr. Walker’s visit and invitation reminds me of a good politician who is seeking the welfare and interest of his people. The rest of the other potential candidates failed to do so. They failed to reached out to discuss burning issues. As for James Norman Anderson and Amb. H. Dan Morais, they are seeking the office of Junior Senator. They call on me most of the time.
I believe Mr. Walker has learned a lot from me and vice versus.
Since I have no interest in elective or appointed office, I’m not under obligation to prove anything to anybody. So I work according to my Plan. All I seek is maximum result of my revolutionary work.
I promise Mr. Walker and other potential candidates my education, expertise and skills; But only if they so desire.
From what I see, Mr. Walker is heading in the right direction. I must admit; I don’t support some of his views. But he is and will make the right ripples in the process. That's what I think as a man, revolutionary and a social critic.
I see something in Mr. Walker I don't see in other potential candidates of the two chiefdoms who are seeking the office of Representative for Harper District. Maybe I am concluding too soon. And maybe, somewhere down the line, things will change for the best. i like to remain optimistic. But until then, I believe what is in a person is deeply integrated in his soul. What Mr. Walker is displaying means he has something on the inside that none of the other potential candidates have. This is based on what I see and know on the ground as a social critic.
If what I see doesn’t change in the attitude of potential candidates, I can easily conclude these potential candidates will do no better than the current leaders they are wishing to replace. If they are no bette then the guys they hoping to replace, then what's the heck?
There will be no difference at all, anyway! Then we might keep the "devils" we know than the "angels" we don't know. I hope this will not be true.
I am Thomas G. Bedell; I speak and work on the ground in Liberia.
Thursday, 17 February 2011
My TRC Presentation: The Albert Port Experience
When I appeared before the Liberia Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), I had a lot to offer to the Commission.
When I appeared before the Commission it was on November 10, 2008. It was the 23rd annivasary of the Quiwonkpa abortive coup in Liberia. This event, in my personal opinion, is one of the foundations to the semi-destruction of the Liberian state through a generalized anarchy of violence.
As i sat on the table provided by the Commission from where i made my presentation, I spoke on variety of issues including political personalities.
There was one man that i considered the Guru-one-man-army-social justice advocate. his name was Dr. Albert Porte. He was one of the personalities I talked about during the Presentation.
This man (in my personal opinion) stood in the middle of what happened (peace & war) to and for our country through his participation and effort to restore hope and social justice.
This is my experience with the “great” Albert Porte. Please read and study the man; study his style of social justice advocacy. And the rest will fall in place. but keep an open mind.
First, let me tell you who I am that made the difference when i first met Dr. Porte.
I was born and reared in Harper City, Maryland County, Republic of Liberia. Harper City is a little city that sits quietly and deeply in the keyhole of the southeastern region of Liberia. In Harper, we were only opportune to listen to news and never knew much about the reality of the news.
As kids, we heard “Big” names in the news. But we never were able to see those persons in reality. So we were living in a dream world. I heard about ballers. For example, I heard of Nyenetu “Santos Maria” Brown. I heard about Benedict “Mama Musa” Wesseh. I heard of Waka Herron (my spelling), Jokar Wreakar, Paul Broh and many others on the radio. One thing I know for sure, I never had the opportunity to see all those I heard about on the radio. I met some of them later on when I graduated high school and moved to Monrovia (capital of Liberia) to further my academic education.
The same applied to Albert Porte. I heard of this great man many times on the radio on how he took Presidents Tubman and Tolbert to task on social justice issues. Many times we heard about his imprisonment by government. The interesting thing was, we heard, this man was "fearless." He carried his toothpaste, beddings and personal belongings under his arm just in case he was arrested. In other words, he was always prepared to be arrested and go to jail.
Albert Porte became more popular during the April 14, 1979 rice riot. Don't get me wrong. He was already popular. But April 14, 19179 riot gave him the tip of the iceberg. He stood “tall” against the Government. But I must confess, I wasn’t anxious to see Dr. Porte. I was anxious to see the ballers like Benedict Wesseh et al.
In fact, I crossed it out of my mind to see Dr. Porte. I didn’t know where to find him. He was out of my league. This is how I felt all along.
As for the ballers, I could find them at the ballpark.So I knew where to locate the ballers. But this man who criticized three Liberian Presidents – Tubman (27 years reign), Tolbert (9 years reign) and Doe (10 years reign) for forty years would never be seen by me. This is what i believed! Then “Bang” the unthinkable happened - I met Dr. Porte - political “Rock of Gibraltar”; one-man-army. But I didn’t know who I was looking at until later on when it hit me that was standing before the man I thought I would never see in person.
Here’s how it happened:
I was a volunteer worker at the Tubman Law Firm. Our office was located on the 3rd floor of a 21st Century piece of real estate built by the Libyans. It was built in the 80s. The Libyans gave it a name that captured my attention. They called it, "Pan African Plaza." It was located on the Tubman Boulevard. It sits right in fornt of the Monrovia City Hall. This 21st Century state-of-the-art and modern piece of real estate is where history met me face-to-face.
I was standing on the front steps looking in direction of the City Hall. Don’t ask me what I was looking at. There’s no way you can miss looking at the City Hall standing on the front steps of the Pan African Plaza. It is just directly facing the Plaza. I was standing there as if I knew an “angel” named Hon. Dr. Comrade Albert Porte would come this way that day. Suddenly I saw this short man coming towards me. He bent over a little. I found out that his bending over was due to old age.
This man was probably in his 80s. Amazingly he came walking very fast towards me as if I am the one who sent for him. I noticed he was talking to himself. Soon he was standing right in my face. Then he asked the million dollar question "Where is Winston Tubman’s office." I wanted to ask him why was he asking for the office. But the way he looked at me told me not to ask such a “dumb” question. So I said, “Let’s go!” He bounced in front of me as if I was too slow. Maybe I was too slow for him. He was bouncing like a rubber ball in front of me. I had to double up my steps to catch up with him. He kept saying, “I’m a mad young man! I’m a mad young man!” This claim sounded like a broken record, for a minute. I thought something was wrong with the man. I didn’t know what it was. And I wanted to know. But I didn't know how to ask.
Anyway, he and I hopped on the Elevator. And there’s where he began talking. By this time, I still didn’t know who he was. He kept asking me one question after another. And this was the beginning of our conversation. this is what he said, “Son, you know I am a mad young man, right?” I said, “It seems like it.” I didn’t want to make the mistake to offend this man who is throwing questions into me like ton of bricks.
He said, “Yes, I am a mad young man.” Then I asked “What happened?” It seems now he was ready to explain his problem to me. And he did.
He said, “I am the chair of the board of directors of The Daily Observer newspaper. I was at the office when President Doe and his securities got in. President Doe walked to me and slapped me. I asked why he slapped me. He said if I kept asking that question again, he would slap me again. So I asked the question again. He slapped me again. I followed him as he left the office. I kept asking him why he slapped me. He turned around and said I was lucky he didn’t kill me. Then he walked out.”
Now, here is a man expalaining a story to me. But I don't know him. I began to wonder with whom I was talking. He didn’t tell me who he was. But I still listened to him. It was only when he asked if I knew him that he told me who he was. He said, “I am Albert Porte!” Right there and then I knew history had just hit me on the forehead. I got a little bit dizzy and confused. I thought I was daydreaming. As I tried to recapture myself, the Elevator opened and we hopped out. Our office was right there. I took him to see Winston. While he was in there, I waited for him so I could escort him downstairs. But before I flinched, he sped out of the office like a meteor. I tried but couldn’t catch him. I ran down the stairs. By the time the Elevator got down in the Lobby, I was right there. I was fast that time. Because I wanted to share history with this man. As soon as I got before the elevator, the door opened. He looked me in the eye and smiled. I walked with him at the exit of the building. As soon as we got on the Boulevard, he stopped and placed his right hand on my left shoulder. Maybe he thought I was a leftist. This was at the height of the “cold war.” So he may have thought I was a leftist. He rested his hand on my shoulder. i din't feel any weight from his hand. But heard him clearly when he said, “Son, I have done my part. The rest is up to you and your Generation. This country is great. Help keep it so. Take care of yourself. And I will see you again.”
He crossed the street and walked off. I don’t remember whether he took a motor car or not. Because he left me spellbound. But one thing was clear when I came back to my senses: Albert Porte was gone from me.
I never saw Hon. Dr. Comrade Albert Port again until I heard he had passed on. His journey was done. He left to join our martyr. May his soul rest in Perfect Peace and Light Perpetual shine upon him.
The reason why I spoke about my meeting with Albert Porte was to let the TRC know while we have issues to discuss, we also have personalities who sacrificed for us as a nation. And they needed to be recognized for their selfless service to Liberia . I impressed upon the TRC that we did not come to look for only the “bad” things that happened in our country, we also needed to revisited the good things.
Albert Porte is our Hero! His name lives on!
When I appeared before the Commission it was on November 10, 2008. It was the 23rd annivasary of the Quiwonkpa abortive coup in Liberia. This event, in my personal opinion, is one of the foundations to the semi-destruction of the Liberian state through a generalized anarchy of violence.
As i sat on the table provided by the Commission from where i made my presentation, I spoke on variety of issues including political personalities.
There was one man that i considered the Guru-one-man-army-social justice advocate. his name was Dr. Albert Porte. He was one of the personalities I talked about during the Presentation.
This man (in my personal opinion) stood in the middle of what happened (peace & war) to and for our country through his participation and effort to restore hope and social justice.
This is my experience with the “great” Albert Porte. Please read and study the man; study his style of social justice advocacy. And the rest will fall in place. but keep an open mind.
First, let me tell you who I am that made the difference when i first met Dr. Porte.
I was born and reared in Harper City, Maryland County, Republic of Liberia. Harper City is a little city that sits quietly and deeply in the keyhole of the southeastern region of Liberia. In Harper, we were only opportune to listen to news and never knew much about the reality of the news.
As kids, we heard “Big” names in the news. But we never were able to see those persons in reality. So we were living in a dream world. I heard about ballers. For example, I heard of Nyenetu “Santos Maria” Brown. I heard about Benedict “Mama Musa” Wesseh. I heard of Waka Herron (my spelling), Jokar Wreakar, Paul Broh and many others on the radio. One thing I know for sure, I never had the opportunity to see all those I heard about on the radio. I met some of them later on when I graduated high school and moved to Monrovia (capital of Liberia) to further my academic education.
The same applied to Albert Porte. I heard of this great man many times on the radio on how he took Presidents Tubman and Tolbert to task on social justice issues. Many times we heard about his imprisonment by government. The interesting thing was, we heard, this man was "fearless." He carried his toothpaste, beddings and personal belongings under his arm just in case he was arrested. In other words, he was always prepared to be arrested and go to jail.
Albert Porte became more popular during the April 14, 1979 rice riot. Don't get me wrong. He was already popular. But April 14, 19179 riot gave him the tip of the iceberg. He stood “tall” against the Government. But I must confess, I wasn’t anxious to see Dr. Porte. I was anxious to see the ballers like Benedict Wesseh et al.
In fact, I crossed it out of my mind to see Dr. Porte. I didn’t know where to find him. He was out of my league. This is how I felt all along.
As for the ballers, I could find them at the ballpark.So I knew where to locate the ballers. But this man who criticized three Liberian Presidents – Tubman (27 years reign), Tolbert (9 years reign) and Doe (10 years reign) for forty years would never be seen by me. This is what i believed! Then “Bang” the unthinkable happened - I met Dr. Porte - political “Rock of Gibraltar”; one-man-army. But I didn’t know who I was looking at until later on when it hit me that was standing before the man I thought I would never see in person.
Here’s how it happened:
I was a volunteer worker at the Tubman Law Firm. Our office was located on the 3rd floor of a 21st Century piece of real estate built by the Libyans. It was built in the 80s. The Libyans gave it a name that captured my attention. They called it, "Pan African Plaza." It was located on the Tubman Boulevard. It sits right in fornt of the Monrovia City Hall. This 21st Century state-of-the-art and modern piece of real estate is where history met me face-to-face.
I was standing on the front steps looking in direction of the City Hall. Don’t ask me what I was looking at. There’s no way you can miss looking at the City Hall standing on the front steps of the Pan African Plaza. It is just directly facing the Plaza. I was standing there as if I knew an “angel” named Hon. Dr. Comrade Albert Porte would come this way that day. Suddenly I saw this short man coming towards me. He bent over a little. I found out that his bending over was due to old age.
This man was probably in his 80s. Amazingly he came walking very fast towards me as if I am the one who sent for him. I noticed he was talking to himself. Soon he was standing right in my face. Then he asked the million dollar question "Where is Winston Tubman’s office." I wanted to ask him why was he asking for the office. But the way he looked at me told me not to ask such a “dumb” question. So I said, “Let’s go!” He bounced in front of me as if I was too slow. Maybe I was too slow for him. He was bouncing like a rubber ball in front of me. I had to double up my steps to catch up with him. He kept saying, “I’m a mad young man! I’m a mad young man!” This claim sounded like a broken record, for a minute. I thought something was wrong with the man. I didn’t know what it was. And I wanted to know. But I didn't know how to ask.
Anyway, he and I hopped on the Elevator. And there’s where he began talking. By this time, I still didn’t know who he was. He kept asking me one question after another. And this was the beginning of our conversation. this is what he said, “Son, you know I am a mad young man, right?” I said, “It seems like it.” I didn’t want to make the mistake to offend this man who is throwing questions into me like ton of bricks.
He said, “Yes, I am a mad young man.” Then I asked “What happened?” It seems now he was ready to explain his problem to me. And he did.
He said, “I am the chair of the board of directors of The Daily Observer newspaper. I was at the office when President Doe and his securities got in. President Doe walked to me and slapped me. I asked why he slapped me. He said if I kept asking that question again, he would slap me again. So I asked the question again. He slapped me again. I followed him as he left the office. I kept asking him why he slapped me. He turned around and said I was lucky he didn’t kill me. Then he walked out.”
Now, here is a man expalaining a story to me. But I don't know him. I began to wonder with whom I was talking. He didn’t tell me who he was. But I still listened to him. It was only when he asked if I knew him that he told me who he was. He said, “I am Albert Porte!” Right there and then I knew history had just hit me on the forehead. I got a little bit dizzy and confused. I thought I was daydreaming. As I tried to recapture myself, the Elevator opened and we hopped out. Our office was right there. I took him to see Winston. While he was in there, I waited for him so I could escort him downstairs. But before I flinched, he sped out of the office like a meteor. I tried but couldn’t catch him. I ran down the stairs. By the time the Elevator got down in the Lobby, I was right there. I was fast that time. Because I wanted to share history with this man. As soon as I got before the elevator, the door opened. He looked me in the eye and smiled. I walked with him at the exit of the building. As soon as we got on the Boulevard, he stopped and placed his right hand on my left shoulder. Maybe he thought I was a leftist. This was at the height of the “cold war.” So he may have thought I was a leftist. He rested his hand on my shoulder. i din't feel any weight from his hand. But heard him clearly when he said, “Son, I have done my part. The rest is up to you and your Generation. This country is great. Help keep it so. Take care of yourself. And I will see you again.”
He crossed the street and walked off. I don’t remember whether he took a motor car or not. Because he left me spellbound. But one thing was clear when I came back to my senses: Albert Porte was gone from me.
I never saw Hon. Dr. Comrade Albert Port again until I heard he had passed on. His journey was done. He left to join our martyr. May his soul rest in Perfect Peace and Light Perpetual shine upon him.
The reason why I spoke about my meeting with Albert Porte was to let the TRC know while we have issues to discuss, we also have personalities who sacrificed for us as a nation. And they needed to be recognized for their selfless service to Liberia . I impressed upon the TRC that we did not come to look for only the “bad” things that happened in our country, we also needed to revisited the good things.
Albert Porte is our Hero! His name lives on!
Maryland County: The 2011 Political Plume
2011 is becoming an interesting year in election politics in Maryland County (Liberia).
If things go the way I see it, political plume will cover the entire county.
Just in case you didn’t know, Maryland County is situated in the southeastern belt. It is deep, deep in the belly of the Republic. It has three political districts. 1) Harper District - it is where Harper (the capital of the County is located). It is the center of power. 2) Pleebo/Sodokeh District - the commercial district and 3) Karluway - supposedly the County‘s “bread basket.” Each district is important in its own unique way. With the exception of the Pleebo/Sodokeh district, Harper is the “brain” of the County. In other words, the Harper District can make or break the entire County. That’s why most, if not all, of the “problems” hurting the County are found in this very District.
Maryland has two Senators. 1) Junior Senator. Currently, Gloria Scott is the Junior Senator. She hails from the Karluway District. 2) Senior Senator. The current Senior Senator of Maryland is John Akel Ballout. He hails from the Harper District.
Each of the districts have a representative in the House of Representatives.
The current representative of the Harper district is James Popee Biney. From what I understand, he has being in the post over 15 years.
The current representative for the Pleebo/Sodokeh district is Dr. Bhofal Chambers. He has been in this post for one term (6 years). He's seeking re-election come Election 2011.
Hon. Saydee represents the Karluway District. Understandably he has held this post for over 15 years. He and James Biney have been in this "club" for ever so long. He too is seeking re-election.
All of these Congress men and woman are incumbents in the upcoming 2011 election. What that means is, they are seeking an additional six-year term of office. Add that much time to Hons. Biney and Saydee years in the House. Both would have held power for closed to fifty years combine.
As we see Election 2011 coming around the corner, we see incumbents are having serious “company.” By "company" I mean there are people who really, really want to take away these leaders' jobs through the ballot box. Among those seeking the jobs of the incumbents, are serious minds and non serious minds. Whatever the case may be, we all know come election time, there is a contest on the gournd. And the manner in which it is being approach, turns the bellies of the incumbents.
As I opine, there are more than 10 persons wanting the job of James Biney in the Harper district. As for Gloria (Junior Senator) we have closed to seven persons wanting her job.
Dr. Chambers has more than 10 people elbowing each other for his job in the Pleebo/Sodokeh District.
Hon. Saydee has his own "company." Whatever the case may be, Hon. Saydee - the least known in the County - is not riding “cool.”
Senator Ballout has nine years for his Term of Office. So far he has used five of those years. That means he has three remaining more years to go before there can be an election for his post. Cautiously, he has nothing yet to worry about. In politics anything can go haywire and tilt the scale for him one sidedly. But as far as we can see, he’s “cool.” So I will focus mainly on those positions that are up for grasp in the upcoming Election.
Gloria Scott, the current junior senator is seeking re-election. She has a lot to worry about. One man in her “company” wanting her job (Amb H. Dan Morais) is a hard “nut” to crack. He's well-experienced. He's been governor of Maryland, Internal Affairs Minister and is now Ambassador At-Large of the republic of Liberia. If he remains “hot” as he is in the race, Hon. Scott will not have her job back, come October 2011. Dan Morais is very popular in the county than anyone I know right now. Young people and elders in the county (all districts) are over this man with a passion. If election were held today, Morais would beat Scott with his hands down with a score of 8-2 on the rating scale.
Scott (in my personal opinion) has had six years of dismal failure in her service to Maryland. There has been too much division and bloodshed for the last six years then anytime in Maryland on her watch. When you examine the bloodbaths and divisions in the county, Scott name pops up like bubbles. Her hands seems to be dripping with guilt and the blood of the dead in these conflicts.
What makes it very difficult for Gloria to maintain her seat as junior senator in the Senate is that her “company” has a great well of intellect and popularity unlike those she met in the 2005 election. Her “company” also is of a serious political grade. James Norman Anderson is coming in. He ran last election (2005) but was locked out. Now he’s returning. This time with full force. He has popularity as big and powerful as the rock of Gibraltar. Add this man to Amb. Morais and Gloria is history. Either of these men have what it takes to beat Gloria and put her on the unemployment line.
But Gloria still has some fight in her left. If she doesn’t win, based on what I hear, she says it will be a political “plume.” Whatever that means!
I am Thomas G. Bedell speaking and working from on the ground in Liberia.
If things go the way I see it, political plume will cover the entire county.
Just in case you didn’t know, Maryland County is situated in the southeastern belt. It is deep, deep in the belly of the Republic. It has three political districts. 1) Harper District - it is where Harper (the capital of the County is located). It is the center of power. 2) Pleebo/Sodokeh District - the commercial district and 3) Karluway - supposedly the County‘s “bread basket.” Each district is important in its own unique way. With the exception of the Pleebo/Sodokeh district, Harper is the “brain” of the County. In other words, the Harper District can make or break the entire County. That’s why most, if not all, of the “problems” hurting the County are found in this very District.
Maryland has two Senators. 1) Junior Senator. Currently, Gloria Scott is the Junior Senator. She hails from the Karluway District. 2) Senior Senator. The current Senior Senator of Maryland is John Akel Ballout. He hails from the Harper District.
Each of the districts have a representative in the House of Representatives.
The current representative of the Harper district is James Popee Biney. From what I understand, he has being in the post over 15 years.
The current representative for the Pleebo/Sodokeh district is Dr. Bhofal Chambers. He has been in this post for one term (6 years). He's seeking re-election come Election 2011.
Hon. Saydee represents the Karluway District. Understandably he has held this post for over 15 years. He and James Biney have been in this "club" for ever so long. He too is seeking re-election.
All of these Congress men and woman are incumbents in the upcoming 2011 election. What that means is, they are seeking an additional six-year term of office. Add that much time to Hons. Biney and Saydee years in the House. Both would have held power for closed to fifty years combine.
As we see Election 2011 coming around the corner, we see incumbents are having serious “company.” By "company" I mean there are people who really, really want to take away these leaders' jobs through the ballot box. Among those seeking the jobs of the incumbents, are serious minds and non serious minds. Whatever the case may be, we all know come election time, there is a contest on the gournd. And the manner in which it is being approach, turns the bellies of the incumbents.
As I opine, there are more than 10 persons wanting the job of James Biney in the Harper district. As for Gloria (Junior Senator) we have closed to seven persons wanting her job.
Dr. Chambers has more than 10 people elbowing each other for his job in the Pleebo/Sodokeh District.
Hon. Saydee has his own "company." Whatever the case may be, Hon. Saydee - the least known in the County - is not riding “cool.”
Senator Ballout has nine years for his Term of Office. So far he has used five of those years. That means he has three remaining more years to go before there can be an election for his post. Cautiously, he has nothing yet to worry about. In politics anything can go haywire and tilt the scale for him one sidedly. But as far as we can see, he’s “cool.” So I will focus mainly on those positions that are up for grasp in the upcoming Election.
Gloria Scott, the current junior senator is seeking re-election. She has a lot to worry about. One man in her “company” wanting her job (Amb H. Dan Morais) is a hard “nut” to crack. He's well-experienced. He's been governor of Maryland, Internal Affairs Minister and is now Ambassador At-Large of the republic of Liberia. If he remains “hot” as he is in the race, Hon. Scott will not have her job back, come October 2011. Dan Morais is very popular in the county than anyone I know right now. Young people and elders in the county (all districts) are over this man with a passion. If election were held today, Morais would beat Scott with his hands down with a score of 8-2 on the rating scale.
Scott (in my personal opinion) has had six years of dismal failure in her service to Maryland. There has been too much division and bloodshed for the last six years then anytime in Maryland on her watch. When you examine the bloodbaths and divisions in the county, Scott name pops up like bubbles. Her hands seems to be dripping with guilt and the blood of the dead in these conflicts.
What makes it very difficult for Gloria to maintain her seat as junior senator in the Senate is that her “company” has a great well of intellect and popularity unlike those she met in the 2005 election. Her “company” also is of a serious political grade. James Norman Anderson is coming in. He ran last election (2005) but was locked out. Now he’s returning. This time with full force. He has popularity as big and powerful as the rock of Gibraltar. Add this man to Amb. Morais and Gloria is history. Either of these men have what it takes to beat Gloria and put her on the unemployment line.
But Gloria still has some fight in her left. If she doesn’t win, based on what I hear, she says it will be a political “plume.” Whatever that means!
I am Thomas G. Bedell speaking and working from on the ground in Liberia.
The First Meeting - Numoweh & Kudemoweh Chiefdoms, Harper City, Maryland County (Liberia)
First Mass Meeting - Numoweh & Kudemoweh Chiefdoms, Harper City, Maryland County
Sunday, February 6, 2011 marked one of the greatest events and conventions of our time. It took place in the city of Harper and the county of Maryland, Republic of Liberia.
Paramount, clan & town chiefs, presidents of Kudemoweh & Numoweh development associations, market women, young girls & boys, heads of FEMUS (Federation of Maryland University Student Associations of Monrovia & Harper) including heads of Churches, youths, potential political candidates (WaKla Neufville, Geroge Prowd, Emmanuel Walker et al) friends and well wishers met at the First Mass Meeting of the Numoweh & Kudemoweh chiefdoms in Harper City, Maryland County.
This meeting is being referred to as “The First Meeting.” Because it is one of its kind ever to be convened in most recent years. It sets the basis for reunification talks between both Numoweh & Kudemoweh chiefdoms.
One hundred and fifty (150) persons were physically in attendance.
All of this took place in Harper City, Maryland County, Republic of Liberia. As you may know, Harper City is the capital of Maryland County. Maryland is in the deep keyhole of the southeastern region of Liberia.
Within Maryland, there are three political districts: Harper, Pleebo/Sodokeh and Karluway districts.
In the Harper Districts there are two chiefdoms: Numoweh and Kudemoweh chiefdoms.
Since Harper is the capital city of Maryland County, it is considered the “Center of Power” in Maryland. Therefore, if two of the chiefdoms within the “Center of Power” fall into a conflict, the County is bound to tremble in the conflcit. This is the case in current day Maryland. Both (Numoweh & Kudemoweh) Chiefdoms slipped into minor misunderstanding and the entire county is wobbling in misunderstandings.
Both chiefdoms comprised of the Grebo tribe which has legitimacy to ownership of the County.
The Grebo tribe’s claim to the ownership of the land of Maryland is no different from that of other tribes’ in Liberia.
For example, the Geos and Manos in Liberia lay claims to the ownership of Nimba. The Bassa tribe als makes similar claims to the ownership of Grand Bassa County. The same applies to the Krus - they lay claims to the ownership of Sinoe and Grand Kru. Others tribes in Liberia have similar claims. Whether or not the claim of ownership to lands in Liberia by tribes is correct becomes another question. But the truth remains, each time any of the tribes in each location in the various counties slip into a conflict, the entire county slips into conflict, as well. And this, in most, if not all cases, continues to hold down progress in Liberia.
Maryland County is not an exception.
The Numoweh and Kudemoweh chiefdoms in Maryland have slipped into (what I call) minor conflict years ago. Today, the conflict is eating up the County. Consequently, infrastructural and human resource development are on a go-slow. In the event both chiefdoms reunite, the entire county will experience a relief.
So calling for peace, unity and togetherness between both chiefdoms in the Harper District is the right step in the right direction for Maryland.
In this case, the reunion of the Numoweh and Kudemoweh chiefdoms is a development whose time has come.
February 6, 2011 Meeting of both chiefdoms is the First in many years. Thus, the meeting is referred to as the “First.“
One hundred and fifty men and women (young, elderly, prominent persons) met in the former Jehovah Witnesses Kingdom Hall on Water Street (opposite the late Ma Lima’s residence) to begin peace talks.
This all-important meeting led to a follow-up meeting at the Bedell residence the following day (Monday, February 7). Chiefs and heads of both Chiefdoms came together to put in the final “nail” for a delegation to travel to Monrovia in order to meet with President Sirleaf. The Delegation will present troubling issues facing the county such as ending ritualistic killings, discouraging extrajudicial punishment, force disappearance and in the end find ways and means for the Government to pay Reparation to the many shipwreck victims in Maryland.
I am Thomas G. Bedell speaking ands working on the ground in Liberia.
Sunday, February 6, 2011 marked one of the greatest events and conventions of our time. It took place in the city of Harper and the county of Maryland, Republic of Liberia.
Paramount, clan & town chiefs, presidents of Kudemoweh & Numoweh development associations, market women, young girls & boys, heads of FEMUS (Federation of Maryland University Student Associations of Monrovia & Harper) including heads of Churches, youths, potential political candidates (WaKla Neufville, Geroge Prowd, Emmanuel Walker et al) friends and well wishers met at the First Mass Meeting of the Numoweh & Kudemoweh chiefdoms in Harper City, Maryland County.
This meeting is being referred to as “The First Meeting.” Because it is one of its kind ever to be convened in most recent years. It sets the basis for reunification talks between both Numoweh & Kudemoweh chiefdoms.
One hundred and fifty (150) persons were physically in attendance.
All of this took place in Harper City, Maryland County, Republic of Liberia. As you may know, Harper City is the capital of Maryland County. Maryland is in the deep keyhole of the southeastern region of Liberia.
Within Maryland, there are three political districts: Harper, Pleebo/Sodokeh and Karluway districts.
In the Harper Districts there are two chiefdoms: Numoweh and Kudemoweh chiefdoms.
Since Harper is the capital city of Maryland County, it is considered the “Center of Power” in Maryland. Therefore, if two of the chiefdoms within the “Center of Power” fall into a conflict, the County is bound to tremble in the conflcit. This is the case in current day Maryland. Both (Numoweh & Kudemoweh) Chiefdoms slipped into minor misunderstanding and the entire county is wobbling in misunderstandings.
Both chiefdoms comprised of the Grebo tribe which has legitimacy to ownership of the County.
The Grebo tribe’s claim to the ownership of the land of Maryland is no different from that of other tribes’ in Liberia.
For example, the Geos and Manos in Liberia lay claims to the ownership of Nimba. The Bassa tribe als makes similar claims to the ownership of Grand Bassa County. The same applies to the Krus - they lay claims to the ownership of Sinoe and Grand Kru. Others tribes in Liberia have similar claims. Whether or not the claim of ownership to lands in Liberia by tribes is correct becomes another question. But the truth remains, each time any of the tribes in each location in the various counties slip into a conflict, the entire county slips into conflict, as well. And this, in most, if not all cases, continues to hold down progress in Liberia.
Maryland County is not an exception.
The Numoweh and Kudemoweh chiefdoms in Maryland have slipped into (what I call) minor conflict years ago. Today, the conflict is eating up the County. Consequently, infrastructural and human resource development are on a go-slow. In the event both chiefdoms reunite, the entire county will experience a relief.
So calling for peace, unity and togetherness between both chiefdoms in the Harper District is the right step in the right direction for Maryland.
In this case, the reunion of the Numoweh and Kudemoweh chiefdoms is a development whose time has come.
February 6, 2011 Meeting of both chiefdoms is the First in many years. Thus, the meeting is referred to as the “First.“
One hundred and fifty men and women (young, elderly, prominent persons) met in the former Jehovah Witnesses Kingdom Hall on Water Street (opposite the late Ma Lima’s residence) to begin peace talks.
This all-important meeting led to a follow-up meeting at the Bedell residence the following day (Monday, February 7). Chiefs and heads of both Chiefdoms came together to put in the final “nail” for a delegation to travel to Monrovia in order to meet with President Sirleaf. The Delegation will present troubling issues facing the county such as ending ritualistic killings, discouraging extrajudicial punishment, force disappearance and in the end find ways and means for the Government to pay Reparation to the many shipwreck victims in Maryland.
I am Thomas G. Bedell speaking ands working on the ground in Liberia.
The Second Meeting - Kudemoweh & Numoweh Chiefdoms Reunification
Sunday, February 13, 2011, members, officials, elders, youth, men & women including friends and well-wishers of the Numoweh & Kudemoweh chiefdoms assembled at the old Jehovah Witnesses Kingdom Hall on Water Street, Harper City, Maryland County (Liberia). This meeting symbolizes the Second of both chiefdoms in recent time.
The Purpose of the Second Meeting, unlike the First, was for fundraising.
The fundraiser was a contest between the men and women. A “king” represented all the men and a “queen” represented all the women. Both sat at a table with a collection cup.
The Rally began at 5pm (Liberia Standard Time). The First round ended with the men in the lead. The Second Round, which was the final round, began and ended with the men in the lead again.
The total amount collected was $24,000.00 (Liberian dollars) in physical cash and $500.00 (United States dollars) in pledges.
Important individuals who attended the Rally include, Amb. H. Dan Moraise (donated $250 US dollars), James Norman Anderson affectionately known as “Small Jimmy,” (donated $200.00 US dollars), H. Wah-Too Bedell (donated $100 US dollars), Patrick Nugba (donated $50 US dollars), Kojo Wilson (donated $50 US dollars), George Prowd (donated $50 US dollars), Mr. Dennis (donated $50 US dollars), Mrs. Woart (wife of Wa Woart donated $10 US dollars) and many others made donations.
Amongst all political aspirants in the County, only Amb. H. Dan Morays, James Norman Anderson and George Prowd were in attendance. Mr. Prowd left sooner than Messrs. Anderson and Morais. Both men remained up to the end of the Program.
All of the attendees gave their unflinching and unconditional support for the process of reunification of the two chiefdoms.
A glance at the potential candidates in attendance:
Mr. George Prowd is a potential candidate in the 2011 election. He’s looking forward to aspiring for the post of Representative of Harper District. He's going against Hon. James Biney who has been in the House for over ten years.
Messrs H. Dan Morias and James Norman Anderson are looking forward to aspiring for the post of Junior Senator of Maryland County (Amb. Morais has announced his bid; Mr. Anderson hasn’t officially done so yet. But the indications are hanging around). Both men are socioeconomic and political gurus in the County. They are trying to take Hon. Gloria Scott's job. But Gloria is fighting back feverishly!
THE RALLY
The day of the Rally, the weather was bad. A rain storm hit the City so hard, many thought it owuld cause a flood. But it didn't. All it did was to make the day seemingly impossible for attendeess to attend the Second Meeting.
The Rally was slated to begin at 4pm. But because of the bad weather, it started at 5pm. The delay was due to the ardent hope the anticipated number of citizens would show up by braving the weather. All in all, the amount of persons expected to form part of the Program did not show up. The storm kept them out. But the Rally went on successfuly. In the end, the Rally was so interesting, the audience called for replay. Sunday, February 20, another rally will be held to compensate for the lost number.
A Rally committee was set up to mobilize the public for the next rally on Sunday, February 20.
The purpose to seek reunification of the two chiefdoms is locked in the current day reality of Liberia.
Liberia is in a pivotal transitional recovery phase. The Government of Liberia (GoL) and the United Nations (UN) in Liberia recognize that a focus on peacebuilding is a cornerstone of national development and crucial for ensuring that the nation never returns to war. While it is clear that an overall state of security has been maintained in Liberia since the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in August 2003, as in any post-conflict country, challenges remain that require attention to ensure there is no relapse to violent conflict. The Kudemoweh and Numoweh situation is not an exception.
Against this background, the sons and daughters of The Numoweh & Kudemoweh Chiefdoms are pursuing the process of reunification of both chiefdoms. Progress is being made in analyzing the causes of instability in County, identifying challenges to developing a durable peace and articulating strategic measures to address ‘conflict factors’.
In essence, the Second Meeting for the Numoweh & Kudemoweh reunification process is a total success story.
This coming Sunday, February 20 marks the Third Meeting with another Rally. Both chiefdoms look foward to a warm reception from the public.
I am Thomas G. Bedell speaking and working on the ground in Liberia.
The Purpose of the Second Meeting, unlike the First, was for fundraising.
The fundraiser was a contest between the men and women. A “king” represented all the men and a “queen” represented all the women. Both sat at a table with a collection cup.
The Rally began at 5pm (Liberia Standard Time). The First round ended with the men in the lead. The Second Round, which was the final round, began and ended with the men in the lead again.
The total amount collected was $24,000.00 (Liberian dollars) in physical cash and $500.00 (United States dollars) in pledges.
Important individuals who attended the Rally include, Amb. H. Dan Moraise (donated $250 US dollars), James Norman Anderson affectionately known as “Small Jimmy,” (donated $200.00 US dollars), H. Wah-Too Bedell (donated $100 US dollars), Patrick Nugba (donated $50 US dollars), Kojo Wilson (donated $50 US dollars), George Prowd (donated $50 US dollars), Mr. Dennis (donated $50 US dollars), Mrs. Woart (wife of Wa Woart donated $10 US dollars) and many others made donations.
Amongst all political aspirants in the County, only Amb. H. Dan Morays, James Norman Anderson and George Prowd were in attendance. Mr. Prowd left sooner than Messrs. Anderson and Morais. Both men remained up to the end of the Program.
All of the attendees gave their unflinching and unconditional support for the process of reunification of the two chiefdoms.
A glance at the potential candidates in attendance:
Mr. George Prowd is a potential candidate in the 2011 election. He’s looking forward to aspiring for the post of Representative of Harper District. He's going against Hon. James Biney who has been in the House for over ten years.
Messrs H. Dan Morias and James Norman Anderson are looking forward to aspiring for the post of Junior Senator of Maryland County (Amb. Morais has announced his bid; Mr. Anderson hasn’t officially done so yet. But the indications are hanging around). Both men are socioeconomic and political gurus in the County. They are trying to take Hon. Gloria Scott's job. But Gloria is fighting back feverishly!
THE RALLY
The day of the Rally, the weather was bad. A rain storm hit the City so hard, many thought it owuld cause a flood. But it didn't. All it did was to make the day seemingly impossible for attendeess to attend the Second Meeting.
The Rally was slated to begin at 4pm. But because of the bad weather, it started at 5pm. The delay was due to the ardent hope the anticipated number of citizens would show up by braving the weather. All in all, the amount of persons expected to form part of the Program did not show up. The storm kept them out. But the Rally went on successfuly. In the end, the Rally was so interesting, the audience called for replay. Sunday, February 20, another rally will be held to compensate for the lost number.
A Rally committee was set up to mobilize the public for the next rally on Sunday, February 20.
The purpose to seek reunification of the two chiefdoms is locked in the current day reality of Liberia.
Liberia is in a pivotal transitional recovery phase. The Government of Liberia (GoL) and the United Nations (UN) in Liberia recognize that a focus on peacebuilding is a cornerstone of national development and crucial for ensuring that the nation never returns to war. While it is clear that an overall state of security has been maintained in Liberia since the signing of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA) in August 2003, as in any post-conflict country, challenges remain that require attention to ensure there is no relapse to violent conflict. The Kudemoweh and Numoweh situation is not an exception.
Against this background, the sons and daughters of The Numoweh & Kudemoweh Chiefdoms are pursuing the process of reunification of both chiefdoms. Progress is being made in analyzing the causes of instability in County, identifying challenges to developing a durable peace and articulating strategic measures to address ‘conflict factors’.
In essence, the Second Meeting for the Numoweh & Kudemoweh reunification process is a total success story.
This coming Sunday, February 20 marks the Third Meeting with another Rally. Both chiefdoms look foward to a warm reception from the public.
I am Thomas G. Bedell speaking and working on the ground in Liberia.
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