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Only Liberians Can Rebuild Liberia

The Analyst (Monrovia)
NEWS
December 6, 2004
Posted to the web December 6, 2004

By George J. Borteh

- LIBA President
The President of the Liberia Business Association (LIBA), Mr. Sam A. Mitchell,
Jr. has spoken of the necessity for Liberians to realize that it is they who
can build their ravaged country and not western nations.
His statement comes against the backdrop of many appeals to the international
community to help Liberia out of its mess.
The LIBA president said that Liberians must continue to rise up in the face of
challenges, especially the reconstruction and rehabilitation process of the
country.
"This country is ours and only Liberians will rebuild Liberia," he noted.
Mr. Mitchell made the remarks over the weekend at the Monrovia City Hall during
programs marking the installation of officers elect of the LIBA. He was re-
elected as president about a month ago.
He praised the business community, stressing when the transportation crisis
hits Monrovia, it was the business community which stood up to the challenge,
provided used buses that are plying the streets of Monrovia.
Mr. Mitchell noted that the transport situation was a "glorious opportunity"
for the government of Liberia to assist the private sector in solving that
problem, but regretted that the government rather entrusted US$1million to
aliens to supply the 25 buses.
He stressed that the GOL should have made such money available through banks to
finance the importation of the 25 buses by Liberians who have embarked on the
reconstruction process of the country.
Mr. Mitchell noted that no nation can boast of political sovereignty and
independence when its economy is dominated and fully controlled by foreigners.
He pointed out that Liberians business people are the catalyst of Liberia's
development and growth and such must be emerged from the shadows of
government's condescending attitude to the commanding heights of setting the
agenda for the country and its people aspirations.
He said members of LIBA are not politicians, but cannot and should not watch
disinterestedly, adding any political trends may have adverse consequence on
the economy.
We are challenged like never before to become more fully involved in
contributing to charging a new course for our country," he noted.
Those installed were Mr. Samuel Mitchell, President, Madam Roseline Sneh Vice
President, Mr. John W. Brandy, Vice President for Operations, Lelyn Johnson,
Treasurer and Bendu Matt-Clarke, Secretary General.

   

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