wednesday, july 22, 2015 edition

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STORIES pg 5pg 6 pg 5 Law & Order COUNTY NEWS LEGISLATIVE BEAT

VOL 9 NO.106 WEDNESDAY, JULY 22, 2015

Obituary - pg. 16Today he is no more. But we will fondly remember him, he will live long in our memory for his

fearless courage and his conviction and his principles. When conflict raged he stood as an outstanding component in the search for lasting peace for our country. - President Ellen Johnson- Sirleaf

Court Tables Ruling In PUP Case

Independence Day Host Pressed Against Time

Lawmakers Discussed US$200K Fees

FATE STILL UNDECIDED

CENTRAL BANK OF LIBERIAMARKET BUYING AND SELLING RATES

LIBERIAN DOLLARS PER US DOLLAR

These are indicative rates based on results of daily surveys of the foreign exchange market in Monrovia and its environs. The rates are collected from the Forex Bureaux and the

commercials banks. The rates are not set by the Central Bank of Liberia.Source: Research, Policy and Planning Department, Central Bank Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia

MONDAY, JULY 13, 2015 L$85.50/US$1 L$86.50/US$1

BUYING SELLING

L$85.50/US$1 L$86.50/US$1

L$86.50/US$1L$85.50/US$1

WEDNESDAY, JULY 15, 2015

MONDAY, JULY 20, 2015

11TH HOUR PREPARATION

INSURANCE DILEMMA

SHIEKH KAFUMBA LAID TO RESTA GIANT TREE HAS FALLEN

| Frontpage Wednesday, July 22, 2015

The Management of APM Terminals LiberiaWishes

Her Excellency, Mrs. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of the Republic of Liberia,His Excellency Ambassador Joseph N. Boakai Sr. Vice President of the Republic of Liberia,

The Speaker and Members of the National Legislature, The Chief Justice and Associate Justices of the Supreme Court,

The Dean and Members of the Cabinet, The Business Community and The Friendly People of Liberia.

A Happy 168th Independence Anniversary

FrontpageWednesday, July 22, 2015 Page 9

ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Liberia Limited is pleased to extend happiest felicitations and Independence Day greetings to the President of the Republic of Liberia, Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Vice President Ambassador Joseph N. Boakai, the Speaker andMembers of the National Legislature, Chief Justice and Associate Justices of the Supreme Court of Liberia, Members of the Cabinet, the Doyen and Members of the Diplomatic Crops and the people of Liberia.

ExxonMobil Exploration and Production Liberia Limited is proud to Work in Liberia and wishes all Liberians a happy Independence Day.

exxonmobil.com

|Frontpage Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Liberia Airport AuthorityINVITATION TO BID

The Liberia Airport Authority applies portion of its approved Internal Revenue Budget, Fiscal Year 2015/2016 to the acquisition of SECURITY UNIFORMS for RIA.As prescribed by the new SBA (SMAAL BUSINESS ACT) through PPCC, this invite is limited to ONLY LIBERIAN OWNED BUSINESSES.

REQUIREMENTS:1. Liberian Owned Business2. Current Business Registration 3. Current Tax Clarence4. Must be in the process of completing registration with PPCC.

SPECCIFICATIONS AND QUANTITIES:Item No. Description of Items Minimum Specification

1. Collar T- Shirt With RIA Embroiled Logo 2. Uniform Shirt Short Sleeve Slate Gray3. Uniform Shirt Long Sleeve Slate Gray4. OfficersShirt White

5. OfficersShoulderCord Yellow

6. Uniform Trouser Navy Blue7. Security Boot G-1 Boot, Black8. OfficersShoes HighGrossOx-ford

9. Security Face Cap Cotton, Adjustable and Black10 Belt Brown11. OfficersBelt Black

12. OfficerSecurityBadge GoldColorPair

13. Security Badge Silver Color Pair14. Shoulder Cord SG-1 & 11 Blue15. Whistle with Chain Gold Color16. Whistle with Chain Silver Color17. Liberia Flag Cotton Clothe18. RIA LOGO Blue & White19. HandCuff SilverColor

20. Baton Expandable Black

Item No. Description of Items Quantity Delivery Date1. Collar T- Shirt With RIA Embroided Logo 150 30 days after signing of contract2. Uniform Shirt Short Sleeve 150 30 days after signing of contract3. Uniform Shirt Long Sleeve 150 30 days after signing of contract4. OfficersShirt 15 30daysaftersigningofcontract

5. OfficersShoulderCord 15 30daysaftersigningofcontract

6. Uniform Trouser 300 30 days after signing of contract7. Security Boot 150 30 days after signing of contract8. OfficersShoes 15 30daysaftersigningofcontract

9. Security Face Cap 150 30 days after signing of contract10 Belt 150 30 days after signing of contract11. OfficersBelt 15 30daysaftersigningofcontract

12. OfficerSecurityBadge 15pairs 30daysaftersigningofcontract

13. Security Badge 135 pairs 30 days after signing of contract14. Shoulder Cord 20 30 days after signing of contract15. Whistle with Chain 15 30 days after signing of contract16. Whistle with Chain 135 30 days after signing of contract17. Liberia Flag 315 30 days after signing of contract18. RIA LOGO 315 30 days after signing of contract19. HandCuff 150 30daysaftersigningofcontract

20. Expandable Baton 150 30 days after signing of contract

BID SUBMISSION:Procurement UnitLiberia Airport Authority/RIARobertsfieldLiberia

CONTACT PERRSON:EGONMARKKUIAH

HeadofProcurement

Liberia Airport Authority /RIACell: 0770555069Email: [email protected]

Deadline for submission is August 11, 2015 at 1PM. NO LATE SUBMISSION WILL BE ACCEPTED! Interested bidders may obtain bidding documents from the Procurement Unit of the Liberia Airport Authority at RIA beginning Thursday July 16, 2015 from 8am to 4pm for a fee of USD75.00Bid opening will be held at the conference room of the Liberia Airport Authority /RIA in the presence of bidders or their representatives who choose to attend on August 10, 2015 at 12:00 noon.Liberia Women Owned businesses are encouraged to participate and will have an added advantage!

Signed:EGONMARKKUIAH

HeadofProcurement

Liberia Airport Authority/Roberts International Airport

Liberia Airport Authority

INVITATION TO BID

The Liberia Airport Authority applies portion of its approved Internal Revenue Budget, Fiscal Year 2015/2016 to FUMIGATION at RIA.As prescribed by the new SBA (SMAL BUSINESS ACT) through PPCC, this invite is limited to ONLY LIBERIAN OWNED BUSINESSES.


Schedule of RequirementsObjective:The RIA is the only standard Airport in Liberia, thus on a daily basis traveler enter and leave the country through this facility. To this end, keeping the Airport clean everyday is a top priority of the Management of the Airport.

Scope of WorkThe Contractor shall be responsible to collect and dispose all garbage within the Airport and its ManagersQuarterfortheFiscalYear2015/2016.

A. Manpower Requirement1. Manpowera. The Contractor shall provide appropriate number of workers, as follows:

SPECCIFICATIONS AND QUANTITIES:

Work Description No. of Workers Schedule Equipment/Tools/Accessories

Spraying/disinfectingof,theAirportsAirside 5 Onceeverymonth Flashproofcirculationtans

(WeekendsPreferably) Respiratorsandrespiratorscanisters

Fumigationdetectionapparatus

Spraying/disinfectingof,theAirportsLandside 5 Onceeverymonth Flashproofcirculationtans

(WeekendsPreferably) Respiratorsandrespiratorscanisters


Spraying/disinfectingof,theAirports 5 Onceeverymonth Flashproofcirculationtans

ManagersQuarterandClippercamp (WeekendsPreferably) Respiratorsandrespiratorscanisters


b. The Contractor shall ensure that each worker assigned to render work shall be proper uniform (Plastic Suit and Boot)c. The Contractor shall ensure that each worker is equipped with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as described below, when working:1. Dusk Mask2. Glove

d. Obligation and Responsibilities

1. Contractora. Undertake the service required on time;b. Obey port rules and regulations;c. Dispose collected garbage at Government of Liberia recognized disposal facilityd. Perform other attendant works that Authority may require BID SUBMISSION:Procurement UnitLiberia Airport Authority/RIARobertsfield Liberia

CONTACT PERRSON:EGON MARK KUIAKHead of ProcurementLiberia Airport Authority /RIACell: 0770555069Email: [email protected] for submission is August 11, 2015 at 1PM. NO LATE SUBMISSION WILL BE ACCEPTED! Interested bidders may obtain bidding documents from the Procurement Unit of the Liberia Airport Authority at RIA beginning Thursday July 16, 2015 from 8am to 4pm for a fee of USD75.00Bid opening will be held at the conference room of the Liberia Airport Authority /RIA in the presence of bidders or their representatives who choose to attend on August 10, 2015 at 12:00 noon.Liberia Women Owned businesses are encouraged to participate and will have an added advantage!


HeadofProcurement



Liberia Airport AuthorityINVITATION TO BID

The Liberia Airport Authority applies portion of its approved Internal Revenue Budget, Fiscal Year 2015/2016 to GARBAGE COLLECTIONS at RIA.As prescribed by the new SBA (SMAAL BUSINESS ACT) through PPCC, this invite is limited to ONLY LIBERIAN OWNED BUSINESSES.


Schedule of RequirementsGarbage/Refuge Collection Services Scope of Work

A. Objective

The RIA is the only standard Airport in Liberia, thus on a daily basis traveler enter and leave the country through this facility. To this end, keeping the Airport free of pests and insects everyday is a top priority of the Management of the Airport

B. SCOPE OF WORK The Contractor shall be responsible to collect and dispose all garbage within the Airport and its ManagersQuarterfortheFiscalYear2015/2016.

C. Area of Coverage The contract shall provide and implement services comprised of activities enumerated under t5ghe Delivery Schedule Section of the Bidding Document, as follows:a.RIAsAirsideb.RIAsLandsidec.RIAsManagersQuarterd. Clipper Camp

D. Manpower Requirement

1. Manpower

a. The Contractor shall provide appropriate number of workers, as follows:SPECIFICATIONS AND QUANTITIES:

b. The Contractor shall ensure that each worker assigned to render work shall be proper fumigator attire (Plastic Suit and Boot)c. The Contractor shall ensure that each fumigator is equipped with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as described below, when working:1. Nose Mask2. Glove

d. Obligation and Responsibilities

1. Contractora. Undertake the service required on time;b. Obey port rules and regulations;c. Perform other attendant works that Authority may require

BID SUBMISSION:Procurement UnitLiberia Airport Authority/RIARobertsfield Liberia

CONTACT PERRSON:EGON MARK KUIAHHead of ProcurementLiberia Airport Authority /RIACell: 0770555069Email: [email protected]

Deadline for submission is August 11, 2015 at 1PM. NO LATE SUBMISSION WILL BE ACCEPTED! Interested bidders may obtain bidding documents from the Procurement Unit of the Liberia Airport Authority at RIA beginning Thursday July 16, 2015 from 8am to 4pm for a fee of USD75.00Bid opening will be held at the conference room of the Liberia Airport Authority /RIA in the presence of bidders or their representatives who choose to attend on August 10, 2015 at 12:00 noon.Liberia Women Owned businesses are encouraged to participate and will have an added advantage!

Signed:EGONMARKKUIAHHeadofProcurement Liberia Airport Authority/Roberts International Airport

Work Description No. of Workers

Schedule Equipment/Tools/Accessories

Cleaning/clearing, collection and disposal of garbage/waste RIAs Airside

4 Three (3) times a week, excluding holidays and weekends

A. Coco brooms or equivalent

B. Shovel/Spade C. Dirt Bags

Cleaning/clearing, collection and disposal of garbage/waste RIAs Landside


D. Coco brooms or equivalent

E. Shovel/Spade F. Dirt Bags

Cleaning/clearing, collection and disposal of garbage/waste RIAs Managers Quarter and Clipper Camp


G. Coco brooms or equivalent

H. Shovel/Spade I. Dirt Bags

Liberia Airport Authority

INVITATION TO BID

The Liberia Airport Authority applies portion of its approved Internal Revenue Budget, Fiscal Year 2015/2016 to Employees Parboiled Rice of RIA.As prescribed by the new SBA (SMAAL BUSINESS ACT) through PPCC, this invite is limited to ONLY LIBERIAN OWNED BUSINESSES.


SPECCIFICATIONS AND QUANTITIES:Items No. Description Size Quantity Delivery Time

1. Parboiled Rice 25 kg 910 Monthly after signing of contract

BID SUBMISSION:Procurement UnitLiberia Airport Authority/RIARobertsfieldLiberia

CONTACT PERRSON:EGON MARK KUIAKHeadofProcurement

Liberia Airport Authority /RIACell: 0770555069Email: [email protected]

Deadline for submission is August 11, 2015 at 1PM. NO LATE

SUBMISSION WILL BE ACCEPTED! Interested bidders may obtain bidding documents from the Procurement Unit of the Liberia Airport Authority at RIA beginning Thursday July 16, 2015 from 8am to 4pm for a fee of USD75.00

Bid opening will be held at the conference room of the Liberia Airport Authority /RIA in the presence of bidders or their representatives who choose to attend on August 10, 2015 at 12:00 noon.

Liberia Women Owned businesses are encouraged to participate and will have an added advantage!


HeadofProcurement



Companies that have failed to Disclose Tax Payment Data to the 6th LEITI Report Article 4(b) of the LEITI Act of 2009 requires that all extractive companies and covered agencies and levels of government disclose, at least once every year, the data of all payments made and revenues received in respect of the extraction of Liberias forest and mineral resources. This initiative is in support of the governments effort to promote transparency and accountability over the management of revenues from Liberias extractive resources, ensuring that all citizens benefit from such resources.

The following companies have failed to submit their templates (tax payment data) to the 6th EITI Report, despite all efforts by LEITI to ensure their compliance, including issuing all concerned parties copies of the templates, disposing the templates on the LEITI website and Facebook page as well as extending the reporting deadline from June 24, 2015 to July 15, 2015.

The LEITI warns all such delinquent companies to submit their templates to the LEITI Secretariat between now and July 31, 2015. Failure to comply will lead to further punitive actions in line with relevant regulations.

The delinquent companies include:

Company Sector African Gold Mining Mining West African Resources Ltd. Mining Aforo Resources Liberia Mining Iron Resources Liberia Ltd. Mining China Union Investment Bong Mines Mining Middle Island Resources Liberia Ltd. Mining West Peak Iron Ltd. Mining Bukon Jedeh Resources Inc. Mining Voila International Inc. Mining Earthsource Mineral International Mining BG Minerals Liberia Limited Mining VBG Valle BSGR Liberia Mining Tietto Mineral Mining Southern Cross Investment Limited Mining AMLIB UNITED MINERALS INC/ KLE KLE Mining Winestock Development Lib. Corp. Mining Planet Minerals Ltd. Mining Castlegem (Liberia) Ltd. Mining Konblo Bumi Incorporated Mining

Investment Development Corporation Mining Trans-Atlantic Petroleum & Oil Resources Mining Diamco Inc. Mining Boart Longyear Liberia Inc. Mining Southern Cross International Ltd. Mining BCM International Liberia Ltd. Mining Thackett Mining Inc. Mining Edasa Mining Company Inc. Mining Superior Mineral Resources Inc. Mining West Africa Daimond Mining Global Mineral Investment Mining Treco Mining Company Mining MNG Gold Additional Area Mining Liberia Development Initiative Mining Z & C Investment Company Mining West Africa Gold And Diamond Mining Bnk Mining Co. Mining ECOWOODS INC. Forestry Global Logging Company Forestry Burglar & Vincent (B&V) Timber Forestry Geblo Logging Forestry Akewa Group of Companies Forestry Forest Venture Inc. Forestry International Consultant Capital ICC Forestry Sun Yeun Corporation Ltd. Forestry Buchanan Renewable Energies(Fuel) (BRE) Forestry Universal Forestry Corporation (UFC) Forestry Ecotimber Inc. Forestry Cavalla Forest Forestry ECO LOGGING Forestry Timber Liberia Inc. Forestry TROPICAL TIMBER Forestry Magna Diversified Corporation Forestry Omiejoe Group of Companies Forestry Quantum Resources Inc. Forestry Bargor & Bargor Enterprise Forestry Tarpeh Timber Corporation Forestry The Liberia Tree And Trading Corporation Forestry Liberian Hardwood Company (LHC) Forestry CANADIAN OVERSEAS PETROLEUM [BERMUDA] LIMITED Oil & Gas

Repsol Oil & Gas The Liberia Company (LIBCO) Agriculture

Signed:______________________ LEITI Secretariat

The Management and Staff of the Liberia Airport Authority, James Spriggs Payne

Airport extend heartfelt congratulations to Her Excellency Madam Ellen Johnson

Sirleaf, President of the Republic of Liberia, Vice President Amb. Joseph

Nyumah Boakai, the Speaker and Members of the Honorable House of Representatives, the Pro temp and

Members of the Liberian Senate, the Chief Justice, Associate Justices and Members of the Judiciary, the Doyen and Members of the diplomatic Corps, the United Nations

Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), the Chairman and Members of the Board of Directors of the Liberia Airport Authority, our Airport Users, and the Peace Loving People of the

Republic of Liberia. As we celebrate 168 years of

independence on July 26, 2015, may God grant us renew hope and strength as we

strive to build a better Liberia. Happy One hundred Sixty Eighth

Independence Day!

Republic of LiberiaLiberia Airport Authority

James Spriggs Payne AirportMonrovia, Liberia

Independence Day Message


PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

The Ministry of National Defense (MoD) and the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) wish to inform the general public that a nation-wide vetting exercise for short-listed potential recruits who met the 2013 recruitment requirement for recruit training and subsequent induction into the AFL is currently ongoing. Screening of short-listed potential recruits will commence on Monday, July 20, 2015 and will end on Monday, July 27, 2015 at the Barclay Training Center, in Monrovia from 7AM to 5PM each day. Only short-listed potential recruits who will be called by cell phone are to report to the Barclay Training Center on appointed dates given by the AFL Recruiting and Vetting Team. The names and photos of short-listed potential recruits will be posted across the country for public vetting. The general public is encouraged to please contact the AFL Recruiting and Vetting Team about any criminal record concerning any of the short-listed potential recruits. For more information, the general public, as well as selected potential recruits are encouraged to please contact the AFL Recruiting and Vetting Team on the following cell phone numbers: 08864338840776132786 08864339170776133287 08864336830776123773Meanwhile, the general public can be assured that the identities of information providers will be kept strictly confidential as Liberiastrives to build a Force for Good.The general public is advised to please note that this is not an initial recruitment exercise that would consider new applicants but rather a continuation of the 2013 recruitment exercise exclusively intended for short-listed potential recruits from the 2013 recruitment exercise.

Ministry of National Defense

(MoD)

About CNFA:CNFA,aUS-basednonprofitnongovernmentalorganization(NGO),workstostimulateeconomic growth and improve rural livelihoods. CNFA assists smallholders in increasing household foodsecurityandnutritionthroughimprovedagriculturalpractices,diversificationofproduction,foodpreservation and storage, development of farmer organizations and strengthened linkages to markets.

Project background: The Feed the Future Liberia Agribusiness Development Activity is designed to provide broad support to agricultural development and food security initiatives at the community and national levels in Liberia. The project supports forging innovative partnerships with the private sector to leverage new resources and maximize impact in support of its development efforts. The goal of the project is to expand access and use of agricultural inputs, and post-harvest handling, processing, packaging and marketing services, broadly applicable to raising incomes for Liberian small-holder farmers(SHF).

CNFA is currently seeking applicants for the following positions:

ChiefofParty:15+yearsofexperienceinmanagingdonor-fundedagriculturaldevelopmentprojectsrequired (7 years of experience with promoting agribusiness, private sector led agricultural growth, and value chain development preferred); management of USAID-funded projects with a value greater than $10millionrequired;MastersdegreeinarelevantfieldandfluencyinEnglishrequired.

Deputy Chief of Party: 8+ years of experience managing donor-funded agricultural developmentprojectsrequired(USAIDexperienceandaspecializationinagriculturaleconomicspreferred);MastersdegreeinrelevantfieldandfluencyinEnglishrequired.

PrivateSectorAdvisor:7+yearsofexperienceinagribusinessand/orsmallenterprisedevelopmentisrequired;BachelorsdegreeinrelevantfieldandEnglishfluencyrequired.

MonitoringandEvaluationManager:InputsMarketingSpecialist:7+yearsofexperienceinmonitoringand evaluating donor funded programs, including experience with designing M&E systems including indicators, data collection systems, impact assessments, tracking and reporting according to USAID standards and overseeing data collection and analysis to assess the impact of project activities.; advanced degreeinarelevantfieldpreferred.

InvestmentPromotionAdvisor: 7+years of experience in promotingprivate sector investment andfacilitatingfinancingintheagriculturalsector;advanceddegreeinarelevantfieldpreferred.

GenderAdvisor:7+yearsofexperienceinpromotingwomensempowermentandgenderequalityinagriculturalprograms;Mastersdegreeinarelevantfieldpreferred.

YouthAdvisor:7+yearsofexperienceinyouthempowermentprogramming;AdvanceddegreeinarelevantfieldandEnglishfluencyrequired.ApplicantsmustsendtheirCVandcoverlettertojobs@cnfa.org with Liberia ADA and position title in the subject line. Deadline for submission is July 23, 2015.

Call for Experts


Dakar (AFP) - Former Chadian dictator Hissene Habre was forcibly brought to court Tuesday for the second day of his trial in Senegal but judges adjourned the case until September to enable appointed lawyers to prepare his defence.Habre, once dubbed "Africa's Pinochet", is accused of war crimes, crimes against humanity and torture during his blood-soaked reign, but has refused recognise what he brands an illegitimate tribunal.The trial, seen as a test case for African justice, opened on Monday, a quarter of a century afterhis1982-1990rulecameto an end.Prison guards brought Habre, dressed in a white robe and turban, into the special court in the Senegalese capital Dakar for the second day.But the 72-year-old refused to speak, and the court appointed three attorneys to defend him after Habre refused legal representation.The court known as the Extraordinary African Chambers then adjourned the trial until September 7 to give the lawyers time to prepare their defence.

People stand outside the Dakar courthouse on July 21, 2015 as the trial of former Chadian dictator H At the news, Habre rose and gave a clenched-fist saluteand V-for-victory sign to his supporters, who shouted "Allah Akbar" (God is greatest).Habre -- backed during his presidency by France and the United States as a bulwark against Libya's Moamer Kadhafi -- is on trial overactions under his regime from 1982 until he was ousted in1990.Rights groups say 40,000Chadians were killed under a regime of brutal repression of opponents and rival ethnic groups Habre perceived as a threat to his grip on the Sahel nation.He risks a sentence of at least 30 years in prison.'Long march to justice' -Protesters hold a banner reading "MPCA: successful Habre trial = enhanced image of Africa" Presiding judge Gberdao Gustave Kam said the appointed lawyers had a duty to "safeguard the interests of Hissene Habre, even against his wishes".

"We want a fair trial," he added.But the delay raised concerns among those representing civil parties in the case, with French lawyer William Bourdon warning that it could enable Habre to "sabotage and paralyse" the trial.Reed Brody of Human Rights Watch said victims were dismayed by the adjournment but that it was only a small setbackinthe25-yearfightforjustice."The victims are of course very disappointed in the adjournment but they have been fighting to bring thiscase to court for 25 years, and 45more dayswill not changeanything in their long march towards justice," said Brody, who has been working with Habre'svictimssince1999."Although Hissene Habre's government sent thousands of people to prison without a trial or even a lawyer, it is only proper for a trial held in the name of justice that Habre himself be defended as best as possible."Habre's personal lawyer Francois Serres dismissed the appointment of the lawyers and the adjournment as merely an effort by the court to try to "lend credibility to the judicial

system".Security was tightened for Tuesday's hearing after some rowdy Habre supporters chanted slogans against the court on Monday before being removed.Habre was overthrown by rebel troops in Chad in December 1990 and fled to Senegal,where he was arrested in June 2013 and has since been in custody.Delayed for years by Senegal, where Habre has lived since fleeing Chad, the trial sets anhistoric precedent as until now African leaders accused of atrocities have been tried in international courts.The Extraordinary African Chambers -- set up under an agreement between Dakar and the African Union - indicted Habre in July 2013 and investigatorsspent19monthsinterviewing some 2,500 witnesses.Around 100 witnesses are expected to testify during the trial, although 4,000 peoplehave been registered as victims in the case.The United States on Monday welcomed the start of the trial as "an important step toward justice" for those who suffered underhisiron-fistedrule.

TRIAL OF CHAD DICTATOR HABRE FRONTPAGE WORLD NEWSIN BRIEF

ATHENS (Reuters) - Greece should wrap up bailout talks with international lenders by August 20, once parliament approves the second package of measures demanded by creditors on Wednesday, the government's spokeswoman said.Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has faced a revolt in the ruling Syriza party over the mix of tax hikes and spending cuts demanded by lenders but is expected to get the package through parliament with the support of pro-European opposition parties.But he said last week he aimed to seal the bailout accord, which couldofferGreeceup to86billioneuros ($93billion) innewloanstobolsteritstotteringfinancesandwardoffthethreatofbeing forced out of the euro.

DUBAI (Reuters) - The United States said on Tuesday it was disturbed by anti-U.S. hostility voiced by Iran's top leader after a nuclear deal, as both countries' top diplomats sought to calm opposition to the accord from hardliners at home.U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said a speech by Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on Saturday vowing to defy American policies in the region despite a deal with world powers over Tehran's nuclear program was "very troubling"."I don't know how to interpret it at this point in time, except to take it at face value, that that's his policy," he said in the interview with Saudi-owned Al Arabiya television."But I do know that often comments are made publicly and things can evolve that are different. If it is the policy, it's very disturbing, it's very troubling," he added.Rabat (AFP) -

Morocco said eight people were arrested on Tuesday over alleged plots to carry out attacks mainlytargetingsecurityofficialsonbehalfoftheIslamic State jihadist group.The newly formed Central Bureau of Judicial Investigation, dubbed Morocco's FBI by the media, said an eight-member "terrorist cell" was dismantled across the country in the towns of Tangiers, Bouznika, Khouribga and Taounate.The suspects had been in contact with IS leaders and given refuge to fighters who had received "intensive training in producingexplosives and gang warfare", the interior ministry added.It said members of the network, which included women, were planning "a series of terrorist operations" against security officialsandsensitivesites.They also had links with former Al-Qaeda fighters inAfghanistan, it said.

GREECE LOOKS TO SEAL BAILOUT DEAL IN WEEKS

ADJOURNED TO SEPTEMBER

U.S. 'DISTURBED' BY IRANIAN LEADER'S CRITICISM AFTER DEAL

MOROCCO SAYS 8 ARRESTED OVER JIHADIST ATTACK PLOTS

VIOLENCE AS BURUNDI VOTES IN CONTROVERSIAL PRESIDENTIAL POLLBujumbura (Burundi) (AFP) - Burundians voted Tuesdayamidgunfireand grenade blasts, with President Pierre Nkurunziza widely expected to win a third term despite international condemnation and thousands of people fleeingfearedviolence.The United States said the government's dismissal of calls to delay the poll "risks its legitimacy" and risked "unravelling the fragile progress" made by the peace deal that ended more than a dozen years of civil war and ethnicmassacresin2006.At least two people -- a policeman and a civilian -- were killed in a string of explosions and gunfire overnight. Blasts

and shootings were also heard as polls opened shortly after dawn in the capital Bujumbura, the epicentre of three months of anti-government protests.Willy Nyamitwe, Nkurunziza's chief communications advisor, condemned the attacks as "terrorist acts" aimed at "intimidating voters".Around3.8millionBurundianswere eligible to vote in the polls, which closed at 4 pm(1400GMT).Opposition and civil society groups have denounced Nkurunziza's candidacy as unconstitutional, with many boycotting the polls.Centres visited by AFP reporters in Bujumbura appeared quiet with few queues, although voting was

busier in pro-Nkurunziza areas.Nkurunziza himself turned up on a bicycle to vote in his home village of Buye, where turnout was high with long lines of voters.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon urged calm, calling on all sides to "refrain from any acts of violence that could compromise the stability of Burundi and the region".


PATRICK GUIZEHCHANGE TO

FREDRICK B. JALLAH

Monrovia - The government of Liberia has bestowed Liberias Official Gazette onone of Liberias religious heroes, Shiekh Kafumba Konneh was laid to rest. The government of Liberia has announced profound regret of the death of Shiekh Konneh who died at age 72.The Muslim clergyman died Tuesday at 5PM at his residence in Topoe Village Gardnerville.The death of the Sheikh came as a shock to both Muslim and Christian communities in Liberia because of the role he played in the Liberian society.Hundredths of government officials gathered at theAnthony Tubman Stadium to pay last respects as the Sheikh laid to rest in Caldwell Samukai Town lower

MOURNINGSHIEIKH KAFUMBAMan Who Stood In Midst of Troublesome Times

Montserrado County.Many described Shiekh Konneh as hero in society who didnt discriminated among Liberians.Bystanders around the stadium went to take a glance

at the funeral ceremony of Sheikh Konneh described him as friendly and a man of good heart.I never knew him in person. I normally heard him on the radio. What I knew of him was

that he was not a Muslim who only spoke for his people. He was a man who stood in the gap during our troublesome times in Liberia, noted a bystander Edward Normal.He was good, you dont have to be a rocket scientist to know that, said Hilary Tamba, another bystander. There are few guys that history will never forget. The late Michael Francis, Barccus Matthews and now Sheikh Konneh. They are people that we will not easily forget. Those guys were heroes. Not everyone in Liberia that attended the funeral of the Sheikh had good things to say about him. A youth leader of the PHP Community, Alfred Johnson differed with those

praising Sheikh Konneh.Johnson who is said to be the Chairman of the PHP Aggressive Youth Movement believes that Sheikh Konneh didnt do well in the Muslim Community. According to him Sheikh Konneh brought serious division among Muslims in Liberia.The brother was a Mandingo Muslim and he restricted the National Muslim Council of Liberia to the majority Mandingo community. Rather than other tribes who are Muslims, we have Vai Muslims, Gbandi Muslims, Fula Muslims and even some Bassa Muslims, Gio, Kpelle from all over the 15 counties in Liberia. But the Sheikh has not been able to unite all of us, he noted.He continued: Look if I tell you that I am Kpelle man and I am a Muslim can you believe that? No, you will not believe it until you see me go to the mosque to pray, because of the restriction he brought to the religious community. Anyone who is a Mandingo is believed to be a Muslim man, said Johnson.He emphasized that there is not one tribe that dominates the Muslim religion in Liberia. He described Sheikh Konneh as a dictator who hijacked the leadership of the Liberia National Muslim Council of Liberia. If I may say, I think he was a dictator. Though we are all sorry for his death, the truth must be told. Since I was a little boy Ive been hearing about him being the chairman of the Muslim Council until his death today. Let his soul rest in peace and I hope the Council will incorporate other tribes who are Muslims, he said.For me Sheikh was a dictator. This old man never listened to the youths ideas in the Muslims Community. He ran the council as lord and gospel unto himself, me, myself, and, I was his policy. He took many decisions at the time that never represented the views of all Muslims. He normally spoke for only Mandingo Muslims and not Fula, Vai, and Mande or other tribes who are Muslims, Samuel Jallah of Vai Town explained.Duringtheceremonyofficialsof the government showered the late Shiekh Kafumba Konneh with words of praise. Some described him as a son of the land, while others called him a man of peace.An Executive of the Inter-Religious Council of Liberia, Dr. Benjamine Lartey described the late Sheikh as

a man of peace who always promoted religious tolerance.The Inter-Religious Council of Liberia is comprised of both Muslims and Christians with the goal of bringing the two religions together and promoting peace among the people.Sheikh Konneh served as chairman of the Inter-Religious Council for two terms before his death.Dr. Lartey who is a Liberian cleric and pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Zion Church said all of Liberia is bereaves, Liberia is bereaves, we stand here with heavy hearts. He was a man of peace. He left a legacy behind. The need of religious tolerance is needed among all Liberians. All this man has built over the years must remain and be implemented. Let us remain peaceful and not abandon the legacy of Sheikh, He said.Associate Justice Philip Banks said Sheikh Konneh shared gifts over the years among all Liberians, Sheikh Konneh has shared his gift with the Liberian public and the nation at large, he was a good friend of the judiciary who has been committed to the rule of law, he stated.He expressed condolence to the family of Sheikh Konneh on behalf of the judicial branch of government, On behalf of the judiciary we want to thank the family, friends, love ones and sympathizers for being calm. We say sorry for the lost of our own state man, I think he will be remembered, said.Senate Pro Temp Armah Jallah described the Sheikh as the best evangelist and a devoted Muslim, Sheikh Kafumba Konneh was the best evangelist Liberia has ever had, he was not just a Muslim man he extended his services to the entire country and he will be remembered for his hard work in Liberia,said Jallah.President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf described the Sheikh as the giant tree that has fallen, When a giant tree falls it imparts other trees, our nation was shocked when we heard of his death. Indeed he is a giant tree that has fallen in Liberia. He was not just an Islamic preacher; he was politician, a lawyer, and a judge. We mourn his death as a country with respect.The late Sheikh Kafumba Konneh was born on February4,1944inSaclepeaNimba County and he died at age 72.

Edwin G. Genoway, Jr (231886458910);FPA STAFF WRITER


Henry Karmo (0886522495) [email protected]

Bettie K. Johnson/ [email protected]

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Kennedy L. Yangian, [email protected] 0777296781

LAW & ORDER

INSURANCE DILEMMA

FATE STILL UNDECIDED, COURT TABLES RULING IN PUP CASE

AMERICAN GIRL DIED AFTER BEEN DENIED BY HEALTH

FACILITIES IN LIBERIA

Lawmakers Discussed US$200K FeesMonrovia - FrontPageAfrica has learnt that Members of the 53rd House of Representatives are discussing the disappearance of US$250,00(two hundredthousand United States Dollars) that was intended for insurance of lawmakers vehicles.According to legislative sources, some members of the House of Representatives are raising concerns that the money may have been pocketed by some senior members of that body, a concern which has prompted the speaker to call executive session on Tuesday.Our sources also told this paper that members were dissatisfied about the wayin which the money was being used by the House Committee on Rules and Order. They informed us thatwehadUS$200K in thepast budget and that the money should have been used for insurance of our vehicles but we do not have insurance stickers and this is what has made us concern and want to know what happened to the money, one

aggrieved member told FPA in anonymity.The source also claimed that some members of the body are currently dissatisfiedabout the justificationgiven the body by the

Committee on Rules Order and Administration Chair by Representative Byron Brown.As justification to thatinformation Lawmakers were seen walking out of the House executive session

in angry mood but could not talk to journalists because it is prohibited by their rules.Bidding for insurance In an interview with the House Chairman on Rules and Order and administration via

mobile phone Representative Byron Brown (LP-District#2 Grand Bassa County) said, the committee did a bidding process and the Sky Insurance company won the bid. He told FPA that the bidding process was recognized by the Public Procurement Concessions Commission and the Ministries of Finance and Justice. They have given us the policy, and the stickers. Let me make this clear. If you buy insurance, they dont give car, they give you policy and we have the policy and stickers. What we are doing now is getting each lawmaker number to issue the sticker, Representative Brown said. In a related development the legislature has called a special session for Wednesday July 22nd 2015 and according to information, the purpose of the special session is to pass the National budget for the fiscalyear2015/2016.The National Budget is submitted to the Legislature

by the Executive branch before April 30th of every year for perusal or scrutinizing in line with the lawmakers' oversight responsibility. Upon passage, it may or may not be voted or signed into law by the President. But this year, President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf requested an extension. The President's request came just six (6)days to the expiration of the 2014/2015FiscalYear.The President requested the lawmakers for the deadline of the Draft Budget to be extended from April 30 to May 31, 2015. Her request was contained in a communication dated April 22, 2015 and read during regular session on Thursday, April 23, in the Chambers of the House of Representatives.The President stated that more time is required for Liberia to consult with her development partners in supporting the National Budget. This, she stated, would help reduce the time available to the Legislature to approve the Budget before the start of the new fiscalyear. She noted that the additional time requested would also help the country to meet the challenges faced, as Liberia recovers from the Ebola crisis.

Monrovia- MaryAnns,24,anIrish-Americanmetheruntimelydeathwhen her car abruptly stopped at the Mount Barclay, Bernard Farm in Liberia. As Anns got down to fix her car, a bus ran into hercausing her serious injuries. The driver absconded the scene and has not been found by security personnel.According to eye witnesses, Anns did not die on the scene but was hurriedly rushed to several hospitals but was denied treatment with some claiming that they had no bed or Doctor on shift to treat her.Cecelia Ware, an eyewitness explained: I live right in that house (pointing to a house not far from the scene of the fatal crash) and I only heard the voice your come oh; I need help oh , but when we came we met the lady with the cut on the back of her head. The witness says a man named Alpha who is believed to be her friend, took her and placed her in his car. I went along with him in my neighbors car but when we reached Bensons Clinic, they told us that no bed was there.A man who only identified himself as Martin and said he is aMechanic, narrated that he was servicing a car when the incident happened but his back was turned to the scene so he did not have any details to give.A Police source in Mount Barclay, who asked for anonymity explained that he was told that the deceased was driving a pickup but experience mechanical fault. A man named Alpha Roland reportedly got out of his car to help but unfortunately when she left from behind hersteering, instructingtheman,abusmarkedTB-1434ranintoher from an opposite lane.Anns had traveled to the Mount Barclay area and was on her way to town when she was badly hit by the bus. She was a volunteer expected to return to the U.S. on July 15 but was pronounced dead at J.F. K in Alphas car by 1:10 am.The U.S. embassy has reportedly taken statements from Alpha and local police regarding the fatal crash.Two brothers who were heading home received injuries and are said to be at the J.F.K Medical Center undergoing treatment. Nema Kollie reportedly experienced head injury while Flomo Kollie experienced fractures.

Monrovia- The Criminal Court C at the Temple of Justice in Liberia has tabled ruling in the economic sabotage case involving the former Managing Director of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) Moses Wogbeh and four other defendants.After waiting at the court for a long three hours in vain, for the ruling that would have decided their fate, the Judge of the Criminal Court C Peter Gbeneweleh told parties to the case that he could not rule Tuesday per his previous schedule citing a pending trip to Grand Kru County where the countrys168thIndependenceAnniversary will be celebrated

alongside Sinoe County in the Southeast.I will surely rule in this case when I come back from Grand Kru County. But I will not tell you when I will be back because the road is bad, said Judge Gbeneweleh when he spoke to FrontPageAfrica.The decision by the court comes following last weeks final argument in the casebetween state and defense lawyers. The two parties have already completed the finalarguments in the case.During the argument state lawyer and Solicitor General Betty Lamie Blamo called on thecourttofindthedefendantguilty because the state has proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

Your honor please find thedefendants guilty because the state has proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt that could declare the defendant guilty said Solicitor General Betty Larmie Blamo. Defense lawyer Cllr. Albert Sims differed from the Solicitor General Blamo adding that the state has not proven its case against the defendants adding that the trial of the defendants was selective justice.In its findings andrecommendations the Special Board set by the President called for a one month suspension for the Board Chairman Agriculture Minister Florence Chenoweth, who approved the Public Use Permit (PUP) that is selective

justice, said Sims.Sims has therefore called on Judge Gbeneweleh, who is serving as both a judge and jury De Facto to set the fivedefendants free. Claiming their prosecution was selective justice that should not be condone by the court.Former Forestry Development Authority (FDA) Moses Wogbeh and two other staffs John Kantor and Jangar Kamara including two Lands & Mines and Energy employees have gone on trial for allegedly issuing61PrivateUsePermitsillegally to several logging companies.Court record show that the alleged issuance of the 61Private Use Permits (PUP) caused government to loss US$6m in revenue, a claim allfivedefendantshavedenied.Wogbeh, testifying early this month, denied every claim made by the state and told the court that everything that he did with the issuance of the PUP was done with the approval of the Chairman of the Board of the Forestry Development Authority (FDA).I challenge the state to prove how the issuance of the PUP resultedinthelossofUS$6m,said the soft-spoken former managing director of the FDA. He was seen telling the Judge who is serving a dual capacity as a judge and jury De Facto.


Henry Karmo (0886522495) [email protected]

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NEWS EXTRA

DIPLOMATIC ENGAGEMENT

USAID FED EMPOWERS 30 YOUTH ENTREPRENEURS THROUGH

PROVISION OF POWER TILLERS

Senate Defense Committee Report on Grand Gedeh Ivorian Armed Men Situation

Monrovia - The Senate Defense and National Security Committee chaired by Senator Steve Zargo (LP-Lofa County) has concluded an investigation into information regarding the alleged Ivorian armed men incursion into the Grand Gedeh County Forest.The committee was given the mandate by the plenary of the house of the Senate as a result of a Communication written by Senator Marshall Dennis (CDC-Grand Gedeh County), informing them of information that Ivorian and Burkinabes armed men have entered into Grand Gedeh County Forest for hunting and illegal mining purpose.The committee despite failing to meet up with its two weeks deadline given them by plenary of the Senate, among many things recommended that since the chair of the joint security and Attorney General of the Republic of Liberia, Justice Minister Cllr. Benedict Sannoh confirmedthat the executive is seized of the situation to the effect that diplomatic engagement has begun and the leadership of the senate encourage the executive to continue with the diplomatic engagement

On July 16, 2015in Suakoko, Bong County, the USAID Food and Enterprise Development Program (USAID FED) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) distributed 30 power tillers worthUSD$189,000toLiberianyouth entrepreneurs under a cost share arrangement. Youth entrepreneurs in Lofa received 9 power tillers, whilethose in Nimba and Bong County each received 10 power tillers, and a youth entrepreneur in Grand Bassa received1 power tiller. A power tiller is used for plowing the soil before planting. The youth will operate the power tillers in cultivating at

with neighboring la Cote d Ivoire with a view of expeditiously resolving the problem.The committee also recommended that the Grand Gedeh Legislative Caucus remain engaged with the process and that during either their legislative sitting or, major gathering in the country make it an agenda item and keep the legislature informed about unfolding events so as to determine the governments next course of action.The recommendation states: The Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs liaises with the Minister of Foreign Affairs

and authorities to determine the extent of the diplomatic engagement and that they concurred with the prior recommendation emanating from the justice minister to the effect of the Government of Liberia maintaining security presence in the area.That National action be taken very soon to occupy the said parcel of Land to include but not limited to agriculture, concession, military barrack and that the GOL sees the need to subsidize local dwellers to engage in economic activities on the said parcel of Land.The committee further recommended that the

government makes budgetary allocation for security occupational activities in all of the areas

to include River Gee, whose senator also raised similar concerns few months back when a Liberian was shot and killed by an unknown person from the Ivory Coast side.FindingsAmong many things, the team said the area in question is far from Zwedru, densely forested and largely uninhabited by Grand Gedeans, and the few farmers and villagers cannot utilize all of the rich and vast forest land.The committee also reported in its findings thata good number of Ivorians, most of whom are Krahn-speaking people mixed with Burkinabes have seized the opportunity to move in the terrain due to the

tribal, language and culture similarities to venture in the forest to hunt log and plant tree crops such as Cocoa, coffee and rubber.Prominent citizens of Grand Gedeh and other citizens alike understand the long historical, culture and tribal ties between them and those of their kinsmen from Ivory Coast but, the involvement of the Burkinabes, the planting of long term tree corps and illicit logging without the consent of and or, the approval of the local authorities and national government is the primary concern of the people of Grand Gedeh.The senate was alarmed by senator Marshalls Communication in the wake of the governments struggle to deal with the dilemma of the gradual drawdown of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) with concerns about whether Liberia will be able to handle its own security. In a communication to the plenary of the Senate, Senator Dennis disclosed what he described as a very disturbing, unfortunate and unprecedented development along the Liberian/Ivorianborder.

least 1,440 hectares of farmland this year in USAID FEDs core counties of Lofa, Nimba, Bong and Grand Bassa, at reasonable fees. USAID FED will provide training on business management and also help these youth enterprises access loans for the improvement of their power tiller businesses. This initiative aims at creating employment opportunities for youth in Liberias agriculture sector and to promote sustainable provision of mechanized services for lowland rice farming. USAID FED is assisting more than 28,000 farmers in 2015 togrow rice on 5,340 hectaresof lowlands in Bong, Nimba, Lofa and Grand Bassa utilizing improved production technologies and practices. A labor market assessment conducted in 2012 by the USAID Advancing Youth Project (AYP) stated that the informal economy in Liberia is a significant source foremployment opportunities for young people. Additionally, lowland rice farmers in Liberia have limited access or no access to mechanized services. As such

activities such as de-stumping and land preparation have to be done through manual labor which increases production cost. The United States government is committed to supporting Liberias agriculture through the USAID FED program to improve farmers productivities and enhance food security. Within the next few years, the program will continue to work with interested Liberian youths in the agriculture sector to ensure selfemployment, said Barbara Dickerson, Deputy USAID Mission Director. The initiative is meant to empower the youth in Liberias agriculture sector and to ensure that Liberian farmers get access to mechanized services to allow them to expand lowland rice production. The youth groups are expected to cultivate at least one hectare of land per day, said Agnes Luz, Chief of Party of USAID FED. Honorable Fofi Baimba,Chairman of the Agriculture Committee, House of Representatives said, The Liberian government is highly grateful to the Government

and people of America for the initiative to empower the youths and increase the productivities of small holders farmers through mechanization. The USAID FED Program for Liberia aims to reduce hunger and promote food security for Liberians through increased agricultural productivity and profitability in rice, cassava,vegetable and goat value chains. It is implemented in six counties: Bong, Nimba, Lofa, Grand Bassa, Margibi and Montserrado. The United States as the largest donor and closest ally is supporting the Liberian priorities to build sustainable local capacity, make a difference in peoples lives, and move towards a shared vision of self-sufficiencyandprosperity. For more information please visit. www.usaid.gov. USAID FED is Africas largest project under President Barack Obamas Feed the Future Initiative, which promotes a move away from subsistence and increasing food security by working with public and private bodies, including the Government of Liberia, the private sector, local NGOs and other key stakeholders.

Today he is no more. But we will fondly remember him, he will live long in our memory for his fearless courage and his conviction and his principles. When conflict raged he stood as an outstanding component in the search for lasting peace for our country. - President Ellen Johnson- Sirleaf

Massa F. Kanneh massa.kanneh@f r o n t p a g e a f r i c a o n l i n e . c o m / 0886848625Monrovia - President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf along with high-profilegovernment and nongovernment officials joined thousands ofMuslims and non-Muslims Tuesday to bid farewell to the fallen Muslim cleric Shiekh Kafumba Konneh who died Monday evening at his Topoe village residence in Gardnerville after a brief illness. The President rained praises on the fallen cleric, describing him as an icon of peace and a component of religious tolerance in Liberia, whom she said had been the voice and face of Islam. The President expressed the nations shock to learn of the unfortunate demise of Sheikh Konneh.Said president Sirleaf: When a giant tree falls in the forest it impacts other trees far and near. Last night the nation was shocked by the news of the unfortunate demise of the late Shiekh Kafumba Konneh. The great statesman of valor unpretending, his passing symbolizes the fall of the giant tree in the forestPresident Sirleaf noted that the late Islamic cleric was a distinguished Liberian who will be remembered as a messenger of peace and inter-religious tolerance. He was surely a permanent voice and face of Islam. He was the one who mobilize Nimba County to support Edward Kesselly the founder of Unity Party, in the 1985elections. Today he is no more. But we will fondly remember him, he will live long in our memory for his fearless courage and his conviction and his principles. When conflictragedhestoodasanoutstandingcomponent in the search for lasting peace for our country. President Sirleaf said.She noted that the nation mourned a great loss. She consoled the family and encouraged them to celebrate the life Sheik lived and the meaningful contribution he made to the country.Mr. Benjamin Larty, former Secretary General of the Inter-religious Council, cautioned Liberians, both Muslims and Christians to peacefully co-exist. And be religiously tolerant, for that is what Sheikh Konneh fought for and so it is imperative that Liberians keep the peace, even after UNMIL leaves the country.Members of the national legislature described the death as a great lost.A peace icon has fallen. A hero of peace and unity, a big cotton tree has lost a great son of peace and a patriot, said Senate Pro Tempore Armah Jallah. The late Sheikh Kafumba konneh was born on February 4, 1944 in Seclepea,Nimba County unto the blessed union Mr. Fombo Konneh and Mrs. Madoye Kromah. His parents predeceased him.The deceased embraced the Muslim religion at an early age and became a devoted Muslim Cleric.The astute statesman dedicated his life to public service and religious coexistence.He was a self-educated public servant who started his professional career from 1972to1977asanAssociateMagistratein Lamco, Yekepa in Nimba County.The following year, the late Shiekh Kamfu Konneh moved to Sanniquellie and served again as an Associate Magistrate and Secretary General of the Liberia Muslim Union concomitantly in Nimba County.Giving his valuable contributions to public service, particularly in the judiciary sector, he became commissioner of Ganta Townshipin1979.He moved to Monrovia in 1981 andbecame a member of the Muslim Congress of Liberia and eventually served as its SecretaryGeneralin1982.The deceased succeeded the late Sheikh Rashid Sheriff as Chairman of the National Muslim Council, a position he held until his demise on July 20th, 2015.While serving in these capacities, the late Shiekh Konneh worked tireless with his fellow compatriots from various religious denominations under the banner of the Inter-Faith Mediation Council, which engaged the warring factions in the Liberia civil crisis for a peaceful resolution.

He was instrumented in negotiating numerous peace agreements, including the Accra Comprehensive Peace Agreement that finallybrought peace to Liberia.In 2006, the late Shiekh Kafumba Konneh wasappointed as Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Liberia, which was mandated to investigate the root of theLiberiancivilcrisisfrom1979to2003andtoreconcile victims and perpetrators.Shiekh worked as a full time Commissioner responsible for investigating the Liberian history and identify errors, and was oversight commissioners for Cape Mount Bomi, and

Gbarpolu counties.He was also one of the commissioners known to have attended all of the hearings of the TRC both in Liberia and abroad.This surely demonstrated his commitment to working for peace and reconciliation in Liberia.Since the completion of work of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee (TRC), the late Shiekh had been engaged with strengthening the National Muslim Council and the Inter-Religious Council of Liberia in ensuring that both organizations would have the necessary capacities to breed new leaders to continue the work for peace and religious coexistence in Liberia.

The late Shiekh Konneh was a father, grandfather, a prominent Muslim cleric and leader, a skillful negotiator and mediator, a true public servant and a repository of Islamic and Liberian history.The deceased was joined in customary matrimony with four wives, the union of which was blessed with 13 children. With the passing of the late Shiekh Konneh, the families have lost a loving and caring father, his comrades, a strong source of inspiration and courage and the Muslims community a renowned Muslims Cleric and the Government of Liberia, a dedicated public servant.

A GIANT TREE HAS FALLENSHIEKH KAFUMBA LAID TO REST

wednesday, july 22, 2015 edition

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