–For Walking Out Of Independence Day Program
National Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman Emeritus, Chief Cyril Allen, says he wants the US Embassy near Monrovia to apologize to the people of Liberia for the embassyโs delegation walking out of the occasion marking the countryโs 177 Independence Day anniversary.
The NPP Chairman Emeritus told the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs that the US Chargรฉ dโAffairesโ action walking out of the program was incorrect.
He acknowledged the long existing ties between Liberia and the United State of America, but noted that the behavior of the U.S delegation, led by its Chargรฉ dโAffaires (CDA), was undiplomatic; as such, there is a need for them to apologize to President Joseph N. Boakia and the Liberian people.
Chief Allen revealed that the Chargรฉ dโAffairesโ actions was arrogant, disrespectful and rude, on ground that it is not in line with diplomatic missions.
โI do not speak for anyone neither speaks for an institution; Iโm speaking as an elderly statesman, and my head does not fit in the mouth of anyone, or nobody is feeding me,โ National Patriotic Party Chairman Emeritus Chief Cyril Allen said.
In a sharp response to the Independence Dayโs oration, the United States Embassy said they wish to address concerns regarding Chargรฉ dโAffaires (CDA) Rodriguezโs decision to leave the event.
โThe United States and Liberia share a unique history and democratic values. Unfortunately, the national orator introduced divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations. The United States has a long history of providing foreign assistance, amounting to at least $163 million annually.
โThis is separate from the U.S. governmentโs contributions to several international organizations that also provide aid to the Liberian people. Additionally, numerous U.S. foundations, private American citizens, and nongovernmental organizations are dedicated to uplifting the Liberian people.
โIndependence Day is a time for hope and unity. CDA Rodriguezโs decision to walk out was a measured response to the oratorโs comments.
โWhile the orator is entitled to freedom of speech, the CDA chose to exercise her right not to listen to such remarks.
โThe United States remains a steadfast partner to Liberia, dedicated to fostering a positive and collaborative relationship based on shared values and mutual respect. We look forward to continuing our work together, now and in the future, for the benefit of both nations.โ
The Government of Liberia (GOL), through the Ministry of Information, has since distanced itself from the statement made by Dr. Robtel Pailey against the American people.
Many Liberians at home and abroad, including some senators and representatives, have since given divided views regarding Dr. Robtel Paileyโs oration, with some backing her speech but others saying that her statement against the American people was disrespectful in the face of the long existing ties between the two countries.
The NPP Chairman Emeritus believed the oratorโs speech represent the views of her generation on ground that some Western countries are in the constant habit of arm-twisting other countries for their national gain.
He blasted at governmentโs official who are defending the action of the US Chargรฉ dโAffaires (CDA) on ground that they are afraid of being placed on sanction by the American government, which he termed as insignificant.
โI was on sanction for the twelve unbroken years and that did not have any impact on me, and I continue to live a good life. America places unnecessary sanction on people around the world because they are one of the worldโs superpowers.
National Patriotic Party Chairman Emeritus Chief Cyril Allen was quick to point out that the authorities of the Liberian government should have requested a copy of the oratorโs speech for review before the program.
