OPINION
Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas
(ULAA), What are its plans?
-Nyenpan Tarpeh-Doe
What is ULAA’s policy towards peace, human rights,
economic development, and social advancement, and democracy in the Republic of
Liberia?
Since the election of the new corps of officers of
ULAA, charged with the responsibilities of advancing the collective views of
Liberians residing in the Americas, I have yet to hear of a policy statement,
and stance against the Liberian Government in light of its human rights record,
and lack of basic human services to its people.
Mohammed Kromah, current president of ULAA, and an
alleged supporter and sponsor of LURD ought to develop a sound plan as to how he
would engage the Liberian Government, constructively or otherwise, to embrace
peace, uphold the rights of every citizen and individual under the constitution
of Liberia. Kromah has recently been traveling around the world, meeting
Liberians in various parts and has not produced any significant agenda that his
organization would pursue in the interest of the people of Liberia. Is Kromah
one of those that would use ULAA as a springboard to enhance his personal
agenda?
Does Kromah have any plan at all to help influence
United States policy towards Liberia?
The United States has a reduced, or lack of interest in
Liberia’s prosperity, and protection as a sovereign nation. Secretary of State
Colin Powell, when he worked at the Defense Department went on record to say
that Liberia was of no strategic interest to America. Since the end of the Cold
War, America finds no interest in Liberia’s usefulness. Liberia was once their
headquarters for covert activities in Eastern and Western Europe. What did the
country get in return besides pennies? Samuel Doe, the architect of Liberia’s
disaster.
There is work to do as ULAA’s chief executive, and
Kromah must begin to map out some major policy areas on which he would advance
his agenda when one is developed and ready for execution. He must act now; or
are his hands tied due to his alleged involvement with LURD’s activities.
Which way? Kromah, which way?
I supported the election of Kromah, but it was before
I knew he was one of LURD’s sponsors, and was interested in the vice
presidential position when LURD overthrows Charles Taylor. I was disappointed
when I heard some Liberians were opposed to him being president of ULAA because
of his ethnic Mandingo background. I defended him and frowned on all those that
opposed him because he is Mandingo. I oppose those who seek to divide us as a
people. We are one people, one country under the Lone Star. The only thing I
would fight for, is for the Lone Star to shine forever.
If Kromah cannot operate ULAA, he must resign given
his alleged involvement with LURD. He cannot have ULAA and LURD at his disposal
at the same time as his effectiveness would be marginal.
