-Senator Amara Konneh weights in on controversial 177th Independence Day Oration
By Jerromie S. Walters
In a recent statement, Gbarpolu County Senator Amara Konneh emphasized the enduring strength of the relationship between Liberia and the United States, while addressing the controversy surrounding the recent Independence Day speech delivered by the national orator.
“The United States is our partner, our friend, and our ally. Truth be told, if not for the US, Liberia would not exist today. We would have been broken up and absorbed by colonial powers. Though the last to recognize our independence, as the Orator rightly stated, the United States was the protector of our independence, saving us from further annexation by the United Kingdom (Sierra Leone) and France (Cote d’Ivoire),” he noted in a write up via his official Facebook page.
Senator Konneh underlined the importance of freedom of speech as a cornerstone of democracy, acknowledging that even in challenging times, Liberians have exercised their right to express their views. However, he criticized the orator for failing to uphold the dignity she advocated in her address, particularly regarding the treatment of guests. “Dignity must define us,” Konneh quoted, asserting that the orator’s remarks about the U.S.-Liberia relationship did not reflect the historical bond shared between the two nations.
The senator defended the United States as Liberia’s partner, friend, and ally, stating that the nation owes its very existence to American support. He recalled how the U.S. played a crucial role in safeguarding Liberia’s independence from colonial powers and highlighted the significant infrastructure built with American assistance, including the Roberts International Airport and the John F. Kennedy Medical Center. “When we were besotted by war and self-annihilation in the 1990s, it was the United States that stepped in in 2003 to end the violence and bring about the peace we enjoy today,” he said.
Sen. Konneh also reminded listeners of Liberia’s loyalty to the U.S., referencing the country’s support during both World Wars and its strategic role during the Cold War. He emphasized that the relationship, dating back to 1819, has been built on mutual aid and cooperation.
While acknowledging that disagreements between friends are natural, the senator stressed the importance of addressing such issues with dignity and respect. He lamented that the orator’s comments at a formal state function were not in line with this principle, stating, “You do not invite a guest into your house to insult them.”
Despite the controversy, Konneh encouraged citizens to reflect on the profound messages delivered by Dr. Robtel Pailey, the Independence Day Orator. He quoted her call to action for a more inclusive and equitable Liberia, urging the nation to bridge divides and work collectively towards a brighter future.
Moreover, Senator Konneh reaffirmed his commitment to fostering the U.S.-Liberia relationship, stating that embracing the orator’s vision is essential for advancing the partnership with their American allies. “Living up to these words and driving this agenda is how we can best move forward with our friend and ally, the United States,” he concluded.
During Liberia’s 177th Independence Day Celebration on Friday, July 26, 2024, the Orator of the event Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailey’s fiery comments on Liberia-U.S. relations flared dissension and led to a walkout by the U.S. Delegation, headed by the Charge of Affairs.
The Orator’s assertion that Liberia has not benefited from its relationship with the United States as it should, struck a nerve with the delegation and prompted their departure from the event. She said, “Truth be told, the United States of America has taken more from us than we have received. Liberia is nobody’s stepchild.”
Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailey’s fiery comments on Liberia-U.S. relations flared dissension and led to a walkout by the U.S. Delegation, headed by the Charge of Affairs.
In an interview following the speech, the Orator noted: “I owed no one an apology or qualm. I stand by my statements, I stand by every word, I stand by every sentence, I stand by every paragraph because I mentioned earlier, I am a scholar par excellence of Liberia. I am also a Liberian scholar who has a deep love for this country. I am not an American citizen; I am a Liberian citizen.” — Dr. Robtel Neajal Pailey
Howbeit, she is departing the country today for the UK
