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ADNews- Bong: Former Bong County Senator Franklin O. Siakor has delivered a scathing critique of the United States, accusing it of exploiting Liberia’s natural resources and exacerbating the country’s poverty and underdevelopment.
By Edwin Khakie (edwinkhakie0@gmail.com)
In a recent interview with local journalists in Gbarnga, Siakor, a prominent figure in Bong County, condemned the U.S. for its role in the environmental degradation and economic harm inflicted on Liberia. He argued that American interests have exploited the country’s resources, including involvement in mining activities that have caused significant environmental damage and deprived Liberians of their rightful benefits.
Siakor criticized the U.S. for failing to share the profits from its resource extraction operations with Liberia, accusing American corporations of reaping the benefits while leaving Liberian citizens to suffer. He urged the U.S. to act more responsibly, respect Liberia’s sovereignty, and compensate the country fairly for the exploitation of its resources. Additionally, Siakor called for sustainable practices to be implemented in collaboration with the Liberian government.
In his remarks, Siakor also took aim at the Liberian government, suggesting that it has not done enough to protect the nation’s resources from foreign exploitation. He called on the government to adopt a firmer stance and prioritize the needs of its people over foreign interests.
Siakor’s comments highlight a broader issue of foreign exploitation in Africa, often criticized as a form of neocolonialism that depletes the continent’s resources for the benefit of external powers. His statements have intensified scrutiny on U.S. actions in Liberia and call for greater responsibility and equity.
On a related note, Siakor voiced his support for the recent audit report released by the government of President Joseph N. Boakai. This report, conducted by the General Auditing Commission (GAC), reveals significant financial irregularities and mismanagement of funds during former President George M. Weah’s administration. According to the audit, over $25 million was misused or unaccounted for across various government agencies.
Siakor praised the Boakai administration’s efforts to promote accountability and transparency, emphasizing that the audit report represents a positive step toward combating corruption. He urged the new government to implement the recommendations outlined in the report and recover any misappropriated funds. Siakor also called on the international community to support Liberia’s anti-corruption initiatives and improve the living conditions of its citizens.
The former senator’s remarks underscore the critical need for both domestic and international stakeholders to address issues of corruption and resource exploitation in Liberia, striving for a more transparent and equitable future for the country.
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