ADNews- Monrovia: Several Liberian citizens in and outside of the country have characterized the U.S Chargé D’Affaires (CDA), Catherine Rodriguez’s decision of working away from the Independence Day event due to the assertion made by the National Orator, madam Robtel NeaJai Pailey against the U.S as injustice, disrespect to the fundamental human rights and an ethical diplomatic breach.
Serving as an Orator for 177th Liberia’s Independence anniversary, madam Robtel said, “I remain very concerned about the outsized influence of the United States in our transitional justice process. We must forge new strategic partnerships based on mutual benefit and disabuse ourselves of the notion that we have a ‘special relationship’ with America. Truth be told, this so-called ‘special relationship’ only exists in our imagination. Lest we forget, the United States was one of the last countries to recognize our independence. Lest we forget, the United States has taken more from us than it has given. Lest we forget, the United States will always serve its own interests above all else. Once we accept these truths, we will appreciate that a re-imagined Liberia can never be anyone’s stepchild.”
The U.S CDA protested against her proclamation and walked out of the hall leaving the Liberia President, Joseph Nyumah Boakai, the Ghanaian President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and other dignitaries at the event.
In defending her action, the United States Embassy near Monrovia through their official Facebook page claimed that they and Liberia share a unique history and democratic values but unfortunately, the national orator introduced divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations.
They further explained that the United States has a long history of providing foreign assistance, amounting to at least $163 million annually.
“This is separate from the U.S. government’s 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.
“Independence Day is a time for hope and unity. CDA Rodriguez’s decision to walk out was a measured response to the orator’s comments.
“While the orator is entitled to freedom of speech, the CDA chose to exercise her right not to listen to such remarks.
“The 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,” the U.S. Embassy Clarified CDA action.
However, several citizens sharply reacted to U.S Embassay’s official statement characterizing CDA action as an act of intolerance and disrespect to the freedom of expression which is part of fundamental human rights.
Among several reactions, the political leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters of Liberia, CIC Emmanuel Gonquoi said, “The US foreign assistance program is a foreign policy instrument that benefits America more than the host nation. This instrument is intended to create more jobs for Americans and it’s designed under white supremacy structure. The CDA was very disrespectful to our President and National leaders. She could have listened and then reached out to the Executive after the program with any concerns. You have pushed Gay rights that is unacceptable to many African Countries and no Ambassador has walked out during National events in the US. Walking out while our President was seated is disrespectful and the US Government will have to recall the CDA.”
A Liberian Journalist, Michael Reloaded Robert reacted, “Sheer display of arrogance and a lack of tolerance on the part of Catherine Rodriguez. She demonstrated gross intolerance which is unassociated with a true American diplomat. You have your mouth in everything and chastising the Government and its officials for not respecting the views of people but you are showing arrogance at the entire country because someone made a statement that you are not happy with. Is this how you practice what you preach????”
According to Teage George, “Providing 163 and collecting over Billions. In fact, the same money is collected in consultancy by US citizens-You shouldn’t even be talking about diplomacy here . imagine, your officials walked out while our President was sitting, completely disrespectful. How I wish this was the other way around. All those officials who walked out must be dismissed with immediate effect.
“We are under you guys yet are the 4 poorest Country. Are you not bothered by this reality? Our people are suffering but you are here bragging about providing 163M . Really. Now do the Math, divide 163M among 5M plus people and tell me the result. Today tomorrow, America isn’t helpful to us. You guys placed our people on sanction without due diligence interestingly, your Company Fire Stone is badly treating our fathers and mothers. This is so sad, our leaders wouldn’t say a word because all of their families are in your Country and are sending all The stolen money there. I’m sick to the stomach. Our ancestors must be disappointed.”
Emmanuel S Korha commented, “The U.S. preaches about one respecting freedom of speech but she failed to have respected the Orator freedom today. It’s a shame. We are not going to bow or fear because y’all Ambassador walked away today without remorse. The truth is the truth and we are standing by it! 🇱🇷💪.”
Meanwhile, Rep. Moima Briggs Mensah of Electoral District # 6- Bong County condemned her action, characterized it as an affront, and called on the US Government to Recall her immediately.
The public reactions show that the 177th Independence Day Oration under the topic “A Radical Agenda for Re-imagining Liberia” is resonating among the vast majority indicating that Liberians are willing to re-imagining.
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