ADVERTISE HERE TODaY.

CaLL 0886472772
VOL. 16. NO. 38 MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2013 PRICE: LD 40
peoples money.She is a common criminal, Finance Minister Amara Konneh declared, clearly defending himself against suggestions within government circles, that he was behind the secret recordings that have been released by Madam Corkrum and widely played in Monrovia. He told the students that Corkrum had failed to lure him into her web after several futile attempts by her, to get his approval. He boasted that the thief, Madam Corkrum, could not buy him because he is not a poor man. I worked for one of the biggest companies in

INSIDE THIS EDITION

EDITORIAL
Will We Follow Madiba in Emulating the Bibles Three Js?
See Pg. 4

Konneh Denies F Involvement

Calls Ellen Corkrum a Common Criminal

In Corkrum Saga

www.liberianobserver.com

By George D. Kennedy

COMMENTARY
Liberians Economic Empowerment: A Necessity for Democratic Sustainability
See Pg. 4

inance Minister Amara Konneh on Friday denied any link to tapes that for some time now has been intermittently (from time to time) released, and might continue to be let loose by Madam Corkrum, apparently when she chooses. I have nothing to do with the tapes she is playing, he told hundreds of students of the African Episcopal Methodist University (AMEU) in Monrovia on Friday. Minister Konneh said that Madam Corkrum came to Liberia to steal the Liberian

Contd on pg. 18

LOCAL NEWS
Internal Affairs Suspends County Development Fund Disbursement
See Pg. 3

Im Delighted
resident Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has expressed delight in the operations of a group of Liberians working on the Costal

She came to steal the peoples money, Amara, left, says of Ellen, right

LTA Nabs SIM Box Fraudster

Novafone Supervisor Caught Using Illegal Telecom Equipment to Avoid Paying Revenues to Government
See story on Pg.18

BUSINESS
TOTAL MD Challenges Dealers, Transporters
See Pg. 17

Ellen Speaks of G. Bassa

By Keith Morris

Ecobank Giant Prize Giveaway!

Simply deposit money into your current or savings account. The more you deposit and the more often, the bigger your chances to win!

Nelson Mandela Buried at Qunu Ancestral Home

Contd on pg. 18

A scene of Governments struggle to save the environment in Buchanan City

Win a car

See Pg. 19

There were emotional scenes as the funeral took place

Contd on pg. 18

ecobank.com

Enjoy Bigger and Better 4G packs with Unbeatable Speed!!!

$59

20GB

50GB

MONDAY, DEC. 16--edition 2

What to Expect in Brazil 2014

PR
O N O T

PR

in t

N E

PA S

IM

Terms and conditions apply

PR IM

SPORTS

elson Mandelas body has been laid to rest in a family plot, after political and religious leaders paid tribute to

mini prize draw

+1

ER

Many prizes to be won

12/15/13 11:19 PM

DAILY OBSERVER Sunday, December 15, 2013 Monday, December 16, 2013

CAR Conflict: President Djotodia Offers Peace Talks

World News

President Michel Djotodia is reported to have offered an amnesty to Christian militias

(BBC) - The Central African Republics President Michel Djotodia has offered to speak to the leaders of Christian militias to resolve the worsening sectarian conflict, reports say. Speaking to French RFI radio, he said he was ready to extend his hand. A former rebel leader, Mr Djotodia became the Christian majority countrys first Muslim leader after a coup in March. Hundreds of people have been killed in violence since the start of December. Contacts have already taken place between Mr Djotodia and the militias, known as the anti-balaka, RFI quotes his office as saying. They are not enemies. They are our brothers, he says in the interview and suggests they could have a role in government. His comments come a day after the African Union authorised increasing the number of troops deployed in the Central African Republic (CAR) to 6,000. The AU troops, along with some 1,600 from France, are attempting to restore order and disarm the militia which now control much of the country. CAR descended into sectarian conflict after Mr Djotodia ousted President Francois Bozize. Mr Djotodias former mainly Muslim rebel alliance, known as Seleka, has now been officially disbanded but its fighters remain at large and are accused of atrocities against Christians. The Christian self-defence militias sprung up in response. More than 500 people have been killed in the capital alone in the past week and an estimated 10% of the CARs 4.6 million people have fled their homes. More than 40,000 people have gathered at Banguis airport seeking security but in unsanitary conditions. Aid agencies have warned that the humanitarian situation is rapidly deteriorating.

(BBC) - Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathans office has hit back at ex-leader Olusegun Obasanjo for a provocative letter condemning his leadership. In the leaked letter, Mr Obasanjo warned Nigeria could slide back to military rule because of Mr Jonathans failure to tackle myriad problems. It would be morally flawed for him to seek re-election in 2015, he added. The presidency said Mr Obasanjos attack was reckless, baseless, unjustifiable and indecorous. Mr Obasanjos attack - the harshest since he stepped down as leader in 2007 - was a clear attempt to thwart Mr Jonathans chances of being nominated again as the governing Peoples Democratic Partys (PDP) candidate for the 2015 poll, correspondents say.

Nigeria Row over Obasanjos Letter to Goodluck Jonathan

Page 2
Foreign Briefs

President Jonathan is facing serious divisions in the governing PDP

Highly unbecoming The PDP has been hit by serious in-fighting ahead of the election. A powerful faction of state governors have broken away to join the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC). The PDP now has fewer governors supporting it than the opposition. In the 18-page letter widely covered in the local media,

Mr Obasanjo is a former military ruler and a winner to two democratic elections

Mr Obasanjo accused Mr Jonathan of failing to deal with the many problems facing Nigeria - including corruption, piracy, kidnapping and oil theft. I want nothing from you personally except that you should run the affairs of Nigeria not only to make Nigeria good, but to make Nigeria great for which I have always pleaded with you and I will always do so. And it is yet to be done for most Nigerians to see, Mr Obasanjo wrote. He added that he was speaking out because he was concerned that Nigeria was moving in the wrong direction. I could sense a semblance between the situation that we are gradually getting into and the situation we fell into as

Nairobi Bus Hit by Deadly Grenade Attack

In Memoriam

a nation during the Abacha era, he said, referring to exmilitary ruler General Sani Abacha. He ruled Nigeria with an iron fist from 1993 to 1998, when he died. He jailed Mr Obasanjo for allegedly plotting a coup against him and ordered the execution of leading human rights activist Ken Saro-Wiwa. Mr Jonathans spokesman Reuben Abati said it was highly unbecoming, mischievous and provocative to leak the letter to the media and it was a deliberate effort to impugn the integrity of the president. Mr Jonathan would respond in due course to the most reckless, baseless, unjustifiable and indecorous charges levied against him and his administration, Mr Abati said, in a statement. Mr Obasanjo, a former military ruler, won democratic elections in 1999 and 2003 on the platform of the PDP. The PDP has won every national election since the end of military rule in 1999. Mr Jonathan moved from the vice-presidency to the presidency in 2010 after his predecessor, Umaru YarAdua, died in office. He won elections the following year.

(BBC) - Some 200,000 people have rallied in the Ukrainian capital Kiev to protest against President Viktor Yanukovychs refusal to sign a landmark EU deal. Mr Yanukovych backed out of signing the association agreement after months of negotiation, apparently under strong pressure from Russia. He is to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Tuesday. The EU has put any new talks on the agreement on hold until there is a clear commitment to sign. (BBC) - Marcleudo de Melo Ferreira, 22, died in hospital in Manaus after falling nearly 35m (115ft). Hours later, another worker died of a heart attack at a nearby site. His family said he was overworked. The builders union is discussing whether to strike over working conditions. Several construction workers have now died at venues connected with the World Cup as Brazil rushes to complete its stadiums on schedule.

Ukraine

Brazil

(BBC) - Syrian government aircraft have dropped barrels laden with explosives on rebel areas of the northern city of Aleppo, opposition activists say. The British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said 22 people were killed, 14 of them children. There has been no word from the Syrian government.

Syria

It is thought that a grenade was thrown on to the bus

(BBC) - At least four people have been killed and several injured by a grenade attack on a bus in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, the interior ministry says. The blast hit the 32-seater bus near the Eastleigh suburb, which is home thousands of ethnic Somalis. No group has said it was responsible for the attack. But the Eastleigh area has suffered several attacks in the past blamed by officials on Somalias al-Qaeda-linked alShabab militant group. The group was behind the four-day siege at the Westgate shopping centre in Nairobi in September in which 67 people died. A group of assailants threw a grenade into a bus with 32 seats, the interior ministry said on its Twitter account. The attack is an unfortunate and cowardice incident which will not be tolerated, it said, appealing for information from the public. Police said the bus had been close to a girls school when it was hit on Sunday afternoon. The Kenyan Red Cross said on its Twitter feed that 15 injured people had been taken to hospital. Refugee numbers Last year an attack on a minibus in Eastleigh - often referred to as Little Mogadishu for its high number of Somali residents - killed at least seven people. Kenya sent its troops to fight al-Shabab in Somalia last year. They have now joined the 18,000-strong African Union (AU) force supporting the UNbacked government. Kenya has been struggling to deal with the vast numbers of Somalis who have fled the poverty and violence in their home country since the 1990s and are living in and around the capital. Many are living in huge makeshift camps, including around half a million in Dadaab, the worlds largest refugee camp. Earlier this year, Kenya announced planed to begin voluntarily repatriating some of the refugees. Correspondents say that among humanitarian concerns, Kenya fears the camps could be sheltering militants plotting attacks for al-Shabab and other groups.

Mrs. Beryl Inez Best-Brewer, Executive Secretary, Writer, Features Editor of the Daily Observer in Monrovia, Liberia and Banjul, The Gambia. Saturday, December 14, 2013 marked your 77th Birth Anniversary and we all remember you with love and fondness at this time. We love and cherish your memory! You would be especially proud this past weekend when your grandson, Brendan Witherspoon, son of your elder son, Lorenzo Witherspoon and his wife Joyce was awarded the Masters Degree in Accounting and Finance from Bath University, UK. Congratulations, Beryl! Your great legacy continues through your children and grandchildren! From the Witherspoon, Brewer and Best Families.

he Ministry of Internal Affairs has announced the immediate suspension of new transfer and disbursement requests affecting the County Development Fund and County Social Development Fund. The Ministry says the decision is based on the need to undertake an assessment and review of all accounts of the two funds and the programs and activities they support throughout the country. In a press release issued in Monrovia, the Ministry emphasized that the suspension will not affect funds already transferred from the Ministry of Finance to accounts of counties for ongoing projects and programs. The Ministry underscored that the review is necessary because county councils are

Internal Affairs Suspends County Development Fund Disbursement

DAILY OBSERVER Sunday, December 15, 2013 Monday, December 16, 2013

Internal Affairs Minister Morris Dukuly

being held under the new fiscal budget, and there was therefore the need to align new projects with the County Development Agenda which is consistent with provisions of the Agenda for Transformation (AFT). The Ministry has further assured that it will shortly begin to consult with sector agencies, legislative Caucuses, and concessions contributing to the Social Development Fund, adding that the suspension is only temporary. In a related development, the Ministry has also announced that it will shortly embark on a comprehensive review of

scholarships offered by county administrations and funded from Social Development Fund in order to ensure that scholarships are aligned with the Agenda for Transformation and targeted to meet the human capital development needs of counties and the country. The Ministry says the good intention and benefits of the county scholarship program has overwhelmed county administrations, Legislative Caucuses, and unless it is reformed, the scholarship program could be counterproductive. The Ministry says that when the inter-agency review of scholarship programs are complete, annual total scholarship allocations from counties will not exceed 10% of each countys gross annual Social Development contributions.

-Man, in His Mid Thirties Dies

Fatality at ArcelorMittal

Page 3

Locally Integrating Liberians Refugees in Ghana Receive Cash Grants

Ghana hosted thousands of Liberian refugees

training activities the refugees have benefitted from in the previous years to help their self-reliance. The cash grant component of the Local Integration package is made possible by the donation of the Danish government with 75% and US Government with 25% of the required funding. The Danish and United States governments have been of immense support towards the payment of the cash grant component of the exercise and we are grateful said UNHCR Representative in Ghana, Ms Sharon Cooper. She also thanked the government of Ghana for hosting Liberian refugees in Ghana for the past two decades. UNHCR and partners expect to close the case for Liberian refugees by end of 2013. Those receiving the cash grant have already gone through a vetting exercise by both officials from Liberia as well as Ghana Immigration Officials. Currently there is a Team from Liberia on a final mission to process those left to

he United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Ghana Refugee Board (GRB) has started the distribution of cash grants to Liberian refugees in Ghana, who have opted to locally integrate. The one-off cash grant ranges from US$400 to US$ 2,400 payable in Ghana Cedis depending on the size of the family. The amount is to support the former refugees to enable them start life in Ghana. The cash forms part of the local integration package to be received by over 3,500 Liberian refugees, who have opted to stay in Ghana. Other components of the local integration package include the issuance of Liberian Passports, two- year residence permits/work permits, and National Health Insurance premium for one year. This is in addition to skills

go through formal processes for the issuance of Liberian passports. Government of Ghana approved last year a local integration policy for those seeking to be integrated. Ghana has hosted thousands of Liberians since 1990. In 1996, Ghana was hosting over 40,000 Liberians. However, following the improved security situation in Liberia and a return to constitutional rule, the international community invoked the cessation clause for Liberian refugees on June 30, 2012. UNHCR Ghana completed organized voluntary repatriation for Liberian refugees last year. Ghanaian authorities are reviewing applications of about 1,200 refugees, who applied for an exemption from the cessation and they are expected to receive their decisions before the close of the year. Liberian refugees who are exempted from Cessation will continue to benefit from Refugee Status in Ghana Liberian refugees, who did not opt for any of the available options and who subsequently come forward shall now have to approach the Ghana Immigration Service to regularize their stay in Ghana.

ccording to reports, the T o k a d e h mining site of ArcelorMittal in Yekepah, Nimba County, was the scene of mourning and sorrow last week when a young geologist assistant, Henry Fayiah, was crushed to death by a stockpile of iron ore while carrying out sample test on stockpile ores. According to sources, the late Fayiah met his untimely death on Monday December 9, when the ore reportedly overwhelmed the deceased like a landslide. According to eyewitnesses, all attempts to save Henry Fayiahs life proved futile. His lifeless body was later dugout of the ores. The management of ArcelorMittal has officially confirmed the incident. The victim, according to the management of ArcelorMittal, was one of their employees working for the quality control department. Friends and family sources told this paper that the corpse of the late Fayiah has been deposited at a funeral home in Ganta pending final rituals. Amos Dolo, a friend of the deceased, told this paper that Fayiah was always smiling and hardly got angry with his friends. Dolo said that the deceased was always dedicated to duties assigned to him. He was a youth leader in the community (Area B) where he lived before his death. I was shocked when I came home and was informed that my friend had died. I couldnt believe it. We became friends when we were very young and have been closed since then. My friend was too young to die at this age, Dolo said. Annie Farkollie, also a friend of the deceased said: It is very difficult to accept, but we just have to, because Henry is no longer with us. We lost him and we must accept it.

I dont think it was his time to leave us. We will really miss him, but I pray to God that his soul rest in perfect peace. Making the official confirmation at the companys mining headquarters in Yekepah Nimba County on Thursday, December 12, the Communication Manager of ArcelorMittal, Jerry Mwagbe, said the death of Henry Fayiah was indeed a tragic incident. Mwagbe: The recent death that took place in the mine was tragic. Our sincere condolences go out to the family of the victim. He indicated that the fatality did not occur in the area that Engineers and Planners (E & P) operates and the victim was not an E&P employee. Engineers and Planners (E & P) entered into a contract with ArcelorMittal Liberia in 2011 and that contract is expected to end on December 31, 2013. The victim was an ArcelorMittal Liberia employee and worked for our quality control department, which is not part of the E&P contract. Safety is ArcelorMittals number one priority at every location worldwide, the companys communication manager said. But Mwagbe said the tragedy was the first of its kind in the mine area and the companys management was investigating the cause. He noted that until a full investigation has been carried out ArcelorMittals management cannot answer any question from the media. Though it has promised to underwrite the cost of Fayiahs funeral rites, some of the deceaseds friends paraded with his picture, sealed to a box, through the principal streets of Yekepah. Most young people do that when their friend(s) die in order to raise money they can decide to use in whatever manner for the funeral.

This is where business meets customer.

CALL NOW: 0777472772 TO ADVERTISE

Buduburam Camp

Tuesday, 5,16, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Sunday, December 15, 2013 Monday,November December 2013

Page 4

Published by Liberian Observer Corporation P.O. Box 1858, Monrovia

Liberias First Independent Daily 0886812888, 0886472772 www.liberianobserver.com

And so, today, regardless of color, creed or age, we all must impart to our children the virtues exemplfied by the Great Madiba of Africa!

Will We Follow Madiba in Emulating the Bibles Three Js?

Who are we to determine who should go to Heaven and who should not? We are nothing but sinful creatures, who know nothing about Heaven! All we depend on is the holy Writ which, from Genesis to Revelation, points the way to salvation. And when, by the grace of God, we find someone who has tried to live the life prescribed by that holy Book, we can only speculate, suppose, surmise and hope that he is, by the grace of God, bound for Heaven. Who are the three Js and why do we link Nelson Mandela to them? We answer the second question first, by affirming that this great son of Africa and the world was a man who possessed what all the three Js shared: faith, hope and love, which Madiba not only believed in, but demonstrated all his life. As a boy, he grew up under the yoke of racism, inflicted by the whites of South Africa. But Nelson had faith and hope in the God of Justice who Madiba knew would one day hear the groaning of His people and deliver them from bondage. And, like the first two Js, Madiba, during 27 years in prisonheld fast to the faith, maintained the hope and NEVER gave up! And who were the first two Js? Joseph the Dreamer, and Job. Even in that dungeon of the well into which his brothers threw him, and on to being sold into slavery, Joseph never surrendered his faith and hope, even in the other dungeon of prison. He went on from prison to Prime Minister of Egypt, just as Mandela went from prison to President in SA! The second J was Job, who lost all his richeschildren, health and other possessions, but held steadfastly to the faith and hope, for which God handsomely and miraculously delivered him and restored his fortunes a thousand fold! Then came the third JJesuswho got the worst of the other two, death on the cross but who, too, held on to faith and hope because He knew that His Heavenly Father would deliver Him. And sure enough, on third day, He did! Here now comes the third and greatest of all virtues: LOVE. This love was demonstrated by all three of the Js: first, Joseph, who forgave his brothers who had delivered him into delayed deathslavery. Just remember all our African ancestors who died in the dungeons of slave ships and on the cruel and inhuman slave plantations. Is it not a miracle of God that so many of them survived to remain in the Caribbean, in South America (Cuba, Brazil, etc.) and in the United States? A black man is today President of USA. Some of the ex-slaves migrated to the Grain Coast to found Liberia. And yes, Job not only held fast to his faith and hope, but love, too, as he forgave all his friends who deserted him in his loss and pain. Now came the crowning moment of the Master, Jesus, who bore the brutal whipping and murder on the cross; yet even while yet there, in His first words under the most excruciating pain, cried: Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do. This brings us back to Joseph who as his brothers, in fulfillment of Josephs dream 13 years earlier, bowed to him. He forgave them saying, You meant it for evil, but God meant it for good. That finally leads us back to Mandela who, after leaving prison, had every reason to be bitter, vengeful and vindictive, but NO! in faithful following of the three Js, Joseph, Job and Jesus, Madiba stretched out a hand of love, forgiveness and reconciliation to the very people who oppressed him and his people so long and even killed so many of them. Come, he told them in love and sincerity, let us rebuild our country together! This editorial is designed to demonstrate that each and every one of us can learn something from not only the three Biblical Js, but from him who lived and walked amongst usNelson Madiba Mandela. Will we? May God grant.

OBSERVER CARTOON WITH A. Leslie Lumeh E-mail: leslie@leslielumeh.com www.leslielumeh.com

Liberians Economic Empowerment: A Necessity for Democratic Sustainability

By Editus Addy

Democracy is viewed as an expression of freedom of political and constitutional rights, among others. While this inalienable truth remains etched in the minds of Liberians, the sustainability of our democracy must be built on the economic of the empowerment of its citizens. And yes, economic empowerment will not be realized without quality education, food security, and healthcare, among others. Research has shown that nations that adopt economic empowerment of its people experience sustainable democracy compared to those whose people feel repressed, economically, in a democracy. Research done by D. Moyo in 2013 confirms that the lower the per capita of a nations people, the more fragile its democracy; and the higher the per capita of its people, the more sustainable its democracy becomes. While it is true that civil wars erupt from various reasons, principal among them is economic disempowerment characterized by corruption, willful isolation of the majority, and protecting the economic interest of a few. Hence, with humility the following is proposed:

1. Government establishes a criteria of National Economic Investment Policies (NEIP) indicative of humanistic capitalism that address challenges around economic empowerment, education and the environmental pollution, for long term benefits that move the nation to an emerging and sustainable economy ; for example, identifying certain businesses that must be exclusive to Liberians by virtue of the N.E.I.P. 2. Create opportunities for Liberians to compete and become stakeholders of their nations natural resources ; for example, offering them opportunities to obtain substantial shares in companies that manage these resources 3. Develop a good monitoring mechanism that ensures investments between governments and foreign partners touch the lives of the people; for example, assign auditors to confirm that the people in the cities, counties, and villages benefit 4. A national budget (indicative of a nation emerging from war) that reduces the vast income disparities between civil servants and some government functionaries within the executive, judiciary, and legislature, amidst the threat of corruption. For exam-

ple, adjust high salaries among some government officials and increase civil servants salaries that give them more purchasing power to boost the economy and help reduce inflation 5. All Liberians must prepare to embrace the fact that economic growth and empowerment come with hard work by aspiring to higher heights in education, rule of law, reconciliation, and total involvement in efforts that benefit our nations greater good; and understand that government is not always the answer, but is an important partner in the quest for economic empowerment for democratic sustainability. Finally, until we bridge the divide between our quests for democracy and economic growth, our democracy will remain threatened while leaders live in the band aid illusion of election by the people but do not carry out the mandate of the people. History has proven that elected governments that lead a people who feel economically left out and forced to become survivalists in their own home, eventually face the wrath of the people that no dictatorship or military implements can crush; Liberia is an example. The overwhelming lessons of history must not be overlooked.

DAILY OBSERVER
TION NA

Monday December 16, 2013

Page 15 5

L OIL C A

MP O

O F

National

il Company Of Liberia
rd

LIBERIA

gas industry in the Republic.

The National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) was established for the purpose of holding all rights, title and interests of the Republic of Liberia in the deposits and reserves of liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons within its territorial limits, whether potential, proven or actual, with the aim of facilitating the development of the oil and

JOB VACANCY AT THE NATIONAL OIL COMPANY OF LIBERIA (NOCAL)

NOCAL is an equal opportunity employer committed to the maintenance of gender equity, the merit system, and the promotion of non-discrimination in recruitment, compensation, promotion, benefits, work environment and all other personnel action affecting its employees. The Company, in collaboration with the Civil Service Agency, is seeking applications from Qualified Liberians to serve in the following Strategic Position:

A Vice President for Public Affairs(PA) at its headquarters in Monrovia, Liberia.

The Vice President for Public Affairs serves as NOCALs chief spokesperson and wil l lead the Department of Public Affairs in providing timely and accurate information to domestic and international media and NOCALs

stakeholders as well as manage NOCALs identity, brand, messages, and reputation.

The Vice President for Public Affairs is responsible for NOCALs communication strategy.

Objective

Vice President for Public Affairs (PA) will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO),

The Vice President for Public Affairs has six primary duties: (1) Strategic Communications and Messaging;

Scope

(6) Corporate Brand Identity and Positioning.

(5) Reputation Management;

(4) Internal Communications;

(3) Social Media Relations;

(2) Media Relations;

Responsibilities (1) Strategic Communications and Messaging Supports the president/CEO, COO, and Board in media relations, and speech writing; Formulates and implements NOCAL public communications strategy in consultation with leadership and other departments;
Manages communications and measures and evaluates success of communications strategy.

(2) Media Relations Engages other stakeholders, including government, the media, business and civil society; Manages all NOCAL relations and interactions with media; Manages implementation of media aspects of communications strategy; Ensures regular, proactive media engagement, media monitoring and crisis management; Leads NOCALs strategy for relations and liaison with the National Legislature; Develops strong relationships across all stakeholder constituencies; Keeps stakeholders regularly informed of NOCALs activities. (3) Social Media Relations Manages all content of NOCAL websites and social media; Develops and implements NOCAL online and social media strategy; Develops NOCALs website to achieve NOCALs communications strategy and aims; Manages and ensures NOCALs strategic use of social media and content. (4) Internal Communications Ensures awareness of communications strategy and awareness across all staff and departments, including rules of engagement with external stakeholders; Ensures cross-organizational security of information; Develops effective internal communication systems to apprise other department of PA activities; Embeds awareness of communications strategy across NOCAL and amongst all staff; Embeds corporate identify and narrative across all staff and support staff to effectively represent NOCAL outside the organization. (5) Reputation Management Develops and implement national public engagement strategy; Implements PE strategy, including effective NOCAL local community engagement program, conferences, other events; Implements national public education program. (6) Corporate Brand Identity and Positioning Oversees NOCAL advertising and promotional activities, and brand use; Manages and protects NOCALs brand and design, and develop it as appropriate; Leads NOCALs positioning and brand within the international oil industry. Qualifications Master Degree in Communications, Public Administration or related areas; At least 10 years of experience as public affairs professional; Thorough understanding of oil & gas industry as well as context in Liberia; Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Please apply on online at NOCALs website www.nocal.com.lr , The deadline for applications is December 23, 2013, at 5pm.

ANY

DAILY OBSERVER Monday, December 16, 2013

6 Page 10

Advertisers Supplement

October 13, 2013 Dr. J. Chris Toe Monrovia, Liberia Dear Dr. Toe: Ref: Letter of Apology

DR. J. CHRIS TOE RE LETTER FROM R

Public Release

December 15

The management of the Frontpage Africa Newspaper / FrontPage Africa Internet News organ would like to formally register its apology to you for the publications carried in its FrontPage Africa Newspaper / FrontPage Africa Internet News organ which led to filing of a Libel Suit against the managing editor and the management of the FrontPage Africa Newspaper / FrontPage Africa Internet News organ. We sincerely regret any inconvenience or injury our publications have caused you in your professional and private life. We want to also mention that our reportage was guided by documents held in our possession which we thought were reliable and credible but subsequently found to be unreliable. We entertain the hope that with this apology, Gods perennial love and peace will prevail as this matter is put to rest. We hope that this matter will not be resurrected now or in the future. Kind regards,

Continued on Page 15

DAILY OBSERVER

Monday December 16, 2013

Page 7

FURNISHED HOUSE FOR LEASE

SKD Blvd, Near Somalia Drive Fenced on one lot 4 Bedrooms /2.5 Bathrooms 2-room Boys quarters, 500gallon water tank, 40 well, & generator house. Txt your contact info to 0555-468-217 Viewing available on Saturday mornings.
Request for Expressions of Interest
CDM International are implementers of the USAID funded Engineering Services for Rural Roads Rehabilitation (ES3R) project and request submittal of expressions of interest to be considered for pre-qualification in a series of rural roads projects to provide design, procurement support and construction supervision services to the road rehabilitation program. The selected firms will enter into a two-year program for A& E capacity building under the support, guidance, mentorship and supervision of the ES3R project. The project will support development of farm to market roads in rural areas in Bong , Lofa, and Nimba Counties. The project requests expressions of interest from currently incorporated local Architect and Engineering firms and graduate civil engineer professionals interested in forming A&E firms. A&E firms to submit a one page summary of experience, qualifications and interest with contact numbers and email addresses. Individuals must possess a Liberian business registration certificate and Certificate of Incorporation and submit a draft business plan not exceeding 5 pages for future engineering sector participation. Expressions of interest do not reflect a commitment on the part of ES3R. Extended interviews will take place in January for firms and/or candidates prior to final selection. This procurement is limited to local Liberian entities. Local Liberian entity means an individual, a corporation, a nonprofit organization, or another body of persons that: 1. Is legally organized under the laws of Liberia; 2. Has as its principal place of business or operations in Liberia; and 3. Either is a) majority owned by individuals who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of Liberia; or b) managed by a governing body the majority of whom are citizens or lawful permanent residents of Liberia. Send expressions of interest to the following: Mr Bruce Purdy by e-mail at basbjp@aol.com no later than December 20, 2013.

MEMARINNA ENTERPRISES, INC.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN REF: THE HILTON-VAN EE ESTATE
This is to inform the Public and / or any Person/s living in or outside of Liberia that: 1. I will legally defend, protect and act in the familys interest. 2. Any Person/s, Organization, Company, Establishment or Entity, buying, selling or trying to lease, sell or occupy illegally, and property of The Hilton-van Ee Estate, is doing so at his / her / their own risk, expense and loss. 3. Anyone doing business with anyone other than Ms. Dana Hilton van Ee, legitimate heir of the late Mrs. Corinna Hilton-van Ee, is doing so at his / her/ their own risk, expense and loss. 4. We have NO INTENTION OR DESIRE TO SELL any or our lawfully inherited property of over 100 years old, that we own in The Republic of Liberia; Particularly in the Corrinas Park, Sinkor in the YWCA area. 5. Corinnas Park, Block H is under renovation. DON NOT TRESSPASS. 6. Additional areas include, but not limited to: The Broad Street Block, The Memarinna Block, The Sekou Toure Block, Corinnas Park - Sinkor, and The M. Eva McGill-Hilton Block, near the Catholic Hospital, are also NOT FOR SALE. Let it be known that I, Dana Hilton van Ee, Citizen of the Republic of Liberia, have NO INVENTION TO SELL OUT, OR RUN FROM MONROVIA, LIBERIA. Please TAKE HEED, BEWARE, and let us keep RESPECT and PEACE in Liberia. This is for your information and you have been serviced notice. Signed: Ms. Dana Hilton van Ee, Legitimate Owner and Sole Executrix / Sole Administrator of The Hilton-van Ee Estate. Direct Contact: 231-0886636-220; dhvanee@gmail.com

INVITATION FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

APM Terminals Liberia Limited is a part of the AP Moller Maersk Group which is an international container terminal operating company headquarters in The Hague, Netherlands. APM Terminals Liberia operates the Freeport of Monrovia, which constitutes the gateway to Liberia. In addition to handling containerized shipments, APM Terminals Liberia is also a multipurpose facility composed of equipment and specialized personnel that handle all kind of cargo such as rice, cement, latex, unitized or palletized cargo, vehicles, frozen products and timber. To provide these services effectively, APM Terminals Liberia uses various heavy equipment like Tractors and Trailers, other heavy container handling cranes and equipment in its Premises. Other third party heavy equipment and registered vehicles also operate within the Port Premises for its operational and business needs. APM Terminals Liberia facilities works on a 24/7 basis, 365 days of the year. APM Terminals Liberia Limited therefore invites qualified companies to express interest in the Provision of Fourteen (14) Factory New Vehicles (Saloon Cars, 4WD Pickups & SUVs) on a Three (3) year operational lease (LEASED VEHICLES). Interested companies/firms must provide the following: Business Registration Tax Clearance Evidence of similar business over the last 3 years EOI must be delivered to the address below not later than 2:00 PM on or before December 20, 2013. EOI may be submitted by regular mail or email to: Procurement Office APM Terminals Liberia Ltd. Freeport of Monrovia Bushrod Island Monrovia, Liberia Email: procurement.liberia@apmterminals.com Any EOI coming after the deadline of 2:30 PM on December 20, 2013 will not be accepted. APM Terminals Liberia Ltd. Reserves the right to reject any call or all bids and declare a failure of qualification/eligibility at anytime, prior to short listing and awarding of contract. NOTE: APM Terminals Liberia Ltd. may waive any minor defect and accept the offer most advantageous to the company. Furthermore, APM Terminals Liberia Ltd. assumes no responsibility, whatsoever to compensate/indemnify would-be contractor(s) for any expense incurred in preparation of their Expression of Interest and /or Bid. Bid documents will be made available after a site visit of short listed companies/firms. For further information, contact cell No. 0886340066 & 0888341594 or email us at procurement.liberia@apmterminals.com.

DAILY OBSERVER

Monday December 16, 2013

Page 10 8

Banlaw Africa Liberia Limited (BAL) a company registered under the laws of Liberia, has been awarded a contract for the construction of Tailings Management Facility, Stormwater Management Dams and Roads on the ArcelorMittal Liberia Concession at Tokadeh Mine, Tokadeh/Yekepa County of Nimba in the North Central region of Liberia.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Responsible for Civil Crew Management and man hours reporting Provide technical and practical input on planning works Report on equipment hours for costing purposes CRITERIA Minimum of ten (10) years relevant working experience Knowledge of Environmental Management System relevant to Company operations Experience in working on a multi-million dollar project 5. 7) CIVIL WORKS SUPERVISORS (2 POSITIONS) (Job Ref: WRIOP 006-

BANLAW AFRICA LIBERIA LIMITED

BAL seeks to employ highly skilled and suitably qualified professionals for the following positions. All the positions are based at the Tokadeh Mine site. 1. PROJECT MANAGER (Job Ref: WRIOP 001)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Ensure that budgeted percentage return on costs is achieved through effective management of resources Assesses and reviews project Key Performance Indicators to determine project status Manage site operations safely by providing appropriate direction in aspects of Safety, Health and Environment, Training, Production, Engineering, Administration, Human Resources and Labour Relations CRITERIA Tertiary qualification in Mining, Civil, Mechanical Engineering or Geology or related discipline Minimum Twelve (12) years experience in the mining industry. At least five (5) years of which should have been at the operations management level (Superintendent or above). Experience in managing a multi-million dollar project OR Polytechnic Diploma/Certificate or its equivalent in the mining or related industry Minimum Fifteen (15) years experience in the mining or related industry Experience in managing a multi-million dollar project In-depth knowledge of the mining industry 2. SENIOR SITE ENGINEER (Job Ref: WRIOP 002)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Supervision of all Civil Works Preparation of daily diaries and weekly civil production reports Report on all equipment hours and other time sheets CRITERIA At least five (5) years relevant work experience Knowledge of Environmental Management System relevant to Company operations Experience in working on a multi-million dollar project 6. QUANTITY SURVEYORS (2 POSITIONS) (Job Ref: WRIOP 008-9)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Participate in Tender, Pre-Construction and Post Construction phases of project Responsibility for the financial and contractual control of the project Liaises with the Consultants / Client, prepares and agrees valuations, value variations and prepares the final account Establishes cost control methods with the Project Manager, monitors project costs and maximises its profitability. CRITERIA A degree in Quantity Surveying or Building Technology or equivalent trade/ technical professional qualification. At least ten (10) years relevant experience in quantity surveying and construction Experience in working on a multi-million dollar project Experience in measurement of building works, estimating and analysis of prices Advanced skills with MS office modules (Word Processing, Spreadsheet and Database programs) 7. HEALTH, SAFETY, SECURITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL (HSSE) MANAGER (Job Ref: WRIOP 010) KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Effective coordination of health, safety and environment systems and standards Identification of hazard and effective implementation of controls to support a safe working environment Support and develop the HSE Program Maintain safety statistics register; timely submission of all HSE reports; liaise with client regarding HSE matters CRITERIA Tertiary qualification in Mining, Engineering or Health, Safety and Environment Minimum (ten) 10 years experience in relevant field Experience in managing a multi-million dollar project 8. ENVIRONMENTAL SUPERINTENDANT (Job Ref: WRIOP 011)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Coordination of project activities Maintenance of project database Control project plan by reviewing design, specifications, and schedule changes CRITERIA Tertiary qualification in mining & Civil or related discipline Minimum of ten (10) years relevant experience Knowledge of construction Methods and Procedures, Process Improvement and Documentation Skills Experience in managing a multi-million dollar project OR Polytechnic Diploma/Certificate or its equivalent in the mining or related industry Minimum twelve (12) years relevant experience in continuous employment In-depth knowledge of the mining or related industry Experience in managing a multi-million dollar project 3. SURVEYORS (2 POSITIONS) (Job ref: WRIOP 003-4)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Responsible for mine surveying and associated calculations, maps and plans generated by those activities. Sets out drill & blast, pre-split and exploration drill holes and pick-ups and sets out grade control drilling positions Supervises the training of Assistant Surveyor in proper survey procedures, delegates work as appropriate and provides suitable quality control checks for errors CRITERIA Must have a formal tertiary qualification in Surveying or a related discipline. A minimum of 10 years experience Experience in working on a multi-million dollar project Computer literacy (Word Processing, Spreadsheet and Database programs). Good understanding of modern survey equipment and associated software 4. CIVIL WORKS SUPERINTENDENT (Job Ref: WRIOP 005)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Environmental compliance Work towards a goal of zero accidents and injuries in the promotion of a healthy and safe working environment Familiarity with Clients Environmental Policy Ensures full compliance of the Client Environmental Management Plan CRITERIA A degree in Environmental Science or equivalent Training qualifications Membership of Professional Body- IEMA or equivalent Minimum seven (7) years work related experience

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Continued on page 13

DAILY OBSERVER

Monday December 16, 2013

Page 12 9

Notice of Public Consultation for the Small Producing Country National Interpretation of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil Principles and Criteria

60-day public consultation for the Small Producing Country (SPC) National Interpretation (NI) of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) Principles and Criteria (P&C) has started in Liberia. This consultation is being done in accordance with the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil Certification Systems. This consultation forms part of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oils procedure for Endorsement of its International Generic Criteria.

INVITATION TO BID FOR SUPLY OF COATED IRON SHEETS

he Danish Refugee Council is a Non Governmental Organization that has been working in Liberia since May 1998 rendering assistance to the war affected Liberia in the Southeastern Countries of Maryland, and River Gee and in Northeastern Liberia in Nimba and Grand Gedeh in the areas of Protection, Education, Agriculture, Livelihoods and WASH. Danish Refugee Council invites sealed bids for the supply and delivery of 15,000 coated iron sheets. Bidding documents can be obtained from the Logistics Department, at the DRC Mamba point office by all interested parties on weekdays from 9 am until 4 pm from now to December 20, 2013. Or contact 0886496787 just in case you need additional information on Office location. 1. Completed bidding documents must be received latest December 20, 2013 at 5 pm and handed in at the Logistics Departments/Administration office in a sealed envelope marked Bill for the Supply of Coated iron Sheets. 2. Only original bidding documents will be accepted. 3. Public opening of bids will take place on Tuesday, December 27, 2013 at 2 pm in the conference room of Danish Refugee Council in Dennis Compound Mamba point, Monrovia. 4. Successful bidder will be required to deliver the materials within 10 days upon the signing of contracts. Failure to do so will result to losing the bid. Danish Refugee reserves the right to accept or reject any bid without incurring any liability or obligation to inform the affected bidder on the grounds that the bid does not respect the bidding format or falls below the market value of the vehicles The participation of interested bidders in the bidding process will be of no cost to Danish Refugee Council.

The public consultation process will entertain comments from the public on the list of local, national and international laws, conventions and treaties which are relevant to the implementation of sustainable production and processing of oil palm in Liberia, using the RSPO standard. The draft Small Producing Country National Interpretation comprises the following: The International Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil Principles & Criteria; Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil Smallholder Guidance; and Compilation of laws, conventions and treaties. Public comments are particularly relevant to the compilation of applicable laws, conventions and treaties as both the International RSPO Principles & Criteria and RSPO Smallholder Guidance have already been agreed through an extensive international process, with the latest revision approved by RSPO members in April, 2013. The draft Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil Liberia Small Producing Country National Interpretation documentation can accessed from the following sources: (a) Download from the RSPO Liberia website: http://rspo-liberia.org/publicconsultation/ (b) Email request to FFI Liberia: rspo.liberia-consultation@fauna-flora.org (c) Hard copy from: FFI Liberia Office, Congo Town, opposite Christ the King Catholic School, Monrovia All comments must be received by 25 December 2013, and should be submitted in writing (email or letter) to FFI Liberia through: Janet Kerkulah, Administrative Coordinator - RSPO NI Fauna & Flora International Tel: +231 (0) 888 762 337 Email: janet.kerkulah@fauna-flora.org The Public Consultation was preceded by a national awareness meeting held in Monrovia on 1st October 2013 and the first meeting of the Liberia National Technical Working Group (NTWG), convened by Fauna & Flora International (FFI) on 24th October, 2013. The scope of the current consultation is limited to comments on the compilation of laws, conventions and treaties. However, the National Technical Working Group is in the process of planning a second phase of work that would include further detailed discussions on indicators and guidance. This consultation is not a standard-setting process, nor is it a complaint mechanism. The RSPO has a separate set of procedures for any compliance issues stakeholders would like to raise, which is run centrally through the RSPO Secretariat in Kuala Lumpur (please see www.rspo.org for further details). The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, created in 2004, was established to promote the growth and use of sustainable palm oil through co-operation within the supply chain and open dialogue between its stakeholders. Today it has over 1,000 members worldwide, including plantation companies, processors, refiners, traders, manufacturers, retailers, banks and civil society. Together they have designed the RSPO Principles and Criteria for Sustainable Palm Oil Production. Performance indicators and guidance have also been developed to support compliance and assessment of compliance (leading to certification). About FFI (www.fauna-flora.org) Founded in 1903, Fauna & Flora International (FFI) is the worlds longestestablished international conservation organisation. FFIs mission is to create a sustainable future for the planet where biodiversity is conserved by the people living closest to it. To realise this, FFI works to conserve threatened species and ecosystems worldwide, choosing solutions that are sustainable, based on sound science and, wherever possible, contribute to improving human well-being. The organisation serves as a catalyst for the conservation of biological diversity in key regions and habitats around the world and engages strategically and constructively with key stakeholders in Government, the corporate sector and civil society. It has been an active member of the RSPO since 2007.

Found at all major supermarkets in downtown Monrovia

DAILY OBSERVER

Monday December 16, 2013

Page10 8

CENTRAL BANK OF LIBERIA OPENS FIRST RURAL COMMUNITY FINANCE INSTITUTION

GBEHLEY-GEH RURAL COMMUNITY FINANCE INSTITUTION Karnplay, Nimba County a bank for the people, by the people

CBL Governor Jones with Gbehley-Geh Board of Directors

CBL Governor, Dr. Jones, cuts ribbon with Nimba County Legislators

Staff of the New Gbehley-Geh RCFI

Governor Jones meets with the Gbehley-Geh Board on eve of opening

Excited shareholder, G. Batuoa Bartuah, Sr., speaking at program

Excited shareholder, G. Batuoa Bartuah, Sr., speaking at program

RURAL COMMUNITY FINANCE INSTITUTION (RCFI) PROJECT

The CBL RCFI Project seeks to establish Rural Community Finance Institutions in Liberia consistent with the governments focus on creating an inclusive financial environment through the delivery of financial services to the people of Liberia based on the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion adopted in 2009. Services to be provided by these Rural Community Finance Institutions will include: savings accounts, checking accounts, loans, direct deposits, checks encashment and money transfer services, including money gram and western union. The mobilization of savings in the rural communities will also spur local investment and increase economic activities. Overtime, people in the rural areas will become more fully integrated into the traditional banking sector. These institutions will create wealth in rural Liberia since all RCFIs will be 100% owned by citizens and residents of the county through purchase of shares. Congratulations to Nimba County citizens and residents who have invested in Gbehley-Geh RCFI making the first Rural Community Finance Institution a reality in Liberia.

ABOUT THE CENTRAL BANK OF LIBERIA

Continued on page 11

DAILY OBSERVER

Monday December 16, 2013

Page 11 9

No L iberian i s b orn t o b e p oor, h ence w e m ust c reate t he o pportunities f or L iberians t o i mprove their e conomic w ell b eing a nd e levate t he l ives o f t heir f amilies.
.. Dr. J. Mills Jones, Executive Governor, Central Bank of Liberia, speaking in Nimba County.

Cross-section of guests at program

Shareholder speaks

Chair, Nimba County Legislative Caucus

Chair, Nimba County Legislative Caucus

Superintendent Dagadu gowns Governor Jones

Governor Jones Speaks

Madam Edith Gongloe-Weh speaks at program

Nimba residents converged to Karnplay for the opening

Hon. Tingban speaks at program

Afriland First Banks CEO, Mr. Bayo presents the RCFI to Governor Jones. Afriland provides Technical Assistance.

Senator Prince Johnson speaking at the program

CBL Board of Governors at Program Governors Farhat, Vinton (L) and Bestman (2nd from Rt)

Hon. Woleh Speaks

DAILY OBSERVER

Monday December 16, 2013

Page 13 12

Catholic Relief Services/Liberia Vacancy Announcement

Project Manager HEALTH

CRS Liberia is seeking a Project Manager for the GAVI (Global Alliance Vaccines and Immunization) CSO Organization project. The Monrovia based PM will commit 100% of their time to the GAVI Civil Society Organization (CSO) project which is just completing the first year of implementation. This project is in partnership with Liberia Immunization Project (LIP) and seeks to strengthen coordination and advocacy of Health CSOs engaged in immunization activities. The GAVI Project Manager will be the main focal person for GAVI and will work closely in partnership with and provide technical support to LIP. The Project Manager will also be responsible for overseeing all work done by LIP to ensure its conformity with CRS policies and procedures. All resumes must be submitted by email to Cheryl Morgan (Cheryl.morgan@crs.org) by 2pm on Friday 20 December 2013 to be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. FULL JOB DESCRIPTION & QUALIFICATIONS Major Responsibilities: 1. Oversee the quality implementation of the GAVI funded CSO Project and ensure compliance. 2. Provide technical and coordination support to the newly established CSO Network (LIP). 3. Support capacity strengthening of the newly formed CSO Network (LIP). 4. Ensure strong linkages, communication and coordination between: a. LIP and CRS Liberia b. LIP and CRS GAVI Project Manager based in Nairobi c. CSO network members and Liberia Ministry of Health, development partners and donors Specific Duties: 1. Coordination Provide technical support to the CSO network to better understand and address the role of civil society in improving immunization outcomes within the country Support LIP to develop strong relationships with other CSO networks, government offices working on immunization interventions, and development partners Identify and share LIP technical needs with CRS CWA RTAs and EARO GAVI management team Share GAVI technical and resource materials with CSO network members, CRS Liberia and Regional team, Ministry of Health and Development Partners Ensure CSO members participate in CRS GAVI planned activities (workshops, trainings, webinars, and surveys) 2. Technical Support Support the CSO network in setting up organizational policies and procedures Assist the CSO network in identifying organizational strengths and weaknesses and designing ways and means to strengthen their technical capacity to manage the organization Support LIP to develop a strategic plan for the continuation of the organization beyond the CRS funded period and to develop appropriate funding streams to ensure sustainability 3. Project Management Assist LIP in planning, designing, implementing, monitoring and evaluating as well as reporting of activities. Review LIP work plans and ensure that revisions are made based on comments from the CRS Country program and CRS EARO. Actively participate in all LIP Meetings and Workshops & assist LIP with sourcing external consultancies as needed Take a proactive role in ensuring that clear communication channels exist between and among CSO Network members, CRS EARO, and the HOP with regard to implementation of the GAVI project. Support CSO network involvement in planning supplemental immunization activities. Participate in GAVI monthly conference calls with CRS EARO 4. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting Monitor GAVI activities through regular site visits and joint meetings with CSO members and Secretariat staff. Support CSO network in following timely submission of monthly, quarterly and annual financial and programmatic progress reports using CRS templates to CRS-Liberia and CRS EARO Review partner liquidation documents, financial reports, and process advance requests in line with donor regulations and CRS financial policy Ensure partners receive project advances in a timely fashion and account for them in line with the project agreement Identify and document challenges, lessons learned, promising practices and case studies of GAVI project activities to improve the quality of the services. Conduct frequent information exchanges with the CSO network members, other Immunization implementing NGOs, Ministry of Health and Head of Programs regarding implementation progress. With support from the HOP, organize quarterly Program Management Team (PMT) meetings and joint monitoring visits. 5. Representation/Liaison Act as CRS Focal Point for the GAVI CSO Network and represent CRS in relevant meetings with development partners, donors, other implementing agencies, auditors and external consultants. Develop constructive relationships with relevant government offices, development partners, other key implementing agencies, and CRS colleagues Ensure LIPs inclusion in key stakeholder meetings through networking and advocacy Undertake any additional duties as assigned by the supervisor. 6. Minimum Qualifications BSc in Public Health or relevant field with minimum of 5 years relevant experience OR Masters in Public Health or relevant field with minimum of 3 years experience in public health program design, management and coordination Knowledge and previous experience with immunization, community mobilization, civil society strengthening, and health advocacy programs and policies Experience working in consortia with other NGOs (local and international) and liaising with relevant Government of Liberia ministries. Ability to develop and maintain effective collaboration and interpersonal relationships with stakeholders and partners Strong representation/advocacy experience and ability Good organizational skills to plan, design, implement, monitor, evaluate and report on health unit and integrated projects Good written and verbal skills; fluent in English Experience in developing budgets and reviewing finance reports

DAILY OBSERVER
9. Experience in managing a multi-million dollar project PLANT SUPERINTENDENT (Job Ref: WRIOP 012)

Monday December 16, 2013

15.

Page 11 13

Experience in working on a multi-million dollar project PROCUREMENT AND LOGISTICS OFFICER (Job Ref. WRIOP 023)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Directs, manages and ensures that plant and equipment repair is carried out in a safe, productive and cost effective manner to optimize mechanical plant availability and facilitate the delivery of Mining Services to the Client. Ensure that all equipment are maintained to high safety standards Ensures that all relevant safety health and environmental standards, legislation and client requirements are met. Supervision and Safety of maintenance personnel in the workshop. Initiates cost saving practices and productivity improvements CRITERIA At least ten (10) years working experience on Heavy earthmoving equipment and parts Trade certificate in Heavy Vehicle Maintenance Knowledge of Environmental Management System relevant to Company operations Experience in managing a multi-million dollar project 10. PLANT MECHANICAL SUPERVISORS (2 POSITIONS) (Job Ref: WRIOP 013-14) KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Ensures quick response to complaints on Light Vehicles to minimize downtime. Monitors performance in accordance with laid down procedures Reports and helps to investigate all accidents/incidents that occur in his area of responsibility Prepares rosters for shift with assistance from Workshop Superintendent. CRITERIA At least 10 years working experience on Heavy earthmoving equipment and parts At least two (2) years experience with machinery in a mining environment Trade Certificate in Heavy Vehicle Maintenance Experience in working on a multi-million dollar project 11. EARTHWORKS SUPERVISORS (3 POSITIONS) (Job Ref: WRIOP 015 - 17) KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Supervision of all Earthworks Management of equipment Reporting on Equipment hours to the Project Manager for costing purposes Responsible for the management of the operations crew and man hour reports CRITERIA At least 10 years relevant working experience Experience in working on a multi-million dollar project Knowledge of various heavy earthmoving machines and equipment 12. OPERATOR TRAINER SUPERVISOR (Job ref: WRIOP 018)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Responsible for the full warehouse process of receiving, binning, issuing and cycle counting. Responsible for the Total Inventory Management and re-ordering at site applying techniques like Statistical Re-ordering, MRP and Demand Planning Responsible for the expediting and tracking of all orders and advising the HODs on ETAs Ensuring all invoices and papers are sent to stores prior to arrival of materials/ parts. CRITERIA Holder of a tertiary education in Commerce from an acceptable institution At least 10 years experience at a large Civil Construction company Experience in managing a multi-million dollar project Must have excellent knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excell 16. OPERATOR TRAINER (Job Ref. WRIOP 024- 031)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Provide a leading and safety based, equipment training and associated activities to equipment operating staff to optimize operator productivities and minimize equipment damage Ensure that each operator is routinely assessed for competence. Ensure that a high standard of equipment operation is maintained. 17. AUTO ELECTRICIAN (Job Ref. WRIOP 036) Prioritize electrical repair works Monitor min/max levels of spares and re-order as required Ensure all welding parts for light and heavy duty equipment are on site for shutdown and/or service maintenance Ensure implementation of all corrective actions from Safety, Health & Environmental audits CRITERIA (OPERATOR TRAINER & AUTO ELECTRICIAN) Trade Certificate Minimum 10 years experience in the mining or related industry Supervisory Skills Experience in working on a multi-million dollar project 18. OPERATIONS SUPPORT MANAGER (Job Ref: WRIOP 022)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Contract administration. Identify cost containment and cost reduction opportunities. Guides and Assists Project Manager with preparation of budgets at project level. Assists the Project Manager with the implementation of recommended action points accepted by management as a result of Business Audits. CRITERIA A relevant University Degree or Twelve (12) years relevant experience in the mining industry or related field General background in Finance, Administration, Procurement, Commercial, Operation Ten (10) years relevant experience in the above areas Experience in managing a multi-million dollar project 19. FINANCE REPRESENTATIVE (Job Ref: WRIOP 023)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Teach employees how to operate mobile equipment used in the workshop, open road, mining and tailings operations Manage training schedules Provide classroom, field and mobile equipment instruction CRITERIA Minimum of 10 years relevant experience Effective computer skills including Microsoft Office and Power point Experience in managing/working on a multi-million dollar project 13. HEALTH & SAFETY OFFICER (Job Ref: WRIOP 019)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Monitors, audits, and evaluates effectiveness of HSE Program implementation and administration. Makes sure that corrective action is undertaken to close out unsafe conditions. CRITERIA Minimum of ten (10) years relevant working experience Knowledge of Environmental Management System relevant to Company operations Experience in working on a multi-million dollar project 14. QA/QC MANAGER ( Job Ref. WRIOP 021)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Build and develop the country Finance department Overall control of all finance and accounting transactions including audit, accounting systems, and taxation BALL (the company). VAT returns and fulfills all local tax requirements with regard to regulatory compliance Monthly Financial and Management accounts with variance analysis and commentary CRITERIA Undergraduate degree Business or Accounting Member of a professional Accountants Association Twenty (20) years post graduate experience, ten of which at Senior Accountant level in the mining sector Experience in the contracting business All applications with attached CVs should be addressed to THE COUNTRY MANAGER, and sent to the following address: Banlaw Africa Liberia Ltd. P.O. Box 145 Monrovia Or by Email to: rsherman@banlaw-africa.com; Phone: 0776610033 All applications should quote the position and job reference number. Closing date for the submission of applications is 20th December 2013.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES To Establish and Implement Quality Assurance and Quality Management Systems to fully comply with Clients QAQC procedures and record keeping. CRITERIA Minimum of 10 years, experience in Quality Assurance Management at Corporate or Project administration level. Minimum of 5 years, experience in the Construction or mining industry. Tertiary qualification, probably in Civil, Mechanical Engineering, General Management, Administration, Finance or related discipline

DAILY OBSERVER United Nations Development Programme

Monday December 16, 2013

Page14 6
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA

MINISTRY OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS

Nimba County

LIBERIA

TERMS OF REFERENCE HUMAN RIGHTS MONITORS TO OPERATE IN MARYLAND, GRAND KRU, RIVER GEE (HUB 2), SINOE AND GRAND GEDEH (HUB 3) COUNTIES

Office of the County Superintendent

INVITATION TO BID FOR THE PURCHASE, REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL OF OLD UNUSED STRUCTURES AND SCRAP METALS November 18, 2013
INTRODUCTION AND INVITATION

he Joint Justice and Security Programme envisage the establishment of five regional hubs to strengthen the justice and security institution in all Counties. Each of the five hubs will be strategically situated, so as to enhance justice and security services throughout Liberia. The five regional hubs will service two or three counties providing more effective operational control and proximity for staff deployment, communication and service delivery.

With consent of Central Government, on 22 July 2013, Nimba County, by and through the County Administration, entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML), by which all old unused structures and scrap presently located in AMLs Concession area have been turned over to Nimba County. The County has decided to sell this scrap at fair market value and to use the proceeds for the benefit of the entire County. The County therefore invites prospective bidders with requisite technical & financial qualifications and capabilities, to bid for the Purchase, Removal and Disposal of the said unused structures and scrap metals currently located within the Concession area of AML and within Nimba County. Bidding will be conducted through the International Competitive Bidding (ICB) method of procurement specified in the Public Procurement & Concession Acts (PPCA) and approved by the Public Procurement & Concession Commission (PPCC) and is open to all eligible bidders. The Stock of Scrap includes all old unused structures and abandoned equipment, parts and metals, situated within the Concession Area of ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML); and is to be disposed of as is where is. Provisional/Tentative inventory shall be provided in the Tender Documents; however, bidders are required to conduct their own assessment to determine the exact locations, categories, quantities and qualities of the stock.

1.

The hubs will be staffed by the representatives of various institutions including the Police, Corrections, the BIN, Judiciary and the Ministry of Justice. As human rights plays a significant role in enhancing justice and security in the country, 2 INCHR human rights monitors per county will also be placed in Maryland, Grand Kru, River Gee, Sinoe and Grand Gedeh Counties. Their Terms of Reference will include, but not limited to the following: Human rights monitoring ESCR including labor related human rights issues in mining and plantation companies in the counties; Right to access, affordable and quality health services to poor and marginalized population in the five counties; Right to Free and compulsory education; Human rights impact of harmful traditional practices; Monitor access to justice, fair & speedy trial; rights or prisoners and detainees Pay regular visit to prisons, police and courts; Monitoring of civil and political rights in general; Interact with state actors and non-state actors in the respective counties on human rights issues; Receive human rights complaints in the respective counties and channel them as per INCHR internal procedures and direction. Human rights capacity building Collaborate with government agencies and non-government agencies in the area of Human Rights protection and promotion in the counties and also in the Hub; In collaboration with partners, organize human rights training for the staff in the Hub and various government agencies and NGO partners in the five counties; Undertake and coordinate Human Rights education and sensitization activities in the five counties. Human rights reporting and other activities Provide situation report periodically on specific issues on Human Rights and Governance in the five counties; Provide monthly reports on human rights violation and abuses; Carry out activities of human rights as directed by the Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR). Document statistics as it relates to the tracking of human rights indicators monitored by the Justice and Security Joint Program and report same to the Regional Coordinator of the Justice and Security Joint Program on a monthly basis. Education Requirement: College degree or 3 years experience in Human Rights Monitoring. Candidates with majors in Social Science and humanities and/or Sociology will be a plus, but not a must. Preferred Candidates: Local residents of Maryland, Grand Kru, River Gee, Sinoe and Grand Gedeh Counties are encouraged to apply. Members of Civil Society Organizations with experience in Human Rights Monitoring and Advocacy are also encouraged to apply Send Curriculum Vitae along with cover letter to: Board of Commissioners Independent National Commission on Human Rights Tubman Boulevard @ VP Road Junction Monrovia Email: lib_inchr@yahoo.com Note: ALL APPLICATIONS SHOULD BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN 4:00 P.M, DECEMBER 20, 2013.

2.

THE STOCK

3. DIRECT FISCAL BENEFITS TO CENTRAL AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FROM THE SALE

Proceeds from the sale shall be applied to and used for the benefit of the entire County of Nimba. Appropriate taxes shall be paid to Central Government. And the buyer shall be expected to assist the County through sustainable added value creation, job creation, project linkage opportunities, social projects etc.

4.

The successful bidder must (a) be a recognized local and/or regional and/or international entity with requisite experience in the steel industry to include the purchase, removal and disposal of scrap (b) have verifiable technical and managerial competence to undertake the above activities (c) have previous successful investment and management of similar operations for at least five years, (d) have proof of requisite financial resources to undertake the above described operations, (e) have a good record of corporate social responsibility and must be willing to adhere to and support Liberias Local Content Policies and regulations, and (f) if foreign, have a locally registered and licensed scrap broker and dealer company as its subsidiary, associate or affiliate. Tender Documents for the purchase, removal and disposal of the said unused structures and scrap metals currently located within the Concession area of AML and may be obtained from the Procurement Officer, Office of the Superintendent of Nimba County, Sanniquellie City at the address below, from Wednesday 20th of November 2013, during official working hours, on payment of a non-refundable bid fee of US$5,000.00, payable by Managers Check to: THE NIMBA COUNTY OPERATIONAL ACCOUNT

BUYERS QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

5.

TENDER DOCUMENTS

Deadline for the submission of SEALED BIDS is Tuesday 31st December, 2013 at 1400 hours GMT. All Bids must be delivered and deposited in the Tender Box at the Office of the Procurement Officer, Superintendents Office, Sanniquellie City, Nimba County, before the said deadline. All late Bids will be rejected outright. Bids will be opened at 15:00pm on Tuesday 31st December, 2013. All bidders or their representatives are asked to be present. a. Information contained in this Invitation to Bid is indicative only and will be confirmed and amplified in the Bid Documents. b. Interested firms may obtain further information from the Procurement Office, Administrative Building, Sanniquellie City, Nimba County, Republic of Liberia from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Mondays through Fridays (except public holidays); or call Contact Numbers: +231 886 405120 or +231 886493075 or +231 777 405120 Signed:_______________________________________ Secretary of the Procurement Committee Nimba County Approved: ____________________________________ Chairperson of the Procurement Committee Nimba County

6.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF BIDS

7.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

DAILY OBSERVER Monday, December 16, 2013

Page 15 11

ELEASES APOLOGY RODNEY D. SIEH

Monrovia, Liberia

Dr. J. Chris Toe has released copy of THE ORIGINAL FORMAL LETTER OF APOLOGY SIGNED BY RODNEY D. SIEH., Editor of FrontPage Africa (FPA). The October 13, 2013 letter of apology was one of two conditions that were satisfied by FrontPage Africa and Rodney Sieh before Sieh was freed from jail and the office of FrontPage Africas print publication was reopened. The other condition that was also fulfilled was the reimbursement of some of Dr. Toes legal costs. Satisfaction of the two conditions led to a Bill of Information that was filed November 8, 2013 before the Civil Law Court, Sixth Judicial Circuit of Montserrado County on behalf of Dr. Toe by Counsellors Emmanuel James and Rosemarie James of The International Group of Legal Advocates and Consultants. In the Information granted by the Lower Court, Dr. Toe waived the US$1.5 million awarded him by the jury as general damages and successfully appealed to his lawyers who waived their attorney fees granted them by the Court. The Courts ruling finally settled an Action of Damages for Libel against FrontPage Africa, and Rodney Sieh and Samwar Fallah of FrontPage Africa. Explaining why he decided to make a copy of the original letter of apology public and to disclose that FrontPage had reimbursed some of his court expenses, Dr. Toe said it was being done to provide transparency, accountability and finality to the matter. He recounted the numerous requests he had made for a negotiated settlement and indicated that his decision to waive the US$ 1.5 million jury award and free Rodney Sieh from jail was in our nations best interest. Dr. Toe also restated his abiding faith in the rule of law, our improving judicial system, and our constitutions provisions for the protection of individual rights and press freedom. He extended thanks and appreciation to the Liberian people, government leaders, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society and media organizations that either intervened or pleaded with him to let bygones be bygones. Most importantly, he expressed his deep gratitude to FPA mediators, Dr. Amos C. Sawyer, Sheik Kafumba Konneh and Rev. Kortu Brown, and his own legal team from The International Group of Legal Advocates and Consultants.

DAILY OBSERVER
TION NA
OIL C AL

Monday December 16, 2013

TION NA
L OIL C A

Page 14 16

O FL IBERIA

gas industry in the Republic.

The National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) was established for the purpose of holding all rights, title and interests of the Republic of Liberia in the deposits and reserves of liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons within its territorial limits, whether potential, proven or actual, with the aim of facilitating the development of the oil and

JOB VACANCY AT THE NATIONAL OIL COMPANY OF LIBERIA (NOCAL)

NOCAL is an equal opportunity employer committed to the maintenance of gender equity, the merit system, and the promotion of non-discrimination in recruitment, compensation, promotion, benefits, work environment and all other personnel action affecting its employees. The Company, in collaboration with the Civil Service Agency, is seeking applications from qualified Liberians to serve in the following Strategic Position:

A Vice President for Corporate Social Relations (CSR) at its Headquarters in Monrovia, Liberia.
CSR is a key component of NOCALs business strategy. A key priority for NOCAL is to develop and maintain strong and mutually beneficial relationships with the Liberian community. NOCALs commitment includes company programs that draw on our people, products, and financial assets to address community issues effectively. NOCAL is committed to acting responsibility in our relations with customers, colleagues, and our community. The Vice President for Corporate Social Relations will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO).

The VP of Corporate Social Relations will be the strategic lead and driver of NOCALs CSR policies, programs, and activities.

Objective

(6) Fiscal impact

(5) Communications

(4) Stakeholder engagement

(3) Community Outreach

(2) Advises NOCAL on Corporate Social Relations

(1) Develops, spearheads, and monitors social relations projects undertaken by NOCAL

The VP for Corporate Social Relations will have six primary duties:

Scope

Responsibilities (1) Develops, spearheads, and monitors social relations projects undertaken by NOCAL
Identifies priority communities for NOCALs Social Development Projects; In consultation with NOCALs departments and representative community groups, determine where to invest time and resources in NOCALs community relations program; In collaboration with key internal stakeholders across the Companys business units and functions, drive the development and execution of policies and programs that are consistent with the strategic framework and objectives of this program and aligned with other business strategies; In collaboration with senior leadership, develop appropriate goals and metrics and process for measuring the Companys performance with respect to CR; Produces an annual Corporate Social Relations report on NOCALs activities.

(2) Advise NOCAL on Corporate Social Relations

Advises NOCALs leadership on global best practices with respect to CR. Monitor and analyze the strategies, policies and programs of other similarly sized companies, to companies in the same vertical sector and to corporate leaders.

Assists NOCAL in assessing the societal and business risks and opportunities with respect to CR. Assess, prioritize, monitor and address potential challenges and risks. Develops CR capabilities within NOCAL. Educate and link different groups and functions. Ensure the implementation of policies, strategies and programs on a global basis. Directs the coordination of enterprise-wide CR initiatives. Direct specific project management to ensure that CR programs, initiatives, and related activities are successfully executed. Directs the day-to-day management of CR processes and programs to ensure that the mission is maximized and resources are used effectively and efficiently.

(3) Community outreach

In close consultation with the Public Affairs department develop relations with key community organizations and groups.

(4) Stakeholder engagement

Leads stakeholder engagement for the Company. Builds strategic alliances and coalitions with key constituency groups (local, national and international political, social, and environmental leaders) whose work and missions are aligned with NOCALs priorities.

(5) Communications

Works effectively with the internal and external public relations and communications teams to advance

the Companys reputation with respect to CR. Represents the company in diverse complex and high-profile situations nationally and internationally.

(6) Fiscal impact

In close consultation with the Financial Department, develop an understanding of the fiscal impact of NOCALs goals and priorities in this area. Develop an annual operating budget.

Qualifications Masters Degree in Social Science or other related areas. Experience within oil & gas industry Strong interpersonal and communication skills to connect and build strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders A visionary, creative, strategic thinker and self-starter who is proactive and entrepreneurial. Commitment to and passion for corporate responsibility. Innovative thinker who can constructively challenge conventional ways of thinking and introduce new ideas. A broad proactive mindset, exceptional listening, framing and strategic abilities, and superb skills at creating new possibilities. Excellent interpersonal, advocacy and political skills. Strong customer service commitment for internal and external stakeholders. Excellent reputation for integrity and judgment.
Please apply on online at NOCALs website www.nocal.com.lr., The deadline for applications is December 23, 2013, at 5pm.

AN MP Y O

AN MP Y O

National

il Company Of Liberia
rd

O FL IBERIA

National

il Company Of Liberia
rd

The National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) was established for the purpose of holding all rights, title and interests of the Republic of Liberia in the deposits and reserves of liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons within its territorial limits, whether potential, proven or actual, with the aim of facilitating the development of the oil and gas industry in the Republic. NOCAL is an equal opportunity employer committed to the maintenance of gender equity, the merit system, and the promotion of non-discrimination in recruitment, compensation, promotion, benefits, work environment, and all other personnel actions affecting its employees. The Company, in collaboration with the Civil Service Agency, is seeking applications from Qualified Liberians to serve in the following Strategic Position:

JOB VACANCY AT THE NATIONAL OIL COMPANY OF LIBERIA (NOCAL)

A Vice President for Finance at its Headquarters in Monrovia, Liberia.

The position is an Executive Management position for all budget and financial operations to achieve the annual goals set by NOCALs Board and Management. The Vice President for Finance will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Objective:

The Vice President for Finance directs the day-to-day financial activities of NOCAL and has responsibility for overall financial policies and objectives.

Scope:

(1) Financial & Operational Management; (2) Accounting Management; (3) Risk Management; (4) Business Administration; (5) External Relations.

Responsibilities (1) Financial & Operational Management

Directs the daily operations of NOCALs finance function, including treasury, budgeting, auditing, tax, accounting, capital purchasing, investor relations, risk management, and long-range forecasting and insurance activities;

Oversees the approval and processing of revenue, expenditure, and position control documents, department budgets, salary updates, general ledger, account maintenance, and data entry; Oversees the annual budget and external audit and maintenance of accounting related controls, policies and procedures; Develops strategy for financial planning and cash management including long range financial planning; Implements financial control policies and procedures; Prepares financial materials, including annual plans, quarterly forecasts, periodic reviews and updates, for boards of directors and other stakeholders on the financial standing and conditions of NOCAL.

(2) Accounting Management

Ensures that NOCALs accounting systems are up -to-date and in compliance with all applicable statutory and regulatory requirements; Oversees all aspects of accounting, including cash flow planning, reporting, organizational and departmental budgeting, and forecasting; Accounting and budgeting in accord with applicable regulations and generally accepted accounting principles for NOCALs funds.

(3) Risk Management

Understands and mitigates key elements of NOCALs risk profile;

Minimizes NOCALs tax liabilities; Assists the Chief Executive Officer , Chief Operating Office to ensure that the proper systems are in place to identify and manage business risks; Ensures the accuracy, completeness, integrity and appropriate disclosure of NOCALs financial statements, other financial information, and other continuous disclosures through appropriate policies and procedures;

Establishes and maintains NOCALs disclosure controls and procedures through appropriate policies and procedures; Establishes and maintains NOCALs internal controls over financial reporting through appropriate policies and procedures; Ensures that the Company has complied with all regulatory requirements for NOCALs financial information, reporting, disclosure requirements, and internal controls over financial reporting; Provides required regulatory certifications regarding NOCAL and its activities; Ensures appropriate policies and procedures of NOCAL are developed, maintained, approved, and disclosed.

(4) Business Administration

Advises the president/CEO, Chief Operating Officer, and other key members of senior management on

financial planning budgeting, cash flow, investment priorities, and policy matters; Serves as the management liaison to the board and audit committee; effectively communicate and present critical financial matters at select board of directors and committee meetings; Contributes to the development of NOCALs strategic goals and objectives as well as the overall

management of the organization; Oversees, direct, and organize the work of the finance team; Supervises management of the financial reporting functions and audits.

(5) External Relations

Represents the organization externally, as necessary, particularly in banking and lease negotiations. Builds relationships with investors and analysts.

Qualifications

Masters in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Certified Public Accounting preferred; Minimum 10 plus years experience in a senior management role; Proven track record of success facilitating progressive organizational change and development within a growing organization; Superior management skills; ability to influence and engage; Self reliant, good problem solver, results oriented; Exceptional written, oral, interpersonal, and presentation skills and the ability to effectively interface with senior management, board of directors, and staff.

Please apply on online at NOCALs website www.nocal.com.lr , The deadline for applications is December 23, 2013, at 5pm.

DAILY OBSERVER Sunday, December 15, 2013 Monday, December 16, 2013

Page 17

TOTAL MD Challenges Dealers, Transporters

-As Company Opens T-AIR Service Station on the Old Road
By George D. Kennedy

he Managing Director of TOTAL Liberia Inc. has challenged employees, young dealers and contracted transporters to double their efforts and maintain the service and the quality of products enjoyed by customers. Mr. Robert Fenech observed that the employees, young dealers and transporters needed to work more honestly and transparently and pay back to Liberia the investment TOTAL has made in them. Our subcontracted transporters also need to start taking the business seriously and deliver the correct quantities of fuel to service stations on time and safely so that our customers know that they (customers) can buy fuel on TOTAL service stations at any time, he said. Speaking at the opening ceremony of TOTAL Liberia Inc.s 23rd Service Station at Smyth Road Junction on the Old Road on Saturday, Mr. Fenech assured the public that TOTAL Liberia fully supports and encourages the full use of all powers available to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the highest punitive actions, if any TOTAL Franchise Dealer is found to be selling fuel

(R-L) Mr. Fenech, French Ambassador Joel Godeau, and Mr. Stevquoh, others
higher than the price ceiling in force or to be cheating the customers on quantities sold. In a prepared speech delivered at the ceremony, the TOTAL MD reminded Liberians that TOTAL prides itself on giving its customers the right product and the right quantity at the right price. It is incumbent on our service station franchise operators to reach the highest levels of transparency and integrity with their customers, and to be Ambassadors of the TOTAL brand, he stated. He said TOTAL has made great strides in developing a socially sustainable and economic footprint throughout Liberia in support of the Presidents poverty reduction program. According to Mr. Fenech, the opening of the Old Road Service Station under the T-AIR concept is another example of the companys preparedness to support President Ellen Johnson Sirleafs poverty reduction program. The British petroleum manager declared that TOTAL will continue to invest in all counties, in line with the tenants of the Agenda for Transformation (AfT), targeting approximately five new service stations projects per year. Fenech intoned that the need for job creation in Liberia, and the need to empower Liberians in a sustainable manner, cannot be overstated. TOTAL, he said has opened four new service stations this year including a service station in Greenville and another T-AIR service station in Gbarnga, Bong County. The new TOTAL T-AIR service station is value at US$1 million and provides services to all vehicles. The service station is endowed with a special service center for motorbikes, a lube bay, and TOTALs usual modern shopping mall, amongst others. TOTAL has invested over US$23 million to construct 23 service stations in eight counties. All of TOTALs service stations are exclusively operated by

Liberian franchise businesses, the majority of which, according to Mr. Fenech, operate under the Young Dealer scheme, a scheme he described as an unparalleled commercial empowerment program for Liberians. To date, TOTAL has invested over US$2 million in these Liberian entrepreneurs. Fenech boasted that the track record of Total in Liberia is unparalleled, noting our service stations costing US$1 million each are built to the highest quality and standards, respecting the most current international norms. He noted that the new T-AIR stations endow Total with added legitimacy when it talks about sustainable development, corporate social responsibility and public acceptance of its activities. For his part, the chief of staff from Vice President Joseph Boakais office, Mr. Samuel

A. Stevquoah, thanked the Management of TOTAL Liberia for choosing to invest in Liberia. Mr. Stevquoah observed that the petroleum dealer market has improved since TOTAL came to Liberia over five years ago. Speaking on behalf of the Vice President, Mr. Stevquoah noted that the government of Liberia considers TOTAL as an integral part of job creation in Liberia. He assured the business community that the government will continue to create the environment that will spur businesses and to enhance the development of Liberia. Ecobank Managing Director Mr. Kola Adeleke and French Ambassador to Liberia, joined a host of government officials to grace the opening ceremony of TOTALs T-AIR Service Station on the Old Road.

arkets across the world may have risen to record highs in 2013s run-up, but the great gains made by investors, companies, and leading economies havent extended around the entire globe. Many parts of the world still struggle with rampant poverty and myriad other economic problems. But just which nations make up the unfortunate group of the five poorest countries in the world? Earlier in the year, we looked at the five richest countries in the world, with a few names on the list that may have surprised some. Now, using projected 2013 per capita GDP figures from the International Monetary Fund and adjusted for purchasing power parity, lets start off with No. 5 on the list of the world economies most in need. 5: Liberia, $710 GDP per capita Liberias been hit hard by instability and conflict in the past, but its a nation thats clinging to hope for a better

By Dan Carroll, The Motley Fool (http://www.dailyfinance.com/2013/12/14/ the-5-poorest-countriesin-the-world/)

The 5 Poorest Countries in the World

Monrovia, Liberia. Source: Wikimedia Commons

future. The West African country of only a little more than 4 billion people suffered through years of civil war before a 2003 peace accord brought an end to the fighting and ushered in a new wave of cautious, but promising, democracy. Liberias history of violence has left its scars on the countrys fragile economy, as considerably morethan half of all Liberian citizens live below the poverty line. However, like other notable developing economies, Liberias rising up behind a familiar sector: energy. Energy exploration firm African Petroleum unearthed significant oil deposits off Liberias coast in early 2012, and leading energy firms have been quick to move in. Chinas been a particularly active player in African economics in recent years, and state-owned oil firm PetroChina added to Beijings moves by inking a deal in July of last year to invest in up to a 20% stake of one of African Petroleums Liberian oil blocks. Despite PetroChinas precipitous stock fall this year, the companys been making major moves in West Africa. American firms havent been left behind in Liberias oil rush, either: ExxonMobil acquired an 80% stake in a Liberian offshore oil block just this May through one of its subsidiaries. ExxonMobils followed other international energy giants into the region, and its entrance into Liberias energy market -- along with that of PetroChina and other top global players -- should only help this rebuilding economy take its early steps in rebuilding from years of conflict.

h i g h - l e v e l visiting Indian Investment Team from the Oversees Infrastructure Alliance led by its Chairman, former Indian Ambassador His Excellency V. B. Soni, on Wednesday, December 11, 2013, paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The visit is aimed at exploring Indian investment in the Liberian economy. Ambassador Soni is former Indian Ambassador to Ukraine, Senegal, Mali, Mauritania, Haiti, Georgia, Guinea Bissau, Dominican Republic, Cape Verde and Armenia. The high level Indian business group was received in audience upon arrival at the Ministry by Deputy Minister for International Cooperation and Economic Integration, Mr. Elias Shonoyin, on behalf of

Visiting Indian Business Delegation Pays Courtesy Call On Foreign Minister

the Liberias Foreign Minister Augustine Ngafuan. While receiving the investors on behalf Minister Ngafuan, Min. Shonoyin welcomed the delegation to Liberia and stated that Liberia has an excellent economic environment for investment but needs robust energy and power supply to attract investors to the country. Deputy Minister Shonoyin told the visiting Indian delegation that Liberia is open to any Foreign Investor who may want to invest in the country, adding that Liberia and India are working to expand cooperation aimed at enhancing Indian investment here. Deputy Minister Shonoyin observed that Liberia has rich and virgin resources for Agriculture purposes but the nation lacks the technical and technological knowhow to attract mechanized farming to boost its economy.

Earlier, the Chairman of the visiting Indian Business Team, Ambassador V.B. Soni said he and his team were in Liberia to invest in the countrys economy through various sectors including energy, power supply, agriculture and health sector as well as infrastructural development. The former Indian Ambassador and Chairman of the Oversees Infrastructure Alliance , noted that since independence, India with all its virgin resources was unable to feed itself but its success story began with a revolution that made the nation to produce its own food and secure food security. Ambassador V. B. Soni encouraged Liberia to emulate the good examples of other African countries which he said are benefiting in Indian investment in millions of dollars. The head of delegation also disclosed plans by his team to invest in the transportation sector and the sugar cane industries.

DAILY OBSERVER Monday, December 16, 2013

the US for 10 years. I was living as a middle-class person in America while I was there, he said. So, Corkrum has nothing to boast of over me. I see her as a rogue (thief) that came to steal from the poor people of Liberia who are suffering, Konneh explained. My duty as Minister of Finance is to protect governments revenue and to ensure that it is used for the purposes intended, Mr. Konneh went on. It had occurred to me that she wanted to steal the US$10 million I had allocated in the fiscal budget and had advocated for at the legislature, to repair the run-way of the Roberts International Airport (RIA). How I got to know this?

Amara Konneh

Page 18
her indictment along with that of others including the board chair of the LAA, Musa Bility, the Liberia Bank for Development and Investment (LBDI), Diaspora Consultants, First International Bank Liberia Limited, Corkrums boyfriend Melvin Johnson and many others. Finance Minister Amara M. Konneh has publicly described fugitive Madam Ellen Corkrum as a common criminal. Madam Corkrum, a U.S. citizen and a pilot who served in the American military, is indicted for corruption along with a number of Liberian government officials. She is accused by the Liberian government of stealing hundreds of thousands of US dollars from the coffers of the Liberia Airport Authority (LAA) while serving as its Managing
for the entire 600 meters government is opting to reclaim. He indicated that US$1.2 million is being used for the first phase that includes 200 meters. Minister Sendolo asserted that governments first priority at the moment is to protect Atlantic Street and Fanti Town areas that are almost swallowed by the ocean. What is important here is the willingness of Liberians to participate; the number of Liberians that are part of the process
conflicting statements on Friday about whether he had been invited. According to tradition, the Thembu community were holding a private traditional Xhosa ceremony - including songs and poems about Mr Mandelas life and his achievements. An ox was due to be slaughtered and a family elder was to stay near the coffin, to talk to the bodys spirit. Sad but happy The burial brought to an end more than a week of mourning across South Africa. Tens of thousands of people flocked to the FNB stadium for a public memorial on Tuesday, to hear President Barack Obama and other international leaders

Defence Project in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County. The Costal Defence Project is a government initiative driven by three government ministries, including the Ministry of Lands, Mines & Energy with support from UNDP. The intent is to protect coastal areas from ongoing sea erosion that is gradually eating up territorial land-space in Grand

Im Delighted

Because this rogue, (Corkrum) hired the services of a fake company called Diaspora Consultants asking the government to pay the US$10 million to it to repair the run-way. But when the Public Procurement & Concession Commission (PPCC) went to check on this company in the US, the PPCC discovered that the company was not in existence, he said. Minister Konneh explained that after Corkrum failed to get PPCCs approval for the US$10 million contract, she later turned to the Ministry of Finance, but she couldnt get her way through because of the Public Financial Management (PFM) Law and the gatekeepers at the Ministry including Deputy Budget Minister

Mr. Sebastian Muah and those from the Expenditure Department of the Ministry. He told the students that after all of her attempted failures, Corkrum finally turned to the LAAs account at the Liberia Bank for Development and Investment (LBDI) and First International Bank where she was an official signatory to the LAAs accounts to steal the Liberian peoples money. Came With An Agenda The Liberian treasury boss disclosed that Corkrum was brought to Liberia to manage the RIA at the time when she had no knowledge of managing an airport. I dont want to know how she was employed and who employed her. But I saw her and I observed that she was a thief. Konneh admitted that he is
I consider this project successful and Im very pleased with the amount of work that is being done here, she said. Despite the many challenges, the Liberian leader furthered, Liberians are able to stand up for their welfare and lead a process that ensures that such an important site is protected from natural disaster. The Liberian Chief Executive stressed the need for other coastal cities and towns to receive similar attention, mainThe master of ceremonies, ANC Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, had earlier explained that burial had to take place at midday, in line with the traditions of Mr Mandelas Thembu tribe in Qunu. A person of Mandelas stature is meant to be laid to rest when the sun is at its highest and when the shadow is at its shortest. The BBCs Pumza Fihlani says it was a fitting send-off for a man widely seen as the father of the nation. As the state funeral drew to a close, military pallbearers carried the coffin to the grave site for the more private ceremony. There, a chaplain spoke of Mr Mandela achieving ultimate freedom at the end of a truly

the one who wrote President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf questioning the veracity and credibility of the Diaspora Consultants and Engineering, the company that was brought to Liberia on the recommendation of Ms. Corkrum and called for her removal as Managing Director of LAA. Minister Konneh then challenged Madam Corkrum to play the conversation between him (Konneh) and her (Corkrum). If she is sure that she is corruption free, let her come back to Liberia or play the conversation between her and me. This woman left the LAA indebted to the tune of US$700,000--which I had to help to rescue. The corruption saga involving Ellen Corkrum came full circle in August with the government of Liberia unsealing
taining that such can only be done when more and more Liberians take ownership of these projects across the country. She extolled Grand Bassa County local government for the collaborations but was quick to point out that local government must have some financial input for the speedy completion of the project. Also speaking to the media, Lands, Mines & Energy Minister Patrick Sendolo put the cost of the project at US$3 million
long walk. George Bizos, another close friend who was part of Mr Mandelas legal team at his 1964 Rivonia trial, was among those who attended the private burial. We have known each other for 65 years. Now he is gone, he said. Three helicopters trailing South African flags then flew over the scene followed by six jets. TV pictures of the grave site came to a close. British entrepreneur Richard Branson, who attended the burial, said Desmond Tutu told mourners Nelson Mandela doesnt need a stone - he is in all of our hearts. The former archbishop was at the private ceremony despite

Director. The former US military pilot fled the country recently, allegedly aided by top Liberian security officials. A series of voice recordings released by the fugitive LAA Managing Director has, so far, linked two top securityofficials including Defense Minister Brownie J. Samukai and Police Director Chris Massaquoi. These officials are widely considered as confidants of President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. But the crux of the matter is that Madam Ellen Corkrum, a US citizen, succeeded in getting her hands on the Liberian peoples money, fled to the US. and has so far gotten away with it. (with an assist from Keith Neville A. Best)
is encouraging. The intent of this now is not to reclaim the lost land, but prevent a future occurrence so that our nice beaches and tourist sites are preserved, Minister Sendolo added. Accordingly, the first phase of the project will end in February 2014, with an opportunity to embark on a similar venture to save Hotel Africa, a beautiful resort and tourist destination that is being overrun by sea-erosion in Monrovia.
pay tribute to Mr Mandela. Over the next three days, at least 100,000 people saw the former presidents body lying in state in Pretoria. Thousands more had to be turned away. On Saturday, Mr Mandelas coffin was flown from Waterkloof airbase in Pretoria to Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. A military guard of honour then took the casket on a 20mile (32km) route to Qunu, where Mr Mandela had wanted to spend his final days. Crowds waving flags and cheering and singing lined the route, which culminated at the Mandela homestead.

South Africas first black president at a state funeral service. His widow, Graca Machel, and President Jacob Zuma were present for the private, traditional Xhosa burial at Mr Mandelas ancestral home in Qunu. Mr Zuma had earlier told the larger funeral service that South Africans had to take his legacy forward. Mr Mandela died on 5 December aged 95. The last of 10 days of commemorations for Mr Mandela began with his coffin being taken on a gun carriage from his home to a giant marquee where his portrait hung behind 95 candles - each representing a year of his life. The coffin, draped in the South African flag, was placed beneath a lectern where speakers paid their tributes. Some guests sang and danced to celebrate Mr Mandelas life as the service began. After the national anthem, the service heard from a family spokesman, Chief Ngangomhlaba Matanzima, who thanked the army medical team that had treated Mr Mandela before he died. A great tree has fallen, he is now going home to rest with his forefathers. We thank them for lending us such an icon. Close friend Ahmed Kathrada, told mourners he had lost an elder brother who was with him for many years in prison on Robben island. Mr Kathradas voice filled with emotion as he spoke of the difficulty of recent months and of how he had held his friends hand the last time he saw him in hospital. Farewell my dear brother, my mentor, my leader, he said. Two grandchildren then addressed the congregation. Ndaba who read an obituary, and Nandi, who spoke fondly of her grandfather as a disciplinarian.

Nelson Mandela

Bassa, Grand Cape Mount and Montserrado counties. Speaking during a tour of the project over the weekend, President Johnson Sirleaf lauded the efforts of the workers including technical staffs from the Ministry of Lands, Mines & Energy for their commitment and selfless-delegation to ensuring that Buchanan is protected from sea-erosion.

We shall miss you... your stern voice when you are not pleased with our behaviour. We shall miss your laughter, said Nandi. Listening to the tributes were Graca Machel and Mr Mandelas second wife, WinnieMadikizela Mandela. They sat either side of President Jacob Zuma. Both women were praised for their love and tolerance, in an address by Malawis President Joyce Banda. African National Congress members, veterans of the fight against apartheid and foreign dignitaries - including several African presidents and the Prince of Wales - were among the guests. Archbishop Desmond Tutu - a long-time friend of Nelson Mandela - was also there, as was US talk-show host Oprah Winfrey. While the service took place, a 21-gun salute sounded far away in Pretoria. President Zuma, who was booed at last weeks stadium commemoration in Soweto, led the service in song before giving his funeral oration. It had been been a long and painful week, he said. Whilst the long walk to freedom has ended in the physical sense, our own journey continues. An unexpected contribution came from Kenneth Kaunda, 89-year-old former president of Zambia, who lightened the tone of the proceedings by jogging to the stage. He recounted failed appeals he had made to two South African leaders, John Vorster and PW Botha, for the release of Mr Mandela and his ANC colleagues from prison. As the political tributes overran, the organisers made an unsuccessful attempt to cut back the religious element of the service.

overnment law enforcement authorities arrested Novafone supervisor Friday at his home in Congo Town and seized SIM Box equipment capable of defrauding the government of millions of dollars in tariffs by illegally rerouting incoming international calls and disguising their origin to appear as local calls. Law enforcement authorities were alerted and a search warrant issued after the Liberia Telecommunications Authority submitted evidence of the illegal activity unearthed by its new SIM Box Detector equipment. The detection equipment, which is no bigger than an iPad, is capable of multiple tasks related to detecting and giving the precise location of SIM Box activity. During the arrest of the Novafone Supervisor, a young Lebanese national only referred to as Hassan, 188 SIM Cards were found attached to the SIM Box equipment. When interrogated, Hassan implicated the former CEO of Novafone, Chady Salim, in the

LTA Nabs

scheme. Prior to Hassans arrest, Salim had resigned from Novafone and left the country. No one at Novafone could be reached for comment. SIM Box equipment has gained notoriety across Africa, causing telecom operators and governments to lose millions of U.S. dollars in tariffs, while causing subscribers to experience poor quality and loss of caller ID on GSM calls. Modernghana.com reported in 2011 that a Ghanaian communications engineer was sentenced to 5 years in jail by an Accra Fast Track High Court for interfering with international calls to Ghana causing losses to [mobile operators] and the state and essentially operating a communications service without a license. LTA Acting Chairperson Angelique Weeks said in a statement issued Sunday afternoon that, This is another example of LTAs ongoing efforts in the fight to thwart criminal activities that deny government of much needed revenues from the telecom sector. The LTA was able to acquire the SIM Box

Detector through Global Voice Group (GVG), which is under contract with the LTA to assist with the International Gateway Management program launched in February 2012. Commenting on the important role that technology plays in the LTAs ability to effectively execute its regulatory mandate, Acting Chairperson Angelique Weeks disclosed that for several years now, the LTA has been trying to acquire spectrum monitoring and management equipment, which will be used to locate unauthorized users of Liberias scarce spectrum (radiofrequency) resource. In addition to not being licensed by the LTA, such unauthorized persons or entities are not paying the Ministry of Finance or the LTA for the use of this valuable but scarce national resource. The LTA boss said, Although the LTA has made significant progress toward realizing this strategic goal, its efforts have been stalled over the past several months by the Ministry of Finances delays in providing the LTA with a signed copy of its 2013/2014 Budget, which was approved by the National Budget Committee through the Ministry of Finance

prior to being submitted as an addendum to the National Budget, which has long since been signed into Law. The LTAs International Gateway Monitoring and Management System (IGMS) is a 24-hour real-time traffic monitoring configuration that captures the behavior of all incoming international calls, reflecting their routing into Liberia, the time of the calls, the duration, the calling number, the called number, etc. However, according to the LTA, the contents of conversations are neither monitored nor captured. Between December 2nd and December 8th the IGMS identified 233 fraudulent numbers routed through the Novafone System totaling 9,982.78 minutes. By extrapolation, this would be approximately 40,000 minutes of airtime a month. Although the LTA with assistance of law enforcement officers has previously confiscated illegal SIM Boxes, this is the first time such identification and subsequent confiscation has been facilitated by the new detection equipment that pinpoints the actual location of illegal SIM Boxes.

Tuesday, November 5, 16, 2013 DAILY OBSERVER Sunday, December 15, 2013 2013 Monday, December

Page 4 Page 19

Fo r ad qu ve ick rt ise bu in sine th ss is re sp su ac lts e ,

What to Expect in Brazil 2014

cross six confederations the 2014 Fifa World Cup qualification took place between June 15, 2011 and November 20, 2013 with 203 countries participating. A total of 820 matches took during this period across the world which produced 2,303 goals averaging 2.81 goals per match. Three players emerged top scorers with 11 goals apiece at the end of the qualification. They are Robin van Persie of the Netherlands, Luis Suarez of Uruguay and Deon McCaulay of Belize. Interestingly Belize failed to qualify for the World Cup in spite of McCaulays prolific form in front of goal. The World Cup in Brazil next year will also have a number of interesting events and things to expect and supersport.com takes a look at a few of them. 2010 World Cup final rematch The Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador will play host to what many have termed the rematch of the final of the 2010 Fifa World Cup in South Africa. World champions, Spain face the Netherlands in the opening game of Group B. In 2010, it was Andres Iniestas goal that sealed a first world title for the Spaniards. Definitely a mouthwatering clash early in the tournament. Boateng brothers clash Kevin Prince Boateng and his brother, Jerome, might likely come face-to-face at the Estadio Castelao in Fortaleza on June 21, 2014 and thats barring any hitch in terms of

Read more sports articles on the Daily Observer website @ www.liberianobserver.com/sports

By George Akpaye

(Portugal, 2002 World Cup), Jurgen Klinsmann of USA (Germany, 1990, 1994 & 1998 World Cups), Marc Wilmots (Belgium, 1990, 1994, 1998 & 2002 World Cups), Vahid Halilhodzic of Algeria (Old Yugoslavia, 1982 World Cup) and Hong Myung-Bo (South Korea, 1990, 1994, 1998 & 2002 World Cups) are the coaches with World Cup experience as former players. World Cup of technology The tournament in Brazil would turn out to be a World Cup driven by technology. Definitely it will be a departure from previous editions as the goal-line technology is expected to come into play. The power of technology will also provide football followers across the world different portals including social media networking sites and mobile televisions to follow all matches as they happen.

selection by their countries. Kevin Prince will be in the colours of Ghana while Jerome should run out in Germanys strip. Quite an interesting match-up this should provide. Jurgen Klinsmann v Germany On June 26 next year inside the Arena Pernambuco in Recife, Klinsmann will lead his American squad against his native Germany in a Group G game. It will offer the world a chance to see how Klinsmann sets up his troops against his own countrymen. Africans for semi-finals? Algeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast and African champions, Nigeria are the nations to represent the continent. There have been so much talk of an African side reaching the semis of the 2014 Mundial with Ghana, Ivory Coast and Nigeria tipped to achieve such feat. But we wait to see if that happens after the quarterfinal games in July next year. Newcomers: Bosnia-Herzegovina The Bosnians are the only first-timers at the World Cup

after winning their European group ahead of strong sides like Greece and Slovakia. The Dragons are currently ranked 21 by Fifa and that is evident in the quality of squad they have. Asmir Begovic, Emir Spahic, Miralem Pjanic, Vedad Ibisevic and Manchester City striker, Edin Dzeko are among their top stars. So Argentina, Iran and Nigeria need to be wary of Safet Susics men as the names of their players do not sound like those of newcomers. Ex-World Cup stars now coaches Out of the 32 coaches that will manage teams at next years tournament, only nine of them have played at the World Cup as players. Hopefully these nine men will remain in charge of their teams for the Mundial when it gets underway in June 2014. Niko Kovac (Croatia, 2006 World Cup), Stephen Keshi (Nigeria, 1994 World Cup), Didier Deschamps (France, 1998 World Cup), Safet Susic of Bosnia (Old Yugoslavia, 1982 & 1990 World Cups), Paulo Jorge Gomes Bento

worker fell 115 feet to his death from the roof of the Arena Amazonia in Brazil last Saturday, the fifth fatal accident during construction of Brazils 12 World Cup stadiums. Local media later reported that another worker had died of a heart attack at a convention centre next to the stadium in Manaus. The building will be used to host meeting during the World Cup. The states public prosecutors office asked a judge to suspend work on the Manaus stadium until safe working conditions could be guaran-

One Dead in Brazil Stadium Accident

teed, though such requests are not often granted in Brazil. Marcleudo de Melo Ferreira, 22, died in a hospital in

Manaus around 4 a.m. He fell nearly 35 metres (115 feet) after a cable broke and became the fifth person to die while

New ball: Brazuca Federale 102, Allen, Super Duplo T, Crack, Slazenger, Telstar (also known Television Star), Tango Durlast, Tango Espana, Azteca, Etrusco Unico, Questra, Tricolore, Fevernova, Teamgeist and Jabulani are some of the balls used in past editions of the World Cup. For Brazil 2014, it will be Brazuca picked ahead of two other possible names in Bossa Nova and Carnavalesca for depicting the way of life of Brazilian football. The Brazuca will be the most colourful ball for a Fifa World Cup and its texture is said to be similar to that of the Uefa Champions League ball. The 32 nations should be prepared for a ball with faster flight speed next year. (Supersport.com) building the World Cup stadiums. Fifa and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) learnt of the death of the worker on Saturday at the Arena Amazonia site with great sadness, a Fifa statement said. Andrade Gutierrez, the Brazilian firm building the Amazonia stadium, said in another statement that Ferreira worked for a company that had been contracted to build the arenas cover and work would be suspended until Sunday. However, the death of Jose Antonio da Silva Nascimento, 49, from a heart attack led the local construction union to threaten to strike, possibly resulting in further delays.

roup G of Brazil 2014 has been called a Group of Death by Ghana boss Kwesi Appiah, but he is being cool. The leader of the West Africans says the big names of Germany and Portugal do not shake him. With USA another potential banana peel as well, the World Cup draw gave the Black Stars a tough ask. There is no way we will not make it. It is important to prepare well and then everything becomes easy. He added, Football has come of age and we are not at the time where we mentioned names and everyone is scared. We will be prepared. The stats show that Ghana has owned the Americans in the last two World Cups, but Appiah believes that counts for nothing in the reckoning especially with Jrgen Klinsmann in charge. Its not going to be easy.

Ghana Unfazed By Group of Death

Ethiopians Celebrate a Goal

Look at the recent games of the Americans and the performances have been better but I am confident in my team and we will give them a good game. Ghana begins the campaign on June 16, 2014 against the USA, then later face Germany and Portugal.

Ethiopian substitute players celebrate after scoring against Nigeria on October 13, 2013 during a 2014 World Cup qualifying match in Addis Ababa. Look at the joy of victory in the faces of the three men above. SIMON MAINA | AFP
Fatal accidents have occurred in Manaus, Brasilia and most recently in Sao Paulo, where two people died on November 27 after a crane collapsed in the arena that is to host the opening game on June 12. Another worker died while working on Palmeiras arena in Sao Paulo. While that stadium will not be used to host World Cup matches it could serve as an official training base. The tournament will take place in 12 Brazilian cities. Preparations for the competition - the first to be held in South America since 1978 have been plagued by delays, accidents, cost overruns, and public anger over government waste that contributed to massive nationwide street protests last year. The third death in less than a month again raised concerns that safety of workers was being ignored as officials rush to finish their arenas. Six stadiums are due to be delivered between now and April, and several are well behind schedule. Fifa President Sepp Blatter last week appealed to God, Allah and whoever to ensure the stadiums will be ready in time. Manaus will host four games, including the high-profile encounter between former World Cup winner England and Italy.

Fo r ad qu ve ick rt ise bu in sine th ss is re sp su ac lts e ,

Coach Kwesi Appiah

ADVERTISE HERE TODaY. CaLL 0886472772

What Did Dr. Owl Say?

As Madiba emulated the three Js of the Bible, let us try to do the same.
-Dr. Owls Guest

NEC Suspends NPP

VOL. 16. NO. 38

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2013

PRICE: LD 40

By Keith Morris

LD$8.4M Missing Heroin Surfaces in Court

he National Elections Commission (NEC) has suspended all dealings with the National Patriotic Party (NPP), due to the failure of the Cllr. Theophilus Goulds leadership of the party to conduct

a biennial convention to elect officials of the secretariat. In a letter to Cllr. Gould, the Chairman of NEC, Cllr. Jerome Korkoya, said the NPP would not be permitted to participate in any and all activities organized, conducted or supervised by the Commission. The letter further stated that the Commission will not

permit the NPP under the Chairmanship of Cllr. Gould to attend any program of the Commission and the Commission will not honor any candidate listing endorsed by Cllr. Gould to contest any election(s) organized by the Commission. The Commission noted that it has all authority to take further steps against the NPP in

keeping with law. The NEC believes that the failure of Chairman Gould to organize the biennial convention, at which elections for the secretariat of the NPP would be held as required by the Constitution of the Party, renders the secretariat illegitimate and its administrative control singularly illegitimate and incomplete.

Chairman of NEC, Cllr. Jerome Korkoya

The Commission says its decision to suspend all interactions with the NPP will remain in force until Chairman Gould submits to the Commission, evidence of full compliance with the decision of October 9, 2013, regarding the holding of a biennial convention to--among others things---elect a secretariat and other officers of the NPP. The NPPs secretariat election is overdue by 12 months. It may be recalled that on October 9, this year, the Commission held a meeting with conflicting parties within the NPP, during which the leadership of Cllr. Gould was mandated to organize a biennial convention no later than November 15, 2013, and report on its proceedings to the Commission within a week. To date, that has not been complied with.

By Abednego Davis

wo police officers and an Immigration officer have been accused of helping two Nigerian drug traffickers smuggled heroin worth LD$8.4 million into the country. They appeared on Friday, December 13, before the Monrovia City Court. A. Boy Sakpah and Bockarie Roberts of the Crime Service Department of the Liberia National Police (LNP) along with David Forkpa of the Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization, (BIN) were arrested on December 9, at the Roberts International Airport (RIA). They were said to have aided two Nigerians, including

Tony Ogbonna and Francis Uzochukwu Madunagu, and a driver, Bash Tawally, to traffic heroin weighing 3.4 kilogram with a market value of L$ 8,400,000 (US$105,000). The officers, the driver and

one of the Nigerian men, Tony Ogbonna were on Friday charged with criminal facilitation, while another Nigerian, Francis Uzochukwu Madunagu was charged with unlawful possession, trafficking, and distribution of the narcotics, (heroin). Family members had reported being unable to locate the arrested men since their arrest. The men, however, showed up on Friday, December 13, as a result of a Writ of Habeas Corpus. Court C has ordered the government to produce the bodies of the accused before the court to determine whether the individual (s) detention and /or imprisonment was lawful. The men appeared at the Temple Justice, escorted by

officers of the Drug Enforcement Agency, (DEA) who immediately took them to the office of the County Attorney of Montserrado County, Cllr. Daku Mulbah. No explanation has been given about that trip to Cllr. Dakus office. When the men appeared, speculations flew over an apparent reduction in the weight of the earlier reported 3.4 kilograms of heroin, after it was presented to the court. But, while the matter was with the Court, the County Attorney prayed the Monrovia City Court, lower than the Criminal Court to issue a writ of arrest for the same men. That new writ brought them under the supervision of the City Court. It is not clear whether their lawyer on Friday, secured another bond for their reappearance at the Criminal Court C. The crimes are bailable under our law.

To all of our readers: The Daily Observer is back online! Also check out our digital version (the electronic version of the Observer as it appears in print). Visit www.liberianobserver.com today!
Main brand: Weichai generator, Shangchai generaOur company specialized in selling and installing solar power tor, Our generators provide same electricity with the least fuel products such as Solar power tracking system which can inVolvo generator, Cummins generator. long using life. crease power output more than 40% than the fixedand type, solar street lights, solar courtyard lights, solar power refrigerators and preparing large quantity of spare parts with the We always Main Size: vaccine refrigerator system, etc. We can also undertake solar and price. 6KVA-2400KVA best quality Add: Randall Street, Montserrado power system projects for offices, clinics, schools and other pub We have specialized engineers team in charge of maintainCounty, lic places. ing and after-services, providing 24-hour all-weather mainMonrovia, Liberia Tel: 00231- 0886258288 0886447017 tenance services. Three Cylinder Add: Randall Street, Montserrado County, Monrovia, Liberia Web: www.dpwonderful.com Four Cylinder Set Solar power systems Solar courtyard lights Set Solar Spare parts for generator Solar power tracking Single Cylinder Generator street lights Solar & wind street light Solar refrigerator Generator Set systems Tel: 00231-0886258288 Generator Web: www.dpwonderful.com

WONDERFULNEW NEWENERGY ENERGYINDUSTRY INDUSTRY(LIBERIA) (LIBERIA)INC. INC. WONDERFUL Wonderful Generators

Published by the Liberian Observer Corporation (LOC), 23 McDonald Street, P.O. Box 1858, Monrovia, Liberia; Tel: 06 812-888; 06 578476; and 06 472772; Printed by the Observer Printing Press; Bai S. Best, Marketing Manager; Lindiw Khumalo Yasiah, Business Strategist; Publisher & Managing Director, Kenneth Y. Best.

MONDAY, DEC. 16--edition 1

12/15/13 11:19 PM