Claimed The Remarks were Entirely Her own and did not Represent the Opinions of the Liberian Government.
Monrovia, Liberia – Liberia Minister of Information, Jerolinmek Mathew Piah has stated that Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailey’s remarks during Liberia’s 177th Independence Day Oration, which prompted the U.S. delegation headed by Chargé d’Affaires Catherine Rodriguez to depart the occasion, were wholly her own and did not reflect the views of the Liberian government.
Dr. Pailey claimed that the US had taken more from Liberia than it had given in her Independence Day speech. “The United States of America has taken more from us than we have received,” the woman stated with all honesty. Nobody is the stepchild of Liberia. Additionally, she denounced the United States for allegedly interfering with Liberia’s transitional justice system. The U.S. delegation left the ceremony as a result, led by Chargé d’Affaires Catherine Rodriguez.
The U.S. Embassy released a statement shortly after the occurrence, stating that Independence Day celebrations ought to be a time of celebration, optimism, and unity. Its goal is undermined when divisive language and baseless charges are brought forward during such an occasion. The CDA’s choice to leave was a considered reaction to uphold the decorum and spirit of the gathering.
After the Independence Day event, Information Minister Piah addressed the media and made it clear that speakers only represent their own opinions and do not represent the government. “Her opinions were expressed, and we should honor the speaker for her viewpoint in the spirit of preserving freedom of speech. I do not plan to discuss an orator’s point of view during a national event, and they do not represent the government.”
Asked how the speaker’s remarks may be interpreted by the United States, Liberia’s closest friend, Minister Piah said, “America is a land that practices freedom of expression to its fullest.” Robtel is not employed by the government, as America is aware. We and America know that Robtel was chosen to be the national speaker and that her opinions are representative of her.
Regarding the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires’ walkout, Minister Piah asserted that he was not informed of the protest action taken by the U.S. Embassy and that he was unable to provide an explanation for Rodriguez’s departure. Did she leave on foot? Minister Piah questioned reporters.
“I do not know,” was the information minister’s response when asked if the speaker’s remarks will worsen ties between the United States and Liberia. “We do not tell people what to say when we bring them as national orators.”
On their Facebook accounts, a few Boakai administration officials praised Dr. Pailey in spite of Minister Piah’s remarks. Cornelia Kruah-Togba, a deputy minister of state, wrote, “Liberian Girl! Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailey, congrats!
Excellent work. Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailey, thank you for that speech, said Mo Ali, Managing Director of the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation.
Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe Jr., My respect for Liberian women! Fearless orator! She made my day!
