Monrovia, Liberia – The controversial address delivered by the selected orator on Liberia’s 177th Independence Day lambasted the United States for reaping greater benefits from the African nation than it has given back.
In her speech, Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailey also charged that the United States has exploited Liberia’s people and resources, resulting in an uneven relationship between the two nations despite their long-standing alliance.
The orator Pailey, an American scholar with training, also advocated in her speech for a reevaluation of relations with the US government in order to create new opportunities for Liberia’s rapid development.
While looking back, Dr. Pailey also criticized the US’s excessive influence in Liberia’s transitional justice system, emphasizing the need for Liberia to develop new strategic alliances based on reciprocal benefits and dispel the myth that it has a “special relationship” with the US.
She stated, “In this vein, I would like to renew previous calls to adopt national symbols that represent the “cultural breadth and historical depth” of our shared experiences. Not only is the reimagined Liberia free from colonial relations of power, but it is also free from colonial artefacts that cripple us.
“Let us not forget, the United States will always put its own interests ahead of all others,” Dr. Pailey continued. We will understand that a reimagined Liberia can never be anyone’s “stepchild” once we acknowledge these realities.”
However, the speech made by Dr. Pailey generated a controversy at the occasion, and in response, US Charge d’Affairs Catherine Rodriguez and her entourage left the event in protest.
Since then, the issue has sparked a heated discussion in the nation’s capital, with some Liberians advocating for political punishment and others denouncing Dr. Pailey for what they saw as a “patriotic speech” and “disrespect” to America, Liberia’s longest-standing ally.
The US Embassy in Monrovia issued a statement in response to the Orator’s speech and the Charge d’Affairs decision, expressing dissatisfaction with the orator’s words and restating the two countries’ longstanding alliance.
“Independence Day celebrations should be a time for hope, unity, and celebration,” the statement read. Its goal is undermined when divisive language and baseless charges are brought forward during such an occasion. The CDA made a considered decision to leave the event in order to preserve its decorum and spirit.”
Additionally, Jerolinmek Piah, the minister of information, stated in an interview that “the speaker does not speak for the government.” She is not employed by the government. She lives as an individual. She is entitled to the freedom of speech. I am aware of the Charge Affairs leaving, and if she does so, she has a good cause.”
Liberians continue to celebrate their independence and consider the achievements and difficulties they have faced since being emancipated from colonial rule in 1847, despite the diplomatic turmoil.
The episode also serves as a reminder of the intricate international ties and history, as well as the value of diplomacy in world politics.
