Towards A New Deal for Liberia: A Post 2017 Election Dimension

By Dr. Amos M.D.Sirleaf (Ph.D.)

Professor/Vice CEO-Blacology Research and Development Institute, Inc
USA-Liberian Mission

As Liberians begin to energize their democratic consciousness, as the

proliferation of political, social, and cultural avocation for the election of the best
Liberian leader comes October 2017 permeates the fabrics of the national,
international, social and global media network. it becomes absolutely essential to
point out that "it takes only one light to illuminate the darkest night of freedom",
Therefore, the little illumination Liberia has had from 2005 to 2017 must not be
taken for granted. This is necessary because it was during this period that some of
us were able to return home in order to impact knowledge to our people and I am
praying for a greater and propitious illumination in 2017 and beyond. VP Boakai is
that illumination.

It is save to point out that the political development in Liberia can be an

essential a component of modernization as is economic development in post 2017
Elections and beyond with VP Boakai as President. Throughout its history,
specifically from April 12, 1980, Liberia's political structure and system has done
little to promote the country's development. This situation ,which seems to be
reflecting on its post-conflict domestic policies, foreign policy, and post-conflict
external assistance for rehabilitation development or to act as a catalyst of social
mobilization and change. After over a century of underdevelopment and 25 years
of bloody civil conflict, the ending of the civil conflict and the election of a new
government, (President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf) should have provided a unique
opportunity for the Liberian people and their government to work out and agree on
a New Deal for the economic and social rehabilitation, recovery, and development of
Liberia. After sixteen years of President's leadership, the Liberian people should
have deserved no less. In spite of the efforts made by President Ellen Johnson
Sirleaf, there must be a proposal for the agenda of VP Boakai as a New Deal for
Liberia Towards 2017 and post 2017 Elections and beyond.

The 2017 Elections and a Post 2017 and beyond proposed New Deal should
be based on the following principles and policies: (1) A Culturally Conscious
Democracy; (2) The rule of organic Laws and norms; (3) Ethics, Compliance and
Accountability of those in elective or appointive office for their official actions and
for the use of public funds; (4) Decentralization aimed at bringing government
closer to the people and promoting popular participation in local political and
economic development; (5) Total (modernization) of Liberia's human resources,
beginning with universal, compulsory primary education for all Liberians; (6) Food
security in the medium term, with a view to achieving national food preservation
and self-sufficiency in the long term; (7) National self-Reliance aimed at reducing
foreign dependency through greater mobilization of the philosophy of
Liberianization Policy and Liberia's human, natural, and financial resources, since
one nation cannot be developed through dependence on others; (8) Social
 Mobilization to promote popular participation; mass literacy. Public health and
sanitation; rural and community development and national water purification.

As Karl Deutsch has argued that , "political mobilization must parallel

economic modernization, which in turn imposes new burdens on national
governments, as political demands for the satisfaction of economic and social needs
complicate the administration of the economic development". Both Deutsch and
Lerner identify political modernization with access to the mass media (and hence to
elements of Western culture) and with norms and participation in national
institutions.1 . Therefore, A New Deal for Liberia requires social mobilization as a
fundamental basis for social engineering, national integration, and social cohesion.

The concept of A New Deal for 2017 Liberian Elections and post 2017 and
beyond under the leadership of VP Boakai Presidency, Liberia must entail
economic, social, political, and technological mobilization, which must also move
parallel to decentralization and democratization of Liberian nationalism. This
implies a distinct break with the 20th century past theories of political, social,
economic, and educational alienation of indigenous population especially the women
of Liberia and engage into the 21st century contemporary cultural of development.
The uprooting or breaking away from old settings, habits, norms, and the old boy
networks, and the induction of the mobilized Liberian populace into some relatively
stable new patterns of group membership, the love for nation, and national
commitment and obligation, should be served as one of the important elements of
the New Deal principles this study and proposal is strongly advocating on the
agenda of President Boakai of the Republic of Liberia in 2017 and beyond.

1
See Deutsch, op.cit; Daniel Lerner, The Passing of Traditional Society (Clencoe, III: The
Free Press, 1958) and Towards a Communication Theory of Modernization in L. Pye, ed.,
Communications and Political Development (Princeton University Press, 1963).
 As Karl Deutsch has argued that , "political mobilization must parallel economic
modernization, which in turn imposes new burdens on national governments, as political
demands for the satisfaction of economic and social needs complicate the administration of
the economic development". Both Deutsch and Lerner identify political modernization
with access to the mass media (and hence to elements of Western culture) and with norms
and participation in national institutions.2 . Therefore, A New Deal for Liberia requires
social mobilization as a fundamental basis for social engineering, national integration, and
social cohesion.

The concept of A New Deal for 2017 Liberian Elections and post 2017 and beyond,
Liberia must entail economic, social, political, and technological mobilization, which must
also move parallel to decentralization and democratization of Liberian nationalism. This
implies a distinct break with past theories of political, social, economic, and educational
alienation of indigenous population especially the women of Liberia. The uprooting or
breaking away from old settings, habits, norms, and the old boy networks, and the
induction of the mobilized Liberian populace into some relatively stable new patterns of
group membership, the love for nation, and national commitment and obligation, should be
served as one of the important elements of the New Deal principles this study.

1. Poverty, Illiteracy and Economic Development:A Post 2017 Elections and Beyond

People who live in poverty are often hostile or at best indifferent to government. They
are passive most of the time but when aroused, resort to riots and demonstrations against
authority before retreating into apathy. (The Liberian Historic Reflection). Poor and
illiterate people are also gullible, often desperate and easily swayed by unfulfilled promises
of a better life. In a situation of rising expectations characterized by society of even the
most basic food items, deep poverty can be a breeding ground for violence and political
instability. Liberia is a case in point.
There must therefore be a serious attempt to provide access to basic education and
health services and enable the poor to improve their material conditions by actively
participating in local development and national development.
2. Social Issues:
It was the immortal Aristotle who said "the price that the wise pay, who do not want to
partake in government, is to live under a government of fools." When you teach the
people, you will reap a hundred harvests. (K'uan-Tzu, 479-551 BC). It is paradoxical, yet
true to say that the more we know the more ignorant we become. In absolute sense, for
it is only through enlightenment that we become conscious of our limitations. Precisely
one of the most gratifying results of intellectual evolution is the continuous opening up of
new and greater prospects..... Nikola Tesla.... Foot noted by Dr. Sirleaf... 2015. If the
African educated on European lines is unable or unwilling to teach the outside world something
of the Institutions and inner feelings of his people; if, for some reason or other, he can show
nothing of his real self to those anxious to learn, and to assist him; if he cannot make his friends

2
See Deutsch, op.cit; Daniel Lerner, The Passing of Traditional Society (Clencoe, III: The Free
Press, 1958) and Towards a Communication Theory of Modernization in L. Pye, ed., Communications
and Political Development (Princeton University Press, 1963).
feel the force of his racial character and sympathies with his racial aspiration, then it is
evident that his education has been sadly defective, that his training by aliens has done
but little for him that his teachers have surely missed their aim and wasted their time." By
Edward Wilmot Boyden The African Society 1903
Therefore, a new education policy must be developed in Liberia by Liberians and from
the Liberians global evaluation and experience.. This policy must strive to for ever
eliminate illiteracy and to create an educated Liberian populace. Because an enlightened
and informed public is the foundation of a democratic society and must be embraced as
part of the reconstruction program for a 21st Century New Deal for Liberia. This implies
that during the post-2017 Elections and beyond and the continuous reconstruction and
development of Liberia, national resources and international aid must give priority to a
national survey of human resources needs on the basis of which Liberia can plan its
educational and training system more rationally and organize its national curriculum,
primary, secondary, and university educational strategy. Liberian history, languages, and
culture should be strongly interwoven into a new or reformed educational and training
system in post-2017 Liberian Elections and beyond.

3. National Service: Liberian Nationalism and Cultural Consciousness.

Since the Liberian society was been traumatized by a decade of civil conflict and bitter
ethnic conflict in which a generation of young people has been involved in or seriously
affected by the conflict, an organization like a national service shame is necessary to
provide national de-trauamatization therapy, discipline, unity shared values, and
cooperative behavior. Under this shame, all high school and University graduates should
serve at least twelve months as part-time teachers in their various villages or other
Liberian villages, towns, cities or districts and counties. This should be part of their civil
duties and should be made mandatory in the final Constitution Reviewed Report. The
service should come under the Ministry of Education and be financed from taxes and
private donations. Initially, bilateral assistance for training and training of trainers will be
necessary.

4. Security Issues
After independence, every emergent African nation began to build up an army or expand
the colonial army as a symbol of the new nation. Once an army was in existence, it became
very difficult for soldiers to maintain a passive profile politically when serious weaknesses
developed in the civilian government or when civilian authority was threatened and
weakened by corruption, factional strife or subversion. Furthermore the armies in Africa,
specifically Liberia, apart from being unsuitable relative to our defense needs and
resources, have been idle most of the time; and it should not have surprised anyone that
they got involved in politics or civil conflict. Considering the historic background of the
Liberian military from 1847 to 1990, one would deduce that Liberia does not deserve an
army based on the experience of the military regime under Samuel K. Doe. It should be
pointed out that the Liberian 25 -years genocidal civil conflict has been ended through an
African peacekeeping force. For various reasons, including border security, internal
 security and possible participation in future regional peacekeeping, Liberia will found it
necessary to maintain a small military. In this case, it would be necessary to retain the
military and to examine ways of keeping the Army to a reasonable and career size
consistent with the countrys security needs and its developmental budget, and involving
the army as far possible in public works and national service and educational programs.

Towards Gender Equality in Liberia: The Necessity for Ellen Johnson Sirleaf's Policy
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Africas 10 iconic women leaders

By This Is Africa on February 20, 2015 Black History Month is a time to reflect on the contributions various

people have made, for the freedom of black people globally. Take a look at TIA's 10 iconic women in African
history (not in order of importance)
Women warriors of Dahomey Kingdom were feared and respected as soldiers. Photo: Edmond Fortier.

279

1. Taytu Betul- Queen and Empress (Ethiopia)

Betul is praised for her role as a shrewd political leader who was instrumental in ousting Italian imperialists. She and her husband
(Emperor Menelik II) were key figures in the Battle of Adwa (1896), between Ethiopian and Italian forces, which her nation won.
Taytu Betul was an influential political leader.
Ethiopias Queen and Empress Taytu Betul was a key figure in fighting off Italian imperialists. Photo: Heber Ethiopia
2. Huda Shaarawi Feminist leader and nationalist (Egypt)

Shaarawi spoke up for women issues and participated in Egypts nationalist struggle. She established the Egyptian Feminist Union
(1923), and was the founding president of the Arab Feminist Union to name a few of her achievements.
Feminist and nationalist Huda Shaarawi founded the Egyptian Feminist Union in 1923. Photo: Kalamu
3. Women soldiers of Dahomey Military leaders (Benin)

The admired but feared warriors of Dahomey Kingdom were also known as the Dahomey Amazons in the 18th century. They
contributed to the kingdoms military power, and were respected for being brave and never running away from danger.
Women soldiers of Dahomey Kingdom (Benin) were feared and respected for their bravery. Photo: Edmond Fortier
4. Gisle Rabesahala -Malagasy politician (Madagascar)

Rabesahala was the first Malagasy woman to be elected as a municipal councillor (1956), political party leader (1958), and to be
appointed minister (1977). The lauded leader also founded Imongo Vaovao newspaper, and is best known for dedicating her life to
Madagascars independence, and advocating for human rights.
Pioneer Malagasy politician who was the first woman in Madagascar to be appointed minister. Photo: RFI
5. Wangari Maathai -Environmental activist (Kenya)

The Nobel Peace Prize winner (2004) founded the well respected Green Belt Movement in 1977, which advocates for people to
plant trees to fight environmental degradation. She is also known for championing human rights.
Kenyas Nobel Peace Prize winner was a passionate environmental activist. Photo: Green Belt Movement
6. Miriam Makeba Musician and apartheid activist (South Africa)

The Grammy award winner openly opposed South Africas apartheid regime, and lost her citizenship because of she was an activist.
Mama Africa introduced the world to South African music, and political struggles. Listen to Pata Pata here.
The South African Grammy award winner was an activist and important voice during the fight to end apartheid. Photo: Xhosa Culture
7. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Africas first woman president (Liberia)

The Harvard educated leader made history by becoming Africas first female president in 2006. The leader shared her 2011 Nobel
Peace Prize with Liberian peace activist Leymah Gbowee, and Yemeni journalist Tawakkol Karman for their non violent struggle for
the safety of women, and for womens rights to full participation in peace-building work. (Nobel Peace Prize)
Liberian president Ellen Sirleaf Johnson was the first female president in Africa, and is Nobel Peace Prize winner. Photo: Reuters
8. Yaa Asantewaa Queen mother of the Edweso tribe (Ghana)

The Queen mother Edwesohemaa led an army of thousands during the Yaa Asantewaa War for Independence, against the British
colonial forces in 1900. The following year the British drove her into exile, and she spent two decades in Seychelles until her death
in 1921.
Ghanas Yaa Asantewaa was a key player in resisting the British colonial forces in 1900. Photo: Atlanta Blackstars
9. Nzinga Mbandi- Queen of Ndongo and Matamba (Angola)

Mbandi is described as a deft diplomat, skilful negotiator and formidable tactician, according to UNESCO. Nzinga encouraged her
people to resist Portugals colonial influences, and even worked with the Dutch to drive the colonisers out. The queen resisted
colonization right until her death in 1663.
Angolas Queen Nzinga Mbande was a deft diplomat fighting Portugese colonial forces. Photo: MRFPress
10. Cesria vora Musician (Cape Verde)

The Grammy award winning singer is known for appearing on stage with her bare feet in support of Cape Verdes homeless, poor
women and children. She sang in a style of music called morna, which combines West African percussion with Portuguese fado,
Brazilian modinha and British sea shanties. Listen to Sodade here.
Cape Verdes Grammy award winning artist Cesaria Evora is a singer and human rights activist. Photo: Concert live
Source: UNESCO

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About This Is Africa

AFRICAN WOMEN LEADERS

The Controversy Surrounding African Women Leaders

One cannot ascertain when or where the stigma against women leaders stemmed from.
However there seems to be widespread reasons for why people think women should not
take active part in leadership and governance.
The argument about the biological clock seems to be the most popular case against
women leaders. In many African societies, it is believed that as a result of a womans
metabolism and her duty of bearing and bringing up children, she has little time for any
thing other than the upkeep of her household.

Although it is valid that the maintenance of a household and upbringing of children is time
consuming, it seems that the proponents of this argument forget that the leaders in their
societies were also brought up by women or maternal figures. In effect, African women do
have the capacity to create a positive influence in the lives of people. Perhaps women
leaders are even more adept at being leaders than their male counterparts as they spend a
great part of their lives being unofficial leaders.

Another excuse used against the participation of women in leadership is the fact that they
are usually sensitive and emotional and as such would not be able to perform to the best of
their ability in stressful situations. True, women are usually very emotional. But does this
necessarily have to be a bad thing? The empathy that women feel for people and situations
make them better able to understand the people they are leading and this motivates them
to work even harder to achieve the goals of the community.

A typical example is the case of Yaa Asantewa, the Ghanaian.

extra mile in order to sustain the societies they belong to.

From the various Queens of Ethiopia to the traditional Queen Mothers like Yaa
Asantewa of Ghana, to political leaders like former Senegalese Prime Minister, Mame
Madior Boye women leaders in Africa have gone to great lengths to defend the rights of
their people and to facilitate

The Way Forward

In order to encourage more women to participate in leadership and government, it is

necessary that the community and world as a whole give them the support needed. Instead
of downplaying the efforts of African women, people could encourage them either by
listening to their views in an objective manner, participating in women initiated activities,
and helping eradicate the social stigma and discrimination against women in leadership
and African women in general.

It is undoubted that financial constraints could prove as a problem for African

women leaders but with the relative acceptance of women leaders in countries like the U.S.,
U.K, Canada and Germany, and the support of organizations like the United Nations
Development Fund for Women, these constraints could be overcome.

Demographics And Women

Women account for about 50% of the worlds total population. Unfortunately, two-thirds
of the women population is illiterate. In addition, the world percentage of women in
parliament is currently 16.6%. In Africa, a greater percentage of the total African
population consists of women and female children. Queen of Kano (Nigeria)
1580-1582

From all indications, women form a dominant part of the global society yet their
involvement in societal and global affairs is quite limited as compared to the participation
of their male counterparts. In order for a more progressive development of the world, it is
necessary that more women are educated and supported in their career pursuits and
particularly in leadership situations.

Queen mother of Ejisu whos empathy for her people the Akans motivated her to
fight for the protection of her people and land against the British colonists. Although she
eventually exiled to Seychelles, she was able to inspire the Asante army to fight for the
protection of their land and in effect, the Asante kingdom prevailed. Even today, it is one of
the most diverse and rich ethnic groups in West Africa

Leaders Through The Ages

Women have played important roles in community since the beginning of time. The innate
tendency that women have for nurturing and taking care of their own render them loyal
citizens of their various communities. As a result, women readily contribute towards the
development of their communities, and in some instances are willing to go the development.

Also, See Dr. Amos M.D.Sirleaf on The Visionary Liberian Leader: Ellen Johnson
Sirleaf

When the physical differences between men and women are used to justify the
"woman's place as wife, mother, homemaker, and then to allow all of society's institutions
together to keep her in that place whatever her own choice, this is sexual oppression.3
Women in Africa, specifically Liberia must be encouraged and supported to vigilantly
participate in the political, social, economic, education, and developmental arenas and be
part of the new political and social order in the country. All Liberian women must be
protected from harassment and discrimination and must be guaranteed basic employment
and health care as constitutionally done by other nations of the world. In the rural areas
particularly, Liberian women who produce most of the food, should by law be given access
and recognized title to land, agricultural extension services and technology, and maternal

For a detailed analysis, see Joan Ariel, Ellen Broidy, and Susan Searing, Womens Rights in
the United States, A Selective Bibliography, American Library Association, Chicago and
London, 1995.
and child care services. Measurable indicators should also be provided for involving more
Liberian girls in school A cultural education campaign must be launched to instill a sense
of African identity and an appreciation of the richness of Liberian and African culture and
central role of women in the various ethnic cultures that constitutes Liberian society.

Liberian Foreign PolicyLiberia U.S. Relations: A 21st Century African-American

Perspectives:
. The prospects for U.S.Liberia relations and cooperation in the 21st century and in the
context of the proposed New Deal for Liberia should be examined in the general context of
post Cold War United States foreign and aid policy, democracy, promotion of human
rights, African-African-Americans partnership in market oriented development, the
environment, women, and development, the development of basic education and health
services, and the promotion of regional peace and conflict resolution through regional
organizations like the Organization of African Unity and ECOWAS. The cooperation
between countries should be reviewed in light of Post-Cold War changes and changes with
Liberia and the sub-region. On the basis of this review, a new framework of political and
economic relations can be mutually agreed. As perceived by many Liberians U.S./Liberia
relations must be put on a different track, given the new post-Cold War relations and
national interests and hopefully, the lessons learned by Liberians during their bitter civil
conflict. Whatever form of future relations between the United States and Liberia will take,
the thing is clear. The reconstruction of post-conflict Liberia politically, physically, and
economically will be extremely difficult without the United States/African-Americans
leadership and involvement, and the bilateral and international levels. As observed in the
preceding section of this study on the principal elements of Post-Conflict Policies and
Programs in Liberia, African-American support and leadership will be indispensable for
the mobilization and coordination of international assistance to post-conflict Liberia.