Former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweh, Jr. remarked that praising or condemning 2024 National Orator Dr. Robtel Pailey for her bold but critical remarks about U.S.-Liberian relations misses the core issue.
Mr. Tweh said Dr. Pailey articulated a widely held belief among Liberian statesmen: the U.S. has not fulfilled its obligations in its longstanding relationship with Liberia.
Whether this belief is justified is secondary; the key point is that this sentiment is a consensus in high Liberian society.
The Truth and Reconciliation Report (p. 243) reflects this view, noting the U.S. has alternately supported, exploited, welcomed, and abandoned Liberia, leading to disastrous outcomes.
Recently, Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe of Bomi County echoed similar frustrations during a legislative debate.
Dr. Pailey’s oration simply made public what has been privately acknowledged. Now that this “genie” is out, what steps should Liberia and the U.S. take?
Mr. Tweh said the U.S. embassy’s first reaction should be viewed in light of America’s values of freedom and bravery, noting that criticism is part of these values, and the U.S. can handle it.
With Pailey’s critique now in the open, how will this impact U.S.-Liberian relations?
The former Finance Minister said the U.S. embassy should avoid condemning Pailey’s critique.
Instead, it should engage in open dialogue about the merits of her viewpoint.
“This moment offers an opportunity for a frank conversation on U.S.-Liberian engagement. This engagement should evolve, potentially benefiting Liberia,” Tweh explained.
He suggested the Boakai administration can learn from the previous administration’s strategic missteps and propose new rules to avoid similar pitfalls.
Liberian officials should feel empowered to challenge their American counterparts on key issues, such as the establishment of a war crimes court, the quality and alignment of U.S. aid, and the issuance of long-term visas for Liberians.
For example, why do Ghanaians receive five-year visas while Liberians are limited to one year? This and other issues need serious and formal discussion with the U.S.
The former Finance Minister, now sanctioned by the American government, believed that in this era of candid diplomatic exchanges inspired by Dr. Pailey, there is a need for a new tone and direction in U.S.-Liberian relations.
This shift could prevent future diplomatic tensions and foster more constructive criticism and cooperation.
“Dr. Robtel Pailey, far from being a villain, has sparked a necessary conversation. Her critique could lead to a ‘Robtellian’ worldview, encouraging a reframing of the diplomatic rules between Liberia and the United States,” Tweh emphasized.
