Africa-Press – Liberia. Former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, during the launch of a new book, emphasized the importance of not just what you say, but how, when, and where you say it, describing this as a crucial message for everyone.
Although Sirleaf did not directly address the recent allegations from former Auditor General John Morlu, who accused her administration of siphoning US$1.3 billion through corruption, she acknowledged the ongoing dialogue about Liberia’s governance.
At the official launch of the book, Sirleaf expressed her pleasure in being part of the gathering and commended former Foreign Minister Amb. Olubanke King-Akerele for her extraordinary contribution to the understanding and appreciation of Liberia’s history and culture, calling her dynamic.
“I am here for the job that I have been called to do. As someone with long executive experience, sometimes you can’t just attend events without saying something meaningful. I had prepared a big speech, but it’s not appropriate for this occasion. Sometimes, it’s not what you say, but how you say it, when you say it, and where you say it,” Sirleaf stated.
The book, titled “A Compendium of the Presidencies of the Republic of Liberia”, was organized by the Liberian Institute for Growing Patriotism (LIGP) and the Angie Brooks International Center for Women’s Empowerment, Leadership Development, International Peace, and Security.
The compendium provides an overview of the pre-Republic period, offering synopses of the legacies, challenges, and contribution of Liberia’s past presidents to nation-building. It aims to inform Liberians about their leaders over time, presenting quick facts in an easy-to-read format to enhance understanding.
The event was held at the National Museum on Broad Street in Monrovia. Sirleaf described the National Museum as a work in progress, noting the need for further development to ensure all Liberians can appreciate their history and culture. She recognized the contributions of those who shared their knowledge to produce the book, highlighting Liberia’s leaders and their significance.
“Madam Olubanke King-Akerele, I applaud you not only for this extraordinary work but for your efforts in reconnecting so many of us with our past, present, and future. You have ideas, and you implement them, making a significant impact,” Sirleaf praised.
She emphasized that Liberians are one people, united in the process of building a nation they can all be proud of and feel responsible for. “May we use this occasion to commit to seeing our country for what it is, recognizing its good sides, challenges, and the achievements of others, while addressing faults and making corrections. I hereby launch this book, “A Compendium of the Presidencies of the Republic of Liberia,” Sirleaf concluded.
Former Foreign Minister and Executive Director of the Liberian Institute for Growing Patriotism, Olubanke King-Akerele, expressed her appreciation to the Angie Brooks International Center and other Liberian historians, researchers, and academics who contributed to the book.
She noted that the book launch marked the release of the first edition, spotlighting seventeen of Liberia’s twenty-five presidencies. Work is underway on the second edition, which will include former Presidents Sirleaf, Samuel K. Doe, and George M. Weah.
“This compendium is about knowledge building and sharing. The primary purpose of this book is to present biographical materials on the presidents of Liberia through a narrative that informs and engages readers, helping them understand the major issues during each presidential administration,” she stated.
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