The Patriotic Vanguard

Commonwealth telecom boss presents report to president Koroma

2010-03-10T00:57:48Z

Accompanied by Minister of Information and Communications I. B. Kargbo, Deputy Minister Saidata Sesay, and Chairman of the National Telecommunications Company (NATCOM) Siray Alpha Timbo, the Chief Executive Officer of the London-based Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO), Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah(photo), yesterday 8th March 2010 presented President Koroma with a comprehensive report done by the CTO on different telecommunications programmes in African countries and beyond.

When introducing the CEO to the President at State House, Minister I.B. Kargbo said Dr. Spio-Garbrah and his three-man delegation are in the country on the invitation of the Ministry and NATCOM to attend the conference on rural telecommunications connectivity initiative in Makeni. He said the CEO, a former Minister of Communication in Ghana, is interested in connecting the whole of Africa through the rural-connectivity system, adding that the delegation is also here to support the efforts of the government to promote public-private-people's partnerships. Minister Kargbo paid special tribute to NATCOM boss Siray Timbo for initiating the idea of hosting the workshop for rural connectivity. He believed that the President will send someone who would ably represent him as he unavoidably travels to Nigeria on a very crucial ECOWAS meeting.

In his remarks, Dr. Garbrah expressed gratitude for the invitation and said, “We are here to support efforts of your government to improve information and communication technology.” Before delivering the report to the President, Dr. Garbrah said research was conducted over an 18-month period, that they have tested the system in the US, Canada, Indonesia and Malaysia with over 500 telephone companies operating in rural areas, and that the subscribers are co-owners of the project. He pledged his entire support and services to the government at all times saying: “We are at your disposal in terms consultancy, research, and playing an advisory role.”

Welcoming the ICT expert, President Koroma said they are coming at a very critical time of the country's development drive: “I strongly believe that until we embark on promoting ICT, we will not be able to integrate national development to international standards. We are therefore putting in place the necessary infrastructure and policies to facilitate the improvement on information and communication technology.”

The President said he was very excited at the idea of connectivity for the rural people, stating that “The bulk of our people live in the rural areas. Justice will not be done if they are not integrated… I like the concept of people's ownership.”

The head of State acknowledged that the idea is a great challenge; but with commitment, research and training, coupled with the experience in other countries, the objective is achievable. “It's unfortunate that I'll not be there, but Government will be represented at the highest level,” he said, while expressing happiness that the CEO has pledged to put his organization at government's disposal. “Already changes are happening in the people's lives because of communication technology. It can only be better when we go to the next level,” the President noted.

PRESIDENT KOROMA INSPECTS MEDICAL STORES

President Ernest Bai Koroma, in keeping with his promise to inspect all medical stores across the country before April 27th 2010 (the date that government has set for the abolition of user fees in all hospitals/health centres for children, pregnant women and lactating mothers across Sierra Leone), yesterday 8th June 2010 made his first inspection at the Medical Stores at New England in Freetown.

Speaking at a meeting with all major stakeholders at the conference room of the Medical Stores, President Koroma said this was a follow-up to the last health meeting held at State House where it was discovered that there were still grey areas to be immediately addressed. He said contractual difficulties were to be settled at the meeting in the presence of all stakeholders, including Health Ministry officials, contractors, the National Authorising Office, UNFPA, UNICEF, and European Union Ambassadors, raising concern about the completion of the drugs stores and the provision of adequate storage facilities before April 27th.

At the end of very intense deliberations, the contractors (Nimo Construction Company), after assurances of the availability of funds, committed themselves to the completion of the project before the target date. The European Union pledged to release limited funds, while President Koroma informed Ministry of Finance officials that Government should be able to pay any outstanding amount. He ordered that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health should henceforth intensely monitor and coordinate the programme, while reporting on a daily basis to the Secretary to the President.

The Head of State promised to call more meetings on the subject.

The Deputy Minister of Health and Sanitation, Mohamed D. Koroma, opened the meeting and led the President on an inspection tour of the building project. UN Lauds President Koroma for implementing the Agenda for Change The United Nations Peace Building Commission has yesterday 8th March 2010 lauded President Ernest Bai Koroma for the achievements made by his government in governance in a very short time since he assumed office. Making a statement at State House on a courtesy call on the President, the Executive Representative of the United Nations Secretary General, Michael Schulenburg, thanked President Koroma for the progress made under the ‘Agenda for Change', thus registering the total commitment and support of the UN Peace Building Commission to Sierra Leone and to the ‘Agenda for Change'. The Commission, the UN ERSG maintained, is focusing on three broad issues; namely, youth employment, governance, and peace building. Welcoming the delegation, President Koroma thanked the Commission for its support to the ‘Agenda for Change'. He said, “We have made some strides in promoting the ‘Agenda for Change' as in the areas of education, energy and water resources, agriculture, health care delivery, infrastructure, to name just a few,” acknowledging the support of the UN Peace Building Commission to the ‘Agenda for Change', and reiterating the need for more support in order to meet the challenges. With the first phase of Bumbuna now completed, the Head of State said government is presently working on improving thermal power generation in the country, noting that “We have a clearly defined road-map for all hydro potential in the country.” He cited government's road infrastructure drive in a bid to connect the country internally as well as to neighbouring countries, also noting the strides in agriculture as government is encouraging the private sector to invest in agricultural productivity. “With the total involvement of all and sundry, we will be able to overcome poverty and be self-sufficient in Sierra Leone,” he predicted

On the educational sector, the President said plans are at an advanced stage for a reviewing of the entire system, aiming at the provision of quality and affordable education for all, especially the girl-child. On the pending free health care delivery for lactating mothers, pregnant women and children under the age of five, the President said “We are preparing the resources ready to implement the policy from 27th April this year. A lot of work is going on to see that we motivate nurses, doctors and other supporting staff in the health sector so that they will be able to stay home and serve their country of birth diligently.”

Speaking on the recent political violence during the bye-elections at Tongo Fields, eastern Sierra Leone, President Koroma said the police and other law enforcement agencies are currently looking into the matter, making it categorically clear that all those responsible will face the full penalty of the law. Touching on youth empowerment, President Koroma reassured the UN team that his administration will reform the critical state of the youths of Sierra Leone: “We need to prepare the youths for the job market by transforming them into skilled and self-reliant citizens.”

First Ordained Sierra Leonean Bishop

2010-03-10T00:45:49Z

Commentary

THE BLESSING OF THE LORD HAD MAKETH HER TO BE THE FIRST ORDAINED SIERRA LEONEAN FEMALE BISHOP: BISHOP LUCY SHARON-MAE ANTHONY

By: Essa Thaim Kurugba, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA

Bishop Lucy Anthony was predestined by her Creator to be ordained as Bishop. She is the daughter of one of the greatest philanthropist of Sierra Leone; late Hon. Franklin S. Anthony, former Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources. He was also the Resident Minister of the Eastern Province, as well as the Proprietor of Leona Secondary School, Bo Now Sadac. Franklin was known to be exceedingly favored and showered by the blessings of God, in his hometown as well as, in the United States of America and would have marveled at the sight of his beloved daughter's success. On February 28, 2010, Lucy Anthony was ordained as Bishop, at the Our Savior Christ the King Church International, in Harrisburg Pennsylvania, by the presiding Bishop Joseph Edison Bass. This grand occasion marked another milestone in the annals of the nation. It was a most spiritual event, one that agog with anticipation of the Lords blessings. May the Lord continue to protect and guide us all. Her Holiness, Bishop Lucy Sharon-Mae Anthony is the first female Sierra Leonean to be ordained as a Bishop. (Photo: Bishop Lucy S. Anthony – white/gold)

Bishop Anthony is a devoted shepherd, of the HEALING CHURCH OF CHRIST, located at 1750 East West Highway, in Hyattsville, Maryland. She was born at the Monjama, Bo District, in the Republic of Sierra Leone, in West Africa. Growing up as the 7th child of 9 children, Lucy received her early education at both, the Tiama and Holy Rosary Primary School. As for her secondary education, she attended the Harford School for Girls, in Moyamba. There she earned the most respected position, as "Head Girl" of the Harford Secondary School. Upon her completion of high school, she secured a job at the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Services in Free Town, Sierra Leone.

In 1971 to 1975, Lucy was actively involved in the Christian Youth Fellowship Ministry, serving as Youth President, for three years. She represented the youth of Sierra Leone at a seminar, located in Monrovia, Liberia in the month of June, 1973. During this fellowship conference, the Pastor of the United Methodist Church made a request of Lucy to deliver a sermon for "Children's Day", as well as "Youth Sunday". Lucy was delighted and the deliverance of her sermons was breathtaking and astounding. President Lucy continued her travels throughout the province, including the capital city in Freetown, Sierra Leon, rendering her services, whenever needed.

On September 9, 1975, Lucy migrated to the United States, to further her education at the Reading High School, in Reading, Pennsylvania, for the duration of one year. During that time she was able to familiarize and better acclimate herself with the contrasting cultures, of the American education system. While in attendance, she also became a volunteer at the Young Women Christian Association (YWCA). At the YMCA, she rehearsed a group of African women, teaching them traditional styles of African dances and how to perform these dances during the "Black History" week celebrations, which were nights of African exhibition and cultural dance. These performances were televised over the Reading TV station and made the front page of the Reading local newspaper in Pennsylvania.

From 1976 to 1982, Lucy Anthony earned both her Bachelor's and Master's degree, from Kutztown University in Pennsylvania. As a student of great academic ambition and political interest, within a short period of time, Lucy found herself actively involved with her student government body, serving as member at large. Shortly, thereafter she was elected president of the international student's club, for three consecutive years. Early on in her academic career, she decided to join the school choir and volunteered to teach those that were interested in learning African dance, and rehearsing in theatrical plays. Each year she was instrumental in the development of the school's annual productions for "International Student" week. After several years of rigorous schooling and community service, Lucy Anthony graduated, from Kutztown University, of Pennsylvania, with a Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Secondary Education, as well as, a Master's degree in Communication/ Television Production.

In 1985 Lucy moved to the Washington DC Metropolitan Area, subsequently, gaining employment at the Mel Wood Training Center, as an EAP (Employee Assistant Program) Counselor, working with emotionally disturbed adults. By the year 1990, she was working for a home base service as a social worker, in Fairfax, Virginia. In 1991, the proud daughter from BO District took on a position as a child protective service investigator, in Fairfax county.

From 1990 to 1998, Lucy Anthony sat under the supervision of Bishop Nathaniel Julwey, in training as a prophetess, preacher, and teacher of God's word. Once the formal training period had ended, in March of 1998, she was ordained as a Reverend, at the James Community International Church. It was not until the year of 1999 that Lucy Anthony was called by God to work for the ministry full time. Between the years of 1991 through 1999, Lucy S. Anthony actively served within the African churches, throughout the Washington DC Metropolitan area. On many occasion, she would visit the elderly, the needy and the sick, inspiring them with prayer, singing, and preaching, interceding with them for the desires of their heart. After making scheduled rounds for hospital visits, Lucy would also make home visits for members of the Saint James Community International Church and Healing Church of Christ. She would pray for them and their surrounding community and advocate whenever necessary, under the supervision of Bishop Nathaniel Julwey.

In 2000 she began her own ministry and was ordained by Bishop Nathaniel Julwey, as a prophetess and senior pastor of the Healing Church of Christ. During this period, God blessed her with the gift of prophecy, healing, counseling, deliverance and the riveting ability to preach the word of God. In July of 2005 Lucy Anthony founded the Rainbow of Life Crusades, traveling both, nationally and internationally, preaching and ministering to all that would listen, healing them and performing special deliverance. In everlasting and faithful support of her hard work and unwavering dedication, to the ministry, are her four wonderful children, Lil Lucy, Princess, Lusan and JoJo, all of whom reverence her as a good and loving mother.

Furthermore, Lucy has been blessed with a radio/ internet ministry and regarded as a well known asset to the African/ American community. Her passion for mankind has lead her to launch an HIV/ AIDs awareness program; helping those that are infected with the disease and bringing awareness to those that are not. She has even become a member of the Maryland Food Bank and World's Vision Ministry, serving her community with food clothing and counseling. Lucy Anthony is also the proprietor of LA Consultant, an organization designed to serve the needy and at-risk youth community, to educate them through conferences, and seminars.

Today, as Lucy S. Anthony continues to live her life to the veneration of God, many lives and souls are touched, changed and delivered. She truly is an example and testimony of God's undying love and miraculous works. Lucy steadily exudes the essence of humanity, peace and great kindness.

Her Lordship Bishop Lucy Sharon-Mae Anthony: Words of Prayers

God's glory is real even when we don't see it. On gray, gloomy, rainy days, high above the overcast sky, the SUN continues to shine. We can't feel its warmth or see its beauty, but it still exists.

God's beauty and His love for us are real even when our circumstances are difficult. If we think “above the clouds,” we can have hope knowing that God is still there watching over us.

Just as gray, gloomy, overcast skies are temporary, so are our difficulties. If you are facing a discouraging situation in your life right now, remember that God is still there and rejoice in the fact that this too, shall pass.

Bar Association expresses support for International Women's Day-2010

2010-03-10T00:39:16Z

Press Release

The Sierra Leone Bar Association congratulate Women, all around the World, particularly our mothers, sisters and children of Sierra Leone, as they celebrate yet another epoch of International Women's Day.

The year 2010 is a milestone for gender equality and women's rights, as it marks the 15th anniversary of the Beijing Platform for Action as well as the 10th anniversary of the Millennium Declaration and Security Council resolution 1325, both instruments highlighted the plight of women and girls in conflict situations and the role played by women in prevention and resolution of conflicts, as well as peacekeeping, peace-building, reconciliation and reconstruction.

However, enormous challenges continue to face Women as a result of labor and political discrimination, gender based violence, widespread food insecurity, inadequate medical facilities and access to justice.

Violence against women stands in direct contradiction to the promise of the United Nations Charter to “promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom.” The visible consequences are immediate, close and personal, and go beyond the realm of rhetoric. Death, injury, medical costs and lost employment are but the recognized outcomes.

Therefore, the Bar Association has for the first time in its history, set up the National Center for the Prosecution of Violence against Women, with the mandate to investigate and prosecute gender based violence and domestic abuse, promote local law enforcement policy, and train enforcement officers in what a prosecutor needs in order to effectively prosecute these types of cases.

The Bar Association consequently calls on the Government of Sierra Leone, to heighten its drive for social equity, justice and women empowerment.

And further call on the International Community, people of Sierra Leone and stake holders in justice sector development to recognize the role and contribution of women in societal development.

The Bar Association remains committed to the pursuit of justice, protect and secure the rights of all, and promote legal development.

Joseph F. Kamara, Esq.

President

Photo: Sierra Leone Bar Association President Joseph Kamara.

ABC---Which way forward?

2010-03-09T02:25:19Z

“STUDENTS AND THE CALL FOR ATTITUDINAL

AND BEHAVIOURAIL CHANGE IN

SIERRA LEONE …WHICH WAY FORWARD?”

（Paper presented at the SL Students Union annual convention in Beijing）

BY:

PATRICK BRIMA KAPUWA

M.A International Relations Student,

Jilin University,

Changchun,

China

I want to start this much talked about national issue with the general assumption that humans are naturally opinionated, thus we form our likes and dislikes almost from the moment we first gain consciousness. Our stance(s) on issues and our attitudes about things are directly linked to our innermost thoughts and feelings. This is the art of attitude change, and it is important to understand what attitudes are and how they can be affected.

But what is attitude, if I may ask?

Put simply, Attitude is an evaluation of a person, object, or idea. The focus of one's attitude, or what they are evaluating, is called the attitude object. It may take different forms, namely:

Affective: Which consists of the emotional reactions people have to attitude objects. For instance, if you have a favorite singer and you hear him or her sing, you might have feelings of happiness or excitement.

Behavioral - This consists of actions or observable behavior that is the result of an attitude object. If you hear a song you like on the radio you might go and research the singer so you can buy his or her album.

Cognitive - These are the thoughts and beliefs people have about an attitude object. For instance, you might like a singer because he or she has a melodic voice and catchy lyrics.

Attitudes might be linked to one's genetic makeup. Studies have shown that identical twins share many of the same attitudes, while fraternal twins differ in opinion. Of course, attitudes are not only the result of genetics, but are also formed because of social experiences that involve the affective, behavioral, and cognitive components.

Attitude Change

Attitudes most commonly change in response to social influence. What other people do or say can have a huge effect on our own cognitions.

Cognitive Dissonance is a complex theory that explains the discomfort people feel when they hold two conflicting ideas in their head at the same time, and the subsequent cognitions and resolutions that can occur from such discomfort. Attitudes can sometimes change when people behave inconsistently or out of line with the way they normally would behave and they are unable to find external justification for such behavior. Cognitive dissonance usually occurs when a person does something that goes against the image they have of themselves and they are unable to blame their behavior on external circumstances, so it is essentially dissonance that can cause attitude changes.

ATTITUDINAL CHANGE IN S/L

There is this common Confucius orientation which says that: “: To put the world right in order, we must first put the nation in order; to put the nation in order, we must first put the family in order; to put the family in order, we must first cultivate our personal life; we must first set our hearts right.

The concept of attitudinal change in Sierra Leone is not a new one, but rather, what is new and unprecedented is the clarion call from the first gentleman of our nation in his inaugural address in 2007 for attitudinal and behaviourial change of all Sierra Leoneans. This reminds me of Katherine Mansfield message on attitudinal change that: “Could we change our attitude, we should not only see life differently, but life itself would come to be different.” By 1961, when we became independent, the atmosphere was charged with unprecedented excitement, as the people savoured the luxurious air of freedom, after decades of British imperialism. April, 27th 1961 was no ordinary day, for it was the day that gave birth to the pride of this nation. It was a day of intense celebration and unparalleled joy, the dawn of a strong and independent Sierra Leone, full of potential and promise.

It's now over forty years down the road since we got our independence, but there is this question that is always sounding in our heads, is there anything we can showcase since indepence as key development stride that is helping us as a nation? The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy, or unfulfilled. For it is only in such moments, propelled by our discomfort, that we are likely to step out of our ruts and start searching for different ways or truer answers.

As Winston Churchill once puts it, “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference.” The pride of place, which this great nation held in the past, has unfortunately been beclouded by the bulwarks of corruption, inordinate tribal sentiments, violent conflicts and inadvertently, poverty for a significant segment of the populace. The global economic indicators label a resource-rich nation like ours as poor, our academic institutions serve as breeding grounds for various anti-social activities, our strong cultural values are being eroded on a daily basis and the virile youth, the hope and future of Sierra Leone, are disillusioned at what tomorrow holds for them.

This is the precarious reality of the state of our nation. It is not a palatable situation and has tested the resilience of the Sierra Leonean spirit to the extreme. For the most part, the problems we face are self-inflicted and demand a solution that we as Sierra Leoneans must develop if we are to reach the seemingly evasive land of promise. The challenges against our collective destiny as a people are many. Fortunately, they are not insurmountable. Sierra Leone must come to this realization and have a deep burden for the holistic emancipation of Sierra Leone from debt and poverty, before we start the reconstruction of the Sierra Leone of our dreams with great urgency.

An old proverb says: "No one climbs a tree from the top", so it would be only wise if we retrace our steps to the root of our current predicament before mapping a workable strategy for national development.

It is no secret that the disunity of individuals is precipitated by mutual distrust, which nurtures conflict. From the early years of independence, through the obnoxious years of military adventures into civil administration, the stench of tribal/partisan affiliation that separates our tribes have been pungent in our national life. The vice of tribalism is not the preserve of our ethnic constituents, as there exists even more lines of delineation within ethnic groupings that births conflict. Such conflict reveals that the problem is not a case of tribalism per se but an innate state of intolerance. For Sierra Leoneans to come together, it is imperative that we come together as one people, united in the spirit of brotherliness and determined to change our destiny for good. Each of us must compel ourselves and fellow tribesmen to tolerate the God-given differences of each other, shed any form of ambivalence towards anyone called a Sierra Leonean and embrace each other in love and sincerity. We have stayed together as a people for too long, fought a civil war and come out beaten but not battered, laughed and suffered together. Divided we fall, but united, we are guaranteed of standing strong. We are of the strong conviction that You cannot control what happens to you, but you can control your attitude toward what happens to you, and in that, you will be mastering change rather than allowing it to master you.”

In the spirit of unity, we would discover a passion for the resuscitation of our nation. It is this passion for our motherland that demands our change of attitude in every facet. In whatever capacity we find ourselves, let us strive to preserve the sanctity of our nationhood by restraining ourselves from the madness of corrupt practices. Sierra Leone should be viewed as belonging to us all and to be exploited for our collective good. Corruption must be extinguished by instilling the strong cultural value of honesty into every Sierra Leonean, starting from our young, on whose shoulders lie the future of the nation. Favouritism must be discouraged as it deprives many of their right to the 'national cake', in its stead, equity in the allocation of resources and positions should be effected on the honorable pedestal of merit.

A wise man once said, "Places do not make people, it is people that make places". It is true that the developed nations have better standards of living, which may cause many Sierra Leoneans to emigrate in search of greener pastures; but all Sierra Leoneans must realize that our commitment to the success of the overall Sierra Leonean project would create a 'greener' Sierra Leone, which would cause others to come to bask in our 'locally-made' prosperity. The Sierra Leonean pride would be born when we take responsibility for our lives and decide to become self-reliant. The modern economy guarantees the prosperity of producers and the poverty of consumers. For Sierra Leone to take its rightful place in the community of nations, we must develop a culture of production. This form of economic empowerment can only occur when we relieve ourselves from the inferiority complex that portrays locally produced commodities as low quality. Sierra Leoneans must develop economic responsibility and exhibit patriotism by patronizing everything Sierra Leonean, starting from our ever-vibrant real sector and investing in the growing capital market. This is our economy; to be supported by us, to generate our prosperity and not that of any other nation. The development of our great country would be actualized through great sacrifice. The future of one of the smallest black nation on earth would require the resilience of Sierra Leoneans more than ever and demand commitment in all endeavours. The habit of lackluster performance of duties should be discarded in favour of a disciplined approach to duty. Success is earned and we must justify our right to greatness by individually engaging in productive activity with a sense of responsibility, dedication and zeal.

In the face of declining moral values globally and the ills it brings to society, it behoves on all Sierra Leoneans to hang on to the strong cultural values that have sustained us for generations. We must extol the principles of respect for elders (political, religious, domestic etc), preserving the dignity of our womenfolk, taking responsibility for our actions, engaging in communal gatherings to deliberate on issues affecting our host communities and not necessarily our hometowns, nurturing the younger generation to understand and appreciate the dictates of family values and hard work, imbibing in all Sierra Leoneans a sense of belonging and mutual respect for each other; and consolidating brotherliness through inter-ethnic/political interactions, particularly marriage and partisan interests. The sustenance of these values would keep alive the needed passion for bringing positive change to Sierra Leoneans. It would also serve as a veritable pedestal for the grooming of future leaders who would be mindful of how their decisions influence the collective.

Sierra Leoneans are renowned for their affinity to the divine and their belief in a supernatural God. However, this religious nature has not been converted to moral soundness by many. It is widely expected that a God fearing personality would be adroit at managing the resource base of the nation and provide quality leadership if circumstances permit it. It is this forms of leadership the country needs that would give form to the aspirations of the people. It is this form of leadership that must be instilled in us all, for we are are going to be leaders wherever we may find ourselves at the end of our respective studies. It is this leadership that Sierra Leoneans desire and deserve. Leadership rooted in reverence for the Almighty and passion for the people. Therefore, individually we must change from a complacent form of religion and engage in sincere communion with our creator to draw strength for the journey towards national development. As we join hands in unity today in such gathering, lets also determined to change our attitudes in the various facets of our lives; we all shall become one people, one nation, living for ever under God in a prosperous Sierra Leone where peace and justice reigns characterized by a positive change aganda.

While we are reading out this concept note , am sure some of you sitting here might be saying…'But why is he wasting our time with Attitudinal change message, is he unaware of the fact that that battle will never be won, Attitude change for what? Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley, of Frankenstein in 1818, once said and I quote that “Nothing contributes so much to tranquilize the mind as a steady purpose - a point on which the soul may fix its intellectual eye.

In his inaugural address, President Koroma reminded the nation that:

“Corruption is not only a matter for the leaders and heads of government institutions; it is equally a matter for everybody”. A critical examination of the way of life indicates that corruption lies in our attitudes, and unless we change our attitudes we shall never be able to create the peaceful, progressive and prosperous country we dream about.

While this message was undoubtedly sincere, translating it into practical policy is an entirely different matter. The information and communications ministry has been hosting consultation workshops on “attitudinal and behavioural change”, inviting delegates from the NGO sector, business associations, academia, the police, the media religious organisations and other civil society organisations in early 2008. The government wanted to hear ideas, not set rigid guidelines and predictably, wide range of views were expressed. For example, there was talk about reviving symbols of national identity, the need for “law enforcement committees” to stop juvenile prostitution and prevent people from urinating in public, greater discipline in schools and broader civic education, government ministers to set an example and declare their assets, the media to improve its performance and improvements in labour laws and public sector salaries, as well as discussion of whether human beings are innately corrupt.

But as proud students of this once enviable nation, what are we doing in this direction? How far have we contributed to this national call? How well and sincere do we relate to our fellow students without cheating them? We left our country crippled with these vices, and some of us are about to return there again, but I ask again my brothers and sisters, have we changed our behaviours and attitudes towards first ourselves, friends and then our country? Are we returning to Sierra Leone with the “usai den tie cow, na dae e dae eat' mentality? If all of us here in China can return home with high spirit of good attitude and serve as role models, then the sky will be our limit. Have you resigned to fate that we cant make it? I know you may want to say we will make no difference, but let me remind you that a journey of thousnd miles starts with the first step. There is no way there can be change if we don't start this process now. Besides as students we should be ready to learn from the Scott Fitzgerald's famous quotes that: “The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function. One should, for example, be able to see that things are hopeless and yet be determined to make them otherwise.”

Let me use this opportunity to say to such pessimists that, YES WE CAN, it only need each and every one's innermost conviction to denounce negative and corrupt practices. We are optimists and an optimist is the human personification of spring. I am not been fallacious here that the ABC is our only saving grace. The longer we live, the more we realize the impact of attitude in life. Attitude, to us, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company... a church... a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to us and 90% of how we react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes. The existence of national institutions like the ACC, Police, CSM, and other Human rights NGO to eradicate vices like corruption, anti-nationalistic thinking in favour of love our country campaign, are all positive steps, but my conviction remains that the biggest step to succeed in this campaign is just the individual decision to drop those vices of corrupt practices and negative thinking about our courntry. Jack Synder, a leading International Relations scholar notes that …” Anarchy is what we make of it”. This is exactly how Sierra Leone is today…. Our country is in this bad state because of what we make and think of it, for if we were to think that our country is and could be prosperous, then we would certainly work towards that, but feeding on the defeatist slogan “…Salone don poil” will inhibit any sincere effort to develop our country. Therefore let us carry a positive view about our country.

Students everywhere are seen as agents of change in societies. This is because especially in African settings where few fractions of large families rarely receive high education; thus such students are like the one eyed guys in the country of the blind. Unquestionably, our studies here in China put us in an enviable position. Our native folks are highly looking up to us for direction. We are all pursuing different courses with a view to returning and contributing to the development of our country. Are we prepared to return home and shake off the dust of under-development, corruption, selfishness and raise up Sierra Leone to a competitng internatonal order? Are we ready to sacrifice our egoistic gains and tendencies for the general interest and development of Sierra Leone? How is Sierra Leone going to benefit from our hard earned education in ensuring national development? While agreeing with most International Relations scholars that …politics is a development variable just as how development is a variable of politics…' I want to appeal to us all that because of contending challenges our country continue to face in this direction, let us try to divorce national development from political ideologies or belongingness. As educated and learned patriots of Sierra Leone, let us offer our best and uninterrupted potentials for the development of our country without any political consideration. Let us together bury typical realist thinking or RELATIVE GAINS and resuscitate ABSOLUTE GAINS orientations. Everything depends on attitude. We are ambitious or lazy, enthusiastic or dull, loyal or undependable, according to our attitude. We get good grades or poor grades - according to our attitudes. Discouragement is an attitude. Lack of industry is an attitude. Failure to follow instructions is an attitude.

SO I SAY TO YOU ALL…

YES WE CAN CHANGE SIERRA LEONE AND WE WILL NOT WALK AWAY FROM OUR BELOVED COUNTRY!

THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION.

CHINA: A RISING THREAT OR RISING PEACE?

One major difficulty international Relations scholars have and continue to face is the rhetorical question of whether China is a ‘Rising Threat' or ‘Rising Peace'. This is because such I.R scholars have not been able to divorce the debate from the truism that China is indeed both a Rising Threat and Peace, and that such assumptions are not unconnected with the historical dynamics of the Asian continent in general and China in particular, and how they have conducted themselves (economically and security wise) much to the envy of western/ European (USA) rivals that they have long build a myth that China is inclined to be more of a threat than its peaceful out look. These different theoretical perceptions are what this paper is set to analyze using specific tenets of some I.R theories. To better understand why China is continuously perceived as a rising Threat, it will be scholarly prudent to present a peaceful rise perspective first, and then juxtapose it with the much trumpeted threat view.

On China's peaceful rise, typical realist and neo-liberal issues such as China's asymmetric relations with its South-East Asian nations, a hierarchical world order centered on China, and Export led- Peace, respectively, sharply accounts for why China has and continues to be peaceful in the world arena, while China as a Rising Threat focuses on Hegemony theory, Democratic Peace theory, Trade expectation/economic interdependence, Regional security blocks/alliance formation etc. On hierarchy and China's peaceful rise, David Kang's essay on ‘Hierarchy and Stability in Asian International Relations', maintains that Asian nations conceive of their security just the same way Westerners do, and because of this, given the wide disparity in economic, military power, it was observed by many western analyst that Asia was a continent ripe for rivalry…but that despite these concerns, Asia is yet to see any major conflict even after the USA exit from Vietnam, fall of Soviet etc. Accordingly, Kang's Constructivist hierarchy, emphasized formal hierarchy among nations while allowing informal equality, (China as central/civilized state and its vassal or barbarian smaller states) and notes that as long as this socially constructed hierarchical order was maintained, there was bound to be peace and stability. David Kang's assumptions stems from his argument that when the West invaded Asia (China), the old order was demolished as both scrambled to establish influence, but after a century of chaos in Asia, a strong and confident China emerge, an indication of how anarchy leads to hierarchy and then stability, and concludes that hierarchy is more stable than realists have allowed. Conversely, contrary to David Kang's constructivist argument of a hierarchical order of China bringing Peace, a Western view saw China as a Rising threat rather than a Rising Peace, because a hierarchic Asia was that if the USA allows China to be the central power in its vassal states, and if the USA do not make these smaller states balance China, any American attempt to construct balancing coalition to contain China using East Asian states will be highly problematic. This explicitly shows the two view points of China as a Rising threat and Rising Peace using the concept of hierarchy in Asia.

Secondly, China as a Rising Peace is further strengthened by the essay of Robert Uriu, where he presents the old liberal argument that trade and international economic exchange helps maintain peace especially in Asia. Here, Uriu shows how China joined Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan and adopted the Export led Peace strategies, noting that a fair number of countries in Asia are undemocratic, but almost all of its countries rely heavily on trade between each other. This form of export without necessarily relying on each other through institutions Uriu maintains has made East Asia into a zone of amity favoring peaceful foreign policies. On the Contrary, this broad presentation of China as a Rising Peace from an Export led Peace perspective is sharply contested by Dale Copeland's article on ‘Economic Interdependence and the Future of US-Chinese Relations'. Copeland argues that as East Asia become increasingly integrated into each other and the world economy, the question of whether Trade expectation theory/Economic interdependence is a force for peace or for war takes a renewed effect. Copeland, unlike Uriu focuses on how such interdependence among Asian states, will likely affect the state that seems to be the most destined to archived superpower status- China, as it will only succeed in making China more powerful economically thus making it a threat to its rival the USA.. The scholarly debate therefore from many analysts is whether the USA should ‘engage' or ‘contain' China. Engagement advocates, from a liberal thesis, argues that trade fosters peaceful relations by giving states economic dependence, and incentives to avoid war, argues that bringing China into the global economy will encourage it to be peaceful, while proponents of the containment strategy shouts from a realist assumption that interdependence only increases the likelihood of war as dependent states struggle to ensure continued access to vital goods.

Moreover, China's disposition as a Rising threat can also be linked to the Democratic Peace theory in Asia. Proponents of the Democratic Peace Theory such as Bruce Russet argue for neo-liberal/constructivist tenets such as a liberal political and economic order as baselines for a peaceful order. Russets main arguments from a liberal and socially constructed political order assumes that democracies don't fight each other because of entrenched institutions (civil society groups/ pressure groups), culture, perceptions and practices that cause consensus and peaceful compliance/resolution without threat of violence. This view of Democratic Peace cannot be applied to China strict-to-senso because of its shortcomings in meeting democratic credentials but even where China is ‘undemocratic', it will still be difficult to go to war with the USA because of trade/investment links. China's failure to address issues like democracy, human rights, equality etc makes liberal world to see it as a threat because of its non consultative nature.

Furthermore Brantley Womack's Asymmetry, Leadership and Normalcy broadly accounts for the general perception of China as a Peaceful Rise although it is again viewed by the West as a Rising Threat. By Asymmetry, Womack looked at China's leadership role and its relationship with its South-East nations, contrasting the structural realist emphasis on economic interdependence as a recipe for peaceful evolution of relationship as its most natural course; and instead argues that economic opportunities (cost) can become paramount only in an environment in which security concerns do not dominate.( Womack, 581).Womack explains Asymmetry relations to mean that the larger power, China have a particular responsibility for leadership because its smaller powers are more at risk and therefore, the larger power has their attention. China, because of its socially constructed orientation of an imperial tradition, its history as a victim of larger Western powers, emphasizes on peaceful economic cooperation. Such agitation therefore meant regional Chinese prominence, and China's increasing prominence in regional trade, investment and tourism is treated by South East Asia as a challenge of how to engage China rather than how to protect itself from China. Such a system Womack emphasis would strengthen solidarity and cooperation and secure a steady and sustained peaceful development, emphasizing that China's development would be impossible without Asia and Asia's prosperity impossible without China. In other for Asymmetry to be possible, China's regional strength is the credibility of its image as a peaceful, cooperative and inclusive partner, therefore even in the face of global rivalry, China's best policy would be to continue its current directions. However this view contrasts with a western perception of China as a rising threat. While China's South East policy doesn't depend on the goodwill of the USA, the USA is China's overriding global concern just as how China is the USA's threat.

In conclusion therefore, I will categorically state here that owing to it's historic nature and the way it has related within the Asian region, China unquestionably remains a RISING PEACE, because of the relative peace they continue to enjoy due to their relationship with South-East Asian nations. (Hierarchy, Export led, Regional economic forum etc). However, as critical scholars of I.R, it has been observed that any attempt by China to dominate the Asian order, (economic prosperity, trade/investment, Regional institutions) makes China an existing threat to the USA, personifying the West; China's Rising factors are making it a threat to its western rival. Remember that moves or actions we take to protect develop ourselves, will be interpreted as threats from our perceived rivals or enemies. Therefore, attempts by China to dominate political and economic order among its South East Asian states will unquestionable be interpreted as threatening from its arch rival the USA, especially with the growing American interest in Asia.

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IS AFRICAN DEMOCRACY POSSIBLE?

INTRODUCTION

When President Abraham Lincoln developed the concept of democracy, he principally meant participatory governance; …“a system of government of the people, by the people, and for the people“. His theory was later understood and popularized by the works of Barun de Montesquieu in ‘Separation of Powers' and A.V Diecey's ‘Rule of Law' respectively. Today, especially among different academics and intellectual disciplines, the word ‘democracy' is now subject to varied theoretical explanations. In this paper, I am set to investigating and analyzing the concept of Democracy/Democratic Peace (its contending challenges from a political and economic microscope) and at the end present my scholarly opinions on the possibility and survival of ‘democracy' and the Democratic Peace Proposition especially relating it to the African situation. The hypothesis of this paper stems from the assumption that the concept of Democratic Peace as amplified by International Relations Scholars is impossible for the African political and economic dynamics, and that continuous and aggressive efforts to plant the democratic order as a dominant political ideology in Africa without due consideration to the traditional political and economic practices of what characterizes African Politics, is more likely to engulf the African region into a nasty grip of insecurity and bloody civil wars.

Political arguments against Democracy in Africa

My argument here is that Democratic governance as a major tenet of a liberal international order, thereby leading to Peace is fallacious and unfounded as far as Africa is concerned. This is not in any way to dismiss out rightly the relevance and possibility of the concept and practice of democracy elsewhere or even in Africa, I am more concern of its attendant outcomes. It has proven to be a successful case study in the United States, UK and other parts of Europe where several scholars have contributed to our general understanding of Democracy and the Democratic Peace Concept. David Held (1995): Democracy and the Global Order. From the Modern State to Cosmopolitan Governance, Oxford), explains Democratic governance as been defined as the autonomous determination of the conditions of collective association', being also connected with a collective self-determination by equal and free citizens, that should be able to choose freely the conditions of their own association' and determine the form and direction of their polity'. It is also about a common structure of political action', that should be neutral regarding the 'relations and institutions which can be regarded as impartial or even-handed with respect to their personal ends, hopes and aspirations. While agreeing with David Held, it is my conviction that the possibility of a democratically governed African polity is considered to be incompatible with necessary conditions for democratic governance, or, on the other hand, with the necessary conditions for international structural change although the arguments regarding this 'necessary conditions' are not compelling. African democracy presents a real challenge, without being impossible and very difficult to explain causally. This is particularly so because the necessary conditions for an all out African democracy are rigid and incomprehensible base on several competing challenges such as the stateness component, the cultural homogeneity, a certain level of economic prosperity, and a certain level of economic equality. I shall explain more of this in subsequent paragraphs, but it is worth noting that several scholars/researchers of International Relations have added their voice to this debate with some contemporary comparisons. To them, ‘Global or Regional' Wars like those that have paralyzed African political and economic order and the major historical events have brought a new wave of incertitude regarding the form and direction of their polity. Democracy has not ever been existing as a reality of choice to such sovereign states. Because of the democratic possibilities and tendencies, the legitimization of a global, overriding regional African interest/rule is hard to be proved. African democracy is strongly connected to the global democratic initiative, especially now, as it is in a deep crisis. Without this necessary dependence, democracy has no value, as it must be based on an open-ended process of democratization. On the other hand, the general assumption of the Democratic Peace theory according to Bruce Russet is that ‘Democracies never go to war with each other' and that where they are constrained to do so, would rather clash with non-democracies. Bruce Russet summarizes his assumption that firstly, from a liberal/constructivist view point, because sister democratic states have the same democratic credentials, (participatory governance, human rights, shifting coalitions, toleration of dissent) requirements, culture, perceptions and practices that allow compromise and peaceful resolution of conflict without the threat of war; and secondly from a realist assumption that democracies don't go to war with each other because of shared information on both sides about what states want and the risks they are willing to bear because with this open relations, debates about whether to go to war are strongly handled by the public. This defensive debate as to why Democracies don't fight each other is further strengthened by Michael Doyle in his essay ‘Liberalism and World Politics (Dec,1986)', in which he emphasizes that liberal democratic states are different as they are peaceful among themselves and are prone to make war on non-liberal states. The nucleus of Doyle's assumption is that a liberal state/government founded on respect for individuals, exercises' restraint and ‘peaceful intention' in their foreign policy, because at the domestic level he argues, respect for human rights, freedoms, participatory governance, entrenched autonomous state institutions restrains the government/state at the international level thus leading to a peaceful foreign policy.

Having briefly highlighted the contextual demands of the Democratic Peace concept, I would want to narrow it to what democracy means to Africa, the way it is been ‘exported' by the west (USA and UK) and the contending challenges and implications such political actions have had and continue to have on the general security of African nations. Again I will like to register that Democracy is not the only means that can ensure peace between states of either the same political characteristics or contrasting characteristics. On Bruce Russet's rather short sighted essay, my take here is that democracy been a relative term should also allow it's relativity to a varied dynamism. By this I mean that the parameters with which the West/Western democracies used to measure ‘democratic credentials/practices, (especially USA/BRITAIN) should not be used as universal indicators especially for Africa. This is because, it has been proven that owing to the nature of some civilizations (history, norms and identities) it will be difficult to have a one straight jacket to fit all. Since democracy is an imported political ideology, for it to have meaning and general acceptability, it should be tuned to the individual civilizations in which it is been exported. Let the concept of “Asian democracy” for example (taking into consideration the historical hierarchical nature of the political order using a social driving force for its communist ideology,) be construed completely differently from a western concept of democracy like the USA which uses capitalism to advocate for a liberal world order (democracy, human rights, freedoms, civil society groups). This same goes for an understanding of African democracy which emphasises on the supremacy of traditional state institutions such as Chieftaincy). It is thus only through this case by case scenario of democracy, that can ensure a democratic peace, but any attempt by the West in particular (importers of democracy) to force their own ideological concept of democracy as one fit all is a recipe for chaos. If China through its socialist communism has enjoyed relative peace since 1949 (no major political unrest save the Tiananmen Square incident), then it will be prudent to accept this concept of democracy as long as it continue to improve on its peaceful relations with its Asian neighbours and the rest of the world. Secondly, I totally agree with Bruce Russet that Democratic Countries because of shared information, norms, common trade, and values it is very much unlikely to go to war with each other. Before the advent or exportation of the Western style of democracy in Africa, there was no history an African country going to war with another simply because of varying political ideologies/systems. This was because they relatively enjoyed inter-state trade, and cooperation that made them peaceful. You don't need to be a democracy before you decide to fight or not to fight another country of either democratic or non-democratic status. We have seen instances were democracies and non-democracies enjoy peace and do not go to war. The current economic relations/interdependence between China and the USA today further renders the argument limited. China, though not a democracy has very high investments in the USA (a Democracy) with a greater portion of it's economic development tied to such investments in the USA vice-versa. America knowing China to be a non democracy (at least by their own standards) still highly depends on China for its economic growth both domestically and external. If this explanation is indeed true (actual fact as it is), then you will agree with me that because of this high level of economic interdependence, it will be difficult for both to go to war with each other. Thus my argument that it is not democracy alone that has the potential of ensuring peace between states, but other factors such as Economic Interdependence will ensure peace between Democracies and non-democracies as it is currently seen in the China-USA asymmetry relationship. In conclusion, Bruce Russet presupposes in his Democratic Peace Theory that, democracy means the absence of a threat or war, but what if all nation states in the world were democracies, would that mean world peace or the absence of threat? Of course not.

Ali Manzrui's Who killed democracy in Africa? Clues of the past, concerns of the future (Jan. 2002) emphasizes that in analyzing the prospects of democracy in Africa it may be necessary to distinguish between ultimate goals and necessary instruments for achieving them. It would make sense for Africa to distinguish between fundamental rights and instrumental rights. The right to vote, for example, is an instrumental right designed to help us achieve the fundamental right of government by consent. The right to a free press is an instrumental right designed to help us achieve the open society and freedom of information. In essence, what Manzrui wishes to communicate to exponents of the possibility of Democracy in Africa is that it has got a lot of contending challenges, and tries to distinguish between democracy as means and democracy as goals. The most fundamental of the goals of democracy are probably four in number. Firstly, to make the rulers accountable and answerable for their actions and policies, secondly to make the citizens effective participants in choosing those rulers and in regulating their actions, thirdly to make the society as open and the economy as transparent as possible; and fourthly to make the social order fundamentally just and equitable to the greatest number possible. Accountable rulers, actively participating citizens, open society and social justice – those are the four fundamental ends of democracy. The question that arises is, can or has such practices been/be possible in Africa? Definitely YES. It has been in existence and can continue to be in use. The west (USA/UK) in achieving such have adopted Separation of Powers, Rule of Law, Sovereignty, Universal Human Rights and freedoms, public opinion or press freedom. What i see here as contending issues between Western concept of democracy and what operates in Africa are the means to their end. From every indication, it is now a truism that if the goals of western democracy are the same with what Africa has and have been practicing before Western ‘interruptions', while the means for achieving them differ, then such traditional African means of achieving those same four goals of accountability of rulers, participation of the citizens, openness of the society and greater social justice should triumph.

Today, Africa is seeing some of its other nation states partially attempting to democratize - Ghana, Sierra Leone, Kenya etc. Kenya is a more recent example of how Democracy has yet again failed Africa especially in its attempt to govern it's people under a western-style democracy. Before the recently conducted Kenyan 2007 elections, Kenya had a strong economy, but the botched elections that recently took place put this beautiful country on the “Failed State” list with other African nations using western style democracy to elect their leaders. This list of considered failed states includes: Somalia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, and Cote D'Ivoire. There are other countries in Africa who want to believe that this system of democracy is working although it is clear that their country stands on the brink of being classified also as a failed state. That election kept Kenya in the news spotlight because of the violence that spread outside of the capital, Nairobi. Hypocritically some world leaders, in the name of solidarity/peace and in their effort to help bring an end to the violence that was destroying the country, had to travel to Kenya, called the leaders of both parties, and asked former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan to try to negotiate a peace settlement. The end result just to have in place another western system of exploiting fellow country men through a sealed box , was that some nearly 1,000 and more were confirmed dead, 300,000 displaced, stores looted and property burned. Is this any price to have in place a corrupt, poorly guided western rule/form governance otherwise called democracy to pay? Has such a democratic order led to Peace? Where is the Democratic Peace assumption then? Africa, like any other civilized sovereign entity, of the world, long for a decent form of governance， where the masses are free to choose their leaders without a trail of death and destruction before and after elections. My argument in this direction has always been that, the whole episode and Africa's eventual grip into such a political trap started during Western Colonization of Africa. The west adopted several approaches in their efforts to colonize Africa. For British West Africa, Lord Lugard introduced the ‘Indirect Rule System' through the traditional African Chiefs, thus they had two establishments, The British Colony and the Protectorate Areas. Unquestionably, it was because of the organized and well structured nature in which the British saw the system of administration and governance that they decided to rule through the people's traditional Chiefs. From all historical records, such administration was exceptionally peaceful until when the Colonial masters started going against treaties signed with the traditional Chiefs/ Kings. From the French angle, France adopted the ‘Policy of Assimilation and Association' which meant that all French West Africans were to become French citizens by simply adopting the French way of life. Do you think the French would have allowed native Africans French citizenships if they weren't decent people with admirable qualities? In South Africa, it was quite the opposite from the West African approaches. There, the traditional Zulu way of life and administration was such an enviable system that their Colonial masters inversely and unlike the French method, instead forcefully changed their identity into Africans using the discriminatory system of Apartheid. What an irony!

Unquestionably, Africa needs a form of government that speaks to its diversified cultures and traditions. In many areas of Africa, the influences and importance of tribal leadership cannot be dismissed. Any system of representative governance (democracy) that is developed must take into consideration the reality of tribalism, cultures and traditions of such as civilization. Africa cannot follow the European or American style of democracy. The Europeans developed this democracy from Greek influences and have had hundreds of years to improve upon this system of government, contrary to the nations of Africa who have only enjoyed freedom, peace and a generally acceptable form of governance believed to be defined by Devine intervention and in high reverence. Institutions were inaugurated without reference to cultural compatibilities, and new processes were introduced without respect for continuities. Ancestral standards of property, propriety and legitimacy were ignored. Kings/ Chiefs were never elected, but assumed such tittles as a result of their bravery in redeeming their lands from external aggressors, thus therefore, the institution of Chieftaincy and or Kingship was regarded as God given, in reverence, protector of its people. This was how leadership and governance originated in Africa. They people would listen to and obey their King/Chief because it protected them and provided them the enabling environment for a sustained livelihood means.

Africa needs a think tank comprised of “the best minds” that can develop a form of its own carefully carved out ‘democracy' that speaks uniquely to the African experience, considering what's in the best interest of the country, considering tribalism, culture, norms tradition and inclusive of advice from traditional elders. In tribal tradition, when one of the “sons” of the tribe is running for office, it is expected that most members of the tribe will support him.

As this western-style democracy pits tribe against tribe, there are forces at work dividing the Nations of Africa: The North Africans (Arabs) against the Sub Saharan Africans (Blacks). As Africa fights, America and France are planning to build military bases on African soil. Africa is struggling to maintain its freedom and self determination, allowing military bases (for pittance) will erode this freedom.

All across Africa, African leaders seeking to be elected are spending hundreds of millions of dollars to fund these multi-party elections patterned after western style democracy, a path that Africa should not and ought not to follow. Many a time a government so elected leaves state covers completely empty that they have to begin to beg for financial assistance or loans. This is not only possible in Africa but even among the world's biggest economic and financial powers like the USA. In America, the cost of the 2008 presidential elections exceeded $2 billion, and what did we see after all…a nation plunged into a deep financial crisis. What if such a huge financial inputs were rather used for national development rather than elections especially for Africa? Therefore my example of a struggle for democracy in Africa-Kenya brings home the reality that trying to adopt the colonial master's system of government for the people of Africa is a miserable failure.

As I conclude this political argument, we would like to touch on what many International Relations scholars of Africa consider as a big issue about democracy in Africa, i.e. its relationship to development. On this relationship between democracy and development in Africa, one crucial question has persisted. Is Africa underdeveloped because it is primarily undemocratic? Or is Africa undemocratic because it is primarily underdeveloped? It is my honest view that Africa is under-developed and insecure today because of the aggressive desires by the west to democratize nation states. In as much as i may be inclined to accept any improved form of democracy or representative governance, such attempts should be tuned to the challenging demands and dynamics of what characterizes the African political system before the importation of Western form of democracy in Africa. Considerable attention should be given to the African people's traditional political institutions and the cultural practices of such people.

ECONOMIC INTERESTS IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: A REFLECTION OF AFRICA'S DEMOCRACY DEFICIT

Nowhere is the concept of global democracy deficit more clearly shown than in Sub-Saharan Africa, a region where economics determines politics of the day and where culture of democracy never originated with and has been absent most of the time. For instance, there are few countries in Sub-Saharan Africa that extensively define democratic opportunities for the youths. Even the little democratic opportunities are economically conditioned with an economic interest.

To most people, democracy is hard, and perhaps the most complex of all forms of government. It is filled with tensions and contradictions, and requires that its members labor diligently to make it work. But in Sub-Saharan Africa, democracy is known for economic gains or interests instead of accountability. In Sub-Saharan Africa, whoever goes to power; be it by democratic means (through elections) perceives democracy as a finished product, not always evolving and for economic interests. They therefore forget the ringing and perhaps the best-known definition of democracy as "the government of the people, by the people, and for the people", in this sense however; the essentials of democratic government are applicable to all nations that aspire to a democratic society.

Consequently, democracy should be appreciated by the society when it's not used to serve a certain category of individuals for only economic interests.

Most Sub-Saharan African governments have slightly changed our perception of democracy, that if we do not learn from specific and vivid events, then, we are condemned to loose the concept of democracy. For example, during presidential elections in Africa, Presidential candidates have always fought to be both loved and feared using national resources and to them, that seems to be the very best understanding of democracy. Notwithstanding the fact that it is better to be feared than loved, Sub-Saharan African governments try to keep their subjects faithful, they do not care about the infamy of cruelty, because very few examples will be more merciful than those who for the sake of too much mercy allow disorders to continue, from which come killings or robberies; for these customarily harm a whole community.

Thus, when one wants to be both loved and feared or to be a president and a finance minister, it will be difficult to preserve democracy. In fact, it is much safer to be a president than a finance minister. When you try to make the needs of the people far away and close to you, they will automatically revolt and the perceived true democracy will disappear as if it was meant to bless dictatorship.

Democracy in Sub-Saharan Africa can be surplus or balanced to address both personal and social concerns like poverty, access to education, pandemics or inequality if a fine line can be drawn between giving the executives (democratically elected Presidents) sufficient powers to do the job and, at the same time, limiting that authority to prevent a misuse, mainly for personal economic gains. This can make the presidents to lead through their political skills, establishing a framework of co-operation with the legislature and above all with the people. This can position the citizenry to feel secure and apprehend that the presidents are always servants and not economic parasites.

Whereas democracy should be a political system that is capable of correcting its own dysfunctions, in Sub-Saharan Africa, it is largely restricted to the economic institutional framework and not embodied in a culture, a state of mind that fosters tolerance and respect for other people, as well as pluralism, equilibrium and dialogue between the forces that make up a society.

For this to be addressed in Sub-Saharan Africa, it requires all social, economic /financial, governmental and non governmental actors, as well as the relationship which links or separates them, to be taken into consideration. This further requires to be examined more closely so that public opinion every where can apprehend the challenge it represents.

Most governments or Presidents in Sub-Saharan Africa have constitutional dictatorship which they use to weaken the most important system of checks and balances that should help to involve the auxiliary precautions of impeachment and removal for high crimes and misdemeanors. Without checks and balances, democracy remains a deficit in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The checks and balances help to limit economic interests and promote democracy through reducing the Presidential prerogatives. For instance, Presidential appointments to high level positions in Sub-Saharan Africa must be consented to by the Legislature/Parliament by majority votes and the Presidential powers to make economic treaties or agreements should be subject to the advice and consent of two thirds of the Parliament. And any Presidential executive order or executive economic agreement (with another nation) should be subject to the power of judicial review, which is the power of the Supreme Court to declare the order null and void on the grounds that it is unconstitutional.

I wish to submit a few distinctions, still rather new, between two major lines of our understanding of democracy. These differences have thus far remained unnoticed, or at least insufficiently understood. The first is the apprehension of democracy as political, where most Sub-Saharan African nations fall because the perceived thinking here is that when elections are held or some one is elected, they think that is the apex and end of democracy; the second is that economic democracy is seldom to the people, which still presents democracy as a deficit in Sub-Saharan Africa. For the former, political life is highest, for the latter, economic life is lowest. Nevertheless, severe decline or loss in the equal practice of both the former and latter would be a source of the corruption of the well-being.

In conclusion, I do not think therefore that I am making a useless analysis and presentation, to support our discussion, I agree with Alexis de Tocqueville who is widely regarded as the most astute of American democracy that, "success is confined to the present; the long-term is insignificant. To live/reign for ages is an undemocratic sentiment especially in a world crippled and threatened by corruption. It is appropriate for democracy; to put limits on the exercise and excesses of leadership, but it would be a blunder to try to forcefully institute/eliminate it". Therefore, for Sub-Saharan Africa to come out of the democracy deficit, economic interests in the politics of every day should be checked. They can be checked through realizing and emphasizing the importance of education in civic responsibility in a bid to inculcate in modern individuals a commitment to public service.

Vancouver: Engineers Without Borders international development conference

2010-03-08T23:13:25Z

The Vancouver chapters of Engineers Without Borders are excited to present a special day of learning on human development at the UBC Life Sciences Centre on March 27, 2010. The Bridging the Gap Conference, now in its 7th year, is the largest development conference in Western Canada, and attracts delegates from across the country. It brings together members of the community, engineers and non-engineers alike, who share an interest in making a difference. The theme of this year's conference, “Local action to global impact: Vision, Action, Voice” emphasizes how individuals, through their everyday actions, can empower themselves to contribute positively to the development process.

Engineers Without Borders is proud to welcome Dr. Hans Rosling (pictured) to Vancouver as this year's closing keynote speaker. Rosling, currently a professor of International Health at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden, began his career as a physician working in rural Africa and later co-founded the Swedish Chapter of Médecins sans Frontières. His highly energetic stage presence and animated methods of converting international health statistics into highly appealing visualizations have captivated audiences around the world. He is currently the third most watched speaker on the popular TEDtalks online video series (www.ted.com). Rosling is set to join the company of illustrious international icons that the conference has attracted in previous years. Past speakers have included the Honourable Lieutenant General Roméo Dallaire (Ret.) and former president of Médecins Sans Frontières Dr. James Orbinski.

The conference organizing committee is also pleased to confirm that Vancouver's own Shauna Sylvester will be providing the opening keynote address. Ms. Sylvester, a Fellow at the Simon Fraser University Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, has provided policy advice to governments and foundations on subjects as varied as forestry, human rights, media, peace building and AIDS, and was recognized as one of Canada's Top 40 Under 40 in the Globe and Mail in 2003.

In addition to watching these captivating orators at the podium, delegates can choose from a wide assortment of interactive presentations, workshops and panel discussions to attend, put on by community leaders and experts in their fields. With topics as varied as fair trade, micro-finance, advocacy, sustainable communities, corporate social responsibility and connecting Canadians to Africa, there is sure to be something for everyone.

Holynde Smiechowski, UBC engineering student and conference chair, admits that the impact of the conference goes well beyond a one-day event, “I remember attending the conference for the first time, not knowing what to expect, and leaving with a dizzying array of emotions, but also with a newfound motivation to help create positive change. Bridging the Gap provides a unique opportunity to hear and learn about what is occurring around us locally and globally. I can't wait for others to share in the experience.”

Tickets are available on the conference website:

http://www.bridgingthegap.ewb.ca

Conference details

Date and Time: Saturday March 27th, 2010, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Location: UBC Life Sciences Centre, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver BC, 604-827-3977

Cost: $70 / $35 Students (includes lunch)

About Engineers Without Borders

Engineers Without Borders was formed in 2000 and has quickly become one of Canada's most respected development agencies. In their overseas work, EWB focuses on rural Africa, and harnesses the skills and creativity of the Canadian engineering sector to find practical solutions to one of the world's most urgent problems – extreme poverty. In Canada, EWB focuses on proving to every Canadian that they have a role to play in human development and that there is an opportunity for Canada's corporations, government, and individuals to help eliminate global poverty. Former director of the UN Human Development Report Sakiko Fukuda-Parr has said that EWB “is doing more to take capacity development as an objective systematically than any other development organization I have seen.” More information is available at http://www.ewb.ca

Liberia: Sierra Leonean refugees' homes looted

Mariama Coker, Monrovia, Liberia — 2010-03-06T00:57:59Z

Efforts made by governments of Sierra Leone and Liberia and the UNHCR and LRRRC towards integration of former Sierra Leonean refugees who opted for a second home in this country have been recently undermined by what one observer calls "enemies of development."

Reports received by the Sierra Leone Embassy Information Unit early this week indicated that unknown persons entered into the newly constructed houses meant for former Sierra Leonean refugees in SINJE, looted and made away with assorted valuable items that were already installed in the buildings.

The Embassy Information Unit however promptly contacted UNHCR's Country Representative in Liberia, Ibrahima Coly and his Information and Communication Desk officials who confirmed the act, adding that they were working on strategies as to how the stolen items could be replaced soonest.

Coly also disclosed his earlier intention of integrating the remaining case loads to the said looted site on completion. He maintained that despite the setback his intention still stands and that this would be carried out soon.

In a telephone conversation with the LRRRC Field Officer Momodu Freeman, he also confirmed the looting incident but could not estimate the cost of the damage. Freeman maintained that only three houses were looted and vandalized and that they were already doing replacement on the damaged buildings. No arrest has been made so far.

It could be recalled that Sierra Leone Embassy officials led by Ambassador Rev. Mrs. Marie Jilo Barnett took part in last month's integration exercise of former Sierra Leonean refugees into another community from Samukai Town in Monrovia.

Over 900 Sierra Leoneans residing in Liberia are now proud owners of their country's passports which were issued free of cost to them. The issuance of such passports was an outcome and follow-up of a series of meetings between the above partners and an agreement between the governments of Sierra Leone and Liberia.

Photo: Ambassador Rev. Mrs. Marie Jilo Barnett (first from left).

Wanted: A transparent parliament

Saidu Kaye Sesay, PV Special Correspondent, London, UK — 2010-03-06T00:08:26Z

Commentary

Britain's parliament is recovering from a public humiliation, courtesy of an infamous expenses scandal, which forced its ex- speaker, Michael Martin into a premature retirement, last summer. His crime? Trying to block public access to details of claims made by MPs at Westminster for expenses. But when the ever vigilant British press delved deep into the issue, what did they discover? A can of worms! From members of parliament claiming re-imbursement for items as trivial as lavatory seats, pornographic materials, and payments for services rendered by their own private companies, the nation was left with distrust for the honourables they voted for. But perhaps, the British public and media left things too much too late. And all of these could not have happened at a worse time; a period of recession, when tax payers were been asked to cough up to bail mismanaged banks and other institutions.

This brings me to the Sierra Leone scenario. Recently, local tabloids reported a windfall of Le43.8m (forty-three million, eight hundred Leones) for each Member of Parliament, for constituency facilitations. I cannot at this point go into history to establish whether this gesture by the Koroma administration is unprecedented. But what I do know is that constituents all over the country need just that, to jump start them from the economic misery the war had brought upon them. For this I, and am sure most patriotic Sierra Leonean's will give a thumb up to the government. The buck has now been passed to the MPs to better the lives of their constituents.

But even as they are set to utilise the windfall, the MPs have had a false start. According to Awoko Newspaper of the 22 February 2009, the attempts to interview the MPs on how they will utilise the money were futile. ‘..all of them declined', Awoko noted.

This is the thrust of this article. Why would the MPs want to shroud their plans for their constituents in human size wools? Have the people through the press have no right to know how their lives are being governed? Have the MPs got any master plan? If so, why would they not disclose it to the press? Maybe, now is the time to press for the Freedom of Information Act.

Whatever the MPs do with those allocations; they should be made to know that the people and fourth estate are watching. The bottlenecks they are creating will definitely come to haunt them. I don't like it to happen the British way; to call to order when the deed has been done. It is therefore advised that the peoples' representatives go to their constituencies and get the people involved in mapping out their own future. All of these activities should be transparently done, involving the media for reasons of accountability.

It is interesting to note that at the same time the MPs were waiting for their cheques, parliament was calling for the Sierra Leone Teachers' Union (SLTU) to be investigated over claims that its memberships are not happy paying their Le 8,000.00 (eight thousand leones) dues, that are not well accounted for. My ex-college mate, now Honourable Philip Tondoneh is spot on in calling the SLTU to order. Reading the story, I remembered my days as a teacher in Sierra Leone, and I wondered why the perennial problem that was plaguing the SLTU has still not been solved. Why should parliament interfere anyway, if the SLTU was to maintain its independence? Has the membership not got the resolved to change things? And I only wished my good old friend, Hon. Tondoneh, a.k.a Mr. Tee, was not using the SLTU saga to deflect attention from the issue at hand: What do they plan to do with the Le43.8m? The question is simple; really. And the people, who in actual fact are their employers/masters, await answers.

Canada: Speech from the throne delivered

2010-03-05T23:52:04Z

The Conservative government is presenting a six-point economic stimulus plan in this week's budget and "will spend what is necessary" to rescue Canada's sagging economy during the global financial crisis, according to the throne speech delivered Monday.

The plan includes stimulating the economy through public and private investment, with immediate cash for infrastructure, as well as offering help for the poor, the unemployed, aboriginals and struggling industries such as the auto sector and forestry, according to the speech, read by Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean on Parliament Hill.

"Canadians face a difficult year — perhaps several difficult years," Jean said in the eight-minute address in Ottawa that gave broad strokes of the government's planned response to the economic turmoil.

"In the face of such uncertainty, our government has developed a clear and focused plan. Our government will spend what is necessary to stimulate the economy and invest what is necessary to protect our future prosperity."

The speech also said the government will take action to protect the stability of the financial system and ensure access to credit.

The address in the Senate chamber marked the government's first day back since Prime Minister Stephen Harper forced the suspension of the last sitting to avoid a confidence vote.

The fate of Harper's minority government rests on the upcoming budget, which will be delivered by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday.

Extremely cold weather also played havoc with the ceremony surrounding the throne speech.

Officials said the temperature — which felt like –32 C with the wind chill — was too cold for the 21-gun salute and military band that traditionally greets the Governor General's arrival on Parliament Hill.

Finance officials said the budget, expected to be one of the most extensive in Canadian history, is based on lengthy consultations with the premiers and opposition leaders, along with submissions from more than 680 groups and organizations.

Senior officials from the Prime Minister's Office have already said the stimulus package would plunge the country into a $64-billion deficit over the next two years.

The massive deficit estimates are a far cry from the slim $800 million surplus predicted by Flaherty for the next fiscal year in his economic update in November.

In the throne speech, the government said the global economy has weakened since Canadians voted in the last federal election.

"In fact, it has weakened further since Parliament met last month," Jean said.

Parts of the budget have already been leaked, including $2 billion for social housing, $1.5 billion for job retraining and billions more in aid to farmers.

Earlier Monday, Transport Minister John Baird announced the Harper government plans to spend at least $7 billion on new infrastructure projects.

The deficit estimates come after a dozen years of federal surpluses. The Conservatives, however, say the measures are temporary and that they have a plan to take the country out of the red within five years.

Speaking shortly after the throne speech, Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff said the tone of the address was much different from previous throne speeches from the Harper government.

He noted Monday's speech also included some of the language the Liberals have been using to describe what is needed in the budget.

"Imitation is the greatest form of flattery," Ignatieff told CBC News from the foyer of the House of Commons.

But the Liberal leader maintained he was still going to wait until Wednesday before announcing whether to endorse the budget, saying he and his caucus need to take the time to examine the document fully.

"The devil really is in the detail here, and they have to get the detail right," Ignatieff said.

Earlier in the day, NDP Leader Jack Layton reiterated he's prepared to vote against the budget because he believes a coalition government would better serve Canadians.

"I can simply say a budget vote is a vote of confidence and we don't have confidence in Mr. Harper," said Layton.

"We're aware Mr. Harper will say and do anything to keep power. We've seen it too often."

Bloc Québécois Leader Gilles Duceppe said he cannot support the throne speech because the four-page document is so thin. But he said he will wait to see Tuesday's budget before passing final judgment on the Tories.

He said there was no mention in the throne speech of any other pressing issues facing the country, in particular the environment.

The Liberals, under former leader Stéphane Dion, and the NDP agreed last month to topple the government by voting against it in a no-confidence vote and form a governing coalition. The coalition also had the backing of the separatist Bloc.

Harper instead asked the Governor General to prorogue, or suspend, the parliamentary session before the vote could occur. Parliament has been shut down for close to two months.

Ignatieff, who took over the Liberal leadership from Dion in December, has appeared lukewarm to the idea of the coalition.

Photo:Prime Minister Stephen Harper looks at Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean as they wait to begin Monday's throne speech in the Senate chamber on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

Open letter to SLAJ Scribe, Mustapha Sesay

2010-03-05T23:30:25Z

Dear Mr. Mustapha Sesay,

I write to state my position with reference to your Press Release of yesterday March 1st 2010 in which I am mentioned inter alia: [“"...in the full glare of some top SLPP executive members who did nothing to rescue the situation”. They included the party's Deputy Women's Leader, Harriatu Turay]

I must first make it very clear that I am in complete disagreement with the manner in which some journalists were treated by overzealous party supporters of our party and I made this position very clear during the incident. Journalists are a cherished part of any society and they must at all times be treated with the utmost possible respect.

This is why I am so dismayed to see how I am referenced in the SLAJ Press Release. Not only did I vociferously intervene when I realised that journalists were being manhandled by overzealous supporters, but I physically, alongside the Western Area Chairman Lansana Fadika, worked to ensure that journalists were not hurt. In the process, my T-shirt even got torn as I tried to protect one journalist I am later to know is called Ishmael Bayoh. I have witnesses to this including Chairman Lansana Fadika and other local journalists. I have nothing against journalists. I cherish journalists.

You can also ask Bampia Bundu of Awareness Times whom will testify in my favour that he was the one who even informed me that the scuffle was not between SLPP and SLPP members but involved our cherished journalists. Initially, I had felt the scuffle was between various groupings within the SLPP as we had tense moments during the controversial constitutional debate. As soon as Bampia Bundu informed me that the scuffle involved journalists being manhandled by SLPP partisans, I got fully involved in denouncing such unworthy behaviour that could only bring our party into disrepute.

In light of the above, I am therefore kindly asking that you review the complaint forwarded to you and make the necessary amendments to restore my reputation back. I can not be a party to any form of thuggery. I have never been and I will never endorse thuggery and violence; neither by silent acquiescence nor by active participation in such violence.

This is why I have already made it very clear to our party members that we MUST denounce as a party and as individuals, all what happened to journalists on that day. Whilst I await the official response from the SLPP Executive body, I hereby once again apologise on my own personal behalf as a senior SLPP member for all the molestation that the journalists faced even as I continue to protest the way I have been portrayed in the SLAJ Press Release.

I have made this an Open Letter so as to help limit the damage that has already been caused to my name by your Press Release.

Whilst I await a review of these complaints by your able body, please be assured of my highest possible sentiments for you as a person and for SLAJ as a very important entity in this country.

Yours sincerely

Harriatu Turay

Deputy Women's Leader, SLPP.

Photo: SLAJ Secretary General Mustapha Sesay.

Passion of Love – Part 1

2010-03-05T02:56:40Z

By Lans Omar, Winnipeg.

December 31st, 1985. In a household at Aberdeen, Freetown, Victor Brown, 25, a fresh graduate from Fourah Bay College, was busily cleaning the house. It was a tradition that the house be kept clean for the New Year. The Yuletide season was very noticeable in that specific part of the city. Christmas in Freetown, Sierra Leone, was huge. It was a time for family gatherings, feasts and celebrations. Friends and family from around the world always marked Freetown as the mecca for the holidays. “Almost a week and half Ayesha hadn't been in contact with me,” Victor stopped cleaning for a while and was thinking.

Ayesha had been dating Victor for three years now. They met when she was a sixth form student at the Annie Walsh Memorial Secondary School in Freetown. It was friend of Victor that actually introduced them at her school Prize giving Day.

Ayesha Rashad was a fourth generation Sierra Leonean. Her great grand-father, Bin Batista Rashad had immigrated to Sierra Leone from Lebanon during the colonial era to do business in the protectorate.

At 23, Ayesha is the sole heiress of the Rashad dynasty in Lebanon; a multi-billion dollar business empire.

When she first met Victor, it was love at first sight and that relationship had blossomed like a wild fire in the harmattan. It was Ayesha's first true love.

Victor had been raised a devout Catholic. On the other hand, Ayesha was Sunni Muslim, she was compelled to recognize the five pillars of Islam with special attention to performing the five daily prayers.

At 5 feet 9 inches, light-skinned, she commanded a serene beauty; average built with the typical coca-cola shape. A look most of her friends envied.

Finally, Victor's phone rang.

“Hello, Victor here.”

“It's Ayesha.” The other end said. It was almost two weeks since he had heard Ayesha's voice. “Hi Victor, long time. I miss you baby. This thing, victor, this thing.”

“Well Ayesha, it's up to you.” Victor responded.

Ayesha was sobbing: “It's not up to me, Victor. My dad is going to abandon me. My mom has been under some heavy bashing by my family for the past weeks. Vic, oh, Victor, is just too much for us at home.”

“But don't you have choices?” Victor asked.

“Baby, it's not about choices. It's all about my family, my culture, my religion, and above all, my pride. Victor, I don't really know what to do. Even last night, my dad called some family elders and it's just way too much to handle. And, you know Aunty Zahrah…..”

“Yeah, what about your Aunty Zahrah?” Victor was enquiring.

Ayesha responded: “Well, baby. I can't talk on the phone right now. My mom's just got inside my room, and can we meet tomorrow at Heart of Gold, 4pm?”

“Okay, Heart of Gold, 4pm.” He confirmed.

“Luv you baby.” Ayesha said.

“Luv you to….” But the line went dead before Victor could end his goodbye.

***********************************************************************

The Rashid residence is called "the Spanish House," the mansion was a typical Mediterranean villa. It was basically concrete block with a stucco exterior and a combination of lath-and-plaster and wallboard inside. The house had grown considerably since its birth in the 1400.

Architecturally, it is remarkably unified, with Mediterranean arches and a real red tile roof. The tile roof provided excellent insulation and reduces the workload on the air-conditioning. Windows and sliding doors are top-of-the-line insulated thermal pane glass with a coating to cut air transmission.

Real Spanish tile floors highlighted the grand entry Hall, the living room, the dining room, the kitchen, the laundry, the utility room, the guest suite, and the guest bath.

Its eleven rooms plus four baths were all generous in size. Downstairs rooms had nine and ten-foot ceilings. There were built-ins galore. Custom cabinets in the living room, dining room, kitchen, and powder room all match each other and the magnificent curved grand staircase.

All the bedrooms and dressing rooms have entire walls covered with cedar closets and built-in chests and cupboards. The chandeliers, ceiling fans, and fixtures were exquisite.

Inside the mansion, there was a masjid (masque) for the Rashad family and their friends. Every Friday from noon to 2:30pm, all you heard was the unique recitation of the holy Quran from the mansion's woofers surrounding the building.

Mechanically, the house was completely up-to-date, from its central vacuum system, most efficient air-conditioning systems (independent systems for upstairs and downstairs), built-in telephone system, modern plumbing and wiring, and advanced water treatment system to its top-of-the-line built-in appliances. The kitchen featured restaurant-quality equipment usually only found in homes costing millions of dollars. This was an extremely comfortable family home, yet with the spaciousness and elegance required for entertaining on a grand scale.

The mansion was located atop one of the highest dunes along the coast of Lumley beach in Freetown. This gave it the best views obtainable.

Ayesha had spent all her life inside this mansion except for family vacations to Lebanon and the rest of the world.

Her friends once described this house as “Ayesha's little prison.”

Ayesha was the Rashad's favourite child; everyone from her mom to the last of the siblings adored her.

On this Friday afternoon just after Juma prayers, Her dad, Pa Rashad, as he was addressed by all, had summoned Ayesha for a one-on-one meeting inside his room.

Ahmad Rashad was born in the Assyrian-speaking Rashad household on October 20, 1916 in Kenema, Sierra Leone, but lived most of his life in Kesrouan, Lebanon. He had returned back to Sierra Leone within the last twenty three years just after Ayesha was born.

Pa Rashad is a strict disciplinarian by the real meaning of the word. If you were summoned by the old man for a one-on-one meeting, then something was seriously wrong. This Friday afternoon, Ayesha, with all the other women, in their household just finished performing the Friday Juma prayers and was wondering why her dad wanted to talk to her privately.

“I thought we had talks last night.” She wondered.

Her mom was the emissary for the meeting. Pa Rashad earlier that week told his wife that he wanted to talk to her little girl just after Juma prayers.

“Your dad will like to talk to you.” Imrana Rashad mentioned. “It's not anything that serious, just a little chat with you.”

“But Mama, you know Pa Rashad. Whenever he needs to talk to you, something must be wrong. I'm really concerned what he wants from me this time.” Ayesha replied.

Hugging each other, the older woman said: “I love you ‘Yesha. You'll be fine, ok?”

“Hope so, Mama.” The younger woman said.

Ahmad Rashad, drapped in a typical Islamic attire, came down the stairs to the hall, where Ayesha and her mother waited. Ahmad was a tall, big man with a balding head and a freckled complexion.