By Taisiah Merfee

IPNEWS: The Chairman Emeritus of the National Patriotic Party (NPP), Chief Cyril A. Allen, wants the US Embassy to apologize to the people of Liberia for the Embassy’s Delegation’s action to walk out of the occasion marking Liberia’s 177th Independence Day Anniversary.

The NPP Chairman Emeritus noted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs should contact the US Government on Chargé d’Affaires Catherine Rodriguez’s actions that she exhibited on that Friday during the Independence Day program.

He acknowledged the long-existing ties between Liberia and the United States of America but noted that the behavior of the U.S Delegations led by its Chargé d’Affaires was undiplomatic as such there is a need that they apologize to the President of Liberia, Mr. Joseph N. Boakai, and the Liberian people. According to Chief Allen, the Chargé d’Affaires’ actions to walk out from the hall, was “arrogant, disrespectful and rude on grounds that it is not in line with diplomatic missions. I do not speak for anyone; nor for an institution. I’m speaking as an elderly statesman. My head does not fit in the mouth of anyone or is anybody feeding me,” Chief Cyril Allen said.

Expressing dissatisfaction with some of the things that the Independence Day’s Orator was saying, the US Embassy delegation walked out of the hall while Liberia’s President and his Ghanaian counterparts were sitting in the hall listening to the orator.

In response to Orator’s Pailey’s oration, the US Embassy said “In light of recent events at the Liberian Independence Day Celebration, the United States Embassy wishes to address concerns regarding Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) Rodriguez’s decision to leave the event.

“The United States and Liberia share a unique history and democratic values. Unfortunately, the national orator introduced divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations.

“The United States has a long history of providing foreign assistance, amounting to at least $163 million annually. This is separate from the U.S. government’s contributions to several international organizations that also provide aid to the Liberian people.

“Additionally, numerous U.S. foundations, private American citizens, and nongovernmental organizations are dedicated to uplifting the Liberian people. Independence Day is a time for hope and unity. CDA Rodriguez’s decision to walk out was a measured response to the orator’s comments. While the orator is entitled to freedom of speech, the CDA chose to exercise her right not to listen to such remarks.

“The United States remains a steadfast partner to Liberia, dedicated to fostering a positive and collaborative relationship based on shared values and mutual respect. We look forward to continuing our work together, now and in the future, for the benefit of both nations.”

The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Information, has since distance itself from the statement made by Ms. Robtel Pailey against the American people. Many Liberians both home and abroad including some senators and lawmakers have since given divided views regarding Ms. Pailey’s oration with some backing her speech while others think that her statement against the American people was disrespectful as a result of long existence ties between the two countries.

The NPP Chairman Emeritus believes the Orator’s speech represents the views of her generation on grounds that some Western countries are always in the constant habit of allegedly arms twisting other countries for their personal gains. He blasts at government’s officials, who are defending the actions of the US Chargé d’Affaires (CDA) grounds that they are afraid of them being placed on sanction by the American government something which he terms as “insignificant”.

“I was on sanction for the 12 unbroken years and that did not have any impact on me. I continue to live a better life. The people continue to impose unnecessary sanctions on people around the world because they are one of the world’s super powers.”

The National Patriotic Party Chairman Emeritus Chief Cyril Allen was quick to point out that the authorities of the Liberian government should have requested the copy of the orator’s speech for review before the program.