Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Monrovia (Fides Service)-“The country seems to want change but those in command have not changed” Father Mauro Armanino, SMA, provincial Superior tells Fides with regard to the appointment of George Dweh president of the national transition parliament. Dweh is a top leader of LURD (Liberians United for Reconciliation and Democracy), the main rebel group which opposed ousted President Taylor, in exile in Nigeria since August. “The people who are taking positions in the institutions established after Taylor’s resigned from power are those most responsible for throwing Liberia into chaos. Rebel leaders and Taylor’s men are sharing among themselves posts of command. Immunity for crimes committed prevails” says the missionary.
“The parties which fought each other in the civil war, Taylor with his loyalists and the two rebels groups LURD e MODEL (Liberian Democratic Movement) justify each other: ethnic rivalry presented as the reason for the conflict are only a mask over a brutal power struggle.”
“The civil war left Liberia totally dependent on international bodies. Its economy is at a standstill, the only work available are jobs offered by humanitarian organisations. Export of precious timber has resumed but on reaching the port merchandise is taxed by MODEL”.
Dweh’s appointment comes after Liberian businessman Gyude Bryant was appointed president of the temporary government which has the task of preparing elections by 2005.
Human Rights activists voice concern over the appointment of Dweh said to be involved in atrocities committed during the civil war. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 22/10/2003, lines 28 words 309)
