Published: July 29, 2024
MONROVIA – The Independence Day oration that infuriated U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Catherine Rodriguez, prompting her to walk out of the national ceremony, simultaneously earned applause from other diplomats as Dr. Robtel Pailey delivered her punchlines.
By Lennart Dodoo, [email protected]
It came as no surprise when the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia’s initial statement after Rodriguez’s protest claimed her action was intended to “maintain the event’s decorum and spirit.” During her oration at the 177th Independence Celebration, Dr. Robtel Pailey, a professor at the London School of Economics, critically examined the relationship between Liberia and the United States, urging a reassessment of this so-called “special relationship.”
The ‘Hard Truths’
Dr. Pailey highlighted historical grievances, noting that the U.S. was one of the last countries to recognize Liberia’s independence and has often prioritized its interests over those of Liberia. She called for Liberia to forge new strategic partnerships based on mutual benefit, free from the outsized influence of the U.S. in Liberia’s transitional justice processes. She also stressed that a re-imagined Liberia must be independent, self-reliant, and free from neo-colonial influences to achieve true socio-economic transformation and justice.
In her own words, Dr. Pailey stated, “I remain very concerned about the outsized influence of the United States in our transitional justice process. We must forge new strategic partnerships based on mutual benefit and disabuse ourselves of the notion that we have a ‘special relationship’ with America. Truth be told, this so-called ‘special relationship’ only exists in our imagination. Lest we forget, the United States was one of the last countries to recognize our independence. Lest we forget, the United States has taken more from us than it has given. Lest we forget, the United States will always serve its own interests above all else. Once we accept these truths, we will appreciate that a re-imagined Liberia can never be anyone’s ‘stepchild.’”
Dr. Pailey declined to comment on the walkout by the U.S. Envoy in an exclusive interview with ELBC’s Varflay Kamara the following day, calling it “a distraction.”
The Embassy’s Reaction
The United States Embassy in Monrovia has so far released two intertwined statements explaining the CDA’s action. In the initial statement, the Embassy stated, “Independence Day celebrations should be a time for hope, unity, and celebration. Introducing divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations during such an event undermines its purpose. The CDA’s decision to walk out was a measured response to maintain the event’s decorum and spirit.”
The Embassy further explained in another statement released the same day: “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 Liberian government, on the other hand, described the Orator as a private citizen of Liberia, whose comments are solely her own and protected by the Constitution of Liberia. “The National Orator struck strong points in her speech, of which the Government has taken note and will take appropriate actions where necessary, possible, and feasible.”
This response by the Liberian government appeared to be less concerned about any ramification that the U.S. Envoy’s protest could have for Liberia-U.S. relations, while the U.S. Embassy’s statement on the other hand was quite mindful of equating the walkout to nothing more than a so-called “equal measure” to the Oration.
U.S. relations with Liberia date back to 1819 when the U.S. Congress appropriated $100,000 for the establishment of Liberia. Although Liberia declared its independence in 1847, United States senators from southern states prevented its recognition as a sovereign nation until 1862, during the American Civil War, after the entire Southern delegation in Congress had departed. The two nations shared very close diplomatic, economic, and military ties.
Dr. Pailey’s call for Liberia, the country that is supposed to be America’s strongest partner in a region being gradually taken over by communist countries like China and Russia, is rather alarming for the United States.
Expert Opinions
In his expert opinion, Mamadou L. Bah, Ph.D., a professor at the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) School of International Relations at the University of Liberia, dismissed the view that Dr. Pailey’s allegations against the United States and CDA Rodriguez’s protest could mark the beginning of a strained relationship between the Joseph Boakai regime and the United States.
Dr. Bah stated, “I believe that the diplomatic envoy walked out in protest, nonetheless, they are also aware that the speaker does not speak on behalf of the government.
“The United States government also understands that if they react beyond their so-called ‘measured response’ (walking out), they will just make it easier for Liberia to engage with other partners as the speaker alluded to. These other partners were present during the event and are more than willing to capitalize on such an opportunity. The world is no longer unipolar and the globe has clearly shifted to a multi-polar world. Keep in mind that all over the world, including our region (ECOWAS), the Neo-cold war situation is playing out militarily, economically, and or politically.”
In an Op-Ed submitted to The Liberian Investigator, Mr. Austin S. Fallah, a Public Policy and Diplomatic Expert, opined that “In no uncertain terms, Liberia’s Independence Day orator presented a viewpoint that many of her countrymen might privately hold.
“It is an uncomfortable reality, where frustration and the perception of exploitation simmer below the surface, often unspoken, yet poignant in its existence.
“However, the orator’s message tears at the threads of a delicate fabric woven over years of mutual efforts between Liberia and the United States.”
Mr. Fallah, however, noted that United States has indeed been a partner to Liberia, not just in rhetoric, but in the tangible supply of aid and investment in infrastructure, education, and health systems in modern era.
“To overlook these contributions would be both unjust and counterfactual. Yet, the concern raised by the orator is not to be dismissed lightly. The issue of equitable resource sharing and true economic upliftment remains pressing,” Fallah added.
Strategic Liberia in Geopolitical War
Russia and China are increasingly focusing on expanding their influence in West Africa and the Sahel region. Russia has established military, diplomatic, and economic ties with Niger and other countries, leveraging security assistance and military cooperation. This shift was highlighted when a Russian plane arrived in Niger’s capital, Niamey, on April 10, carrying military trainers and equipment. The growing Russian presence led to protests and the withdrawal of US forces from the region, marking a significant shift away from American influence.
China, on the other hand, has been expanding its presence through infrastructure investments, economic partnerships, resource acquisition, and diplomatic engagement. China has also been involved in military cooperation, providing aid, training, and equipment to enhance security in West African nations. In Liberia, notable Chinese projects include the Jackson F. Doe Referral Hospital in Nimba, the University of Liberia Fendall Campus, and the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex, among other infrastructure developments.
This growing influence of Russia and China poses a threat to America’s interests in the region. As these countries establish deeper ties, the US may lose its grip on African allies, reducing its strategic and operational foothold. The waning American influence, compounded by Russian disinformation and the strategic realignments of local governments, could lead to a significant geopolitical shift in the region.
In this context, Liberia stands out as a potential strategic partner for the United States in West Africa. Despite the region’s history of military coups and disregard for democratic principles, Liberia has maintained a more stable political environment and adherence to democratic norms. Liberia’s commitment to democratic governance and its strategic location make it an essential ally for the US in countering the growing influence of Russia and China. Strengthening ties with Liberia could help the US bolster its presence and influence in West Africa, as it contemplates establishing a command center in the region.
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