In October 2023, the people of Liberia exercised their democratic rights by going to the polls to choose their next leader. The initial round of voting did not produce a candidate with over 50% of the votes, leading to a runoff between incumbent President George Weah and former Vice President Joseph Boikai. However, what sets this election apart is not just the outcome but the remarkable display of sportsmanship and democratic values.

On November 14, 2023, Liberians returned to the polling stations, and this time, they elected Joseph Boikai as Liberia’s next president. It is worth noting that President Weah, unlike some leaders in the African continent who have clung to power despite electoral defeats, took a different and commendable path. He graciously accepted the will of the people and congratulated his opponent, Joseph Boikai.

This act of conceding defeat and extending congratulations speaks volumes about George Weah’s commitment to democratic principles. It is a stark contrast to the unfortunate situations in some countries where leaders refuse to acknowledge electoral outcomes, leading to political turmoil and instability. Weah’s decision to step down gracefully reflects his understanding of the importance of respecting the will of the people and upholding the democratic process.

President Weah’s journey to the presidency has been one of determination and perseverance. He contested for the presidency in 2005 and 2011 but faced defeat on both occasions. However, his unwavering spirit eventually led him to victory in the 2017 elections when he defeated Joseph Boikai. At 57 years of age, Weah still has the opportunity to make a political comeback. His party, the Congress for Democratic Change, remains a significant force in the Liberian legislature, which could play a pivotal role in the country’s future political landscape.

In the world of sports, George Weah’s name is synonymous with excellence. His remarkable football career, where he became one of Africa’s greatest footballers, demonstrates his ability to rise above challenges and achieve success. Similarly, in the realm of politics, Weah’s gracious concession shows his maturity and statesmanship.

As Liberia looks ahead to a new chapter under President Joseph Boikai’s leadership, it is essential to appreciate the peaceful and democratic transition that has taken place. The Liberian people have demonstrated their commitment to democratic values, and President George Weah’s sportsmanlike behavior has set a positive example for leaders across the continent.

In conclusion, the Liberia election of 2023 not only signifies a change in leadership but also serves as a beacon of democracy and sportsmanship. George Weah’s gracious concession and the peaceful transition of power are testaments to the strength of Liberia’s democracy. As the nation moves forward, it is hoped that these values will continue to guide its leaders and citizens toward a brighter future.

When I ( Karyokie Peeco Conway) first joined the River Gee County Association in the Americas (RIGCAA) back in 2009, I had high hopes for what this organization could achieve. However, over the years, I have come to realize that the challenges faced by RIGCAA are not unique to this particular association but are instead reflective of a larger problem within Liberian community organizations, including the Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA).

My initial encounter with RIGCAA was disheartening. The first meeting I attended was marred by chaos, with Mr. Birch and Mr. George Nagbe locked in a fierce leadership battle. This conflict not only affected the national level but also permeated throughout the organization. It reached its peak at the 2010 National Convention in Jersey, where Mr. Jerome Koon and Mr. George Nagba battled for the position of National President, seeking to replace Mr. Charles Quitee, who was constitutionally banned from seeking a third term. Mr. Nagba emerged as the victor, but the aftermath resulted in a split within the organization.

Unfortunately, the conflicts within RIGCAA did not dissipate with time. Even after Mr. Aloysius Benjamin-Mr. Syvanus Tipayson’s recent victory in July 2023 over former vice president Mr. Wilfrey Winn-Roosevelt Swen, tensions, and divisions continue to plague the organization. In 2012, Mrs. Alice W. Mulbah succeeded Nagbe, but it is my belief that Mr. Nagbe chose not to seek a second term due to the infighting that consistently hindered progress. Instead of acting as pillars of support, former presidents like Charles Quitee, Nagbe, and Mulbah became active saboteurs, aligning themselves with groups that undermined the administration led by Mr. Isaac Toee.

A prime example of this behavior was Mrs. Mulbah’s refusal to hand over the library in Fishtown, River Gee County, Liberia, to Mr. Toee and also insisting on not turning over funds received for the library project to Mr. Toee because Mrs. Mulbah thought that she was the best person to continue the library project although she was not an official of the organization at the time. Such actions only serve to further fracture the organization, diverting attention away from the critical issues that demand our focus. The county is grappling with significant challenges, including a lack of qualified teachers, insufficient basic services, and rampant unemployment. Instead of collectively addressing these pressing concerns, internal strife continues to consume RIGCAA’s energy and resources.

To ensure the sustainability of RIGCAA, I had discussions with President Benjamin regarding a potential solution. I proposed that every member, in addition to their contributions to their respective chapters, contribute $10 monthly to the national organization. This additional financial support would provide a reliable source of income for RIGCAA, enabling it to represent the interests of its members effectively. DuringMr. Toee’s administration, Mrs. Martha Freeman worked tirelessly to organize fundraising events to raise funds for RIGCAA. Mrs. Freeman did an awesome that I am really proud of. Still, on the issue of a reliable source of funding for RIGCAA, some members suggested an even higher monthly contribution, such ideas failed to gain traction within RIGCAA’s chatroom, primarily due to the toxic environment characterized by insults and personal attacks.

The truth is that such behavior drives people away from the organization and undermines its ability to achieve its goals. It is disheartening to witness the erosion of unity and camaraderie that should be the bedrock of any community association. Instead, we find ourselves embroiled in internal conflicts, perpetuating a cycle of dysfunction that hampers our progress.

With Benjamin-Tipayson now leading the organization, it is my sincere hope that he and his administration will redirect their efforts toward addressing the crucial problems facing our county. It is time for RIGCAA to shine a light on these issues and work collaboratively with the county leadership to find sustainable solutions. However, for this to be possible, a fundamental shift in mindset is necessary. We must prioritize unity, respect, and constructive dialogue within our organization.

Let us learn from the mistakes of the past and rebuild RIGCAA into an association that serves as a force for positive change. By embracing inclusivity, fostering open communication, and encouraging the participation of all members, we can forge a stronger and more effective organization that uplifts River Gee County and its diaspora community.

It is my hope that RIGCAA will seize this opportunity for renewal, demonstrating to other Liberian community organizations, including ULAA, that unity and cooperation are the keys to progress. Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and build a brighter future for all Liberians.

As the saying goes, “Age is just a number.” However, in the case of Senator Dianne Feinstein, her age has become a topic of controversy, with some Democratic senators calling for her resignation. Despite this, I firmly believe that Senator Feinstein should remain in her position as senator, and age should not be used as a basis to force her to resign.

Firstly, it is important to acknowledge that ageism is a form of discrimination, and it is unacceptable to use someone’s age as a reason for them to step down from a position they have been elected to. Senator Feinstein has served California for almost three decades and has been a powerful voice for the people. She has advocated for issues such as gun control, climate change, and healthcare, and has been a strong supporter of women’s rights. To call for her resignation based solely on her age is unfair and disrespectful to her years of service.

Secondly, age should not be seen as a barrier to political efficacy. Senator Feinstein has shown time and time again that she is still capable of fulfilling her duties as a senator. In fact, she has been an active participant in the Senate Judiciary Committee’s confirmation hearings for Supreme Court Justices, where she has asked insightful questions and provided valuable contributions to the debate. Age has not hindered her ability to perform her duties effectively, and it would be a disservice to the people of California to lose her experience and expertise.

Furthermore, it is worth noting that many other senators are also of a similar age to Senator Feinstein and continue to serve their constituents effectively. Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa is 88 years old and still serving in the Senate, as is Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont, who is 81. Age alone should not be a reason for resignation, especially when the senator in question is still capable of fulfilling their duties and serving their constituents.

Lastly, it is important to recognize that Senator Feinstein is not alone in facing health issues. As Senator Gillibrand of New York pointed out, many senators, regardless of age, have dealt with illnesses during their time in office. It is unfair to single out Senator Feinstein for her age and health concerns when other senators have faced similar issues.

In conclusion, Senator Feinstein should not be forced to resign from her position as senator based solely on her age. Ageism is a form of discrimination, and it is unfair to dismiss someone’s years of experience and expertise simply because of their age. Senator Feinstein has demonstrated her ability to continue serving her constituents effectively, and she should be allowed to continue doing so without interference. The people of California have elected her to represent them, and they should be allowed to decide when it is time for her to step down, not other politicians based solely on her age.

Correctional officers, also known as prison officers, are unsung heroes who work in stressful and high-pressure environments. Their job requires them to manage and supervise prisoners, often in overcrowded and dangerous conditions. The work of correctional officers is both physically and emotionally demanding, and it comes as no surprise that they are always angry.

The root cause of correctional officers’ anger is the nature of their job. They are constantly exposed to violent and aggressive behavior, which can be traumatic and overwhelming. They work long hours, often without breaks, and are under constant scrutiny from their supervisors and the public. They are also subjected to verbal abuse and threats from prisoners, which can wear them down over time.

Furthermore, the work of a correctional officer is often thankless. They are rarely acknowledged or recognized for their efforts, and the public often views them with suspicion and distrust. This lack of recognition and appreciation can lead to feelings of frustration and anger.

The anger of correctional officers can manifest in a variety of ways. They may become short-tempered, irritable, or aggressive. They may withdraw from social activities or become isolated from friends and family. They may even turn to substance abuse as a way to cope with their emotions.

Fortunately, there are steps that correctional officers can take to deal with their anger and improve their mental health. One of the most effective ways to manage anger is through physical activity. Regular exercise can help to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase energy levels. Correctional officers should make time for physical activity, whether it is through a structured workout routine or a recreational sport.

Another effective way to manage anger is through participation in religious groups. Religious communities offer a sense of belonging and support, which can be particularly helpful for individuals who work in high-stress environments. Correctional officers can benefit from the spiritual and emotional guidance provided by religious leaders and fellow members.

Participating in community activities can also be helpful for correctional officers. Volunteering for local charities or organizations can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, which can counteract the negative emotions associated with their job. Additionally, community involvement can help correctional officers to build relationships outside of work and improve their social support network.

Finally, spending time with family and friends can be an effective way to manage anger. Correctional officers should prioritize time with their loved ones, whether it is through regular dinners or outings. They should also make time for leisure activities that they enjoy, such as hobbies or travel. By engaging in activities outside of work, correctional officers can reduce their stress levels and improve their overall mental health.

In conclusion, correctional officers are always angry because of the stressful and high-pressure nature of their job. However, there are steps that they can take to manage their anger and improve their mental health. Physical activity, participation in religious groups, community involvement, and spending time with family and friends can all be effective strategies for coping with the emotional toll of their job. It is important for correctional officers to prioritize their mental health and well-being in order to continue to provide the valuable service they offer to society.

The recent tour of Africa by United States Vice President Kamala Harris has highlighted the ongoing power struggle between the United States and China for influence in Africa. While the two superpowers continue to engage in a geopolitical tussle for dominance, Africa has resorted to outdated cold war tactics that do not benefit the continent in any way.

It is disappointing to note that Africa continues to cling to outdated ideologies that do not consider the realities of the modern world. Instead of positioning itself as an equal partner globally, Africa has once again become a pawn in the geopolitical game between the United States and China. This is a grave mistake that will only lead to Africa being used as a battleground for the two superpowers, rather than being a beneficiary of their rivalry.

The visit by Vice President Kamala Harris is an opportunity for Africa to assert its independence and to take a pragmatic approach that will benefit the continent. Africa has vast untapped potential in terms of resources, human capital, and economic growth, but these will not be fully realized if the continent continues to be divided along ideological lines.

Instead of relying on the United States or China for support, Africa should seek to build strong partnerships with both powers, as well as with other global actors such as the European Union and Russia. This will ensure that Africa is not beholden to any one country but rather has a diversified portfolio of partners who can help it achieve its development goals.

Furthermore, Africa must take a more active role in shaping the global agenda. The continent has a population of over one billion people, yet it continues to be marginalized in international affairs. African leaders must assert themselves on the global stage and demand their voices be heard.

The ongoing power struggle between the United States and China should not be allowed to distract Africa from pursuing its own development agenda. The continent must take a pragmatic approach that seeks to maximize its own interests, rather than being drawn into the ideological battles of the superpowers.

In conclusion, Africa must adopt a more strategic and independent approach in its engagement with the United States and China. It is time for the continent to take charge of its own destiny and pursue partnerships that will benefit it in the long run. Failure to do so will only result in Africa being used as a pawn in the ongoing geopolitical game between the two superpowers, to the detriment of its own development.

The indictment of former President Donald Trump by the Manhattan DA has caused a great deal of controversy in the country. While Trump claims that the indictment is politically motivated, it is essential to understand that nobody is above the law, and justice must be served regardless of who the person is. It is disappointing to see the Republican party criticizing the Manhattan DA for bringing charges against Trump. It’s impossible to claim to be the law and order party and then try to criticize the legal process when it’s not in your favor.

The United States of America is a democratic country that operates under the rule of law. The legal system is the backbone of democracy and provides a mechanism for ensuring that justice is served. The Manhattan DA’s indictment of Trump is part of the legal process and must be allowed to play out. It is not up to any individual, party, or group to decide who should be indicted or prosecuted.

The Republican party has consistently advocated for law and order and has used this as a campaign tool in previous elections. However, it is essential to understand that law and order are not selective. The party cannot claim to be the law and order party and then criticize the legal process when it does not go their way. It is hypocritical to argue for law and order when it’s convenient, but when the legal process goes against them, suddenly the system is corrupt and politicized.

It is important to remember that the Manhattan DA is an independent body and has the authority to bring charges against anyone who they believe has committed a crime. Their decision to indict Trump was not a political decision but based on evidence and facts. It is essential for everyone, regardless of their political affiliation, to respect the legal process and let it run its course.

We must allow the legal system to do its job without interference. The United States of America is a nation of laws, and nobody is above the law. Therefore, Trump should not be exempt from the legal process, and the Manhattan DA must be allowed to conduct its investigation and bring charges if necessary. Criticizing the Manhattan DA and questioning the legal process only undermines democracy and weakens the rule of law.

In conclusion, the indictment of Donald Trump by the Manhattan DA has caused a great deal of controversy in the country. However, it is essential to understand that justice must be served, and nobody is above the law. The Republican party cannot claim to be the law and order party and then criticize the legal process when it’s not in their favor. We must be patient and allow the legal process to play out, and respect the independence of the legal system. Only then can we ensure that justice is served, and the rule of law prevails.

Raila Odinga, a prominent Kenyan politician, has called on his supporters to demonstrate on Monday and Thursday, in what many see as an attempt to challenge the newly elected President, William Ruto. This move has drawn criticism from different quarters, including the Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome, who has warned that the police will not accept any violent protest.

The call for protests by Raila Odinga is not only reckless but also undermines the democratic process in Kenya. It is not the first time he has called for demonstrations, and his previous actions have resulted in the loss of lives and the destruction of property. His supporters have also been known to engage in acts of violence during protests, which only serves to deepen the divide in the country.

It is disappointing that Raila Odinga, a seasoned politician who has held various leadership positions in the country, cannot appreciate the need for peaceful coexistence in a democratic society. His actions are not only irresponsible but also put the lives of innocent Kenyans at risk.

President William Ruto has been in power for less than a year, and it is unfair to judge him based on the current economic situation. The country is still recovering from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has impacted economies globally. It takes time to implement policies that can bring about the desired change in the economy, and this cannot be achieved through protests and violence.

The behavior exhibited by Raila Odinga is part of the reason why Kenyans did not elect him as president. Kenyans have seen the consequences of his actions in the past, where his call for protests has resulted in loss of lives and the destruction of property. It is evident that he puts his political ambitions above the well-being of Kenyans.

As an African, it is disheartening to see a leader like Raila Odinga, who should be a role model to many, engage in actions that can lead to political unrest. The continent has seen its fair share of political instability, which has resulted in untold suffering to its citizens. It is, therefore, important for leaders to exercise restraint and promote peaceful coexistence.

The responsibility of ensuring peace and stability in Kenya rests with every citizen, including political leaders. Leaders should be at the forefront of promoting dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts. The culture of violence and protests only serves to deepen the divide in the country and undermines the democratic process.

In conclusion, Raila Odinga’s call for protests is not only reckless but also undermines the democratic process in Kenya. The country needs leaders who are willing to promote dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts. President William Ruto needs time to implement policies that can bring about the desired change in the economy. It is, therefore, important for leaders like Raila Odinga to refrain from inciting Kenyans to risk their lives in protests that can only result in the loss of lives and destruction of property. As an African, I urge all leaders to promote peaceful coexistence and refrain from engaging in actions that can lead to political instability.

The recent drone attack by Iranian-backed militants in Northern Syria against United States troops is a cause for concern. This attack comes at a time when tensions are already high between the United States and Iran, and the situation is made worse by Iran’s support of Russia in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The fact that Iran is providing drones to Russia to be used against Ukrainian military forces, which are supported by the United States and its allies, adds a new dimension to the conflict in the region. The situation in Syria is further complicated by the involvement of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard (IRG), which has been in Syria since 2011 protecting the Bashar al Assad government.

The attack on the United States base in Northern Syria is not an isolated incident. The Pentagon reports that Iranian-backed rebels have launched 78 attacks before the latest one earlier this week. This indicates a pattern of aggression that needs to be addressed before it escalates into something more dangerous. The retaliatory strikes by the United States on pro-Iranian-backed militants were met with another attack on US troops, indicating that the situation is escalating.

It is clear that the way forward is not military action but a negotiation between opposing parties. The United States has made it clear that it does not seek conflict but will “act forcefully” to protect its troops. However, this stance must be accompanied by a commitment to diplomacy and negotiation. Military action alone is unlikely to resolve the complex issues that have led to the current situation in Syria and the wider Middle East.

The involvement of Iran in the conflict in Syria and its support of Russia in the conflict with Ukraine only serves to complicate the situation further. The fact that Iran is providing drones to Russia to be used against Ukrainian military forces indicates that the conflict is spreading beyond the borders of Syria and into other regions. This is a cause for concern, as it could lead to a wider conflict that could have serious consequences for the global community.

The situation in Syria and the wider Middle East is complex and multifaceted, and it requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account all the factors involved. Military action alone is unlikely to be effective, and it could lead to an escalation of the conflict. Diplomacy and negotiation are the only way forward, and they must be accompanied by a commitment to addressing the underlying issues that have led to the current situation.

In conclusion, the recent drone attack by Iranian-backed militants in Northern Syria against United States troops is a cause for concern. The situation is made more complex by Iran’s support of Russia in the conflict with Ukraine. The involvement of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard (IRG) in Syria further complicates the situation. The way forward is not military action but a negotiation between opposing parties. Diplomacy and negotiation must be accompanied by a commitment to addressing the underlying issues that have led to the current situation. The global community must work together to find a comprehensive solution to the conflict in Syria and the wider Middle East.

As a long-time follower of soccer and a former player, I believe that FIFA should do away with the red card system in soccer. The red card, which results in a player being sent off the field and banned from further participation in the match, is a harsh punishment that can severely impact a team’s chances of winning. In my opinion, this system is outdated and needs to be reconsidered.

One of the main reasons why I believe that FIFA should abolish the red card system is because of the impact it has on the game. When a player is sent off the field, their team is left with one fewer player, which puts them at a significant disadvantage. This can be especially problematic if the red card is issued early in the game. In these situations, the team with the extra player can often dominate possession and score multiple goals, making it nearly impossible for the short-handed team to come back.

In contrast, other sports like basketball have a different approach to dealing with egregious fouls. In basketball, a player can be ejected for a particularly violent or dangerous foul, but the team is allowed to replace him with another player. This system ensures that the game can continue with both teams having an equal number of players, while still punishing the offending player appropriately. This approach strikes a better balance between maintaining the integrity of the game and ensuring that both teams have a fair chance to compete.

Another reason why I believe that FIFA should do away with the red card system is that soccer is more than just a form of entertainment; it is a significant financial investment for many clubs, players, and fans. The game generates billions of dollars in revenue every year, and the outcome of a single match can have a significant impact on the fortunes of a club, player, or sponsor.

When a player is sent off with a red card, the impact goes beyond just the outcome of the current match. The player will also be suspended for a subsequent match, which can have further financial implications. For example, if a star player is sent off in a crucial game, not only does his team lose his services for the remainder of that game, but he will also miss the next game, which could be just as important. This could lead to a decrease in ticket sales, merchandise sales, and overall revenue for the club.

Furthermore, the financial impact of a red card can also affect the player in question. If a player is suspended for a significant period, it can hurt their chances of securing a new contract or sponsorship deal. This is particularly true for younger players who are still trying to establish themselves in the sport. A red card could hinder their progress and negatively impact their career prospects.

Finally, I would like to emphasize that I am not advocating for a complete elimination of penalties for egregious fouls in soccer. Rather, I am suggesting that FIFA should explore alternative ways to punish players for violent or dangerous behavior that do not involve sending them off the field. One possible solution would be to introduce a sin-bin system, similar to the one used in rugby, where players are temporarily removed from the field for a set period but can return once that time has elapsed.

In conclusion, as a long-time follower of soccer and former player, I believe that FIFA should reconsider the red card system in soccer. The current system is outdated, and the harsh punishment of a red card can severely impact a team’s chances of winning, and have significant financial implications. FIFA should explore alternative ways to punish players for violent or dangerous behavior that do not involve sending them off the field. By doing so, we can ensure that the game remains fair and competitive, while still maintaining the integrity of the sport.

The African continent is vast and diverse, with many nations striving for individual development goals. However, amidst the complexity of the African continent’s economic and political landscape, there is one idea that has gained traction in recent years – the notion that a single currency would be good for the entire continent. While this concept may seem far-fetched to some, there are several reasons why a single currency could be beneficial for the continent as a whole.

Firstly, it is worth considering the current economic realities of the African continent. Many African nations are struggling with high levels of debt, much of which has been incurred through their dealings with China. In fact, China has become one of the most significant lenders to African nations, providing funding for everything from infrastructure projects to large-scale investments in key industries. While this influx of capital has helped to fuel economic growth in some African countries, it has also left many nations vulnerable to China’s economic and political influence.

In this context, a single currency could help to mitigate some of these risks. By creating a unified economic system, African nations could work together to reduce their reliance on external lenders such as China, thereby gaining greater control over their own economic futures. This would be particularly important for smaller, less developed African nations that are often at the mercy of larger, more powerful economic players.

Secondly, a single currency could help to promote greater economic integration across the African continent. Currently, many African nations are only able to trade with a limited number of other nations due to differences in currency, exchange rates, and other financial factors. This can limit economic growth and development in some areas, while also perpetuating disparities between different regions of the continent.

By creating a single currency, African nations would be able to trade more freely with one another, thereby promoting greater economic integration and cooperation. This could be particularly beneficial for landlocked nations that are currently isolated from many of their neighboring countries due to logistical and financial barriers.

Finally, a single currency could help to address some of the historic power imbalances that have long existed between African nations and their former colonial powers. In particular, the move by French-speaking African nations to abandon the CFA franc in favor of a new, pan-African currency is a powerful symbolic gesture that could help to break down some of the historic divisions that have long existed on the continent.

Under the CFA franc system, French-speaking African nations were required to deposit 50% of their foreign exchange reserves with the French Treasury, effectively giving France significant control over their monetary policy. This has long been seen as a source of resentment among many African nations, who have argued that it perpetuates a system of economic neo-colonialism.

By creating a new, pan-African currency, French-speaking African nations are taking a significant step towards greater economic independence and self-determination. This could serve as a powerful example to other African nations, demonstrating that a single currency can be used to promote greater economic autonomy and reduce historic power imbalances.

Of course, there are many challenges that would need to be overcome in order to create a single currency for the African continent. These include issues around exchange rates, inflation, and macroeconomic stability, among others. However, these challenges should not be seen as insurmountable, particularly given the potential benefits that could be achieved through greater economic integration and cooperation.

In conclusion, there are many reasons why a single currency could be beneficial for the African continent. From reducing reliance on external lenders to promoting greater economic integration and addressing historic power imbalances, a single currency could help to create a more unified and prosperous African continent. While there are certainly challenges that must be overcome in order to achieve this goal, it is an idea that is worthy of serious consideration by African leaders and policymakers.