US Walks Out of Liberia’s Independence Day Celebration Amidst Controversial Speech

In a rare and unprecedented move, American representatives walked out of Liberia’s 177th Independence Day celebration in Monrovia, protesting a “provocative” statement made by the national orator, Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailey.

Dr. Pailey’s speech criticized the United States for taking more from Liberia than it has given, saying “Truth be told, the United States of America has taken more from us than we have received. Liberia is nobody’s stepchild.” She also accused the US of interfering in Liberia’s transitional justice process.

The US delegation, led by Chargé D’Affaires Catherine Rodriguez, promptly walked out of the ceremony in response to Dr. Pailey’s comments. The US Embassy later issued a statement, saying that Independence Day celebrations should be a time for hope, unity, and celebration, and that introducing divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations undermines the event’s purpose.

The Liberian government responded by stating that Dr. Pailey does not speak for the government, emphasizing her right to freedom of expression. A diplomatic source, however, said that the orator’s critique was pointed in the wrong direction.

The controversy comes as the US has been critical of corruption in Liberia, which has received billions of dollars in aid from the US Agency for International Development (USAID) over the years. The funds have been grossly mismanaged, with some officials accused of corruption.

The US has also been critical of graft in Liberia, with former Ambassador Michael McCarthy accusing lawmakers of corruption and underfunding hospitals and service centers, leaving rural citizens destitute.

The incident has sparked concerns about the relationship between the two countries, with political analysts saying it highlights an embarrassing beginning for President Joseph Boakai’s administration on Liberia’s first Independence Day under his leadership.