OPEN LETTER FROM TQ HARRIS, JR. findtq@gmail / 231 (0) 88 040-2479 7th March 2014 Dear Friend and loyal supporter: Twenty-two years ago, we embarked upon this journey to correct mistakes dating back even before 1847 to the period of the settlements, and to repair damage caused by fundamental structural flaws that have prevented Africa’s first republic – our common patrimony – from becoming the leader it ought to be; not only on the Continent, but also within the global community. We came together to end the senseless war and provide visionary leadership in eradicating poverty, illiteracy, and the debilitating culture of impunity and dependency that have been the cause of much setback and even failures over the years. The challenges, no doubt, have been enormous, but you have remained steadfast, enduring the hardships and inconveniences of a long non-violent, patriotic struggle. Through it all, you have asked for nothing, but rather gave your all in support of my vision and passion for Liberia and its people. For this, you have earned my highest respect and profound gratitude. I do believe, in the years to come the people of Liberia will know your name as well as the depth of your character. The slow pace of progress in the past ten years, since cessation of hostilities in 2003, and constant fear of renewed violence are more than enough reasons for any patriotic Liberian to reassess his or her position in regards to National Reconciliation. Therefore, in light of your integrity, patriotism, and consistent track record, I am once again seeking your wise counsel and support. The prevailing circumstances demand that we shift focus and move immediately towards reconciliation which is extremely critical if Liberia is to reverse decades of practically zero productivity. Our position, as you are well aware, has been unmistakable. TQ Harris has consistently stood in opposition to all post-war governments dominated by individuals who masterminded, executed, or sustained the brutal 14-year war -- a war in which more than 300,000 men, women and children were killed, maimed, and tortured. Failure to address this issue coupled with the lack of unification has severely impacted the post-war recovery efforts. But we are now at a crossroads and the highest priority must be given to unifying the country and improving the living standards of our people. Therefore it is pivotal we find common ground; because, unless Liberians are willing to set aside our differences and work together for the common good, it will be impossible to create the attractive bastion for a normal, operational society that will induce the necessary investment to rebuild this war torn country. We must by our actions dispel negative perceptions, including the widely held belief that Liberia will again return to war after President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf leaves office or following the departure of United Nations peacekeeping troops. This is detrimental to our survival as a people and a major obstacle to long-term investment. To this end, I shall, in the spirit of reconciliation, officially align myself with the political institution which, in my personal estimation, has the profoundest potential for unifying Liberia at this present time. I hope my action will inspire all peace-loving Liberians to reach out to one another, so that progress in the next ten years can surpass that of all previous decades in the history of the republic. As I conclude, let me leave with you this thought: The change that is necessary to make Liberia a great nation must begin with us: You and Me. As always, I am eternally grateful for your unwavering support. Yours truly, TQ Harris, Jr.
Posted on: Mon, 10 Mar 2014 03:30:58 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015