Monrovia – The African Journalists Network (AJN) has certificated Assistant Sports Minister Murvee Gray as its personality for 2016.
Report by Danesius Marteh, [email protected]
According to AJN-Liberia chapter coordinator, Gray has significantly contributed to national development and reconciliation through sports.
Roosevelt Giko recalled Gray’s contribution during the Ebola pandemic in 2014.
“When Liberians were challenged as a result of the outbreak, when foreigners were trouping in and national practitioners left the country because of the virus, one person stood tall in the midst and said I will continue to unify Liberians.
“Today it is no mistake for Minister Gray to receive this award. Minister Gray has unified many young people [through sports]. There were three [county meet] leagues in which he chaired [the organizing committee]. There has been no major challenge for the past three years.
“So we believe if such personality will conduct three successful leagues [free of violence] we consider him as the father of reconciliation. He is somebody who can reconcile people.”
“On behalf of our board of director, who would have loved to be here but due to international engagements in Nairobi, Kenya, has asked me to extend his profound gratitude to you,” said Giko.
He also cautioned the media against blackmailing prominent individuals, terming as a serious crime against free speech.
“The role of the media is not to negatively criticize. The role of the media is not to blackmail.
The role of the media is to join national government in celebrating national development. So I have come to celebrate a true son of the soil, who has contributed to national reconciliation and development,” added Giko.
After proudly receiving his certificate, Gray thanked the chief patron of sports and dedicated the recognition to his county.
“I am overwhelmed. I am honored and grateful for this award. Let me say thank you to the president of the republic of Liberia, Madam Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, for the opportunity given to me to serve my people. I would not have shown myself if she had not given me this opportunity.
“I want to say thank you to the staff at the Ministry of Youth & Sports, the various federations and associations for the cooperation. This award is dedicated to the people of Bomi County,” said Gray, who has been assistant minister since January 2006.
He has been planning and supervising all sporting disciplines under the supervision of the Deputy Sports and Minister.
Gray teaches sociology and physical education at the Smythe Institute of Management and Technology on 16th Street.
He was vice president for operations of the Liberia Track and Field Federation from 2001-2005.
Gray was Director of Physical Education and sports at the Monrovia Consolidated School System from 2002 to 2006; Don Bosco Technical High School from 1996 to 2006; Richard M. Nixon Institute from 1992 to 1996 and M. Sungu Cooper School from 1994 to 1996.