‘Strengthen Ties with America’ – U.S.-based Muslim Cleric Admonishes Pres. Weah

Monrovia – A Liberian Islamist Cleric,  Abubakar Sheriff wants President George Manneh Weah to improve diplomatic relations with the United States of America.

Addressing a news conference in Monrovia recently, Sheik Sheriff said an improved diplomatic relation with the United States, Liberia’s closest ally will be in the interest of the Weah-led administration; something he noticed is not happening.

“The United States is a historical friend of Liberia and I believe that the tide should be at its best than what it is now. So, the President needs to put more effort so that this relationship can lead to more economic progress and putting back Liberia to where it belongs.

Since the dawn of the Weah administration, there have been reports of a lukewarm relationship with the United States of America; although officials have denied such claim.

Sheik Sheriff also called on the President to set up an economic council to find solution to the ongoing economic crisis that is engulfing the government.

Recently upon his return to Liberia, the US-based Liberian Cleric expressed optimism over Liberia’s progress under the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) led administration.

Speaking on a wide range of issues of national concern upon his arrival from the United States, Sheikh Sheriff noted that despite the prevailing economic situation, the programs initiated by President George M. Weah are in the right trajectory and called on all Liberians to rally around the President for the successful implementation.

Sheikh Sheriff is the Imam of one of the largest West African Islamist community in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.

He disclosed that he is on an assessment gathering fact on the business climate of Liberia with the intent to encourage potential investors in the United States to invest in Liberia.

Speaking further, he noted that has been deep misconception about Liberia in the wake of the Ebola pandemic and the widespread reported corruption.

He called on the Weah-led administration to step up the fight against corruption and strengthen the rule of law and improve security, things he believes when done will attract investors into the country and boost economic growth.

Said Sheikh Sheriff: “The old enemy of Liberia is corruption. They still need to work hard to minimize it and promote the rule of law. They must work hard to convince people that when they invest in this country their business will be protected. Government workers need to do better when it comes to encouraging investors and be welcoming. People should be happy to receive investors.”