Konneh reaffirms purpose of visit

The World Bank Manager for Fragility, Conflict, Violence and Forced Migration hub for eastern Africa has disclosed that his ten days’ vacation here is to meet with family and friends. The bank official says he also intends to meet with young people in the country to discuss the future of Liberia.

Former Finance, Development and Planning Minister Amara Konneh said the future of the country solely rest in the hands of the young people and it is important for young to come together with one understanding, in finding an amicable way to move the country forward.

Speaking Monday in Monrovia at an interfaith intercessory program held at the Monrovia City Hall, for his safe arrival here, Konneh intimated that while is true that Liberia is underdeveloped, he argues that the progress of the 169 years old challenges are far better as compare to Central African Republic, South Sudan and other countries that are facing civil unrest. The ceremony brought thousands of young people, interfaith groupings, Yana Boys Association, the Friends of Amara and AMK Foundation among others.

Konneh said his decision to hold discussion with young people during his visit here has nothing to do with the impending 2017 Representatives and Presidential elections, a comment which dismisses fears that he is being push for a VP slot on the ruling party ticket. He, however, insisted that it is intended to allow young people develop their thinking and style of approach to a better one.

The Former Finance and Development Planning Minister earlier on Sunday laughed out media speculations here that he is being picked to become vice presidential candidate for the governing Unity Party, dismissing these speculations as unfounded.

Several local media institutions in Monrovia have speculated that President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf had handpicked Mr. Konneh to become running mate to UP standard bearer, Vice President Joseph Boakai.

Ambassador Boakai is seeking a third term for the ruling party, but the ex-finance boss, who currently occupies a World Bank post in Nairobi, Kenya, said he has no political intention here at the moment. Konneh denied being pushed on the VP as running mate.

Sources within the ruling party also told this paper that in spite of the speculations that the former MFDP minister is being pushed on the Vice President, V.P. Boakai is said to be weighing the multiple options before him, in ensuring that he gets a geopolitical balance for his campaign.

Other sources say the Vice President maybe pondering over Grand Bassa and Bong Counties, as possible options for his running mate. Mr. Konneh, who is expected to arrive in Monrovia today, Monday, 19 December 18, disclosed to this paper that after being out of Liberia for eight months, he is coming to reconnect with family members and friends.

By E. J. Nathaniel Daygbor-Edited by Othello B. Garblah