Pres. Sirleaf dedicates new Central Bank building

President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has dedicated a permanent office for the Central Bank of Liberia, constructed under the leadership of Executive Governor Mills Jones.

The Liberian leader said she will continue to challenge those in public service and the private sector that the development of Liberia depends on the vision, leadership and participation of all, adding that goals and targets are achieved only when everyone plays a part.

Speaking Wednesday, July 22, at the newly constructed 12-storey Central Bank building on Ashmun Street in Monrovia President Sirleaf described the facility as a structure that gives the Liberian capital a new outlook and puts the country on par with other central banks in the sub-region.

“At the same time, we stand facing the rapid destruction of a historic structure that is a victim to the games of insensitivity and greed”, she noted in reference to the derelict E. J. Roye Building occupied over a century by the near death True Wing Party (TWP), Liberia’s oldest political party.

President Sirleaf praised Governor Jones for the achievement and thanked his able lieutenants for their determination to complete the Central Bank building, which was started by previous administration.

“I recall the early strong objection faced by a major bilateral partner for what was considered the improper use of reserves for such a high cost facility. I am glad that I stood firm in support of the Governor’s decision and I am sure we are all proud of the results. In doing so, we recognize the importance of collaboration and support to the institution, which serves as the custodian of public resources”, she said.

President Sirleaf challenged Liberians to support institutions here, which with broad ranging autonomy and independence granted by statue, are called upon to forego personal ambition in serving the national interest.

She also praised the role played by the Board of Governors of the Central Bank of Liberia with particular salute to retired Governor John Bestman, a long time public servant par excellence. By Ethel A. Tweh –Editing by Jonathan Browne