This email was sent to the “News Tips Department” of the New York Times when the National Transitional Government (of Liberia) announced the names of senior government officials. Fortunately I wasn’t holding my breath waiting for a reaction....
To the news tips Department:
In the early ‘80’s I co-founded a US based (all volunteer) human rights monitoring organization focused on documenting and reporting violations in Liberia, using standard HURIDOC format. Although the organization (the Liberia Human Rights Network) no longer exist, I have attempted to personally maintain a database on a number of these violations.
One such violation involved the murder (in the early 90’s) of a young civilian couple (Johnny Nah and Famatta Sherman-Nah) and their unborn baby. While most of these cases are exceptionally brutal, this one was particularly hideous in that the perpetrators are reported to have slit opened the the belly of the pregnant Famatta, extracted the baby and stomped it to death.
It now appears that one of the alleged perpetrators of this hideous crime is being considered for a senior position in Liberia’s interim government. This would not only be a disservice to the memory of Mr. & Mrs. Nah and their baby, but will also send a message to the hundred of thousands of Liberian family of victims that nothing has changed.
The parents of Famatta (Timothy and Julia Sherman, who have persistently tried to bring these individuals to justice) now lives in New York. They are desperate that this travesty of justice not be perpetuated on the Liberian people, and that those involved in the murder of their daughter, grandchild and son-in-law not be rewarded for their crimes in this Liberia’s last hope.
In speaking to Mr. & Mrs. Sherman, they have indicated to me that they would be more than willing to speak with a reporter of the New York Times in providing detailed information on this case -- including contact with an eye witness to this crime. Their telephone number — which they have authorized me to provide your organization — is (xxx) xxx-xxxx.
There are others on the ground in Monrovia who are aware of the allegations against this individual, and are just as concerned with the message that his appointment will send regarding the new administration. One such individual who we are in contact with is Ms. Etweda Gbenyon. She is a member of the Liberia’s Women Initiative and cofounder of the Women in Peace. Her telephone contact is: 011-[number withheld here].
I think the New York Times would be doing Liberia, the region, and the world community a great service in bringing this story to your reader’s attention. Your establishment is the only one I have communicated with, to date, regarding this tip and/or suggestion.
Below is my contact information for your timely reaction regarding this tip and suggestion. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Earl Burrowes, Sr.
8400 Lindbergh Blvd. #118
Philadelphia, PA 19153
(215) 365-0109
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Being defeated is often a temporary condition.
Giving up is what makes it permanent.
Marilyn vos Savant
Thursday, Oct 16, 2003
