By Thomas Kai Toteh

Rev., Philip S. Blamo, who recently resigned from the Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA), said " ULAA is not only a radical political organization but an organization that is part of the problem in Liberia." Rev. Blamo also added that some of the organization's members are not focused on unity, peace, development and reconciliation, but instead are in the organization to promote their own agenda."  

Rev. Blamo said while it is true that we cannot root out politics in ULAA because man is a political being, history speaks for itself of leaders who were and are now working in the Liberian government, but used ULAA as a platform to enhance their careers. "It is good to work for our government but using ULAA as a platform is bad,” he added.                                

         Rev. Philip S. Blamo                                                                                   

Speaking during an exclusive interview over the weekend, Rev. Blamo gave reasons that led to his resignation, adding his resignation is due to the fact that ULAA’s officials keep violating or disrespecting the General Principles that lay the foundation of the Union. 

"The abuse of power and the misuse of public resources" are other reasons Rev. Blamo gave for resigning from ULAA, and disclosed that both groups, which are part of the current ULAA predicament are accusing one another of the abuse of power; and their abuse of power can be seen clearly in the current crisis, adding, “Liberians at home and abroad are even ashamed to identify with ULAA.”  

The Rev. asked, “Where is the Spirit of Reconciliation and Unification?” noting that ULAA’s leadership seems to be focusing on themselves than on the fundamental principles on which the organization was established.

Rev. Blamo indicated that before his resignation, he contacted both the local Liberian Association in Connecticut and ULAA to find a way to help bring peace and reconciliation to ULAA, but everything fell on death ears. Rev. Blamo however, acknowledged that the feuding parties violated Chapter II, Article 6 of its Constitution, which states: "That the Union shall create and provide conducive environments for the critical examination, discussion and peaceful resolution of local, national and international issues  or conflicts affecting the welfare of Liberia or Liberians everywhere." “How can we resolve conflicts elsewhere if we can't resolve our own problems,” he asked.   

When asked about his achievements while serving ULAA, Rev. Blamo said, “To tell you the truth I really did not achieve that much because of the on going crisis. There are lots to achieve, but selfish leaders are corrupting the association.”

When asked what ULAA really stands for, Rev. Blamo said: "ULAA stands for the promotion and protection of national reconciliation, national unification, constitutional democracy, and sustainable development under the rule of law and for the greater good of all.

As out-going member of the Election Commission of the local ULAA chapter, Rev. Blamo said he is currently planning a UNITY Conference of ULAA officials along with influential Americans and Liberian ministers, and said he is receiving positive responses from Liberians all across the USA for the effort. He blames president Anthony Kesseley for refusing to honor the invitation for the unity conference aimed at resolving the crises in ULAA.

Rev. Philip S. Blamo is the founder and President of the New Creation International Ministries, and Member of the Liberian Community Association in Connecticut.

 Thomas Kai Toteh, is a Freelance journalist/writer