-Former VP Taylor reacts to appointment of new Culture Ambassador
By Jerromie S. Walters
Following the Executive Mansion disclosure of the appointment of a new Art and Culture Ambassador of Liberia, former vice president Jewel Howard Taylor has characterized circumstances surrounding the replacement of Madam Juli Endee as a growing intolerance within the government, which she believes undermines the very foundation of the nation.
She noted in a recent statement: “On Wednesday, August 14, I invited Queen Juli Endee to join me at the dedication of the remarkable City of Hope facilities in Marshall City. I was grateful that she accepted the invitation, bringing her warmth and joy to the event, and adding a profound sense of honor to the occasion in support of H.E. Clar Marie Weah.”
However, Madam Taylor’s sentiments quickly turned to concern as she learned of Endee’s recent replacement from her role as Culture Ambassador. “It deeply saddens me to learn that Queen Juli Endee has now been relieved of her position as Culture Ambassador—a role she served with honor and dignity, bringing our rich culture to life in all sectors of society. Reports suggest that her presence at the City of Hope event may have led to her removal, which is deeply troubling,” she said.
This, she says reflects a growing intolerance within the government, undermining the very fabric of the nation. “We are meant to be one nation, one people, with one destiny. Now, more than ever, we need to embrace reconciliation and collective nation-building.”
Madam Taylor called on H.E. President Joseph N. Boakai, whom she referred to as the “Father of the Nation,” to take decisive action against divisive policies and attitudes. “I urge the Father of the Nation, H.E. President Joseph N. Boakai, to put an end to divisive policies and postures. Liberia is in dire need of unity and peace to move forward and thrive. The Constitution mandates the government to unify us all. Mr. President, it is time to honor that mandate and bridge the divide that is threatening to tear our nation apart,” she said.
For years, Liberia’s traditional Queen, Ambassador Juli Endee, has been criticized for what many see as her deliberate refusal to relinquish the title- “Culture Ambassador”, which they believe is an appointed government position.
In December, 2023, Madam Endee told this paper that she never held an appointed position (Culture Ambassador ), but rather a title that was bestowed upon her by fallen Liberian politician, David. Kpormakpor. David Donald Kpormakpor (28 September 1935 – 19 August 2010) was the first chairman of the Council of State that ruled Liberia from 7 March 1994 until 1 September 1995 during the height of the first Liberian civil war.
She further noted that throughout her term, she never had a budget, an office, or staff that could be seen or considered as government appointee (s) in the Culture Ambassador’s office.
But on Saturday, August 17, 2024, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., appointed Mr. Kekura M. Kamara A.K.A Malawala Balawala, as Liberia’s Arts & Culture Ambassador. According to an Executive Mansion release, the appointment of Mr. Kamara takes immediate effect.
