Essay
Liberianization or Gobbling Business?
Albert Porte · 1974
Synopsis
A pamphlet accusing the finance minister Stephen A. Tolbert of using his public office to serve the interests of his own companies, grouped in the Mesurado group.
Context
Published in 1974, the pamphlet brought its author a libel suit, which the minister won, obtaining a judgment of 250,000 dollars. Public indignation gave rise to the Citizens of Liberia in Defense of Albert Porte, regarded as the country's first civil society organisation. The author went on with Explaining Why in 1976, Thoughts on Change in 1977 and The Day Monrovia Stood Still in 1979.
Who it is for
For reading, in a few pages, a founding act of civic criticism and citizen engagement in Liberia.
Prizes and reception
An allAfrica article, in 2025, sees the author as the conscience of Liberia, incorruptible, inflexible and fearless.