Thu Sep 12 07:07:00 UTC 2024: ## Liberian Historian Sparks Controversy, Calls for Constitution Amendment and ‘Recognition Day’
**Bong County, Liberia -** A renowned Liberian historian, Darbeh Doe, has ignited controversy by questioning the country’s independence and calling for amendments to the Liberian Constitution. Doe claims that Liberia is merely a “recognized state,” not an independent nation, as commonly believed.
Doe argues that Liberia did not gain independence from any other nation, despite the historical record stating that the country declared independence on July 26, 1847, becoming a fully sovereign entity. He asserts that true independence requires a “defined interest,” which he believes Liberia lacks.
He proposes amending the Constitution to replace “Independence Day” with “Liberia Recognition Day,” celebrated annually on July 26th. Doe disagrees with Article 1 of the 1986 Constitution, which declares Liberia a sovereign state, claiming that the country’s status is not truly independent.
Doe further alleges that Hilary Tiah, the secretary of the Constitutional Convention, did not sign the final documents declaring Liberia’s independence, which he claims is why the United States did not recognize Liberia’s freedom.
In addition, Doe criticizes the design of the Liberian flag, suggesting a white flag with a coconut and river as a more appropriate representation. He contends that the current flag’s color interpretation is inaccurate and does not reflect Liberia’s true essence.
Doe’s claims and proposals have generated considerable debate among Liberian citizens and historians. The validity of his arguments and the potential impact of his proposed constitutional amendments remain to be seen.
First Piper 