But while Greenpeace and other environmental groups have urged sanction on the Liberian timber industry, disappointingly however, the UN Security Council will not impose this when it implements Resolution 1343 come May 7, when the two months deadline given to the Taylor regime to adhere to U.N. demands expires. It can be recalled that France and China, two principal members of the Security Council, and primary buyers of Liberian timber, were vehemently opposed to sanctions on timber even though they reluctantly supported sanctions on arms, travel and diamonds. But Liberians at home and in the Diaspora consider the claim to be an affront. They feel that despite the millions of dollars earned from timber, electricity, pipe borne water, school supplies for school children, etc still remain a dream. Amid massive poverty, the president and his clique live lavish lifestyles.
Opposition only exists in name.
Liberians overwhelmingly support the sanctions and want for the lifting of the sanctions when imposed, to be based on good governance, freedom of the press and movement, etc. Among its many objectives, the rally will call for support for the imposition of international sanctions against the Taylor regime, while the conference will discuss the formation of strategies for the democratization of the Liberian society. In another development, President Taylor, desperate to find a way out, is pleading with opposition politicians to come to the United Nations to plead on his behalf. The Liberian ruler will bankroll the trip to the UN with what some consider as blood money.