Liberia, Oct. 30 -- Those around the presidency must be careful how they raise people's hopes in trying times like these. This is why it is important to highlight the fine prints of the deal so that all can understand what it is, what's at stake and what is required from the Liberian government for the Extended Credit Facility to become a reality.

THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND, a key stakeholder in Liberia's post-war development entered into an agreement with Africa's oldest republic this week, agreeing on a staff-level agreement on a new program subject to fulfillment of significant prior actions in the fiscal and monetary areas.

THE OBJECTIVE of the program is to restore macroeconomic stability, provide a foundation for fiscally sus...