Cllr. Gongloe Advocates for Inclusive Representation in Nimba County

Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe challenges Vice President Jeremaih Koung’s call to elect a Gio-speaking candidate for the Nimba County by-election, advocating for inclusive representation for all tribes. He urges support for female candidate Edith Gongloe-Weh, noting fiscal responsibilities and the importance of balanced governance in light of historical representation patterns. Gongloe argues against unnecessary by-elections, promoting fair opportunities for politically marginalized groups.

Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe, a former presidential candidate and resident of Nimba County, has publicly contested Vice President Jeremiah Koung’s recent call for the election of a Gio-speaking candidate. He emphasized that Nimba County belongs to all its residents, not just the Gio-speaking populace. This response comes after Koung urged the Mah-speaking and other tribes in Nimba to avoid wasting votes on candidates outside the Gio or Dan groups for the upcoming senatorial by-election.

During a press conference held on March 24, 2025, Cllr. Gongloe expressed concern over the need for balanced representation in Nimba at a decisive moment for the county. He pointed out that the ruling Unity Party, along with its ally, the Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction, already has representation in the Senate from Nimba. He articulated the necessity for the opposition to also secure a seat to ensure a comprehensive representation of the population.

Cllr. Gongloe asserted, “Nimba is a county where everyone—regardless of gender, district, or political affiliation—can serve.” He stressed that it is crucial to include the politically marginalized groups in Nimba, such as women and various ethnic communities, in legislative elections. He called upon the electorate to support Edith Gongloe-Weh, the only female candidate in the senatorial race, appealing for a vote that guarantees inclusivity and representation from all demographics.

Cllr. Gongloe highlighted that the representation from all districts of Nimba should reflect a historical precedent where every district, except for Yarwin-Mehnsonnoh and Gbelley Geh, has had a senator. He recalled the election history from 1997, where both upper and lower Nimba counties were represented. Presently, there is a necessity for representation from Lower Nimba, and he believes that Edith Gongloe-Weh, who has previously served as county superintendent, is the best candidate for this role.

He also raised concerns regarding the fiscal implications of the upcoming election. Cllr. Gongloe noted that if the ruling party’s candidate, Representative Samuel Kogar, wins the election, it may necessitate another by-election, adding to the financial burden on the country, which is already facing difficulties. “These elections are not without cost,” he stated, advocating for better governance to avoid unnecessary expenses associated with frequent elections.

Cllr. Gongloe underscored the injustice of denying women in Nimba their legislative opportunities, citing neighboring counties that have elected women representatives. He called for the election of Edith Gongloe-Weh as a significant step towards establishing equity in political representation for women, suggesting it would demonstrate that Nimba values the voices of all its citizens. The Nimba Senatorial By-election is scheduled for April 22, 2025.

In conclusion, Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe’s response to Vice President Koung’s call for a singular tribal representation highlights the importance of inclusive governance in Nimba County. He advocates for balanced representation, emphasizing the need for all demographics, especially women, to have a voice in the legislative process. As the Nimba Senatorial By-election approaches, this discourse brings to the forefront the fundamental issues of equitable political representation and responsible governance.

Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com