By: Gonkarnue Lawrence Tuopleyee, +231770178450
Gompa, Nimba County:- The Ministry of Internal Affairs has successfully concluded a week-long national orientation workshop on decentralization policy, aimed at empowering local county administrations to effectively manage their jurisdictions. The workshop, held in Ganta City, Nimba County, brought together key officials from all 15 political subdivisions of Liberia, including chiefs, superintendents, and city mayors.
The opening ceremony was honored by Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung, who represented President Joseph N. Boakai. In his address, VP Koung urged participants to seize this unique opportunity to further peace and stability across the nation. He emphasized the administration’s commitment to fully support the decentralization policy, urging county officials to actively engage in the process.
The workshop featured a series of presentations on diverse and impactful topics. Dr. Yarsuo Weh-Dorliae delivered an in-depth presentation on the decentralization policy, while Acting Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Mr. Anthony Myres, provided insights into the financial implications and benefits of decentralization.
Operating under the theme “Building a New Liberia Through Decentralization,” the workshop witnessed historic elections that marked a new chapter in Liberia’s governance. Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono of Nimba County made history by being elected as the first female chairperson of the National Superintendent Council of Liberia. Her election was overwhelmingly supported by her peers. Alongside her, Grand Cape Mount County Superintendent J. Foday Kiatamba was elected as the National Vice Chairperson for Administration.
In other significant elections, Mayor Gallah K. Varpilah of Gbarnga City, Bong County, was chosen as the chairperson of the Mayors Council of Liberia, while Mayor Retha Kai Massaquoi of Zwedru City, Grand Gedeh County, was elected as co-chair.
The Chief Council of Liberia also saw a change in leadership as Chief Arthur W. Dowah of Bong County emerged victorious, replacing Chief Zanzan Karwor after a decade of service. In a highly competitive election, Chief Dowah promised to advocate for the inclusion of chiefs on the national payroll to ensure their ability to support their families.
During the closing session, Minister of Internal Affairs, Francis K. Nyumalay, expressed his satisfaction with the workshop’s outcome. He praised President Boakai for his continued support and applauded the participants for their cooperation and commitment throughout the week. Minister Nyumalay reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to fully implementing the Local Government Act (Decentralization Policy) passed in 2018, ensuring that the fruits of decentralization are realized across the nation.
The workshop’s conclusion marks a significant step forward in Liberia’s journey towards a decentralized government, promising to enhance local governance and empower communities across the country
