Nimba County Gears Up for Senatorial By-Election Following PYJ’s Passing

Nimba County is preparing for a senatorial by-election on April 22, 2025, following the death of Senator Prince Yormie Johnson. Eight candidates are competing, with prominent endorsements shaping the race. Representative Samuel Kogar is backed by several Representatives and Vice President Koung, while Madam Edith Gongloe Wehyee is the only female candidate, advocating for balanced representation. The election will determine who completes Johnson’s remaining term in the Senate.

In Nimba County, debates are intensifying regarding the selection of a successor to the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson, who passed away unexpectedly last year. The seat will be contested in a senatorial by-election scheduled for April 22, 2025. The late Senator, often referred to as the “godfather” of Nimba politics, had established a significant legacy during his nearly three decades in the Senate.

A survey conducted by A NEW DAWN revealed that, out of the county’s nine Representatives, six, along with the current Senator Nya D. Twayen, Jr., endorse Representative Samuel Kogar for the position. Notably, Representative Taa Wongbay supports the only female candidate, Madam Edith Google Wehyee, while Representative Musa Hassan Bility backs a competitor from his own new party.

The senatorial race appears highly competitive, with four frontrunners gaining considerable support. These include Representative Samuel Kogar, endorsed by Vice President Jeremiah Koung; Edith Gongloe-Wehyee, who has rural backing; former District 4 Representative Cllr. Garrison Yealu; and former County Inspector B. Mack Gbliwon.

Vice President Koung’s endorsement of Kogar reportedly strengthens his campaign, positioning him as a leading candidate to replace the late Senator Johnson. Nonetheless, there are concerns that Kogar’s elevation could trigger another by-election, stressing the country’s budgetary resources.

Critics like Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe argue for a balanced representation, voicing that the opposition should hold a Senate seat as well. He emphasized that it is crucial for Nimba County to be inclusive, advocating for underrepresented groups, including women and various ethnic communities, to have a voice in the legislature.

Cllr. Gongloe highlighted the significance of having a female candidate, Madam Edith Gongloe Wehyee, noting that she has the experience of serving as Superintendent and has historically performed well in elections. He called upon constituents to support her candidacy to foster balanced leadership in the Senate.

This election marks Representative Kogar’s second attempt for the Senate, while Madam Edith Gongloe Wehyee is contesting for the fourth time. The fate of Nimba County’s representation lies in the hands of its voters as they prepare for this pivotal electoral event.

The forthcoming senatorial by-election in Nimba County has created fervent discussions about representation, legacy, and inclusivity. With eight candidates vying for the seat once held by Senator Prince Yormie Johnson, each contender brings diverse support and perspectives to the race. As the election approaches, the residents of Nimba face a significant decision regarding their leadership that may influence the county’s political landscape for years to come.

Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com