Cllr. Gongloe Advocates for Inclusive Representation in Nimba Succeeding Koung’s Tribal Politics Call

Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe has criticized Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung’s call for a Gio candidate in the Nimba senatorial by-election, urging for broader representation. He endorses Edith Gongloe-Weh as the only female candidate, emphasizing the need for gender inclusion and fiscal responsibility in election expenditures. The by-election is scheduled for April 22, 2025.

Former Presidential Candidate Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe has sharply criticized Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung’s divisive comments about tribal politics in Nimba County. He emphasized that Nimba belongs to all its tribes, not solely the Gio-speaking community, in light of Koung’s call for the election of a Gio candidate in the upcoming senatorial by-election.

During a recent news conference, Cllr. Gongloe argued for balanced representation within the Senate, reminding attendees that the ruling Unity Party already has representation from Nimba. He asserted, “Nimba is a county where everyone—regardless of gender, district, or political affiliation—can serve.”

Gongloe advocated for the election of Madam Edith Gongloe-Weh, highlighted as the only female candidate in the race. He noted her previous accomplishments as a county superintendent and emphasized that her election would provide crucial gender balance in the Legislative Caucus of Nimba County.

Historically, Nimba’s senatorial representation has followed a fair pattern, with one senator from upper Nimba and one from lower Nimba. Gongloe underscored the importance of geographic and gender representation, as the last election reflecting this balance occurred in 1997. He stated that if elected, she would address the long-standing absence of female legislators from Nimba, saying, “Electing Edith Gongloe Weh would be a meaningful step toward correcting that injustice.”

Moreover, Cllr. Gongloe cautioned against electing the candidate from the ruling party, suggesting this would result in another costly by-election if the representative had to resign from the House. He warned that the nation cannot afford such expenditures amid decreased foreign aid and urged voters to choose candidates who would demonstrate responsible governance.

The National Elections Commission has set the date for the Nimba Senatorial By-election for April 22, 2025. This election poses the opportunity for a shift toward inclusive representation in Nimba County government, according to Cllr. Gongloe.

Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe has underscored the importance of inclusive representation in Nimba County, opposing Vice President Koung’s singular focus on Gio candidates. He champions the candidacy of Edith Gongloe-Weh as essential for gender balance and fair representation. Furthermore, he cautions against further political costs incurred by electing a candidate whose victory would necessitate additional by-elections, advocating for a responsible approach to governance in Liberia.

Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com