In a significant gesture of appreciation, Nimba County Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono convened a grand ceremony in Sanniquellie to honor the invaluable contributions of 783 local leaders, comprising Town Chiefs, Paramount Chiefs, and Commissioners. The event, held on the eve of a crucial senatorial by-election, served as a platform to acknowledge the unwavering dedication and hospitality of these individuals, who serve as the bedrock of local governance and community development. Superintendent Gono emphasized the vital role played by Town Chiefs as the eyes and ears of both the local administration and the President, highlighting their position as the first point of contact in addressing local issues and maintaining stability.
Dismissing speculations that the gathering was politically motivated to garner support for a particular candidate in the impending by-election, Superintendent Gono reiterated her commitment to peace, development, and unity as the paramount objectives of her leadership in Nimba County, Liberia’s second most populous region. She underscored the historical significance of the Town Chiefs’ contributions to the county’s progress and announced a financial package to support their continued efforts in welcoming and accommodating visitors to their respective towns. This initiative marked a historic moment, representing the first time Town Chiefs in Nimba County received such direct recognition and support from the local administration.
Furthermore, Superintendent Gono unveiled plans to formally integrate Town Chiefs into the government payroll, recognizing the crucial nature of their services and their commitment to the well-being of their communities. This move underscores the value placed on their dedication and aims to provide them with the necessary resources to further enhance their contributions to local development. Coupled with this commitment, she urged the Chiefs to prioritize human capacity development within their communities, emphasizing the importance of investing in the future generations.
The assembled Chiefs and Commissioners, represented by David Wallace of Gbor Ganpa, Doe Administrative District, and Commissioner Kemah Kuoh Miapue, expressed their sincere gratitude to Superintendent Gono for her exceptional developmental initiatives and leadership. They lauded her as the only superintendent in Nimba County’s history to orchestrate such a grand appreciation ceremony for local leaders, hailing her as a remarkable figure in the county’s development trajectory. This sentiment resonated with Bong County Superintendent Hawa Loleyah Norris, who also commended Madam Gono’s exceptional leadership and accomplishments, solidifying her reputation as one of the most effective superintendents Nimba County has witnessed.
The occasion served as a platform to emphasize the importance of unity and collective effort in achieving developmental goals. Both Superintendent Norris and Minister of Internal Affairs, Francis Sakila Nyumalyn, urged the Chiefs, Elders, Paramount Chiefs, and Commissioners to collaborate for the betterment of the county. Minister Nyumalyn specifically addressed the long-standing tensions between the Mano and Gio tribes, highlighting the importance of fostering tribal balance in public offices, including the Senate seat contested in the upcoming by-election. He stressed the significance of the by-election in shaping the county’s future, advocating for unity, tribal harmony, and sustainable development.
Minister Nyumalyn further cautioned the citizens of Nimba County against misleading political rhetoric and emphasized the need for informed decision-making in the by-election. He underscored the power of their votes, emphasizing that their choices could either propel the county towards progress or hinder its development. This call for discerning judgment aimed to ensure that the elected representative would prioritize the best interests of the people over personal gain.
In a tangible demonstration of her appreciation, Superintendent Gono presented 19 TVS Star motorbikes to the 19 Commissioners of Nimba County, facilitating their mobility and enabling them to better serve their communities. This gesture not only provided them with much-needed transportation but also symbolized the administration’s commitment to supporting the logistical needs of local leaders. Superintendent Gono urged the Commissioners to utilize these resources responsibly and for the benefit of the people they serve. The presentation of the motorbikes served as a fitting culmination of the appreciation ceremony, reinforcing the message of support and collaboration between the county administration and its local leaders.
