KONOBO, GRAND GEDEH COUNTY – A youth leader from Konobo Statutory District, Mr. Chester Wah, has cautioned Representative Marie Johnson against what he described as deliberate attempts to mislead the district’s electorate through false development claims.
Mr. Wah expressed disappointment over recent statements attributed to the lawmaker, which, according to him, misrepresent the truth about ongoing development projects in Konobo. He said such claims undermine public confidence and distract from genuine efforts aimed at improving the district.
“The people of Konobo deserve honesty and accountability from their leaders,” Mr. Wah said.
“We cannot build trust if our representatives continue to mislead the public with false achievements.”
The youth leader specifically refuted reports that Representative Johnson had allocated US$20,000 to Konobo Central High School for the construction of teachers’ quarters. He clarified that the funding originated from a broader national renovation initiative, not from the representative’s personal or legislative efforts.
According to Mr. Wah, the issue dates back to April, when Senator Zoe Emmanuel Pennue visited Konobo Ziah Town and was petitioned by community members to assist with renovations at the high school. In response, Senator Pennue contacted the Minister of Education, who confirmed that US$20,000 had already been earmarked for renovation work across high schools nationwide, including Konobo Central High School.
“It was Senator Pennue’s intervention that brought the matter to light,” Mr. Wah explained. “Let’s give credit where it’s due and stop claiming achievements that aren’t ours to claim.”
He urged Rep. Johnson and her team to focus their energies on tangible development rather than spreading misinformation for political advantage. “Our people want results, not rhetoric.
Leadership is about serving, not deceiving,” he added.
Mr. Wah also criticized a recent student loan bill introduced by Representative Johnson, describing it as impractical and poorly designed. He said the bill raises more questions than answers, particularly concerning how the loan would be funded, managed, and sustained in an economy where job opportunities remain scarce.
He further argued that Liberia’s existing free tuition policy at public universities makes the proposed loan scheme unnecessary and potentially counterproductive.
“Instead of burdening students with loans, lawmakers should be finding ways to strengthen university infrastructure and improve academic conditions,” Mr. Wah said.
The youth leader pointed out that many public universities, including the University of Liberia, lack adequate facilities, reliable electricity, modern technology, and access to research materials. He said these are the areas that require serious attention and investment if Liberia is to build a competitive higher education system.
“Our focus should be on improving learning conditions, not introducing policies that could worsen the struggles of students,” he emphasized.
Mr. Wah concluded by calling for honesty, transparency, and a renewed sense of responsibility among public officials. He said the people of Konobo Statutory District are watching closely and expect their leaders to deliver results based on truth, not political propaganda.
