Margibi County District #5 Representative Clarence Gahr over the weekend fulfilled a long-standing campaign promise by delivering two brand new earth-moving machines, a bulldozer and a motor grader, to his constituency, sparking celebrations across the district.
Residents of District #5, including youth, women, and elders, gathered in large numbers to welcome the equipment, hailing the lawmaker’s gesture as transformative for the district’s development. For many, especially farmers in the mountainous Gibi region, the new machines symbolize the long-awaited hope for improved road connectivity.
“We’ve waited for this day. May God bless him with long life and carry him forward. Being a lawmaker should not be his limitation,” said Rose Kemoh of Weala, her voice echoing the overwhelming gratitude shared by many.
Elder Cecelia Edwards, recalling the difficulties faced during the rainy season, explained how water often floods the roads, making them impassable for cars and motorbikes. “When it rains, the water fills the road. Cars and motorbikes can’t even pass,” she noted.
Anthony Kollie, a youth leader in the area, described the machines as a lifeline for the local economy. “Once the roads are connected, the people will easily take their produce to the market,” he said, underscoring the potential impact on agriculture and commerce.
Speaking to reporters at the unveiling, Representative Gahr disclosed that the machines cost US$420,000 and were procured to fulfill a promise he made during his 2017 campaign. “I’m not just happy that I brought yellow machines,” Gahr said. “I’m happy that I can now drive to places where I once walked for hours. I promised my people that one day I would drive to them, and today I’ve made that dream a reality.”
He emphasized that improving road infrastructure remains a central goal of his legislative agenda. “I am grateful to the people of District #5. This position has given me the privilege to connect with people around the world, and I will do everything possible for the development of my district,” he stated.
Gahr also revealed that his first attempt to acquire the machines ended in disappointment after a fraudulent deal. He said he had paid US$138,000 to a company for two used machines that were never delivered. That case is now before the Civil Law Court. Learning from that setback, he instead purchased new machines to ensure transparency and immediate use.
With the arrival of the bulldozer and motor grader, the district stands at a turning point. Residents believe the equipment will open up long-neglected areas, promote agricultural trade, and improve mobility for thousands.
For many, Representative Gahr’s delivery marks a rare example of a campaign promise kept, not just with words but with machines capable of reshaping the future of Margibi District #5. Story by: Richard Duke Baysah
