By Nukanah Kollie
LIBERIA – As Nimba County prepares for its upcoming April 22 by-elections, the political landscape is becoming increasingly polarized by tribal politics, threatening to undermine the unity that should be central to Liberia’s democracy.
Leadership should foster a sense of belonging and shared progress among all constituents, regardless of ethnic background. The upcoming by-election highlights the challenge of overcoming divisions to embrace the common good.
Serving as a keynote speaker at the induction program of the Nimba University Students Association at Cuttington University’s main campus recently, Senator Nya D. Twayen Jr. was quoted as saying, “When the Israelites complained about Moses, they questioned his leadership and even accused him of deceiving them. They grew tired of his guidance and leadership. In the face of their complaints and doubts, Moses’ successor, Joshua, was chosen to lead them into the Promised Land. Joshua, although initially reluctant, accepted his role with conviction. In the end, the Israelites had to choose whom they would follow and serve. Joshua famously declared, ‘As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.’ This sentiment is something I hold dearly. As a leader, I too must declare that, ‘As for me and my political persuasion, we will support the candidacy of a Gio person in this race.’”
He reflected on the legacy left by the late Senator Prince Johnson, noting that Johnson’s leadership was grounded in integrity and dedication. However, Twayen expressed concern that, as Nimba heads into this by-election, the focus has shifted from policies to tribal politics, which risks undermining the democratic process and diminishing the opportunity to elect leaders based on merit, not ethnicity.
A concerning development in the race is the rise of tribal politics. Divisive rhetoric has overshadowed discussions about policies, governance, and leadership. Rather than being a contest of ideas, the election is becoming a battle of tribal allegiances. In his speech at Cuttington University, Senator Nya D. Twayen Jr. emphasized the importance of electing a leader from the Gio tribe, particularly from the home district of the late Senator Prince Johnson, a longtime serving figure from that community. He acknowledged that his support for a Gio candidate might cause discomfort but argued that it was a decision aligned with his beliefs as a senator.
On March 26, at 7:00 AM, Senator Nya Twayen is scheduled to endorse a candidate from the Gio tribe, citing the need for balance in the county’s political leadership. While his position reflects loyalty to his tribe, it also raises significant questions about the role of tribal loyalty in Liberia’s democracy. Political pundits argue that Twayen’s stance risks deepening divisions rather than fostering unity.
As Nimbaians approach the upcoming by-election, Twayen urged the people of Nimba to reflect on the importance of balance in the political landscape. “Nimba County has always been a stronghold, electing influential leaders to serve in the Senate. However, he said they have also seen the impact of political division in recent years. It is time for the people to recognize the need for balanced and fair leadership that serves the collective good of the people, not just a few.”
He recalled past victories in elections, such as his own, which saw a remarkable margin of 26,000 votes. “This was not just a victory for me, but a victory for the unity and will of the people,” he said. However, with the loss of a senator and the need for new leadership, he stressed that Nimba County must make wise choices moving forward.
While acknowledging that his honesty might not be popular with everyone, Twayen underscored the importance of a leader who is willing to speak the truth, even when uncomfortable. “Leadership requires courage, the courage to make difficult decisions, and to stand by the truth even when it may hurt feelings. A leader must be selfless, proactive, and intentional in their actions. This is the kind of leadership I am committed to offering.”
Twayen’s call for unity comes with a strong message: “We cannot just speak about unity when it benefits us, but we must also support it when it is uncomfortable to do so. The future of Nimba County and our country depends on our willingness to make the right choices, even when it’s hard.”
In his concluding remarks, Twayen urged students, members of the Nimba University Student Association, and all Nimbaians to remember that the by-election is not just about a single election but about shaping the future of Nimba County and Liberia as a whole. “Let us all step forward with a spirit of unity, integrity, and determination to do what is best for the people.”
The eight candidates vying for the Nimba County Senate seat in the April 22 by-election are: Torbor Tee Wonokay Famgalo (Independent), B. Mack Gblinwon (Citizens Movement for Change – CMC), Edith Lianue Gongloe-Weh (Independent), George Parkinson Gonpu (African Democratic Movement), Samuel Gongben Kogar (Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction – MDR), Richard Matenckay Tingban (VOLT), Garrison Doldeh Yealue, Jr. (Independent), and Justin Oldpa Yeazeahn alias Prophet Key (Independent).
While his stance on tribal politics is controversial, Senator Nya Twayen’s message has sparked a larger conversation about the role of unity and merit in Liberia’s democratic process. The election on April 22 will be a critical moment for the people of Nimba, as they decide whether to embrace divisive tribal rhetoric or to choose leadership based on shared values and the collective good.
