A heated public exchange has erupted between former Barclayville District Education Officer, Nicholas Doryen Wleh, and Grand Kru County Development Officer, Joe Sekpeh.
The mix-up erupted over accountability, transparency, and the management of development activities.
The tension began after Wleh publicly criticized a growing “culture of silence” surrounding county development funds, and accountability under the government.
Wleh claimed that nearly three years after the Unity Party assumed state power, Grand Kru citizens are yet to witness a comprehensive county development sitting.
It is through the sitting authorities often explain in an open forum development progress, and also provide a detailed breakdown of how county development funds are being allocated and spent.
Wleh also criticized individuals, who he claimed previously demanded accountability from past county administrations, but have now become silent under the current government.
“Those who once kept the feet of previous officials to the fire are now muted. Maybe they got their share of the elephant meat, so they no longer care.”
Wleh further questioned whether ruling Unity Party county chairman, Nelson Torbor, and his associates are doing enough to challenge actions that may undermine transparency and development progress in the county.
He warned: “Don’t speak because you are in opposition, and then remained silent, when your party is in power, even when things are not going well. Your advocacy will be questioned tomorrow, because we are watching.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Sekpeh has strongly pushed back against Wleh’s comments, accusing some former officials of hypocrisy, and attempting to project onto others the same practices they were engaged in while serving in government.
“Most of you that are masters of what you are referring to as ‘eating,’ and because of that, you believe everyone is involved in the same behavior you people were known for,” Sekpeh responded.
He described Wleh’s criticism as “a big mistake” and challenged him to pursue accountability concerns through formal institutional processes rather than public accusations.
“I understand you are now in the finance department. If accountability is truly your concern, then help conduct an audit.”
Sekpeh also expressed frustration over a repeated public disrespect directed at members of the current county administration.
“We have remained silent for a long time, but if this is how you intend to treat some of us with disrespect, then you will begin to see a different side of certain people.”
The public exchange has intensified ongoing debate regarding development transparency, political accountability, and the management of public resources as residents have demanded greater openness from local authorities.