The pending by-election in Nimba is about electing the best daughter or son of Nimba, it’s not a Gio and or Mano competition. It’s about electing the most qualified and competent person that will represent the people of Nimba void of divisive tribal tendencies.
The noise going around in Nimba that it is now Gio people time since a Mano man is the present senator can not be considered as a genuine reason or prerequisite for electing a senator that will be there to represent the interest of all Nimbaians. Anybody can become a senator if that individual’s message resonates with the people of Nimba. Gio and Mano are the two biggest tribes in Nimba, howbeit, that doesn’t mean they are the only educated people in the county.
Electing a senator because he’s Gio or Mano is not a balanced of power but electing the best regardless of tribe is a prudent decision to make, especially in a county that in many ways set the tune for Liberia’s political and economic directions.
The people of Nimba need someone that is culturally aware, tribally conscious, politically disciplined, educationally alert developmentally driven and respectful to the people of Nimba. A senator that will stand by the people during good and bad times, an advocate for the people at all levels, internationally, nationally and otherwise. Electing someone based on tribal, religious or a specific line brings about underdevelopment, due to the lack of well roundedness or the lack of strength in navigating the challenges in building cohesion.
The person that will stand up to corporate powerhouses like Arcelor Mittel in holding their feet to fire relative to corporate responsibilities, providing fair and equitable work environment, and other commitments.
Nimba needs a senator that will ensure that the wealth of the county, no matter it’s source is fairly and equally distributed amongst the various districts of the county.
That senator should also be strong enough to make relevant inroads that will pave the way for business, education and job opportunities for the people of Nimba County.
As a county and a united people, we Nimbaians must understand that other than Gio and Mano, there are other tribes in Nimba and must be considered for all jobs including elected positions.
About The Author:
James D. Hallowanger
is a security expert and former senatorial candidate in the 2023 general and presidential elections. He formerly held several senior level positions in the Liberian security sector.
That’s true