VP Koung’s Ex-Projects Manager Wins By-Election
The National Elections Commission (NEC), has declared Kortor Sehwongbay Kwagru, as winner of the August 12 representative by-election that was held in Nimba County District #5.
Mr. Kwagru, then bricklayer to Mr. Koung’s projects, won on the ticket of the opposition Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR).
Kwagru secured 4,795 votes (31.39 percent), defeating his closest rival, Borries Barlea, who garnered 3,938 votes (25.78 percent). Mr. Barlea ran as an independent candidate.
The results were announced at the NEC office in Sanniquellie on Wednesday, August 13.
The lone representative seat became vacant after the District Representative, Samuel G. Kogar, was elected as Senator following the death of the then sitting Senator Prince Y. Johnson. Sen. Johnson died on Thursday, November 28, 2024.
Although widely seen as Sen. Kogar’s protégé, Kwagru was not officially endorsed by him, he received strong backing from the MDR.
The NEC meanwhile, praised the “peaceful nature of the by-election, with no major incidents reported.”
Observers described the polls as “free and credible.”
Kwagru has therefore thanked voters for their support and pledged to promote unity, development and transparency. His victory boosts MDR’s influence in Nimba County ahead of the 2029 elections.
Residents now look to Kwagru to deliver on promises, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Source: Ora Kangar/Reporter Ablee-jay Media