Nimba County Prepares for Senate By-Election to Replace Late Senator Johnson
Nimba County is preparing for a senatorial by-election on April 22, 2025, to replace the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson. Key candidates include Representative Samuel Kogar and the only female candidate, Edith Google Wehyee. With diverse support structures in place, the election’s outcome will greatly influence local political representation and inclusivity.
Nimba County is poised for a significant senatorial by-election on April 22, 2025, to fill the vacancy left by the death of long-time Senator Prince Yormie Johnson. Johnson, a prominent figure in Nimba politics and founder of the Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR), passed away unexpectedly, leaving a nine-year term unfulfilled. Discussions are ongoing among local residents regarding the most qualified candidate to continue his legacy.
A survey conducted by A NEW DAWN revealed that among nine county Representatives, six are endorsing Representative Samuel Kogar, who represents Johnson’s MDR. Meanwhile, only two among the eleven caucus members are supporting other candidates. Representative Taa Wongbay endorses Edith Google Wehyee, the sole female candidate, while Musa Hassan Bility supports former county inspector Mack Gbliwon from his newly formed Citizens Movement for Change (CMC).
The race is competitive with four candidates, including Kogar, gaining substantial public support and endorsements. These include Representative Samuel Kogar, who is closely backed by Vice President Jeremiah Koung; former Superintendent Edith Gongloe-Wehyee, who is appealing to rural constituents; former District 4 Representative Cllr. Garrison Yealu; and former County Inspector Mack Gbliwon.
Vice President Koung’s endorsement of Kogar is seen as critical, strengthening Kogar’s position among voters. Koung argues that since both he and the late Senator Johnson are from the Gio tribe, Kogar is best suited to carry on the late senator’s vision. However, critics warn that electing another representative from the House could necessitate future by-elections, which may further strain Liberia’s budget.
Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe, a former presidential candidate and brother to candidate Wehyee, argues for diverse representation in the Senate. He believes that Nimba’s political landscape must reflect all communities and demographics, urging support for the marginalized populations including women and various ethnic groups. Gongloe emphasizes that Wehyee’s candidacy is essential for achieving balanced and inclusive leadership in the Senate.
This senatorial contest marks Kogar’s second attempt for the Senate and Wehyee’s fourth. Each candidate brings distinct strengths and community support; the outcome remains to be seen as Nimbaians head to the polls.
Nimba County is at a pivotal moment as it prepares for a crucial senatorial by-election to fill the vacancy left by the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson. The race features multiple qualified candidates, with Representative Samuel Kogar manifesting significant support from political leaders. Yet, there is strong advocacy for inclusivity, particularly surrounding Edith Gongloe Wehyee’s candidacy, aiming to ensure that a diverse representation reflects the broader interests of Nimba’s population. As the election date approaches, the community’s choice will shape the political landscape for years to come.
Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com
