By Samuel Borlay
LOFA – Humphrey Blama Kpehe has been elected Chairman of the Community Land Development Management Committee (CLDMC) for Tahamba Clan, in Kolahun District, Lofa County.
The election for a new chairperson for the CLDMC was characterized by transparency and support from locals, with the participation of community members and local officials of the area.
Richelieu T. Wollor, a representative of the Landscape Program Manager, along with District Youth Chairman, Junior Ndebeh, conducted the chairmanship election, which was supervised by district authorities.
Following his election as the new chair of CLDMC, Kpehe, who garnered overwhelming support from the 20-member committee, emphasized that the central goal of the CLDMC under his administration would be to resolve land conflicts and empower the community in managing its land rights.
In his inaugural address, Kpehe vowed to prioritize obtaining land certificates and securing land deals for the Tahamba community, pledging his commitment to working collaboratively with locals to prevent disputes between towns and clans.
“I will ensure that the voices of the community are heard and respected in all matters concerning our land,” he declared.
The election was notable not only for Kpehe’s victory but also for the commendable manner in which former Chairman Thomas Kawala graciously conceded defeat.
In his concession remarks void of contention, Kawala pledged to support the new leadership and expressed willingness to collaborate with the newly elected chairman and his team for the betterment of Tahamba.
Joining newly elected chairperson Kpehe on the new executive board are Kpana T. Ndebeh, Vice President; Thomas B. Ngafua, General Secretary; and among others; who are expected to work together aimed at spearheading programs and activities of the CLDMC geared toward promoting cohesion and sustainable land management practices.
During the induction ceremony of the new leadership, executed by Paramount Chief Jallah Major and City Mayor Clarline Momo, the importance of initiatives of the CLDMC was underscored.
Chief Jallah urged the newly elected leaders to serve as role models for the community, emphasizing their responsibility to prioritize the interests of their constituents.
Both the election and induction ceremony were attended by members of the CLDMC, district youth leaders, Clan Chiefs, and other dignitaries, signifying the community’s commitment to a transparent and accountable governance framework for land management.
The enthusiasm collectively exhibited by community members during the election and induction exercises reflects a shared vision of development, sustainability, and conflict resolution that will go a long way in shaping the future of Tahamba Clan.
Edited by Olando Testimony Zeongar