Grand Kru:Traditional Leaders Inducted to Booster Decentralization Efforts

By: Emmanuel Koffa|Grand Kru County Correspondent.

Barclayville, Grand Kru County – September 2, 2025 – Several traditional leaders in Grand Kru County have been formally appointed, receiving their official letters of appointment in accordance with Liberia’s Local Government Act of 2018.

This legislation aims to recognize Paramount, Clan, and General Town Chiefs throughout the country, enhancing the role of traditional governance structures in local administration.

The appointment letters were presented during a ceremony at the Barclayville City Hall on Monday September 1, 2025 by Deputy Internal Affairs Minister for Research, Edward Mulbah, who proxy for Internal Affairs Minister F. Sakila Nyumalin Sr.

The induction ceremony, held in the county’s capital, Barclayville, saw Deputy Minister for Research at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Edward Mulbah, addressing the newly appointed chiefs.

Hon. Mulbah urged the leaders to recognize their appointments not merely as a governmental formality but as a profound responsibility to their communities.

“It is critical that you embrace your role not just as a title,” Minister Mulbah emphasized. “You are now the custodians of your peoples’ aspirations and must serve as champions for their development.”

He encouraged the chiefs to spearhead initiatives that promote community farming and bolster food security, linking these efforts to the national agenda for sustainable development.

The Deputy Minister for Research at the Ministry of Internal Affairs underscored the significance of the current moment for Liberia as a unique opportunity for decentralization to flourish. “This is a pivotal time for Liberians,” he stated. “We must harness this moment for the successful implementation of decentralization programs.”

Minister Mulbah further highlighted the importance of female representation in leadership roles, particularly in the southeastern region of Liberia.

He acknowledged that while strides have been made, much work remains to ensure equitable representation and participation of women in decision-making processes across the country.

Shortly after the ceremony, several representatives of various chiefs, including Angeline Jolo, Aaron Koffa, Jeleh Doe, and Theresa Collie, expressed their gratitude to President Joseph Boakai and the government for what they termed a significant step towards inclusive governance. “We see our appointments not just as personal achievements but as a commitment to serve our communities with integrity and dedication,” they stated collectively.

The chiefs pledged their unwavering support for upholding the rule of law, ensuring peace and stability, and maintaining principles of integrity, accountability, and transparency in line with the government’s ARREST (Addressing Risks and Enhancing Security through Transparency) agenda.

The induction ceremony was a significant gathering, attended by various officials from multiple ministries and agencies, county superintendents, commissioners, and chiefs from the twelve traditional communities across Grand Kru County; seen as a vital step in reinforcing the fabric of local governance and promoting collaboration between traditional and government authorities.