By Henry B. Gboluma, Jr.
Gbarpolu – Liberia’s political climate is becoming increasingly tense and divided, with leaders more focused on general elections scheduled to be held in 2029, than on advancing the development of the country, according to Gbarpolu Senator Amara Mohammed Konneh.
Konneh, who won as an independent candidate, but later supported the Unity Party Alliance during the country’s presidential runoff election in 2023, has expressed concerns over increasing election-related distractions largely due to electoral ambitions, which he believes are impeding development initiatives across the country.
Elected to the Liberian Senate in 2023, Konneh whose tenure as senator expires in 2033, currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Accounts and Audits. Prior to becoming a legislator, he worked in a senior level position with the World Bank, having previously serve as Finance Minister of Liberia.
Today, Senator Konneh took to Facebook indicating that many politicians, whose names he failed to disclose, falsely believe elections are “next week,” terming such perception as a dangerous misconception that is fueling unnecessary conflicts within government institutions, especially between some unnamed lawmakers and local government authorities.
This misplaced sense of urgency has led to intense disagreements among lawmakers and local officials, including superintendents, a situation Konneh described as “fighting like cats & dogs.”
Such infightings, he said, are severely hampering critical development projects across the country.
He believes initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities are either being stalled or halted, as political squabbles take precedence over progress in the country’s governance process.
In Gbarpolu, local authorities and caucus members are divided over establishing a committee to enhance the payment of social contributions from the BAO CHICO Mining Company, as outlined in the 2022 Mineral Development Agreement (MDA), according to our correspondent in the area, who reports that such division is posing setback for ordinary citizens, who are left to suffer the consequences of political disagreements.
Senator Konneh criticized such standoff, terming same as being “dumb,” while emphasizing that putting electioneering ahead of governance is being shortsighted and is harmful to the future of Liberia.
He used his official Facebook handle to urge national leaders to set aside their differences and focus on delivering tangible results for the benefit of the Liberian people and the country.
“With the general elections scheduled for 2029, our leaders should prioritize development and unity,” Konneh maintained, adding; “Focusing on elections at this time only risks undermining the very chances of re-election or new mandates, as citizens expect action, not distractions.”
He called on government officials of government and politicians to unite for Liberia’s growth, as well as to prioritize the well-being of the Liberian people.
Senator Konneh, whose plea underscores the need for responsible leadership, stressed that Liberia’s stability and future development depend on putting the country’s needs above electoral ambitions.
