For far too long, Liberian politics—particularly in our counties—has been shaped by exclusion, tribalism, and the systemic silencing of women. Today, we stand at a critical crossroads in Nimba County. The upcoming senatorial by-election offers us not just a chance to elect a capable leader, but to correct the historic underrepresentation of women in decision-making spaces. And there is no better candidate to usher in this change than Edith Gongloe-Weh.
Yet, instead of meaningful discourse around vision, service, and leadership, we’ve witnessed a troubling rise in misogynistic and regressive rhetoric. Representative Samuel Kogar recently asserted that “a woman cannot replace a man,” a comment that does not merely reflect a personal bias—it embodies a dangerous mindset that undermines our democracy and insults the capacity of Liberian women.
Equally disheartening are remarks from Superintendent Meapeh Gono, who has called for voters to cast their ballots based on tribal lines and – the fact that this same superintendent has seen it fit to use the gender lens in the past, which she now negates, tells an extremely troubling and disturbing story. These are not harmless political jabs—they are active attempts to derail a progressive movement toward gender equity and unity.
As someone who has spent a lifetime advocating for increased representation of women in governance, I find these statements not only unacceptable but deeply damaging to the future we are trying to build. Liberia cannot move forward while holding on to backward ideas that devalue half of its population. Our politics must transcend gender and tribe, and be grounded in competence, service, and the genuine desire to uplift communities.
Edith Gongloe-Weh is the embodiment of that kind of leadership. She is not new to public service. As Superintendent of Nimba County, she left a legacy that speaks for itself. She helped establish the Nimba County College, expanded educational opportunities for at least 100 local students, and brought in 22 road-building machines to improve infrastructure in remote areas. These are not promises; these are facts. They are the fruits of a leader who knows her people and has served them well.
In the face of violence, threats, and politically-motivated intimidation aimed at discouraging her candidacy, Edith has remained calm, strong, and focused—reminding all of us why women like her belong at the table of leadership.
This election is not just about filling a vacancy. It’s about setting a precedent for the future of women in Liberian politics. It’s about telling our daughters that their dreams are valid, that their voices matter, and that they, too, can lead.
To the people of Nimba County: you have the power to make history. Elect Edith Gongloe-Weh—not because she is a woman, but because she is the right woman for the job. She is tested, she is trusted, and she is prepared to lead.
Now is the time. Nimba deserves her. Liberia needs her.
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