Published: July 31, 2025
KPAAI TOWN, Bong County — Residents of Kpaai Town in Electoral District 1, Bong County, are voicing growing frustration over what they describe as Representative Prince Koinah’s “complete abandonment” and failure to deliver on promises made during the 2023 general elections.
In interviews with The Liberian Investigator, community members accused their lawmaker of prioritizing personal gain over public service after benefiting from their votes.
“He fooled us with a town hall project just to get our votes,” said Town Chief Joshua Daniels, referencing a building initiative launched during Koinah’s campaign that remains unfinished. “He has not returned—not even to say thank you.”
The town’s residents said they supported Koinah based on his promises to complete the long-abandoned town hall and install hand pumps to improve access to clean drinking water. But nearly two years into his six-year term, they say little has materialized.
The town hall project, which residents began constructing prior to the 2023 election cycle, has stalled due to lack of funding. Although multiple candidates pledged to complete the structure, only Koinah won—but residents say he, too, has failed to honor his commitment.
“It’s been over a year, and he’s shown no interest, despite our follow-ups,” said Daniels.
A resident, who described herself as a former supporter of the representative but requested anonymity, said the community feels neglected.
“We don’t have a lawmaker,” she said. “He promised better living conditions, but he hasn’t visited us since the election. We didn’t expect this kind of betrayal.”
Residents are also frustrated over the deteriorating Palala-Kpaai road, a vital route for transporting agricultural goods to local markets. Farmers say the road has become nearly impassable, worsening their economic hardship.
“The road is a death trap,” one resident said. “We can’t get our crops to the market, and it’s hurting our livelihoods.”
In response to the growing criticism, Franklin Sumo Leelah, political affairs officer in Rep. Koinah’s office, denied claims of abandonment. He said the lawmaker remains committed to development and is actively pursuing projects across the district.
“We haven’t forgotten our people,” Leelah told The Liberian Investigator. “The lawmaker has been initiating projects in other areas. Kpaai will benefit in due time.”
While Leelah acknowledged campaign promises were made, he emphasized that development “takes time” and assured residents that Koinah intends to fulfill his pledges.
But in Kpaai, frustration is mounting. Residents say they are tired of vague reassurances and want immediate action. With about four years left in his term, Rep. Koinah now faces growing pressure to restore trust with his constituents.
The Town Chief said their public criticism stems from the lawmaker’s consistent refusal to respond to follow-up communications, including phone calls.
“When they want power, they’re humble and answer every call. But once elected, we are no longer worth their time,” Daniels said. “They forget the people who stood under the sun and rain campaigning for them.”
He said that the people of Kpaai Town are still hoping to see Rep. Koinah fulfill his pledge to complete the town hall and use his oversight role to push for rehabilitation of the Palala-Kpaai road.
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