Published: September 7, 2024
Zwedru — Grand Gedeh County Superintendent Alex Grant has officially dissolved the board of Smile Community Radio, citing significant delays in holding elections and the risk of potential conflict in the community. The board, led by Madam Jesadeh Barzon, had failed to conduct elections for nearly seven years, exceeding the three-year term stipulated in the station’s bylaws.
Speaking at a press conference, Superintendent Grant emphasized the need to respect the radio station’s constitution. “When there is controversy internally, the first step is to follow your own bylaws and constitution. Delays in such processes are a potential source of conflict, and we must address them before they escalate,” he explained.
According to Grant, Smile Radio has operated without a board election for almost seven years, despite the bylaws requiring elections every three years. He expressed concerns that the prolonged inactivity could lead to unrest within the community.
In response, Grant announced the formation of an ad-hoc committee tasked with organizing new board elections within the next four to six weeks. “We consulted with the Association of Liberia Community Radio Stations and legal experts, who advised that an ad-hoc committee could be established to oversee the election of new board members,” he revealed.
The newly appointed committee will be chaired by Walo Fannoh, with Wlachen Ophelia Boley serving as co-chair. Other members include Alicor, Edmond Garley, Victor Gbayea, Jacqueline Karyawea (Secretary), the Grand Gedeh Bar Association, Richard Gbarduo, Imam Amara Konneh (Resource Coordinator), George Dogbeh (Youth Representation Member), and J. Nicholas Suku (representing the local authority).
The committee will immediately begin working on the logistics of the election process. “The board must start holding meetings and preparing a budget that will support their functions during the election period,” Superintendent Grant urged, stressing the importance of transparency in the selection of new board members.
Grant also highlighted Smile Radio’s importance as a community-driven institution, emphasizing that the ongoing situation should not disrupt its operations. “We are committed to ensuring that Smile Radio continues to serve as a key voice for the community while adhering to its bylaws and preventing any potential conflict,” he added.
The dissolution of the current board and the formation of the ad-hoc committee mark a significant step toward restoring order and accountability at Smile Community Radio, ensuring a fresh start with a newly elected board in the coming weeks.
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