A sharp war of words has erupted between Eddie D. Jarwolo, Executive Director of NAYMOTE Partners for Democratic Development, and Bong County District #6 Representative Moima Briggs Mensah over the nature and impact of a recent legislative project implemented in Salala District.
In a widely circulated Facebook post, Jarwolo criticized Representative Mensah’s choice of development projects, describing one as a “joke” in the face of urgent community needs.
“While residents of Salala District are seeking assistance to renovate and improve their public facilities including health and education,” Jarwolo wrote, “the Representative of the District Moima Briggs Mensah selected this joke as a development project under her legislative project and constructed by the Liberia Agency for Community Empowerment /Community Works.”
Jarwolo’s statement has drawn swift condemnation from Representative Mensah’s office, which labeled the remarks “deeply misleading, irresponsible, and damaging.”
In an official statement, the Representative’s office said the criticized project represents only a small portion of broader development efforts underway in the district. The office also accused Jarwolo of intentionally omitting facts and updates related to the legislative initiatives.
“As head of NAYMOTE – an institution meant to promote democratic governance, civic education, and public accountability – we expect Mr. Jarwolo to act with neutrality, professionalism, and respect for truth. Sadly, his post reflects the opposite of the mandate he claims to uphold,” the statement read.
Representative Mensah’s office further emphasized that while deficiencies in public facilities such as police stations and courthouses are real, they fall under the purview of national agencies like the Ministry of Justice and the Judiciary, not the legislature.
The response also suggested that Jarwolo’s public comments may be politically motivated, pointing to rumored ambitions of a run in the 2029 elections.
“Your actions today, Mr. Jarwolo, do not reflect the ideals of good governance or civic education,” the statement continued. “Instead, they serve as a disappointing example to the very young people you claim to mentor.”
The Representative’s office ended its response by inviting the public, media, and civil society actors to seek clarity on any legislative project, pledging transparency and access to relevant documentation.
