River Gee County | March 25, 2026 | A Liberian journalist and native of River Gee County is calling for greater objectivity and accountability in evaluating the performance of County Superintendent Mike Tarpeh Swengbe, cautioning citizens not to allow emotions or symbolic moments to overshadow pressing developmental realities.
Ben TC Brooks, a son of the county who returned home nearly three years ago and has since traveled extensively across rural communities, says his observations have been both revealing and troubling.
According to him, the conditions he has witnessed continue to reflect serious challenges affecting the daily lives of ordinary people.
Speaking from firsthand experience, Brooks expressed concern over what he described as a growing trend among young citizens who are celebrating and widely sharing a video of Superintendent Swengbe dancing during a street parade held ahead of the county’s 26th Anniversary indoor program.
He clarified that he has no objection to dancing, emphasizing that it is a meaningful cultural expression associated with joy, unity, and celebration.
“Communities across the world dance to mark achievements and progress,” he noted. “But the question we must ask is, what exactly are we celebrating?”
The Liberian journalist has urged citizens to reflect critically before glorifying such moments, raising a series of questions centered on governance, development, and accountability within the county.
Among his concerns are; whether the long-delayed Fish-Town City Hall project has been completed, or if residents are still relying on a deteriorating community hall?
Whether the reported $62,000 balance for the Fish-Town sports stadium project has been paid?
Whether stable electricity is now available to households and businesses?
Whether key infrastructure, including the Nenee–Tienpo Nyonken bridge, has been restored?
Whether the administration has addressed concerns surrounding the operations of MC2 Bank, which have reportedly driven civil servants to seek alternatives in neighboring Maryland County?
Whether corruption allegations related to administrative renovations and procurement processes have been transparently handled.
The level of progress made in resolving land disputes across the county?
The status of government facilities, including courts, administrative buildings, and security institutions across various districts.
Whether the 15th Judicial Circuit Court now has a permanent structure?
Efforts to combat illegal mining activities?
Steps taken to address divisions among the youth?
The extent of transparency, accountability, and cohesion within the local administration.
Progress in urban planning and road development in Fish-Town?
Settlement of financial obligations related to the 2025/2026 County Meet?
Evidence of tangible development projects under the current leadership?
Improvements in essential services such as roads, healthcare, education, and clean water in districts like Nyenebo, Deabo Chiefdom, Pennoken, and Potupo?
The overall condition and functionality of rural schools?
Whether the sports steering committee has provided a transparent report?
And whether the superintendent has held inclusive public forums or town hall meetings to engage citizens and report on progress?
He stressed that these questions are not intended as mere criticism, but rather as necessary inquiries into responsibility, accountability, and measurable progress.
While acknowledging that some challenges may fall beyond the superintendent’s direct control, he emphasized the importance of evaluating achievements within the scope of his authority
He also clarified that his remarks are not personal. “The superintendent is a friend,” Brooks stated, “and this is not an attack on his character or an attempt to dismiss his efforts.”
However, he maintained that since the current administration took office, there has been limited visible and tangible development directly impacting the lives of ordinary citizens.
The native of River Gee further noted the absence of consistent public updates, transparent reporting, and large-scale citizen engagement initiatives focused on development and governance.
“The people of River Gee deserve more than symbolic gestures,” he said. “They deserve meaningful change, progress they can see and experience in their daily lives.”
He concluded by urging citizens to evaluate leadership based on real impact rather than emotional loyalty or personal affiliation.
“I offer these reflections in the spirit of peace and constructive dialogue,” Brooks added.
