GBARNGA, LIBERIA — In an unprecedented and candid address, Madam Martha Morris, the Deputy Health Minister for Administration, urged the supporters of Liberia’s ruling Unity Party in Bong County to hold appointed county officials accountable for their actions and deliverables. In a political gathering held on Friday, June 27, 2025, in Gbarnga, Bong County, Morris emphasized a collective responsibility among government officials to meet the needs of the constituents they represent.
“Do not hold Senator Moye responsible if this government fails you in Bong County; hold us responsible because he has already played his part by recommending our appointments,” Morris declared, resonating a strong message of accountability among political leaders. Her remarks came during a stakeholder engagement aimed at rallying party members and local leaders to adopt a more effective approach to governance.
Morris’s assertion reflects an evolving narrative in Liberian politics, where the expectations of citizens for transparency and accountability from their elected or appointed officials are rising. With the ruling Unity Party maintaining significant power in the country, Morris’s call to action may serve as a critical moment for local governance, especially as elections loom on the horizon.
The Deputy Minister’s comments were amplified by her assertion that Bong County boasts one of the highest numbers of appointed government officials in the current administration. She pointed out the presence of various ranks of officials, including Ministers, Directors, Assistant Ministers, and others, noting, “With such opportunities available to us, we must work in the interest of Bong County and its citizens.”
In light of these statements, many in attendance voiced their support for Morris, with some expressing a sense of hope that her leadership and the dedication of the appointed officials would lead to tangible improvements within the community. The gathering also provided a platform for party members to discuss the challenges they face and to strategize on how to effectively address the concerns of their constituents.
Morris’s candid admission of accountability is a departure from the customary tendency of political figures to deflect blame during times of disappointment or disillusionment among constituents. Her comments encourage not only self-reflection among officials but also empower citizens to demand more from their leaders.
Moreover, Deputy Minister Morris’s focus on local governance resonates with broader national issues, as citizens across Liberia call for increased responsiveness from their leaders. With developmental programs often lagging and public trust in government institutions fluctuating, her call for a results-oriented approach could be pivotal in fostering a culture of duty and service among public officials.
Citizens and political analysts have weighed in on Morris’s statements, suggesting that such transparency could herald a new era in Liberian political culture. As the Unity Party gears up for the 2029 political contests, Morris’s challenge to the party’s base may also be seen as an effort to solidify support among constituents by demonstrating a commitment to accountability and service. The engagement in Gbarnga represents not only a rallying point for party loyalty but also an opportunity to align the party’s objectives with the aspirations of the people of Bong County.
