By Jeremiah B. Gayflor II
Nimba Correspondent, Verity News
Prominent Nimba politician and former senatorial candidate, Madam Edith Gongloe-Weh, has thrown her weight behind the only female candidate contesting the upcoming representative by-election in Nimba Electoral District #5, urging voters to seize the moment and support Madee Kamah-Wongbay at the polls.
In an exclusive interview with Radio Kergheamahn (RKFM), Madam Weh described the August 12 by-election as a critical juncture in the district’s political journey one that presents an opportunity to promote inclusive governance and end years of gender imbalance in elected leadership.
“This election is very crucial,” Madam Weh said. “It’s about replacing a leader who served for almost 13 years. Among the ten qualified candidates, only one is a woman Madee Kamah-Wongbay. That makes this moment very important.”
Madam Weh, who is a respected voice in Nimba politics and has long advocated for women’s participation in governance, acknowledged the strengths of all candidates in the race. However, she stressed that the time has come for the people of Boe-Yao and the larger District #5 to chart a new course by electing a woman to represent them at the Legislature.
“All of the candidates are great sons and daughters of the district. They all mean well,” she said. “But it’s time to break this cycle of electing only men. Let’s support the one woman who has had the courage to step up.”
She described Kamah-Wongbay as bold and courageous, applauding her decision to enter the political arena despite the challenges women often face in Liberia’s male-dominated political landscape.
“I commend Madee Kamah-Wongbay for taking the bold step to contest. It takes guts, vision, and courage. Through this medium, I officially endorse her candidacy,” Madam Weh declared.
Weh further appealed to her supporters across the county to rally behind Kamah-Wongbay in any way they can be it through direct votes, mobilization, prayers, or campaign support.
“Even if you are not a voter in District #5, you can help. Call someone, pray, donate a small token, or encourage someone in the district to vote for her. Let’s stand together and make history,” she urged.
She reflected on the need for fresh leadership and a new approach to representation, noting that the district had been represented by a male lawmaker, Hon. Samuel Kogar, for over a decade.
“The district has had a male representative for 13 years. It’s time for something different. When you keep doing the same thing over and over again, at some point you need to pause and try a new path,” she noted.
Madam Weh’s endorsement adds momentum to a growing movement pushing for increased female representation in Liberian politics most especially in Nimba County, particularly in rural constituencies where women remain vastly underrepresented.
The National Elections Commission (NEC) has confirmed ten candidates are contesting the by-election, which was triggered by the vacancy left following the departure of Representative Samuel Kogar.
With the campaign season in full swing, Madam Weh’s backing of Kamah-Wongbay could prove pivotal as voters in District #5 weigh their options ahead of the August 12 polls.
