MONROVIA, LIBERIA-The new officials of the National Council of Chiefs and Elders have been cautioned to perform their duties with loyalty to the country.
President Joseph Boakai said:” Liberia’s path to sustainable growth and development can be attained if people serving in positions of public trust are dedicated and passionate about change.
President Boakai underscored the invaluable contributions of the Traditional Council in the protection of the country’s peace and security through cultural norms and values.
The Liberian Leader urged the new Council to be a strong pillar in supporting the Government of Liberia’s quest to build a vibrant country among the comity of nations.
President Joseph Boakai gave the caution over the weekend at the program marking the induction of officials of the National Council of Chiefs and Elders at the Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, Chairperson Arthur Gonwah promised to work along with the Government to build a cherished culture and respectable society.
Chairman Gonwah said:” The Council will remain engaged with other local leaders in restoring and reclaiming Liberia’s lost traditional values.”
The Liberian Chief Zoe also vowed to demonstrate high values of sincerity and dedication in the performance of his duties.
The Chairman of the National Council of Chiefs and Elders, Arthur Gonwah, then extolled the Ministry of Internal Affairs and partners for their support and expressed optimism that the collaboration would enhance the implementation of the Local Government Act.
For his part, the Minister of Internal Affairs, Francis Nyumalin, said:” The decentralization of the governance process will accelerate the socio-economic development of Liberia. The governance system will drive inclusive and motivational strategies among Local Government actors to contribute to the progress of their communities and country.”
Minister Nyumalin said the true intent of the ARREST Agenda can be actualized when all hands are on deck and the foundation for decentralization is firmly rooted at the local level of Liberia’s governance structure.
The Internal Affairs Boss lauded the President for the confidence reposed in him, while, at the same time, hailing the contributions of the Finance Ministry and the UNDP for the support.
The United States Government also committed its support to Liberia’s decentralization initiative as enshrined in the Local Government Act of 2018.
The US Deputy Chief of Mission in Monrovia, Catherine Rodriguez, said:” The Government and the National Council of Chiefs and Elders are key partners in the promotion and perseveration of the country’s rich cultural heritage.”
Madam Rodriguez described the induction of officials of the National Council of Chiefs and Elders as a milestone towards strengthening Liberia’s Local Governance System.
She believes that the Council also serves as a channel through which members of the Traditional Community can freely engage with other formal structures of the Government.
By: Vasta Tarlue
