GBARNGA, Bong – Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor has reaffirmed her resolve to work with the leadership of Bong to ensure the development of the county.

The vice president said the development of Bong and Liberia remains paramount on the agenda of the CDC-led government.

She was speaking on Monday in Gbarnga at the induction ceremony of Esther Walker as the county’s third successive female superintendent. She replaces Selena Polson Mappy.

“Over the next few years, we will continue to work together to lift not only Bong County, but the whole of Liberia,” Howard-Taylor said.

She called on Walker to administer the affairs of Bong and its people with care and provide a level playing field for inclusive governance.

“Remember that the life of Bong County is in your hands; if you squeeze it, it will die,” the VP noted.

For Walker, she acknowledged that citizens of Bong deserve a better life and assured them that she would work with everyone to improve the county.

“Indeed, our people deserve a better life; a life that will make them feel part of our country,” Walker said in her induction speech. “Our people are not slaves and must not be treated as slaves. They must be respected, for they are all that we have.”

Supt. Walker receiving the gavel of authority from Internal Affairs Minister Varney Sirleaf. Photo: Moses Bailey.

She thanked President George Weah for appointing her to serve her people.

Walker noted that she would shortly embark on a county reconciliation drive that will bring together traditional leaders, past and present county officials, civil society, the religious community, women and youth groups.

Earlier on, Liberia’s deputy speaker, Prince Moye, promised the Bong Legislative Caucus’ willingness to work with the office of the vice president to ensure that the county is developed.

Moye, Bong’s second district representative, called on everyone in the county to forget the political past and chart a new course for development.

Deputy Speaker Prince Moye remarks at the induction. Photo: Moses Bailey.

The deputy speaker also assured Walker of the caucus’ support to her leadership for the overall good of the county.

“Madam Superintendent, on behalf of the caucus, we want to assure you that we will stand by you, you have reached out to all of us when you were nominated and confirmed. That shows your willingness to work with everyone,” Moye said.

The induction ceremony was attended by Internal Affairs Minister Varney Sirleaf; the chairperson of National Council of Chiefs and Elders of Liberia, Zanzar Kawor; former superintendent, Selena Polson Mappy; members of the Bong County Legislative Caucus and scores of citizens including women, youth, and traditional leaders among others.

Featured photo by Moses Bailey