Cautioning People Not To “Misrepresent Me”
PHOTO: Madam Victoria Worlobah Doucan, outgoing Margibi County Superintendent
By Abraham K. Kollie, kollieabraham23@gmail.com
MARGIBI COUNTY, Liberia– At a momentous ceremony during the induction of this County’s newly appointed Superintendent, O. Jay Godfavor Morris has said she is prepared to grapple with the challenges that lie ahead.
Residents of the County welcomed him into his new role, amidst expressions of hope and anxiety from citizens as Margibi has experienced notable developments under the previous administration of the departing superintendent, Madam Victoria Worlobah Doucan.
The incoming Superintendent reflected on the accomplishments and addressed ongoing issues faced by the county.
When she took the oath of office on May 7, 2024, the outgoing superintendent faced daunting challenges such as an empty treasury and a workforce filled with uncertainty.
“I could sense anxiety in the faces of our citizens as to where the County was heading,” she noted. Despite these challenges, she expressed gratitude for the gradual progress Margibi County has made, driven by collective efforts of its citizens and local administration.”
The outgoing Margibi County Superintendent, Madam Victoria Worlobah Ducan during her turning our ceremony, added that over the course of her tenure, Margibi County received a total of $346,000 in funding, including $160,000 from Firestone Land rental and $186,000 from the National Government as part of a County Development Fund.
According to Madam Duncan, the financial support facilitated several key projects, including but not limited to the relocation of the County Administration to Borlorla, renovations of various health and administrative facilities, as well as road development projects aimed at improving connectivity within the county.
The outgoing Margibi County Superintendent also said that during the national County sports competition, citizens rallied in support of local athletes, demonstrating the unyielding spirit and love Margibians have for their community. Acknowledging the financial challenges faced by the players, the previous administration, with the consent of the county council, allocated $35,000 to ensure their participation.
“Our players never had the money to meet all their needs, but God gave them the courage and strength to emerge victorious,” former Superintendent Duncan stated.
The outgoing superintendent also expressed appreciation for the support from national government officials, including Liberia President Joseph Nyumah Boakai and members of the Margibi County Legislative caucus.
Madam Duncan however, cited essential projects currently in progress, particularly the reconstruction of the C.H. Rennie Hospital, which suffered a devastating fire, and improvements to local health facilities.
As she transitioned from her political role, the outgoing superintendent now Resident Judge of the 13th Judicial Circuit court underscored her dedication to the people of Margibi County, stating,
“I am a daughter of this county, and there is no way I will treat anyone with favor against another.”
The 13th Judicial Circuit Court Judge further issued a strong statement on the importance of truth and respect in public discourse, emphasizing the need for community cooperation and understanding.
With a turnover of $346,000 in funds, the outgoing administration confidently handed over ongoing projects and financial statements to the newly appointed superintendent. As the new leader embarks on this vital journey, the former superintendent urged him to maintain dignity and focus amidst the challenges he will face.
“I wish you all the best,” she concluded by saying, she is leaving the residents of Margibi County hopeful for a bright future, as they continue to navigate the complexities of governance and community development together.