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Liberian Traditional Chiefs Hold Election: Chief Zanzan Kawor Out, Chief Arthur Dowah In

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As The National Council Of Chiefs Gets New Leaders

PHOTO: (L-R) Paramount Chief Arthur Dowan Newly elected head of the National Chiefs Council and outgoing leader Chief Zanzan Kawor

By Alfred Kollie alfredkolliejr92@gmail.com

In an historic event, the National Council of Chiefs in Liberia has elected a new corps of national leadership, with the elections of a Paramount Chief from the central Bong County emerging as head of the Council.

Authorities say this leadership is expected to play pivotal roles in advancing cultural heritage and fostering peace within the country as required by the Local Government Act, which has so far not been fully implemented.

But the outgoing leader of the National Traditional Chiefs council of Liberia, Zanzan Karwo, who is from the Grand Bassa-Rivercess belt in southern Liberia and had led the group for more than a decade, had earlier objected to the decision to hold election at this time.

The election took place in Gompa, Nimba County at the weekend (on Friday, August 9, 2024), amidst a record-breaking crowd of chiefs from all 15 counties, along with County Superintendents, local government officials, the media, and civic society organizations.

The three newly elected leaders of the National Chiefs Council

Paramount Chief Arthur W. Dowah of Boinsen Chiefdom, KoKoya District, Bong County emerged as the newly elected National Chairperson.

The just-ended election to this high traditional leaders’ position will see Chief Dowah leading the Council for a two-year tenure.

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai will formally induct Chief Dowah and the other elected chiefs on Saturday, August 10 at the Ellen Johnson Ministerial Complex in Congo Town.

This induction ceremony marks an important milestone in fulfilling Chapter three of the Local Government Act of 2018, which was signed into law by former President George Manneh Weah in September, 2018.

This Act repealed the previous legislation that created the National Traditional Council and established the National Council of Chiefs instead.

Joining Chief Dowah in the newly elected leadership are Paramount Chief Ballah Gbotorlu from Lofa County, who will serve as the National Vice Chair for Culture and Traditional Affairs, and female Paramount Chief Rhoda Garmu of Grand Gedeh County, who will take on the role of National Vice Chairperson for Peacebuilding and Reconciliation.

These newly elected chiefs bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their respective roles, having previously served their communities with distinction.

According to officials, heir unique perspectives and expertise will be invaluable in preserving traditional values and promoting unity across the nation.

The Internal Affairs Ministry says the success of their appointments is a testament to their commitment to service and their communities “on their well-deserved election”.

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