By Moses M. Tokpah, mosesmtokpah@gmail.com
KAKATA, Liberia- The Representative of Margibi 5th electoral district, Clarence G. Gahr and Executives of the Gibi District Development Association (GIDDA) have smoked a peace pipe in the District, some 103 miles east of Monrovia.
The Lawmaker and officials of the group through the intervention of elders and local authorities of the District had a one-day dialogue in Worhn Town, Gibi District recently.
The dialogue was characterized by claims and counter claims between the Lawmaker and the group regarding the issue that existed between them but their differences were resolved at the end.
Speaking earlier, the reconciliation committee chairman of GIDDA, Rev. G. William Lemuel claimed that following the 2017 general and presidential elections, he proposed a reconciliation meeting on grounds that there were lots of political wounds in the District.
He stated that when he made the suggestion it was welcomed by everyone and he was asked to take the lead as chairperson.
But the first reconciliatory engagement with the Lawmaker did not materialize due to the lack of “recognition” from the office of the Lawmaker which led the group to have earlier planned on passing a vote of no confidence in him (Rep. Gahr).
But in response, the Lawmaker expressed dissatisfaction over the group’s assertion thus accusing GIDDA of not respecting his office as well.
At the end of the meeting, the Lawmaker and the group reconciled their differences in order to work in the interest of the district and its citizens.
Rep. Gahr told Journalists at the end of the one-day dialogue that reconciliation or sitting on the table to resolve their differences in the common interest of those he represents is one of the things he promised them.
The Lawmaker stated that at the dialogue they thought it wise to renew their commitment, stretch hands and communicate with each other as well as disseminate the necessary information in a timely manner.
“When the elders speak we’re there to abide by it, the elders spoke across the table that there is need that we come together; our common interest here today as leader of this district is to ensure that everyone come together in the common interest of the district” he asserted.
According to him, everything was ironed out and they recommitted themselves to building an improved working relationship that will and it is geared towards moving the District forward.
The Margibi Lawmaker said once GIDDA has the vision to move the district forward and unite his people for their common good he will work with them.