By By: Alphanso G. Kalama;
Rivercess County, Liberia – Citizens of Rivercess County Electoral District #1 have taken a bold step in demanding urgent infrastructure, governance, and economic reforms through a petition submitted to the 55th National Legislature of Liberia. The petition, signed by traditional and local government leaders and openly read by the Secretary General Mr. Benjamin S. Thomas, outlines longstanding issues affecting roads, education, healthcare, and land governance, calling on authorities to act swiftly in the interest of development.
One of the key concerns raised is the deplorable state of major roads connecting Rivercess to other counties. The citizens stress that the “road leading from Compound #3 through Boegeezay, Karmoh Town to Tapitta needs to be properly built” as it is crucial for agricultural activities and market accessibility. They also emphasized that the “road from Barchue Town through Bodowhea to Yarpah Town” must be rehabilitated to ensure access to healthcare facilities.
The petitioners are also demanding that logging companies operating in the district “stop paying land rental fees at the national level and instead pay directly to the district treasury.” They argue that such a move will allow the district to finance local development initiatives and benefit from its own natural resources.
The citizens are also advocating for the establishment of three senior public high schools in strategic locations within the district. “Our children are forced to leave the county just to obtain a high school diploma,” the petition states, highlighting the strain on families who send their children to Buchanan, Monrovia, and other distant cities for education.
The petition urges President Joseph Boakai to ensure that “local government positions in Rivercess are occupied by people from the county, not outsiders.” Additionally, citizens are requesting the creation of several new townships and administrative districts to enhance governance and decentralization.
Recognizing the challenges of law enforcement in a geographically vast county, the petitioners are also requesting the construction of three magisterial courts and police stations in Bodowhea, Zammie, and Geedeh, arguing that this will “help reduce crime rates and strengthen the judicial system.”
Signed by key leaders, including Chief Augustus Yarpah, Chief Johnson Moses, and Commissioner William Yeasay, this petition represents a unified call for transformation. The citizens of Rivercess County are sending a clear message to the national government: “We deserve better, and we will not be silent until change comes!”.
Receiving the petition on behalf of the Committee on Claims and Petitions at the 55th House of Representatives was Montserrado District Eight Representative Prince Toles, who commended the elders and heads of River Cess District One for following the proper procedure in channeling their grievances.
Alluding to some challenges within the ten counts presented, Rep. Toles promised to swiftly forward the petition to plenary for further discussion, as well as return with feedback to the district.
