IPNEWS: Amidst threats by chief Zanzan Kawor, of serious consequences following statements by Internal Affairs Minister, Hon. Francis Nyumalin that the National Traditional Council is no more in existence, Pres. Joseph N. Boakai on Saturday, August 10, inducted Chief Arthur Dowah of Bong County, as the new Chairperson of the National Traditional Council of Chiefs, and Elders, in accordance with the Local Government Act of 2018.
Earlier on Friday, August 9, the Ministry of Internal Affairs for the election of Chief Arthur Dowah of Bong County as the new Chairperson of the National Chiefs and Elders Council (Traditional Council), bringing end to what observers see as the end of the National Traditional Council.
The election over the weekend in Gompa City, Nimba County saw the election of chief Dowah alongside two other chiefs from RiverCess and Maryland respectively for a two years term breaking the past of over 10-year mandate of Chief Zanzar Kawor.
The Traditional leaders have promised to work in accordance with the Local Governance Act 2018, promulgated under the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Chiefs Arthur Goah Of Bong county, was heavily contested against by Bob Kofi Zarh of River-Cess And Nelson Neal Of Maryland Counties for the National Chairperson Of The Council Of Chiefs In Liberia.
Chief Rolla Garmhon, from Grand Gedeh County, emerged winner for the Vice Chairmanship as the Vice Chair For Peace Building And National Reconciliation, National Council Of Chiefs In Liberia, beating Chief Haji A Somba, Chief Ballah Gotomue, and Chief Jacob Gboyah Of Grand Bassa in the National Vice Chairperson For Culture And Traditional Affairs race.
Chief Zanzan Kawor and his team have pledged to resist the government’s decision, emphasizing their commitment to upholding the responsibilities and duties entrusted to them by the traditional community. They have expressed their determination to continue serving the people and preserving the cultural heritage of Liberia.
This situation now raises concerns about the governance of traditional leadership and respect for established tenures.
Many spoken to in Buchanan city over the weekend, expressed surprised at the Minister’s decision and are calling of emergency meeting of the traditional council nationwide.
“We stand united in defending our cultural heritage and the integrity of our traditional institutions. The Bassa people, alongside other concerned citizens, will remain vigilant and steadfast in ensuring that justice prevails and that our leaders are allowed to serve their full terms as mandated tribal people.” A member of the Traditional Council told IPNEWS in Buchanan City, Grand Bassa county over the weekend.
Last week, the Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Francis Nyumalin clarified that there was no place for Chief Zanzan Kawor and other members of the Traditional Council as stated by the reformed Local Governance Act.
Minister Nyumalin stated that under the new Local Governance Act, the National Traditional Council headed by Chief Zanzan Kaowr has elapsed following the coming into being of the Act in 2024, and bringing to being the National Council of Chiefs and Elders.
He stated that no matter of threats will take the government away from what was enacted with consultation of other key traditional and well as Elders across the country.
