Buu-Yao, Nimba County – Voters in District #5 head to the polls today, Tuesday, August 12, in a closely watched by-election to replace former Representative Samuel Kogar, now Senator of Nimba County. Ten candidates are on the ballot in what has become one of the most competitive and tense political contests in the region this year.
Among the contenders, only one is a woman — Madee Kamah Wongbay of the Liberia Rebuilding Party — who is seeking to make history as the district’s first female representative. Wongbay’s campaign has been marred by targeted violence, including physical attacks allegedly carried out by supporters of rival candidates. She has appealed to the National Elections Commission (NEC) and other stakeholders to guarantee her safety and ensure women’s participation in politics.
Heightened Security and Tense Atmosphere
The political climate in Buu-Yao has been volatile, with reports of clashes between rival supporters and disruptions to campaign activities. Some rallies have turned chaotic, raising concerns about potential electoral violence.
In response, the NEC, in collaboration with the Liberia National Police (LNP), joint security forces, and international partners, has deployed over 300 officers across the district. Additional measures include trained election staff, voter education drives, and close monitoring to safeguard transparency and credibility.
These preparations follow commitments reaffirmed at a recent high-level forum involving the Government of Liberia, UNDP, and ECOWAS, which pledged to uphold the Farmington River Declaration on peaceful elections.
The Candidates
The crowded field includes:
- Kortor Kwagrue (Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction – MDR)
- Borries Barlea
- Abraham Karkpo
- Madee Kamah Wongbay (Liberia Rebuilding Party)
- Augustus Menkoah
- Tarkpor A. Mambia
- Borkoah Miamen
- Joseph G. Wehyee
- Cole Williams
- Jackson S. Yuo
The race remains wide open, with local observers noting strong grassroots mobilization by multiple candidates.
Beyond Politics: The Stakes for Buu-Yao
Buu-Yao has experienced notable development in recent years, including the rehabilitation of farm-to-market roads in over 60 towns and villages. Residents expect the incoming representative to build on these gains, focusing on infrastructure, healthcare, and social welfare.
“This is more than a political contest,” said one local elder. “It’s about choosing someone who will fight for the district’s future.”
To encourage participation, the government has declared today a national holiday in the district. NEC officials, including Upper Nimba Election Magistrate Milton Paye, have urged voters to remain peaceful and respect each other regardless of the outcome.
As polls open, the people of Buu-Yao prepare for what many are calling a “judgment day” — a chance to decide who will carry their voice to the Capitol and shape the district’s future.
Support Independent Journalism
Your support helps FrontPage Africa continue delivering independent, credible, and impactful journalism. Every contribution strengthens our ability to investigate, inform, and hold power accountable while keeping quality journalism accessible to our readers.
Support our journalism or subscribe to receive the latest FrontPage Africa stories and updates.
