Grand Gedeh – After more than two years of negotiation, Government, through the Ministry of Internal Affairs, with support from the Carter Center on Sunday March 26, 2017 finally resolved a long standing boundary dispute between Grand Gedeh and River Gee Counties.
The disputed area is located along the main Zwedru-Fish Town Highway between bordering communities of Putu-Pennokon in Grand Gedeh County and Kilepo-Kanweaken in River Gee County.
The Internal Affairs Ministry, authorities of the two counties and partners immediately planted cornerstones to demarcate the two counties which finally brings an end to the tension.
The parties also signed a joint resolution which states the main boundary along with geographical features for reference.
Deputy Internal Affairs Minister for Administration Honorable Varney A. Sirleaf chaired the tense mediation talks which lasted nearly three days alongside Justice Minister Cllr. Frederick D. Cherue, Carter Center’s Chief of Party Mr. Pewee Flomoku, among others.
River Gee county was represented by its Superintendent Philip Q. Nyenuh, Senator Conmany B Wesseh, Representatives Christian Chea, Johnson Toe Chea, youth, traditional leaders and other citizens.
While Grand Gedeh County’s Superintendent Peter Solo led his team along with Representative Morais Wylee, Dr. George Boley, Madam Ruth Milton, youth, traditional leaders and others all include traditional leaders.
According to citizens of both counties residing along the border, the lack of clearly defined meets-and-bounds since the creation of River Gee County in 2000, especially along the main Zwedru-Fish Town Highway was the main source of the boundary dispute.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister Sirleaf who commanded the Carter Center for its role in the process encouraged all parties, particularly youth to demonstrate mutual respect and refrain from any form of violence and maintain harmonious relationships as the matter has been peacefully resolved.
He said the Ministry will submit the findings to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for possible onward submission to the Legislature.
Also speaking, Justice Minister Cllr. Frederick D. Cherue recounted the traditional bonds among the people of the two counties and called on them to uphold these values.
For his part, Carter Center’s Chief of Party Mr. Pewee S. Flomoku said his Center was glad that the dispute has been finally resolved.
He assured the Carter Center’s continuous support to Government towards restoration of peace in other disputed areas.
He also promised to work with the two counties to create awareness in the communities through town hall meetings and other means.
In separate remarks, citizens of both counties have been commending Government, the Carter center, leaders of the both counties, Liberia Peacebuilding Office and other partners for restoring peace in their communities.
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