SUAKOKO, BONG COUNTY – Former Bong County Inspector William Kollie has disclosed that he is considering contesting for the Representative seat of District Five in Bong County during the 2029 legislative elections.
By Selma Lomax, [email protected]
His possible bid, he said, is motivated by what he described as a growing desire among residents for more focused development, stronger representation, and consistent engagement between elected officials and the communities they serve.
District Five comprises Yellequelleh and Suakoko Districts, two areas that Kollie said possess enormous potential but continue to face challenges related to infrastructure, youth opportunities, and access to essential services.
According to him, the decision to explore a political run did not come overnight but followed years of engagement with citizens who have repeatedly encouraged him to step forward and provide leadership at the national legislature.
Kollie said his time in public service allowed him to see first-hand the needs of rural communities and the importance of having a lawmaker who remains accessible and responsive to constituents.
Speaking about his motivation, Kollie explained that his interest in contesting the seat is rooted in a desire to amplify the voices of the people of District Five and to advocate for policies that directly address the challenges confronting the district.
According to him, representation in the national legislature should extend beyond attending sessions in the capital, stressing that it must include consistent dialogue with citizens, transparent leadership, and a clear commitment to development initiatives that improve livelihoods.
Kollie said he believes District Five deserves stronger advocacy on issues such as road connectivity, support for farmers, youth empowerment, and educational opportunities. He noted that many communities in both Yellequelleh and Suakoko districts still struggle with limited access to basic services, adding that effective legislative representation can help bring meaningful change.
He further emphasized that his vision includes building partnerships with government institutions, development organizations, and local leaders to attract projects that will benefit residents across the district.
“My decision to consider this race is driven by the voices of the people who believe their concerns must be carried strongly to the national legislature.”
“District Five has immense potential, but it requires committed leadership that will advocate tirelessly for development and opportunities for our young people.”
“I want to serve as a bridge between our communities and national decision making so that the needs of our people are not overlooked.”
Kollie also disclosed that he has already begun consultations with community leaders, youth groups, elders, and other stakeholders in Yellequelleh District as part of his early political engagement ahead of the 2029 elections.
He explained that beginning the consultation process in Yellequelleh was a deliberate choice not only because it is his home district but also because he believes the people there deserve the first opportunity to discuss his intentions and share their expectations.
According to Kollie, consultations are essential to ensuring that his potential candidacy reflects the collective aspirations of the district rather than personal ambition. He added that listening to residents at the grassroots level will guide his policy priorities should he formally enter the race.
“Yellequelleh is my home, and it is only right that I begin these discussions with the people who raised me and shaped my understanding of community service.”
“Before any formal declaration, I believe in sitting with our people, hearing their concerns, and allowing them to guide the direction of this journey.”
Kollie indicated that following the consultations in Yellequelleh District, he plans to extend the engagement process to Suakoko District in the coming months. He said the outreach will involve town hall style meetings, visits to communities, and discussions with local leaders.
Meanwhile, Kollie clarified that his potential candidacy would be under the banner of the Rainbow Alliance, the political party to which he belongs. The Rainbow Alliance aligned with the Unity Party during the 2023 elections.
Despite that alliance, Kollie stated that he remains committed to representing his party in the race regardless of whether the Unity Party decides to field its own candidate in the district.
He emphasized that political collaboration should not undermine the identity and participation of individual parties within democratic contests. Kollie said the Rainbow Alliance remains an important platform through which he intends to pursue his political ambitions and contribute to the development of Bong County and Liberia at large.
