HARPER, Maryland County – Maryland County officially ushered in a new administration on Monday, July 13, as the Ministry of Local Government inducted Nathaniel S. Toe, Jr. as County Superintendent during a ceremony attended by senior government officials, local authorities, civil society organizations, women and youth groups, traditional leaders, and residents at Harper City Hall.
By Peter P. Toe, Jr.
The ceremony marked the formal transfer of authority from outgoing Superintendent Henry Cole, ending his tenure and beginning what officials described as a renewed drive toward development and improved governance in the southeastern county.
Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Local Government, Samuel F. Brown Jr., administered the induction and called on Marylanders to rally behind the new superintendent.
“We trust in your ability so much. You are our own, and we believe you will deliver. We have your records of the good work you did when you served as Development Superintendent and later Acting County Superintendent. Please do more as you assume this responsibility as County Superintendent,” Brown said.
He also acknowledged the service of outgoing Superintendent Henry Cole, thanking him for his contributions while urging citizens to support the incoming administration.
“Thank you to Honorable Henry Cole for his role during his service, and I call on all of us to now give our support to this new superintendent for the good of Maryland County,” Brown added.
In his inaugural address, Superintendent Toe called on residents to view leadership as an opportunity for service rather than privilege.
“Do not see this as a position, but just see this as a service to the County. This is a time that we must work hard to recover all we have lost as a County,” he said.
The new superintendent identified infrastructure, the rule of law, agriculture, sanitation, education, healthcare, and tourism as priority sectors requiring immediate attention, noting that Maryland County has fallen behind in several areas of development.
“Developments in Infrastructure, the Rule of Law, Agriculture, Sanitation, Education, Health, and those key sectors, we are behind,” Toe stated.
Looking ahead, he challenged citizens to reflect on the county’s future as Maryland approaches its bicentennial.
“2034 is making us 200 years as a county; where are we going?” he asked, urging collective action to reposition the county for sustainable growth.
Toe also outlined plans to pursue the construction and rehabilitation of key public infrastructure, including Karloken City Hall and other government facilities, while promising to strengthen collaboration with development partners and local communities.
Cole Defends His Record
During the transition ceremony, outgoing Superintendent Henry Cole defended his administration against criticism and highlighted what he described as major accomplishments achieved during his tenure.
Cole cited the completion of the Gbloken School project as one of his administration’s notable successes.
“I met the Gbloken School project unfinished. I paid the US$50,000 needed for the project, and it has now been completed. You can go there and see for yourself. So, your politics is under my feet,” he declared.
Responding to claims that he was an outsider in Maryland County, Cole said:
“I was born here. I have not spent more than four years away from Maryland County; yet I have been deceived as an outsider.”
Reflecting on criticism he encountered while in office, the outgoing superintendent concluded:
“They saw me as an obstacle to this county. But time will tell.”
Stakeholders Express Hope
The induction ceremony drew remarks from several stakeholders who welcomed the new administration and expressed optimism for stronger governance.
Speaking on behalf of the Maryland Women was Madam Cecelia Wilson, who said that women in the county have endured numerous challenges but remain hopeful that the new administration will promote inclusion and address their concerns.
County Council Chair Thomas Mawolo acknowledged past challenges between the County Council and the county administration but expressed confidence that Superintendent Toe’s previous experience as County Development Officer and Acting Superintendent would strengthen transparency, accountability, and cooperation in implementing development projects.
The ceremony was also attended by Grand Kru County Superintendent Antoinette Nimely, who congratulated Superintendent Toe and reaffirmed her commitment to fostering stronger cooperation between the neighboring counties on issues of development and regional collaboration.
The peaceful transition concluded with renewed calls for unity among residents and stakeholders as Maryland County embarks on a new phase of leadership focused on accelerating development and improving the welfare of its citizens.
