GBARNGA — Senator Prince Moye’s strategic influence in recommending Bong County natives to high government positions may come back to haunt him in the 2029 election, as dissatisfaction grows among Unity Party supporters in his home county.
By Selma Lomax [email protected]
Moye, who played a pivotal role in President Joseph Boakai’s victory in 2023, has used his influence to recommend several individuals for key positions in the Boakai-led government, including ministers, deputy ministers, and directors of state-owned enterprises.
Notably, his appointments include Bill McGill Jones, Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Finance; Christopher Sankolo, Director-General at LACCRA; and Martha Morris, Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Health, among others.
These appointments represent the highest number of Bong County natives in top government positions, contrasting with the previous administration of former President George Weah, which saw limited involvement from the county, despite having a vice president, Jewel Howard-Taylor.
However, the appointments made under Moye’s recommendation have sparked growing frustration among the Unity Party’s grassroots supporters in Bong, some of whom feel these officials have been “selfish” and “mean,” failing to contribute meaningfully to the county’s development.
At a recent two-day retreat, Moye reportedly urged the appointed officials to step up their efforts in contributing to their constituencies. Yet, many in Bong County remain disillusioned, and some Unity Party supporters are already warning that these officials’ lack of engagement with their home communities could lead to a political backlash for Moye in the upcoming 2029 election.
Analysis of Moye’s Recommended Officials and their impact
Bill McGill-Jones
Bill McGill-Jones has proven to be the most visible and impactful of Moye’s appointees. In less than two years, McGill-Jones has sponsored over 10 students from his native Sergeant Kollie Town and Jorquelleh District to Cuttington University and other senior high schools. Additionally, he recently collaborated with Moye to break ground for a youth center worth over $30,000. Among Moye’s supporters, McGill-Jones has earned significant trust, especially from young people who feel left out of government appointments.
Rating: 8/10
Christopher Sankolo
While Sankolo’s rise to the position of Director-General at LACCRA has been seen as a success by Moye, many supporters feel he has contributed little to the development of Bong County. His perceived lack of engagement with his community has led to frustration among Unity Party supporters, especially those who feel he has done little to improve conditions back home.
Rating: 2/10
Martha Morris
Martha Morris, Deputy Minister for Administration at the Ministry of Health, has faced significant criticism for not living up to the expectations set during her vigorous 2023 campaign for the Unity Party. Health workers in Bong, particularly nurses, were hoping she would advocate for better salaries, but after more than a year in office, no tangible changes have been made. Her perceived lack of support for her constituents has led to disappointment.
Rating: 5/10
Moses Gbaryan
Gbaryan’s appointment as Deputy Minister for Extension and Research at the Ministry of Agriculture has not been well-received by many Unity Party partisans in Bong. Accusations of being an “introvert” and failing to deliver on his promises have been leveled against him. Many are concerned that his lack of action will hurt the Unity Party’s support in Bong County come 2029.
Rating: 3/10
Curtis Dorley
Curtis Dorley, Deputy Minister for Research and Planning at the Ministry of Gender, has been accused of being “mean” and disconnected from his constituents in Sanoyea District. His failure to engage with the youth who were instrumental in the Unity Party’s 2023 victory has fueled growing discontent in the county.
Rating: 3/10
Amelia Cassell
Amelia Cassell has been one of the few success stories in Moye’s appointments. Despite initial criticisms of her appointment, she has made significant strides in supporting Unity Party partisans. Cassell has contributed to programs in Moye’s absence and has helped fund educational initiatives for students in Gbarnga. She has earned the trust and admiration of Moye’s supporters in her district.
Rating: 8/10
Enoch Morris
Enoch Morris, the administrator of CB Dunbar Hospital, has earned praise from Unity Party supporters for his active involvement in improving the lives of struggling constituents. His hands-on approach and crucial interventions have earned him the nickname “Rescue Enoch,” and he is seen as one of the most effective appointees from Bong County.
Rating: 8/10
Political Implications for 2029
As Moye continues to navigate his political future, with speculation swirling about whether he will seek re-election or run as a vice-presidential candidate alongside Jeremiah Koung, the performance of his recommended officials in government will play a critical role in his political fortunes.
Political analysts warn that the growing frustration among Unity Party supporters in Bong County could negatively impact Moye’s prospects in 2029 if these officials fail to engage with their communities and deliver on their promises.
Stay tuned for Part Two of this analysis, coming Monday.
