The guest speaker at the induction of Pago Island’s new leadership has called on the new administration to prioritize reconciliation as a foundation for uniting the community.
By Perry B. Zordyu, contributing writer
Pastor David Fartomah highlighted that the prolonged divisions within the community have hindered key developmental initiatives. He urged the new leadership to address these divides and foster unity among residents.
Pastor Fartomah emphasized the damaging impact of hate speech, which he said has been prevalent, and encouraged the incoming leaders to resolve the longstanding conflicts among community members.
“With power now shifted to a new leadership, you must seize this moment to reconcile the community. Pago Island is small but has been deeply manipulated by divisiveness. As leaders, it is your responsibility to restore the unity and peace we once enjoyed,” Pastor Fartomah stated.
He stressed the importance of collaboration with elders, peers, and the youth to tackle the challenges facing the community. He also noted that envy and jealousy have undermined the sovereignty and progress of the island. According to him, avoiding unnecessary conflicts is essential for true development.
Pastor Fartomah urged the new leadership, under Chairman Urias Taylor, to extend an olive branch to the opposition and the outgoing administration as a first step toward reconciliation.
As part of his efforts to support community development, Pastor Fartomah donated garbage bins, shovels, footballs, jerseys, and other cleaning materials to promote cleanliness and organize a sports tournament as a means of fostering unity.
Township Commissioner Backs Unity Agenda
Speaking at the event, Congo Town Township Commissioner Edward Lahai expressed his support for the new leadership and encouraged them to capitalize on connections with stakeholders to develop the community.
Commissioner Lahai, who served as the induction officer, lamented that Pago Island, despite being part of the township for over 100 years, remains underdeveloped due to internal crises.
He revealed plans for the construction of a multi-purpose complex to serve the community, which will include offices and a fire station. The project, estimated at $250,000 USD, is part of the township’s centennial celebration. He called on partners to contribute to its completion.
“The complex will ensure better services for the community and establish systems to address the people’s needs effectively,” Commissioner Lahai said.
Urias Taylor Outlines Leadership Agenda
In his inaugural address, newly inducted Chairman Urias Taylor unveiled a six-pillar manifesto aimed at transforming Pago Island. His priorities include community development, community unity, community security, respect for the rule of law, youth empowerment and rotection of children and women.
Chairman Taylor pledged to create opportunities for deserving youth and collaborate with stakeholders to enhance the community. He outlined plans to rehabilitate roads leading to the island, stating that work on feeder roads will begin in the first quarter of 2025 through engagement with the Ministry of Public Works.
Taylor also emphasized the importance of community security and announced plans to collaborate with the Liberia National Police to address crime and violence in the area.
He concluded by thanking the people of Pago Island for electing his team and entrusting them to lead the community for the next four years.
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