Sanniquellie – With the senatorial by-election set for April 22, several senior government officials are facing criticism for allegedly misusing Nimba County’s Social Development Fund (SDF) to influence the political allegiance of local leaders.
By Franklin Doloquee
Sources in Sanniquellie revealed that the Minister of Internal Affairs, Francis Nyumalin, Representative Nyah Flomo of District #2, and Superintendent Kou Meapeh Gono have been reportedly distributing cash and material incentives from the SDF to secure support for Representative Samuel Kogar, the government-backed candidate.
During an event labeled as an appreciation program for local authorities Friday, 786 town chiefs and 20 district commissioners across Nimba’s 19 administrative districts reportedly received $500 USD each, totaling $393,000 USD (L$78.6 million). Seventeen motorcycles were also distributed to district commissioners.
Local leaders were allegedly instructed during a closed-door meeting to use the funds and resources to mobilize citizens in support of Kogar’s candidacy.
Traditional “bush masters” were reportedly tasked with summoning emergency town meetings to influence voters.
The funds were reportedly sourced from the Social Development Fund, which is meant for grassroots development, not political campaigning.
Several town chiefs, speaking anonymously to FrontPage Africa, said they felt pressured to comply, fearing their positions could be at risk if they refused.
“This was not just appreciation. We were clearly told to fall in line or face consequences,” one chief said. “It felt like political gunpoint.”
Allegations of political favoritism have also surfaced. Former Sanniquellie Mayor Mary Nya Gonlepa, who is actively campaigning for Kogar, has reportedly been promised a district commissioner appointment. Two district commissioners, Chris Joe and Kemah Kruah Miapue, were allegedly promised international travel with President Boakai in exchange for their political support.
Superintendent Gono reportedly stated she would not support any female candidate until the current administration of President Joseph Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Koung completes its six-year term.
Minister Nyumalin reportedly warned that voting against Kogar would be viewed as disloyalty to the government.
The incident has sparked concern over the politicization of development funds, especially in rural areas where local leaders are often financially dependent on government programs.
Superintendent Gono and Minister Nyumalin couldn’t be reached for comments up to press time.
Campaign activities are expected to close on Saturday, April 19.
