By Nukanah Kollie
GBARNGA, BONG COUNTY – The National Patriotic Party (NPP) has officially endorsed Representative Samuel G. Kogar as its candidate for the upcoming Nimba County senatorial by-election. The endorsement comes after a thorough internal consultation process, with party officials citing Kogar’s legislative experience, political pedigree, and longstanding ties to the party as key reasons for their support.
Speaking via telephone on Super Bongese Radio, a local radio station in Gbarnga on Wednesday, April 16, the National Patriotic Party National Chairman Atty. George Sylvester Mulbah confirmed that the party made several important decisions during a recent executive session. Chief among them was the approval to hold a Special Representative National (SRN) section to review party activities and elect a new political leader, distinct from the national chairman who provides administrative leadership.
“As we prepare for our convention, we’re proud to endorse Hon. Samuel Kogar for the senatorial seat in Nimba. Kogar has served with distinction and is the only legislative candidate in this race with proven experience in the House,” Atty Mulbah stated. “He commands respect, much like the late Senator Johnson did during his time. Kogar’s political roots lie with the NPP, and that means a lot to us.”
The NPP plans to lead a delegation to Nimba on Thursday, April 17,2025 to formally present its endorsement and rally support across the county for Kogar’s campaign. “We will back Kogar not just in words, but through action,” Chairman Mulbah added, affirming the party’s confidence in his elect-ability.
The former Bong County Legislative Caucus Chair George S.Mulbah also criticized the trend of candidates seeking office without prior legislative experience, citing it as one of the issues affecting governance in Liberia. “You can’t get legislative experience outside the legislature,” he said. “Other countries follow this principle. It’s time Liberia does the same.”
NPP Gears Up for Convention
Turning to party affairs, the NPP has announced plans to hold an extraordinary convention on May 30 in Gbarnga, Bong County. This convention will address critical leadership issues, including the election of a new political leader.
While the position of standard bearer typically emerges during election periods, the party has opted to elect a political leader at this time to help shape the direction of the NPP moving forward.
Two prominent figures have declared their intention to contest for the political leader position: Senators James O. P. Biney of Maryland County and Melvin Snowe of Bomi County.
“These are credible individuals with longstanding service in public life,” the Hon. Mulbah adds. “This election will be open, transparent, and competitive.”
Unity in the Party Despite Departures
Addressing speculation about internal divisions within the party, the NPP Chairman dismissed claims of a split. “There’s no division in the NPP. Those who left did so on their own accord, and we wish them well,” he said. “The party continues to function under the leadership of its National Executive Committee.”
He at same time acknowledged the current economic difficulties in the country but insisted that the by-election is necessary for democratic continuity and governance.
A Call to Nimba County Voters
As a final message to the people of Nimba, the NPP urged voters to make a wise and forward-looking decision. “This election is not just about filling a vacant seat, it’s about choosing someone who will guide the county for the next seven years. Let’s rise above personal interests and elect someone with a proven record,” he said.
