By Edwin N. Khakie
PAYNESVILLE, Liberia, August 7, 2026 – Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung has called on the Ministries of Internal Affairs and Local Government to ensure that youth presidents elected in rural communities are between the ages of 15 and 20.
Koung made the call on Friday during the dedication of a new Hospitality Training Center at the SKD Sports Complex in Paynesville.
He said the purpose of youth leadership is being undermined because many individuals currently serving as youth chairpersons in rural communities are between the ages of 50 and 65.
According to the Vice President, such a situation does not reflect the interests of Liberia’s young people or provide them with opportunities to develop leadership skills.
Koung urged the Ministries of Internal Affairs and Local Government to work together to enforce age-appropriate youth leadership structures, particularly in rural communities where youth organizations play an important role in local governance and development.
He said empowering young people to lead would help develop future national leaders while ensuring that the voices of youth are adequately represented in community decision-making.
The Vice President’s remarks come as the government continues to promote youth empowerment, skills development, and greater participation of young people in national development initiatives.
