NIMBA COUNTY, Liberia – As 2025 ends, the political campaigns of two women in Nimba County highlight both progress and persistent challenges for female candidates. Edith Gongloe-Weh and Madee Kamah Wongbay sought seats in separate by-elections this year.
EDITH GONGLOE-WEH’S SENATORIAL BID
Edith Gongloe-Weh conceded the April 2025 Senatorial By-Election. The former county superintendent received 40,506 votes, or 33.95 percent. Winner Samuel Gongben Kogar secured 62,136 votes, or 52.08 percent.
Gongloe-Weh was the only woman in that race. Her campaign drew significant support from a women-led movement called “She Deserves a Seat.”
In her concession speech, Gongloe-Weh called for unity. She stated, “The war is won, even if this battle was lost.” She also noted the role of government resources in the election.
The campaign was reportedly contentious. Observers believe Gongloe-Weh was targeted due to her perceived strength as a candidate. Tribal politics were emphasized by opponents throughout the race.
This was Gongloe-Weh’s fourth unsuccessful bid for the Senate. Her supporters point to her long record of public service. Critics have questioned her electoral strategy.
MADEE KAMAH WONGBAY’S REPRESENTATIVE BID
Madee Kamah Wongbay was the sole female candidate in Nimba’s District 5 Representative By-election in August. The 45-year-old local businesswoman faced ten male candidates.
Wongbay ran on the ticket of the Liberia Rebuilding Party. Following the vote, she contested the official result.
The National Elections Commission announced her tally as 20 votes. Wongbay and her supporters claim she originally received 995 votes. The declared winner was Representative Kortor Kwagrue.
Her campaign called for an immediate recount. They cited major discrepancies in the vote-counting process.
Before the election, Wongbay’s team reported incidents of intimidation and threats. They alleged targeted violence aimed at disrupting her campaign activities. Security agencies pledged to investigate and ensure safety.
WOMEN’S REPRESENTATION IN NIMBA POLITICS
The 2025 races continued a trend of low female participation in Nimba County politics. Cultural and societal norms are often cited as significant barriers.
Advocates argue that women bring essential perspectives to governance and development. Campaigns like “She Deserves a Seat” demonstrate growing organized support for female candidates.
Despite this, women remain largely absent from the county’s highest political decision-making tables. More work is needed to increase women’s political participation, local observers say.
