– But they should not stand alone
By Shallon S. Gonlor | shallonsgonlor@gmail.com
NIMBA COUNTY, Liberia — Nimba County’s only two female district commissioners have identified severe resource constraints and cultural resistance as the primary obstacles hindering their work in 2025.
Commissioner Mary Nya Gonlepa of Sanniquellie Mah Administrative District and Commissioner Kaymah Kuoh of Weegbeh Administrative District stated that a lack of logistical and financial support has paralyzed their offices’ basic functions. They made these remarks in interviews with journalists over the weekend.
The commissioners also shed light on the resistance encountered from some elder members in their region, who have targeted and attacked them, citing the notion that women are not suited for such ‘traditionally charged’ leadership positions. This backlash, they say, has added to their struggles, making it even tougher to navigate their roles.
Moreover, they revealed that the attacks they faced are not just physical, but also spiritual. “They’ve attacked us in our homes and offices, trying to bring us down,” they said. But by the grace of God, all attempts to eliminate them have been unsuccessful.
Despite the challenges, they described 2025 as a successful year, showing resilience in the face of adversity. These experiences shed light on the broader issues women in leadership face, especially in fields traditionally dominated by men. Commissioners Mary and Kaymah’s determination to push forward despite these obstacles is a testament to their commitment to their roles.
Mary Nya Gonlepa of Sanniquellie Mah Administrative District and Kaymah Kuoh of Weegbeh Administrative District among sixteen male commissioners, respectively. Commissioners Mary and Kaymah were appointed by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., and confirmed by the Liberian Senate in 2024 and 2025, respectively.
Current Nimba County male commissioners are John Lehn, Relieving Commissioner, Chris M. Joe, Doe Administrative District Commissioner, Bob Gbato, Gbi-Doru Administrative District, and Commissioner Samuel G. Bahgue,
Kparblee Administrative District Commissioner, Samuel G. Bahgue, Yarwain Meansonnoh Administrative District Commissioner, James L. Volar, Yarpea-Mah Administrative District, Commissioner Sam Karnue, Boe Quillah Administrative District Commissioner, Justine Wehyee, and Zoe-Gbao Administrative District Commissioner Alex Tomah.
Others include the Twah River Administrative District, Commissioner George Kotee, Blinlon Administrative District, Commissioner Leaway Konah, Leewehpea Administrative District Commissioner Moore Borpea, Buu Yao Administrative District, Commissioner Solomon Worker, Zehnla Administrative District Commissioner, Sam Dahn, Mainpea-Mah Administrative District, Commissioner Jefferson Saye Gondah, and Yahman Administrative District, Commissioner Clarence Dolo.
