Todee District, Montserrado County—Chief Stephen S. Goba, Paramount Chief of Todee District and Elder Council Chairman of Montserrado County, has declared his candidacy for the chairmanship in the upcoming Chief Council of Liberia elections, promising to promote unity and tradition in Liberia.
About 15 Elder Council chairpersons from across Liberia are expected to converge in Ganta, Nimba County on August 7, 2024, to elect a new code of officers to stir the leadership affairs of the National Chief Council of Liberia formally known as the National Traditional Chief and Elder Council of Liberia.
Outlining his vision in an exclusive interview with FrontPage Africa on Thursday, Chief Goba said if elected as head of the Chief Council of Liberia he intends to strengthen the cultural heritage and cohesion among Liberia’s diverse communities and unite and promote the country’s tradition.
Paramount Chief Goba expressed a strong commitment to reconciling all traditional chiefs across Liberia. He emphasized the importance of unity and peace, which he believes are crucial for the country’s progress and stability.
He noted that his vision contrasts sharply with the tenure of the outgoing chairman, Zanzan Kawor, whom he accused of favoritism towards his Bassa kinsmen during his 18-year reign.
“The way we were treated during Chief Zanzan Kawor’s regime was not satisfactory to nearly all the fifteen county chairmen. So, we know what is good for our traditional leaders and that is why we are contesting”, Chief Goba said.
Chief Goba promised to build on a platform of inclusivity and cultural revival, vowing that he would uphold and promote the traditions of Liberia.
“The tradition is not only the practice of Poro and Sande Society but our way of living and the way we dress involves the tradition, but the outgoing leadership failed to promote this aspect of our tradition” Chief Goba alleged.
Paramount Chief Goba stressed that the promotion of Liberians’ ways of life including dressing fosters a sense of national identity and pride among Liberians and reinforces the cultural bonds that unite the diverse ethnic groups within the country.
He emphasized that traditional dress and lifestyle underscores a broader commitment to cultural preservation, noting that promoting these aspects of Liberian heritage will inspire a resurgence of traditional values and practices among the younger generation.
“The role of the Chief Council is pivotal in maintaining our cultural heritage and promoting peace among our people,” said Chief Goba. “I am committed to working with all traditional chiefs to create a cohesive and unified council that represents all ethnic groups fairly and justly.”
Chief Goba promised to reconcile the traditional chiefs to achieve a more equitable representation and collaboration within the council.
He, however, vowed to use his portfolio to work in the interest of the country void of political affiliation in addressing national grievances and ensuring that all voices are heard and further strengthening the council’s ability to mediate conflicts and promote harmony in Liberian society.
At the same time, Paramount Chief Stephen S. Goba said his bid for the Chairmanship of the Chief Council of Liberia represents a hopeful vision for the future and his commitment to reconciliation, unity, and cultural promotion positions him as a strong candidate capable of leading the council towards a more inclusive era.
