By: P Uriah Suah
suahuriah86@gmail.com

Beo Clan, Nimba County – Thousands of citizens from Beo Chiefdom, one of the five chiefdoms in Electoral District #5, Nimba County, have overwhelmingly petitioned Mr. Bories B. Barlea to contest the upcoming Representative by-election slated for August 12, 2025.
The petition ceremony, held in Beo Bemieplay Town, brought together youth groups, farmers, elders, women, and community leaders who voiced their support for Mr. Barlea’s candidacy, citing his longstanding contributions to grassroots development and community empowerment.
Speaking on behalf of the residents, Martin Wehyee delivered a passionate petition statement titled “The Cry of the People: A Call for Real Leadership”.
“Today, we the youth and farmers from the Beo Belt have come together with one voice, one heart, and one mission to call on Hon. Barlea to run in the August 2025 By-Election,” Wehyee declared. “You have always stood for the farmers. You have always spoken up for the youth. Even when you didn’t hold any title, you never left your people behind.”
Furthermore, the statement outlined the community’s desire for a leader who understands their needs and has a proven track record of service, particularly in agriculture, youth empowerment, and rural development.
“Our land is fertile, but the farmers need support. Our voices are strong, but they need someone to carry them to the national stage,” he added. “Hon. Barlea, from the bottom of our hearts, we respectfully petition you today: Please answer this call.”
In his response, Mr. Bories B. Barlea described the petition as both a surprise and a source of renewed motivation.
“This petition shows that the little we do in the community has not gone unnoticed. Your petition has given us hope to do even more,” he said. “What is happening here today is different from the usual political culture. Normally, people run after the citizens for support. But here, the entire community has come to me. That speaks volumes.”
Barlea emphasized that his passion for community development did not begin with political ambition but from a deep-seated desire to improve the lives of his people.
“Our community has moved beyond political promises. We believe in results, in reality, and in living by example,” he said. “If we want change, we must not wait for political power to serve the people. We must serve before seeking power.”
He stressed the urgent need for better infrastructure, healthcare access, agricultural investment, and stronger local governance, criticizing the government’s failure to adequately provide essential services to rural communities.
“If government can build our roads to the best standard, support our farmers, and value our local produce, we will not only feed ourselves but add value and export,” Barlea noted. “Our people are hardworking. They only need a push.”
He further pledged to run as an independent candidate, stating that his loyalty would be to the people and not a political institution.
“I will not be guided by party discipline. The road will serve everyone, regardless of political party. Services are for all,” he explained. “I’m contesting independently, because I want our decisions to be based on the people’s needs—not on political calculations.”
Mr. Barlea officially accepted the petition and called on the citizens to turn their support into action at the ballot box.
As Barlea commits to vying for the seat, political pundits are discussing a possible shape into the district’s political landscape as many think he has the experience and qualification to be the successor of former representative, now senator of Nimba County; Samuel Kogar.