By: P Uriah Suah
Email: suahuriah86@gmail.com
Ganta, Nimba County– Nimba County Electoral District Eight Representative, Hon. Saye Sylvester Mianah has provided an overview of developmental initiatives in the district and lawmaking efforts since ascending to the legislature in January 2024. Rep. Mianah’s overview is in response to mounting public pressure about his alleged abandonment of the district in terms of developmental undertakings and adequate representation.
But addressing a team of journalists in the district recently, he highlighted substantial progress on several developmental projects across the district, including the rehabilitation of a major bridge which connects Blohn and Wallah communities, road rehabilitation efforts in Gbanah and other surrounding areas as projects nearing completion.
“We are working hard. Every week, I am in the district overseeing projects. The bridge is done, and the roads in Gbanah will be completed in three to four days. We plan to dedicate all of these projects around July 23rd or 24th,” he stated.
Speaking about the when he would present a comprehensive district development or legislative report, the Nimba Caucus’ Chairperson announced that his office is preparing to release the 2024 Legislative and Constituency Report. Previously scheduled for July 26, 2025, Rep. Mianah has meanwhile announced a later date for the report, citing the importance of the event and not coinciding with Liberia’s Independence Day Celebration.
“Since July 26 is a national holiday, we don’t want to host major political activities on that day. We’ll present the legislative report before the 26th. That way, we can dedicate the day to sports, unity activities, and reconciliation.” the lawmaker noted.
Rep. Saye Sylvester Miana also urged his constituency mostly the youthful populace to refrain from acts that would undermine the peace and development of the district.
“We are not in the business of just talking, we are delivering. I challenge anyone to go around the district and see for themselves what has been done. Rep. Mianah stated. “This district is changing, and we want everyone to be part of that progress.”
Addressing citizens’ concerns over ArceloMittal Liberia’s operations, he cautioned that while residents may have legitimate grievances, the best way to channeling these grievances should not be through violence protests that would hinder the peace of their communities but in a civil manner, thus, re-emphasizing his commitment to advocating for the fair share of the company’s opeartions.
“We are engaging Mittal Steel based on a new Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) because the past agreement didn’t include many of our key concerns like roads, bridges, or other infrastructure.” He noted. “We are now appealing to the company, even though it’s not part of their corporate social responsibility. We need our citizens to understand that violent protests, like blocking the railroad, won’t help.”
As a way of fostering reconciliation and unity amongst residents of the district, Rep. Mianah disclosed plans for a friendly football match between the district’s youths, staffers, and friends of his office as part of the Independence Day festivities. He also revealed that preparations are underway for a key strategy meeting involving district officials and local leaders.
