Monrovia, Liberia – Williametta E. Saydee-Tarr, former Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, has issued a strong statement endorsing Edith Gongloe-Weh as the most qualified candidate in the upcoming Nimba County senatorial by-election, while condemning recent misogynistic and tribalistic remarks made by some political actors.
In her staunch statement on Friday, April 18, 2025, Saydee-Tarr called out Representative Samuel Kogar for stating that “a woman cannot replace a man,” labeling the remark as “deeply misogynistic” and a threat to democratic progress. She also expressed concern over the comments of Nimba County female Superintendent Meapeh Gono, who reportedly urged voters to cast ballots based on tribal affiliation, rather than evaluating candidates on their qualifications or commitment to gender equity and intimated that, the fact that this same superintendent has seen it fit to use the gender lens in the past, which she now negates tells an extremely disturbing story.
“These regressive sentiments are a glaring reflection of the entrenched patriarchy and tribalism that continue to undermine the democratic process and the full participation of women in Liberian politics,” Saydee-Tarr said.
Edith Gongloe-Weh, the only female among seven candidates in the race, has faced significant hurdles including political intimidation, electoral violence, and gender-based discrimination. Still, she has remained resilient and committed to public service.
“During her tenure as Superintendent of Nimba County, Edith transformed communities—establishing the Nimba County College, sponsoring the education of 100 local students, and securing road-building equipment to connect rural areas. She earned the trust of the people and the title of ‘People’s Superintendent’ through her service,” Saydee-Tarr noted.
In keeping with her lifelong advocacy for increasing female representation in government, Saydee-Tarr called on Nimba voters to reject the politics of division and fear, and instead embrace competence and inclusion.
“Now is the time to break a nearly 30-year cycle of male-only representation in Nimba. Edith Gongloe-Weh is not just a capable woman—she is the right candidate for the job. Nimba deserves her. Liberia needs her. Vote Edith Gongloe-Weh,” she concluded.
1 comment
The endorsement from the former gender minister is highly commendable. And I think other female permanent politicians should do likewise.
The endorsement from Hon. Saydee-Tarr has weight because she is one former government official who is admire by many from both sides of the political device, opposition and the ruling party.