By Moses M. Tokpah/MARGIBI
A former candidate for the House of Representatives in Margibi County, John Smith, has called for an end to the use of insults and negative comments during electioneering periods.
Dr. Smith remarks came during an interview following the induction ceremony of the Lango Lippaye High School Student Council Government held in Kakata over the weekend.
Dr. Smith, who contested in the 2023 legislative elections for Margibi’s 3rd electoral district, finished second behind incumbent Rep. Ellen A. Attoh Wreh.
The election was marked by heated exchanges on social media, with supporters from both camps engaging in derogatory comments and insults against each other’s candidate.
Despite a reconciliation meeting purportedly organized by the Apostolic Baptist Church in 2024 aimed at mending relations among the candidates, tensions remain high, with supporters continuing to post negative comments online.
In light of this ongoing discord, Dr. Smith emphasized the need for Margibians, particularly the youths, to engage in politics with sincerity and respect. “It is time for togetherness and friendliness among Margibians,” he stated, urging individuals to move past the divisiveness that characterized the election period.
Dr. Smith highlighted that the political climate had hindered effective governance and representation for Margibi County.
He praised President Joseph Boakai’s efforts to address these issues and called on residents to hold themselves accountable for the backwardness of the county when it comes to the governance structure of the country.
“We need to be united after elections are done,” Dr. Smith remarked, drawing parallels with Ghanaian elections where former adversaries quickly reconciled after results were announced. “Let’s leave it behind and move forward” he suggested.
As Liberia approaches future elections, Dr. Smith’s call for civility and collaboration resonates as a crucial step toward healing divisions and promoting development within Margibi County.
