By Moses J. Dawoe
/Southeast Correspondent
Former senatorial candidate Eric Wlea Giko has unveiled plans to establish a vocational school in Maryland County, aimed at expanding educational opportunities and supporting the government’s efforts to strengthen the education sector.
In an interview on March 21, 2025, Giko emphasized the urgent need for vocational training in Pleebo Sodoken District, stating that residents have long awaited an institution that will equip young people with practical skills for the future.
“My vision is to build a vocational school, along with an elementary-to-high school facility,” he said. “Additionally, I plan to construct a clinic that will provide medical services to students and offer discounted fees for those in need of treatment.”
Beyond education, Giko is already involved in other development projects in Maryland County.
He disclosed that during his visit last year, he initiated the construction of two palaver huts—valued at over US$20,000—in Bartiken and Gbolobo Tarbo.
He assured residents that construction would commence this year.
Furthering his commitment to improving healthcare, Giko revealed plans for a US$25,000 clinic in Yobloken, Karluway District; the project will address the pressing medical challenges being faced by residents in the area.
Despite his active involvement in community development, Giko dismissed speculation that his contributions were politically motivated.
He stressed that he has no immediate intentions of seeking office unless petitioned by the people of Maryland County.
“I am not doing this for political gain,” he asserted. “Until the citizens themselves formally request my participation in elections, I will remain focused on development initiatives.”
A notable figure in Maryland politics, Giko also weighed in on recent political tensions within the county.
He applauded the Traditional Council’s decision to halt Senator James P. Biney’s projects amid allegations that the senator refused to release the appointment letter for Pleebo Sodoken District’s Statutory Superintendent, a position appointed by President Joseph Boakai.
He expressed support for Representative Anthony F. Williams’ decision to resign from the Maryland County Legislative Caucus, calling it a strategic move to pressure national lawmakers into greater cooperation.
Giko further alleged that Senator Biney, who chairs the Executive Committee in the Liberian Senate, has deliberately hindered the progress of Maryland politicians to maintain personal influence within the Unity Party led Government.
Expressing concern over the state of leadership in Maryland, Giko criticized local lawmakers for their internal power struggles, describing the situation as a setback to the county’s progress.
Giko revealed his growing interest in agriculture, announcing plans to launch large-scale farming initiatives to boost food production in the county.
