By Edwin N Khakie
Gbarnga, Bong County – The much-publicized launch of the Bong County Residents United for Improvement (BCCUD) has triggered a storm of controversy, as critics accuse former Consultant Edward W. Karfiah of disguising political ambition as group improvement.
The occasion, which was touted as a historic step towards uniting Bong County residents for progress, was attended nearly completely by Karfiah and a small circle of his loyalists. The absence of different key county leaders, stakeholders, and atypical residents has fueled skepticism concerning the true motive behind the group.
In line with sources accustomed to the group’s formation, BCCUD has been bankrolled with an estimated USD 100,000. Whereas formally branded as a development-driven initiative, insiders allege the funds are getting used to construct a grassroots political equipment for Karfiah’s 2029 senatorial bid.
“This isn’t about unity. It’s about political survival,” stated one civil society actor in Gbarnga, who requested anonymity for concern of reprisal. “The cash being pumped into this so-called residents’ motion is marketing campaign cash in disguise. Karfiah is making an attempt to outsmart the individuals.”
Critics argue that BCCUD’s message of “residents united for improvement” is a fastidiously crafted slogan designed to masks political ambition. The launch program made no clear point out of sensible improvement plans comparable to highway development, schooling assist, or healthcare initiatives, additional fueling suspicion.
“Unity can’t be proclaimed in press releases and staged occasions,” stated Madam Sarah Kollie, a market lady in Suakoko. “The place have been these individuals when our roads have been impassable? The place have been they when our clinics ran out of medication? Now they wish to use us as stepping stones to energy.”
Reactions from atypical Bongese have been blunt and unforgiving. Many residents see the BCCUD as one more traditional case of political manipulation within the county’s historical past.
Bong County has suffered from infinite guarantees and recycled politicians,” stated youth activist John Flomo. “Karfiah is free to run for Senate in 2029, however he needs to be trustworthy about it. Don’t exploit the individuals below the banner of unity when the actual agenda is your political comeback.”
With the 2029 elections nonetheless 4 years away, critics warn that initiatives like BCCUD may mislead unsuspecting residents and additional divide the county, somewhat than unite it.- Edited by Othello B. Garblah.
