Pleebo, Maryland County – May 12, 2025 – In a resounding display of support coupled with a fervent call for action, the Unity Party Youth Congress (UPYC) – Maryland County Chapter, convened a special session in Pleebo, issuing a strongly worded press statement that reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to President Joseph Nyemah Boakai’s administration while simultaneously demanding urgent attention to critical issues impacting the county and its youth.
Representing the vibrant voices of young people across the southeastern county, the Youth Congress lauded the Boakai administration for its “visible and impactful” development initiatives. These initiatives, encompassing vital road rehabilitation, crucial school renovations, essential healthcare improvements, and transformative electrification efforts, were acknowledged as having reignited a sense of hope and optimism among Liberians, particularly in Maryland County.
“Transformative leadership is possible when driven by patriotism and a clear national vision,” the statement declared, praising President Boakai’s steadfast commitment to restoring fundamental services and investing in the long-term prosperity of Liberia. The UPYC emphasized the tangible progress made under the current administration, highlighting the tangible benefits experienced by communities across the region.
However, while acknowledging the positive strides made in Maryland County, the Youth Congress passionately urged the government to expand these developmental initiatives to other underserved areas within the southeast. The group stressed the paramount importance of equitable development as a cornerstone for fostering national unity and sustainable growth, emphasizing that no region should be left behind in the nation’s progress.
The UPYC also commended the Supreme Court of Liberia for its recent ruling on legislative matters, perceiving it as a powerful testament to the judiciary’s independence and resilience in the face of political challenges. They saw the ruling as a crucial step in upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the integrity of the nation’s democratic institutions.
A significant point of contention raised by the Youth Congress was the persistent leadership vacuum in the Pleebo-Sodoken District, where the pivotal position of District Superintendent remained unresolved. The group issued a forceful demand for President Boakai to promptly appoint a legitimate superintendent, citing the detrimental impact of administrative delays and governance setbacks on the district’s development.
Specifically, the UPYC called for Mr. Aloysius Williams to vacate the office within 72 hours, asserting that he lacked the official mandate and had not been legally appointed by the President. 1 They further implored county authorities and local organizations to refrain from recognizing or conducting any official business with Williams. This urgent demand underscored the Youth Congress’s commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in local governance.
The Congress also seized the opportunity to recognize and endorse two loyal Unity Party members for national appointments: Senator Emeritus Hon. John A. Balout and Hon. Nathaniel Toe Jr., former Unity Party Campaign Chair in Maryland. According to the statement, these individuals had earned well-deserved recognition for their unwavering dedication and service to the party and the nation. The UPYC urged the government to fulfill previous assurances made by Vice President Jeremiah Koung and Senator James P. Biney, ensuring that these loyal partisans were given appropriate roles within the national government.
Central to the Youth Congress’s agenda was a renewed and intensified focus on youth empowerment. The group implored President Boakai to accelerate initiatives that directly benefit young Liberians, including:
Job creation: Implementing robust programs to generate employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors.
Technical and vocational education: Investing in quality technical and vocational training to equip young people with marketable skills.
Scholarships and startup grants: Expanding access to scholarships and providing startup grants to support entrepreneurial ventures.
Small business incubation programs: Establishing incubation programs to nurture and support the growth of small businesses owned by young people.
The Youth Congress firmly believed that these policies would unlock the immense potential of Liberia’s youth, fostering long-term peace, prosperity, and national development.
In a final appeal to local leaders, the Unity Party Youth Congress urged County Superintendent Henry B. Cole Jr. and other local stakeholders to forge strong partnerships with the Congress, working collaboratively to expand job opportunities and leadership roles for young people.
“Now is the time for action,” the group declared with unwavering resolve. “Our inclusion in county-level development will unlock the potential of Maryland County’s young leaders and secure a brighter future for all.” The UPYC’s statement served as a powerful reminder of the crucial role young people play in shaping the nation’s future, and their determination to hold leaders accountable for delivering on their promises.
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