Trokon Augustus Freeman, vision bearer of the Friends of Trokon (FOT), has outlined a proposed development and institutional reform agenda for Rivercess County District #2 as he consults supporters and stakeholders ahead of a possible bid for the district’s representative seat in 2029.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Freeman presented the proposals on Sunday during a meeting with supporters in Monrovia, highlighting plans focused on education, agriculture, youth empowerment, sports development, institutional reform, and accountable governance.
The consultation is intended to gather public views and help shape a long-term development vision for District #2 and Rivercess County.
Expanding Access to Education
Among Freeman’s key proposals is the establishment of an extension campus of Grand Bassa University in Rivercess County to improve access to tertiary education and reduce the financial burden on students who must travel outside the county to pursue higher learning.
Under the proposal, Cestos High School and Yarpa Public School could be assessed as potential learning centers offering freshman- through junior-level program, subject to accreditation, institutional approval, adequate staffing, and the availability of appropriate infrastructure.
Freeman also proposed creating a Rivercess Students Education Fund to provide assistance to deserving students attending secondary schools, universities, colleges, and vocational institutions.
He said the proposed fund should operate under transparent eligibility criteria, independent oversight, and regular financial reporting to promote accountability and minimize political interference.
The initiative would also encourage beneficiaries to contribute to the county’s development after completing their education through mentorship, community service, skills transfer, and other agreed forms of service.
Agriculture and Education at the Centre of Development
On agriculture, Freeman proposed a Rivercess Agricultural Industry Initiative aimed at promoting local production, processing, and marketing of selected crops, including rubber, coconut, rice, and cassava.
The proposed initiative would explore the establishment of farmer cooperatives, agricultural training program, access to improved seeds, storage facilities, processing centers, and partnerships with private investors.
According to the proposal, these interventions could help create employment opportunities, strengthen food security, and expand economic activities across the district and county.
Freeman also called for education and agriculture to receive greater priority in the allocation of County Development Funds, in line with applicable laws, approved county development priorities, and public financial management requirements.
Another component of his agenda is the proposed construction of a Rivercess Students’ Centre in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, to support students attending Grand Bassa University and other tertiary institutions in the area.
The proposed center would provide affordable accommodation, study spaces, internet access, counselling, and mentorship services to help students pursue their education in a supportive environment.
Institutional Reforms and Youth Empowerment
Freeman’s proposals also include legal recognition and reform of the Plank Committee, with clearly defined membership qualifications, responsibilities, fixed terms of office, and stronger financial accountability mechanisms.
He further proposed establishing a Rivercess Sports Association to coordinate sporting activities across the county, including participation in the National County Sports Meet.
The proposed association would operate under a constitution designed to promote transparent leadership, sound financial management, and the welfare of athletes.
At the national level, Freeman advocated separating the Ministry of Youth and Sports into two institutions: a Ministry of Youth Development and a Ministry of Sports.
He argued that the proposed restructuring could allow each institution to focus more effectively on its respective responsibilities, particularly youth empowerment and sports development. However, he acknowledged that the proposal would require an assessment of its administrative and financial implications.
Freeman also proposed exploring the establishment of a Bassa Legislative Assembly to strengthen cooperation among elected representatives of Grand Bassa and Rivercess counties.
The proposed forum would provide a platform for coordinated advocacy on shared development priorities, including roads, education, healthcare, agriculture, natural resources, and regional economic cooperation. Its structure and mandate would be subject to appropriate constitutional and legal review.
Calls for Research-Based Governance
To promote evidence-based policymaking, Freeman proposed establishing a non-partisan Rivercess Development Think Tank comprising professionals, academics, entrepreneurs, researchers, and technical experts.
The proposed body would provide policy advice, feasibility studies, project assessments, and development planning support to the Rivercess Legislative Caucus and relevant county authorities.
Freeman’s broader agenda seeks to promote a more coordinated approach to development in Rivercess County, with public decisions guided by research, community needs, institutional accountability, and long-term planning.
The proposals remain part of his ongoing consultations with supporters and stakeholders as he develops his vision for the future of District #2 and Rivercess County.
