LOCAL NEWS
Margibi County – Thousands of residents of Firestone, particularly Division 27 in Margibi County District #3, have petitioned and endorsed former President George Weah’s aide, Sekou Kalasco Damaro, to contest the district seat in the 2029 general elections.
The jubilant residents marched alongside Mr. Kalasco, singing various political songs from the 27 Gate to the venue where the program was held, before presenting their petition statement.
By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
The statement called on Kalasco to “wholeheartedly” accept the request of the district’s residents to run for Representative in the 2029 elections.
“We, the concerned and forward-looking people of this district, united in purpose and vision, especially call upon you, Hon. Sekou Kalasco Damaro, to present yourself as a candidate in the 2029 general elections. At a time when our district yearns for progressive leadership, inclusiveness, and renewed hope, we believe that your voice, experience, and relationship with the people position you as a worthy representative of our collective aspirations,” the statement read.
According to the petition, Kalasco’s continued engagement with the youth of the county—especially within the district—his advocacy for development, and his courage in addressing national issues have not gone unnoticed.
Residents said they are inspired by his passion and unwavering commitment to them, stressing that it is important for him to represent them in the 56th Legislature following the 2029 elections.
“It is based on these qualities that we, the sons, daughters, and elders of Margibi County District #3, confidently urge you to answer this call to service. This petition is not just a request; it is a reflection of the trust and confidence we have in your ability to lead, represent, and deliver meaningful change,” the statement added.
Kalasco Promises to Respond
Receiving the petition, Mr. Damaro thanked the residents for the confidence reposed in him and requested time to respond.
“My fellow citizens of this great district, I have received your petition. Thank you for the confidence and trust you have reposed in me. Let me take this statement to my father, big brother, and political leader, George Weah, after which I will return to respond,” Kalasco said.
He further recounted his contributions to the district, including the provision of scholarships for students, medical supplies for health centers, the construction of a bridge linking two major communities, and loans for small and medium-sized businesses.
“I did all of those not because I am rich or have money, but because I love you all. When God blesses you, you must be a blessing to others within your reach. That is why we continue to do what we are doing. We are not doing these things because we want to be Representative—it comes sincerely from our hearts,” he said.
“For me to see thousands of Liberians coming out to request that I represent them in the coming elections means a lot to me. While attending an induction ceremony here in Margibi County last week, one of the leaders informed me that the people of District #3 want me to represent them in the House of Representatives. I then called my father and political leader, President Weah, who asked why I hadn’t informed him sooner. He said he would have loved to attend but had another engagement. However, he encouraged me to go and listen to what my people have to say,” Kalasco added.
Mr. Damaro did not give a direct response on whether he would accept the request but described the action as a positive development for the district. He pledged to return with a favorable response after consulting former President Weah, his political party—the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC)—and his family.
He also urged the gathering not to lose hope in Liberia despite what he described as the actions and inactions of the current administration led by Joseph Boakai, expressing confidence that former President Weah would return to national leadership in 2029.
“Some of you have been here since 8 a.m., and now it is 5 p.m. You have demonstrated great love, and I appreciate you all. I have come to openly say thank you. This decision you have taken today, I do not take it for granted,” he said.
Weah Will Return in 2029
The aide to former President Weah described the residents’ action as unprecedented and encouraged them to remain patient and peaceful while working toward a CDC return to power in 2029.
He blamed the current administration for what he described as increasing hardship, rising commodity prices, and hikes in tuition at privately run schools—factors he said are making many Liberians poorer.
“Today, the hardship in this country is unprecedented, and the government of Joseph Boakai does not care. They are doing nothing about it. Let us remain watchful for 2029, my people,” he said.
Citizens Decry ‘Hardship’
The petitioning ceremony was attended by scores of young people, elderly residents, and Firestone workers—many of whom expressed frustration over economic hardship and the lack of basic social services.
Speaking at the gathering, representatives of women, elders, and youth groups accused the Boakai administration of failing to meet expectations, noting that “many people continue to languish in abject poverty and destitution.”
Several residents also criticized the current district leadership, alleging that it has not prioritized the welfare and wellbeing of Firestone workers in District #3. They emphasized that a change in leadership is necessary for both the district and the country.
