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By Amos Harris A consortium of leading civil society organizations has intensified efforts to strengthen citizen participation in local governance through a major dialogue held in Gbarnga, Bong County. The day-long forum brought together 45 key stakeholders from local government, civil society, and the private sector to focus on advancing the implementation of the County Development Agenda (CDA) and the Revenue Sharing Regulations. The dialogue was organized by Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), and the Center for Democratic Governance (CDG). Funded by the Embassy of Ireland, the event formed part of the Strengthening Political Governance and Accountability Program. The engagement aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the Local Government Act, the Revenue Sharing Regulations, and the County Development Agenda, while identifying implementation gaps and developing strategies to enhance citizen oversight and accountability in managing public resources. Participants emphasized the crucial role of community engagement in decision-making and project monitoring, noting that citizen involvement fosters trust and ensures public funds are used effectively and transparently. Key presentations during the session highlighted tax collection mechanisms, the structure and responsibilities of County Councils, and how local priorities align with the CDA. For many attendees, the event marked their first in-depth exposure to the Revenue Sharing Regulations, prompting optimism that proper enforcement could strengthen local revenue generation and create employment opportunities across the county. Ambrose M. Boima, Bong County’s Senior Tax Collector, called on residents and local leaders to demonstrate tax compliance, noting that the county’s share of national revenue largely depends on local contributions. “Proper tax compliance supports quality education, healthcare, roads, and community development,” Boima said. “Unfortunately, some leaders, including elected officials, have yet to fulfill their own tax obligations, which sets a poor example for citizens.” County Administrative Officer Sam B. Elliot lauded Naymote and its partners for their initiative, pledging the county administration’s commitment to forming CDA Pillar Working Groups that will monitor and evaluate project implementation. He disclosed that Naymote will provide technical assistance to ensure these groups operate efficiently. The County Development and Finance Officers reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and accountability, emphasizing that as presidential appointees, they remain directly answerable to the people of Bong County. Ms. Tenneh Francis, Treasurer of the Bong County Council, praised the forum for empowering women and advancing discussions on gender-responsive budgeting. “For too long, gender-based violence and women’s issues were treated as national concerns beyond the county’s reach,” she said. “Now I see how the County Development Agenda can address these challenges, and I’m determined to advocate for dedicated funding to tackle them.” In his closing remarks, Mr. Eddie D. Jarwolo, Executive Director of Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, reaffirmed the organization’s long-term commitment to promoting good governance and citizen participation. “We have listened to your concerns and recommendations,” Jarwolo stated. “Naymote will continue to mobilize resources and facilitate dialogues that strengthen accountability, build local capacity, and give citizens a stronger voice in governance.” He extended appreciation to the Bong County Civil Society Organizations, the County Council, and local authorities for their collaboration, pledging continued partnership to improve governance structures and accountability mechanisms across Liberia. The Governance CSO Consortium, comprising Naymote, CENTAL, and CDG, operates nationwide to strengthen democratic governance, promote transparency, and empower citizens to play an active role in shaping public policy and monitoring government performance across Liberia.
