by Rocheford T. Gardiner
MONROVIA – In a significant move toward addressing infrastructure gaps in southeast Liberia, Senator James P. Biney met with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to secure executive support for a series of high-impact development projects in Maryland County.The high-level meeting, which took place Thursday at the President’s private residence in Paynesville, lasted approximately thirty minutes.
During the session, Senator Biney presented a targeted list of priorities intended for inclusion in the President’s “special projects” portfolio, signaling a push to turn political alignment into tangible benefits for his constituents. Infrastructure and Electrification Commitments a primary focus of the discussion was the expansion of the national road network and the electrical grid. Senator Biney specifically advocated for the construction of the Juduken-Tatuken junction road and the extension of the rural electrification project into Barrobo District. President Boakai responded with immediate directives:
Road Connectivity
The President committed to instructing the Ministry of Public Works to evaluate the Juduken-Tatuken road for inclusion in the national road program.
Energy Access
The Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC) will be tasked with conducting a technical assessment for the Barrobo electrification project to determine feasibility and requirements.
Restoring Maryland’s Landmarks beyond infrastructure, the Senator highlighted the need for the restoration of essential public facilities. The proposal includes the total renovation of the Harper City Hall and the John Hilary Tubman Elementary & Junior High School, alongside the electrification of Gedehtarbo, situated outside Pleebo City. The President has requested a formal communication from the Senator’s office. This detailed report will outline the specific technical and financial requirements for these renovations and the Gedehtarbo power project before final consideration for funding.
“These discussions were held in fulfillment of the Senator’s commitment to transform his support to Boakai’s election into landmark and unprecedented opportunities for Maryland County,” stated Hilary K. Toe, Jr., Chief of Office Staff for Senator Biney.The meeting underscores a growing collaborative effort between the legislative and executive branches to prioritize the “neglected” southeast. For Maryland County, the successful implementation of these projects would mark a significant step toward urban renewal and economic revitalization in the region.