Citizens Challenge Rep. Cooper Over Transparency and Fair Distribution of Projects

Margibi County, Liberia: Residents of District #1 in Margibi County are demanding greater transparency, accountability, and fair distribution of development projects following a major citizens’ engagement with their lawmaker, Representative Roland Opee Cooper.

The engagement, organized by the Legislative Monitoring Coalition of Liberia, brought together citizens, local leaders, and community stakeholders to assess the performance of their representative and discuss challenges affecting the district.

During the meeting, several residents openly expressed frustration over what they described as unequal distribution of development initiatives, with some communities allegedly benefiting more than others.

Citizens also raised concerns over the management of public resources, especially the county development fund, while calling for fairness in scholarship opportunities and other empowerment programs.

“Development should reach everyone, not only a selected few,” one participant stressed during the dialogue.

Others urged authorities to ensure transparency and regular follow-up on promises made to communities, emphasizing that citizens want visible results and not just political discussions.

Speaking on behalf of LEMCOL’s Inclusion Cluster, Petrolina Gbamie Bass said the initiative was created to strengthen citizen participation and legislative oversight by connecting communities directly with lawmakers.

According to her, the coalition monitors activities at the House of Representatives of Liberia and returns to communities with reports while also collecting citizens’ concerns for further engagement.

Despite the criticism, some residents praised Representative Cooper for what they described as quiet but meaningful development efforts across the district.

Responding to concerns, Representative Cooper outlined several ongoing and proposed initiatives, including a bill seeking city status for Duazon, which he said is currently before a legislative committee for review.

The lawmaker also highlighted projects such as the construction of the Duazon Town Hall, road rehabilitation works, market structures, and support for schools in the district.

On youth empowerment, he disclosed plans to establish a vocational training center expected to open in September, while also pointing to ongoing efforts aimed at supporting women through market-related initiatives.

Representative Cooper further clarified that lawmakers do not directly receive development funds under the 2026 national budget, explaining that such allocations are managed through the Ministry of Internal Affairs and local authorities.

Meanwhile, citizens used the platform to highlight other pressing concerns affecting the district, including recurring fire incidents, limited healthcare facilities, youth-related social challenges, and the need for stronger emergency response services.

Organizers say the engagement forms part of a broader national effort to promote inclusion and strengthen citizen participation in governance across counties including Margibi County, Bomi County, Lofa County, and Gbarpolu County.