21/09/2024
POSITION STATEMENT OF WEDJAH UNITED YOUTH DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION (WUYDA) IN SOLIDARITY WITH THE MAY 20, 2024 ELECTIONS' RESULTS OF SADO, THE RESOLUTION BY THE SIX SECTIONS OF THE SARPO COMMUNITY IN SUPPORT OF MR. GEORGE GARTEH'S SECOND TENURE AS CHAIRMAN AND IN DISAGREEMENT WITH HIS UNCONSTITUTIONAL REMOVAL BY SOME CONCERNED CITIZENS OF SAID COMMUNITY
September 21, AD-2024, 2:14pm| The Leadership Of SADO, The Sarpo's Elders Around The Globe, The Six Sectional Heads, Diaspora Family, Sarpo Youth, Associating Organizations, SADO's Independent Elections Commission (SADO-IEC), Distinguished Energetic Members And Officials Of WUYDA, Ladies And Gentlemen;
WHEREAS; WUYDA observed [With Due Diligence] the constitutional electoral processes of SADO since its inception with constitutional non-discrepancies;
WHEREAS; the six sections in the Sarpo Community are the highest decision-making bodies of SADO and endorsed the May 20, 2024 elections' results;
WHEREAS; WUYDA is a constitutional driven association that promotes fairness, peace, and unity in and out of its comfort zone;
NOW, THERETO; WUYDA endorsed SADO's elections' results with the facts mentioned supra.
The Wedjah United Youth Development Association (WUYDA) expresses its grave concern regarding the planned unconstitutional removal of Mr. George Garteh as chairman of the Sarpo Appoliabo Development Organization (SADO). This action does not only threaten the democratic integrity of SADO but also poses significant implications to the Sarpo community, particularly in light of our ongoing advocacy for official tribal recognition in Liberia. This statement outlines our position, highlights the potential consequences of this removal endeavour, and reaffirms our commitment to a unified and democratic approach to leadership and development within the sarpo community.
SADO has been a pivotal organization in the Sarpo community, fostering development, advocacy, and unity among our people. Under Mr. Garteh’s leadership, SADO has undertaken numerous initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure. His tenure has been characterized by transparency, community engagement, and a vision for inclusive progress. However, recent discussions surrounding his removal raised alarm bells regarding the principles of governance and the future of our community.
The proposed removal of Mr. Garteh disregards the democratic principles that are foundational to SADO’s operations. Any attempt to oust a leader without due process undermines the very essence of the organization. Leadership changes should reflect the will of the members, achieved through fair and transparent elections. The current proposal lacks these essential components, raising concerns about legitimacy and accountability.
Mr. Garteh’s leadership has catalyzed substantial progress within our community. His removal could halt ongoing projects, disrupt vital partnerships, and diminish community trust in SADO. Development initiatives depend heavily on consistent leadership; instability at the helm can lead to disengagement from stakeholders and sponsors who support our mission. The potential fallout from this disruption could set back years of progress.
The youth of the Sarpo community have been active participants in SADO’s initiatives, guided by Mr. Garteh’s inclusive leadership style. His removal would send a discouraging message to the younger generation about the role of youth in governance. It could stifle their motivation to engage in leadership and advocacy, directly impacting the future of our community. We believe that empowering our youth is crucial for sustainable development, and any action that undermines their engagement is detrimental.
The Sarpo community’s pursuit of official tribal recognition in Liberia is a significant endeavor that requires solidarity and strong leadership. Mr. Garteh has been a vocal advocate for this cause, leveraging his position to raise awareness and garner support. His removal could jeopardize our advocacy efforts, leading to fragmentation within our community at a time when unity is essential. The implications of losing such a pivotal figure in our quest for recognition could be profound, hindering our ability to present a united front to policymakers and the broader society.
In light of these concerns, WUYDA urges all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to divisive tactics. The strength of SADO and the Sarpo community lies in our ability to work together toward common goals. We call upon all members to prioritize unity and collaboration, ensuring that decisions are made transparently and reflect the collective interests of our people.
In conclusion, WUYDA stands firmly against the planned unconstitutional removal of Mr. George Garteh as chairman of SADO. This proposed action, we believe, threatens the democratic values we cherish, jeopardizes ongoing community development efforts, and undermines our advocacy for tribal recognition. We call for a recommitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive dialogue within SADO.
We urge the members of SADO and the wider Sarpo community to reject this move and advocate for Mr. Garteh’s continued leadership. Together, we can preserve the integrity of our organization and ensure that our community continues to thrive.
In solidarity,
Signed: __________________
Truman C. Taiye
Secretary General (WUYDA)
Approved: __________________
J. Teiah Nagbe/Prince
President (WUYDA)
