WECC Executive Director Vows To Champion Rural Women In Politics

By: Emmanuel Tarpeh Quiah

The Executive Director of the War and Economic Crimes Court of Liberia (WECC), Dr. Cllr. Jallah A. Barbu, has pledged his unwavering support for a female rural woman candidate in the upcoming October 10, 2029 general and presidential elections of Liberia.

Dr. Barbu made the declaration on recently during the official celebration of World Rural Women’s Day held in Harper City, Maryland County. The event brought together hundreds of rural women from across Liberia’s fifteen counties, alongside representatives of national and international organizations, government officials, and civil society actors.

Speaking at the colorful indoor program following a grand parade through the principal streets of Harper, Dr. Barbu commended Liberian rural women for their resilience, hard work, and significant contributions to the nation’s agricultural and economic development.

“The time has come for Liberia to recognize the leadership potential of our rural women,” he said. “In 2029, I will personally and fully support a capable rural woman candidate who is ready to represent the voices of the voiceless and champion women’s empowerment at the national level.”

Dr. Barbu, who is also a renowned legal scholar and former Dean of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law, emphasized that empowering rural women politically is key to strengthening democracy and ensuring inclusive governance in Liberia. He noted that women, especially those in rural communities, continue to face marginalization despite their vital role in sustaining the country’s economy through farming and local trade.

He further called on political parties, government institutions, and development partners to create more opportunities for women’s participation in politics and decision-making processes.

“Rural women must not only be seen as supporters during elections but as leaders capable of changing the narrative,” Dr. Barbu added. “They deserve our support, and I will be at the forefront of that cause.”

Also speaking at the event, madam Kebeh G. Kanneh, President of the National Rural Women of Liberia, applauded Dr. Barbu for his bold commitment, describing it as “a beacon of hope” for women seeking political inclusion.

She appreciated all supporting NGOs, most especially UN Women for their enomous contribution towards the growth and empowerment of Rural Women in Liberia.

The celebration of World Rural Women’s Day in Harper was centered on the theme “National Rural Women Stewards of the Land, Resilient Tomorrow”.

And also “Empowering Rural Women for Sustainable Development and Political Leadership.”

The event highlighted the critical role of rural women in agriculture, food security, and Peace Building, while renewing calls for increased government investment in women’s education, health, and leadership training programs.

As the 2029 elections draw closer, Dr. Barbu’s public endorsement is already sparking discussions across Liberia’s political and social landscape, with many viewing it as a significant step toward achieving gender balance and political inclusion.