Liberian News: Tension Mounts In Grand Kru

By Jamesetta D Williams
Monrovia-A long-standing land dispute in Grand Kru County’s Electoral District #1 has escalated into violence, prompting urgent intervention from local authorities and the district’s representative, Nathaniel N. Bahway Sr.

The lawmaker has called for calm and urged all parties to seek peaceful and legal resolutions rather than resorting to conflict.

The dispute, which has been simmering for years, recently took a deadly turn when a young man was shot during a confrontation between two rival communities.

The injured man is currently receiving medical treatment, and authorities are investigating the incident. Speaking on the matter, Hon. Bahway expressed deep concern over the violence, emphasizing that land conflicts should not lead to bloodshed.

“As the elected representative of this district, I am very concerned about this situation,” he stated. “I have reached out to security agencies, including the Inspector General of Police and the Liberia Land Authority, to ensure that this issue is resolved peacefully.”

Hon. Bahway explained that the dispute stems from interwoven family ties in the region, where intermarriage has historically played a role in land ownership. He believes the deep-rooted connection among families should serve as a foundation for unity rather than division.

“In our communities, we have always shared close family ties. People marry within different clans, creating bonds that should bring us together, not drive us apart. If there is a dispute, we must follow the law rather than fight each other,” he urged.

In response to the rising tensions, the lawmaker has called for a meeting with local leaders and community representatives to find a lasting solution. He has also appealed to the national government, particularly the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Liberia Land Authority, to accelerate efforts to demarcate the disputed land.

However, Hon. Bahway expressed disappointment over the lack of immediate intervention from some government officials, stating that their inaction could further escalate the crisis.

I have reached out to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, but I have not seen any concrete steps taken to address this issue. This is a serious concern, and we need all hands on deck to prevent further violence,” he said.

Despite the challenges, the representative remains hopeful that peace will be restored. He has assured his constituents that he will continue working with all relevant authorities to ensure a fair resolution.

To my people of Grand Kru, I urge you to remain calm. Trust the process, and let us find a peaceful solution. We cannot allow land disputes to divide us or lead to unnecessary suffering,” he concluded.

As the situation unfolds, residents of Grand Kru County anxiously await further action from the government and local leaders, and citizens are of the hope that dialogue and legal mediation will prevent further bloodshed and bring stability to the affected communities.

New Republic Liberia

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.