Rep. Chiewolo Clashes With MIA Over Sudden Ban on Sacred Practices

In a bold and emotionally charged appeal, Lofa County District number five  Representative Honorable Augustine B. Chiewolo has called on the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) to immediately reconsider its recent suspension of traditional practices across Liberia, describing the move as abrupt, insensitive, and potentially harmful to indigenous communities.

Speaking from his Capitol Building office in Monrovia last Thursday, May 1, Rep. Chiewolo warned that the Ministry's decision undermines centuries of cultural heritage and risks alienating the very people the government swore to protect and represent.

He said traditional practices are “the heartbeat of the Liberian people” and cannot be wiped out or paused “within a month.”

“Our people are educated and well-informed about their culture. Before implementing such sweeping suspensions, the Ministry should have taken steps to consult and educate citizens. Otherwise, we risk harming the very fabric of our society,” he emphasized.

The lawmaker stressed that while modernization of traditional systems is welcomed, the process must be inclusive, well-thought-out, and respectful of local customs.

“You don’t fix culture with a bulldozer. Dialogue, respect, and gradual reform are the only acceptable paths,” Chiewolo remarked.

He noted that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, himself a traditional man, would understand the importance of safeguarding these practices.

“President Boakai knows our ways better than I do. Let’s not twist the interests of traditional people for political expediency,” Chiewolo cautioned.

The Lofa County lawmaker further called for professional handling of reforms to avoid backlash. “The Ministry’s actions must be guarded professionally so our people are not harmed physically, emotionally, or culturally,” he added.

Rep. Chiewolo made the statement while receiving a certificate of recognition from the Lofa Eye Newspaper, which named him “Lofa County Representative of the Year 2024.” The honor was bestowed for his strong advocacy, development initiatives, and commitment to community empowerment.

During the event, the lawmaker also mourned the passing of Mr. Saballah Banglor, a prominent Unity Party member and grassroots organizer. “We are bereaved. Mr. Banglor was a political warrior whose efforts gave District number five the highest votes for Unity Party during the 2023 elections,” he said.

However, Chiewolo didn’t hold back his frustrations with the current administration. He expressed disappointment that despite their overwhelming support, the people of District number five have been largely sidelined in national appointments.

“We are not being felt in this government. Key positions like District Education Officer and Agriculture Officer are being given to outsiders. This is an affront to our people who fought and voted overwhelmingly for change,” he declared.

He used the opportunity to urge President Boakai to promote equality and rethink appointments.

“We were promised a government of inclusion, but right now, our district is being marginalized. Mr. President, we need you to think well,” Chiewolo pleaded.

Rep. Chiewolo also reaffirmed his commitment to fighting illegal logging and mining in Lofa.

He said he’s working closely with local leaders to ensure these activities either stop or directly benefit the communities affected.

He further highlighted his support for community empowerment initiatives, aimed at building local capacity and creating opportunities in both Zorzor and Salayea districts.

Chiewolo’s stellar performance has not gone unnoticed. He was recently awarded an “A” grade by REED, an independent body that tracks and rates legislative performance, for his work during the first session of the 55th Legislature.

With mounting public attention on the suspension of traditional practices, Rep. Chiewolo’s voice may be the catalyst for a broader national conversation on how best to modernize tradition without erasing it.