Kpelleh and Kpelleh-Speaking People Unite at First General Meetingin Gbarnga: A Call for Unity and Holistic Decision-Making Championed

By: Matalay Kollie

In a powerful display of cultural pride and political solidarity, the
Kpelleh and Kpelleh-speaking people, Liberia’s largest ethnic group, gathered
in Gbarnga over the weekend for their first-ever general meeting.

The historic assembly aimed to foster unity and collaboration across the
fifteen subdivisions of Liberia, bringing together leaders, elders, and youth
under one vision.

Chairman of the organizing committee, Lepolu Torlon, opened
the gathering by emphasizing its importance as a pivotal step toward collective
advancement.

“To be included in the decision-making processes of Liberia, we must work
together and strengthen our bonds,” he stated, urging attendees to reflect on
socio-economic hardships and the need for coordinated political engagement.

A key highlight came from former Bong County Senator Henry Yallah,
who proclaimed the third Saturday in May as an official commemorative
day for the Kpelleh people.

“We are stronger together,” Yallah declared, calling on the community to put
aside differences and embrace a shared identity. He stressed the importance of
honoring heritage while forging a progressive future rooted in resilience,
reconciliation, and cultural preservation.

Adding to the momentum, Bong County Senator Prince Kermue Moye Sr.
echoed the call for unity. He cautioned young people against divisive rhetoric
and encouraged them to engage in constructive dialogue over
conflict.

“Unity begins with respecting our traditions and engaging every member in
shaping the future,” Moye  said.

In furtherance, Former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor
proposed a three-day national retreat to deepen discussions on
establishing a permanent Association of Kpelleh and Kpelleh-speaking People.

She advocated for the consolidation of all local Kpelleh organizations into
one umbrella body to enhance coordination and impact.

Taylor also called for documentation and financial support of
the organization, noting that such measures would significantly boost their
effectiveness.

Taking the conversation a step further, former Gbarpolu County
Senator and Senate Pro-Tempore Armah Zolu Jallah introduced the idea
of a National Kpelleh Development Bank.

This bank, he proposed, would enable members to make monthly contributions
toward community driven projects aimed at economic empowerment.

The general meeting concluded on a note of inspiration and
commitment. Participants pledged to advance the principles
discussed—unity, collaboration, cultural preservation, and political
engagement.

As the community prepares to commemorate their existence annually
every third Saturday in May, this gathering in Gbarnga marks the
beginning of a transformative journey.

It sets the tone for continued dialogue and collective action—vital steps
toward building a cohesive and empowered future for the
Kpelleh and Kpelleh-speaking people in Liberia.