Nimba County District #7 Representative Musa Bility has raised alarm over what he terms as mounting tension and quiet anger among the people of Nimba amid pending senatorial by-election to replace late Senator Prince Y. Johnson.
He said the by-election presents the people of Nimba with an opportunity to make a critical decision—one that will shape the county’s political future and serve as a referendum on the government’s leadership over the past twelve months.
“However, as we approach this election, I cannot ignore the uneasy calm that hangs over Nimba. There is an unspoken tension, a quiet anger among the people. No one is openly saying much, yet the atmosphere is charged. This uncertainty does not seem to favor the so-called “preferred candidate,” because politics is a science, and history has shown that governments often struggle in elections held immediately after a presidential contest,” Representative said.
He said while Senator Johnson’s passing was unexpected, it has given Nimbaians a chance to reflect on governance and accountability, saying that from his observation across the county, the prevailing sentiment does not suggest overwhelming support for the government, but added “this is Nimba—a place where election outcomes can defy conventional political wisdom, probabilities, and even common sense. We have seen it before, and we have learned to accept and move forward.”
He said one of the most intriguing aspects of this election is the strategy of the opposition. Unlike in previous contests, opposition figures seem to recognize the importance of unity, and for those unfamiliar with Nimba’s political landscape, this may appear to benefit the opposition, but paradoxically, it could also strengthen the government’s candidate.
Nevertheless, Bility said the opposition is making a conscious effort to engage the conscience of the people, urging them to hold the government accountable. They see this election as an opportunity for voters to assess the administration’s performance and decide if it has lived up to expectations.
“At the same time, I am encouraged to see some level of decorum and mutual respect being maintained among opposition candidates. If this continues, it will mark a significant shift in our politics—one that every meaningful citizen should support. The focus should be on issues, not personal attacks,” Bility said.
The Nimba lawmaker said returning to the campaign trail, he is deeply concerned about the resurgence of tribal sentiment, a dangerous undercurrent that has the potential to divide the people and distract from the real issues at stake, some he said he’s doing everything in his power to prevent it from becoming a focal point of the election. He said Nimba’s future should not be determined by tribal loyalties but by a collective desire for competent and visionary leadership.
Bility, who spoke through a statement on Sunday, February 23, 2025, said this by-election is more than just about electing a senator; it is a defining moment for Nimba. If the government’s candidate wins, it will be interpreted as a strong endorsement of the administration’s performance. Any other outcome will be seen as a vote of no confidence. That is why this election is both critical and complex.
“As we approach the campaign period, I urge all candidates and their supporters to engage in a battle of ideas rather than character assassination. Let us focus on policies, governance records, and the future of Nimba. A public debate where candidates outline their vision for the county would be a valuable exercise in democratic engagement,” the statement said.
Bility: As for us, we have deliberated within our team, consulted our advisory council, and will soon make a formal decision on our preferred candidate. When that decision is made, we will campaign with conviction, taking our message to every city, town, and village in Nimba. Our goal is to demonstrate a different approach to leadership—one that prioritizes integrity, accountability, and development.”
Representative Bility said in this process, he remains committed to ensuring that major issues, such as renegotiating fair deals with corporations like ArcelorMittal, remain on the table, adding that Nimba deserves leaders who will fight for its best interests, ensuring that agreements are honored and that the county receives its rightful share of benefits.
He said the election will be fierce and competitive, but they must ensure it remains within the bounds of the law, calling for all to respect the democratic process and work toward electing a leader with a proven record of service and commitment to Nimba.
“As we prepare to return to the polls once again, we must remember that this is about more than just a single election—it is about the future direction of our county. May God guide us in making the right choice,” the lawmaker said.
