Zorzor, Lofa County — Youth leader and media entrepreneur James Papy Kwabo Jr. is said to be gaining increased attention as a potential candidate for Lofa County's District Five seat in Liberia's 2029 general elections.
Although he has not formally declared his candidacy, Kwabo's rising visibility and longstanding involvement in community development are fueling discussions among citizens seeking alternative representation.
Kwabo, 34, was born on November 26, 1989, in Luyeama Town, Zorzor District. Orphaned at a young age and paralyzed at 17 following a fall, he recovered with medical support facilitated by former Labor Minister and Representative Hon. Moses Y. Kollie--a turning point that steered him toward civic leadership.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications, graduating Magna Cum Laude from the United Methodist University, and earned a Master's in Public Sector Administration from Cuttington University. His leadership experience began in high school and continued through college, where he served as president of the Mass Communications Students Association.
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In 2016, Kwabo founded Alternative Youth Radio (AYR), a rural media platform broadcasting from Zorzor. The station now operates 24/7, employs over 30 youth, and has expanded to include a stationery business. It is also constructing a School of Professional Journalism and Vocational Education, targeting the training of more than 25,000 youth by 2035.
Kwabo's influence extends beyond Liberia. He is a 2019 Mandela Washington Fellow and has represented Liberia at international youth programs in Colombia and through the International Leadership Association. In 2024, he received the MTN MoMo Heroes of Change Award for community service.
Meanwhile, concerns are mounting in District Five over issues tied to the current leadership. Constituents have cited the unexplained reassignment of a health worker from Salayea, questions surrounding a branded ambulance linked to Faith Medical Clinic, and lack of clarity in the management of the Constituency Development Fund and scholarship allocations.
Though no formal inquiries have been announced, these matters have led to calls for greater transparency and accountability from current Representative Augustine B. Chiewolo.
In light of these issues, Kwabo's profile as a grassroots leader and youth advocate is drawing attention, particularly given that over 60% of Liberia's population is under 35.
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"Kwabo isn't waiting for office to act," said Mulbah Begeh, a motorcyclist in Zorzor. "He's already empowering people. That's the kind of leader we need."
Kwabo previously declined requests to run in 2017 and 2023. However, in 2024 he confirmed that consultations are ongoing regarding a possible run in 2029.
"We're listening," he told FrontPage Africa. "But decisions like this must be made with the people, not for them."
