By Emmanuel Kerkulah
MONROVIA, Liberia – While many political hopefuls disappear from the public eye after electoral defeats, Independent Catholic Church of Liberia (ICCL) Bishop Nimely Donyen has continued to strengthen his presence in Montserrado County Electoral District #2 through a growing list of community development initiatives that residents say have transformed lives and restored hope.
The outspoken cleric, who has twice contested the district’s representative seat without success, said electoral setbacks have never diminished his commitment to serving the people.
Instead, Bishop Donyen, during an exclusive interview with a journalist, insisted that each defeat has strengthened his determination and inspired him to do more for struggling communities across the district.
He described service to humanity as a fundamental Christian obligation, emphasizing that his humanitarian work is rooted in faith rather than political ambition.
“The church from the very beginning was a giving institution. Jesus Christ Himself was a giver. We may not have much, but whatever we receive, we try to pass on to those who need it most,” he said.
Humanitarian Initiative
Over the years, the bishop has earned recognition for a wide range of social interventions in District #2, including providing market loans for women entrepreneurs, awarding scholarships to students, and paying medical bills for struggling families.
Other interventions include the rehabilitation of roads and bridges, renovation of market facilities, and restoration of pipe-borne water systems in orphanages and vulnerable communities, among others.
One of his most notable achievements has been helping reconnect isolated communities through road and bridge projects, easing transportation challenges and improving access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities.
Bishop Donyen acknowledged that many Liberians often question how a religious leader is able to finance such projects, especially in a country where economic hardship remains widespread.
According to him, the answer lies in trust, transparency, and relationships built over years of community service both in Liberia and the diaspora.
The bishop stressed that he lives modestly and does not personally benefit from donations intended for community projects. He added that credibility and accountability have enabled him to attract support from individuals and institutions both locally and internationally.
Political Ambitions
Reflecting on his political ambitions, Bishop Donyen emphasized that his desire to seek public office is not driven by power or prestige but by the opportunity to expand the scope of his development work across the district and Liberia at large.
According to him, private citizens often face significant obstacles when attempting to implement large-scale community projects, including limited resources, high customs duties, and administrative barriers that slow development efforts.
“There are many things I can do for my people if given the opportunity.
Government provides avenues and leverage that private citizens simply do not have, and with the right position, we can bring in essential materials, secure more scholarships, support security institutions, improve infrastructure, and create greater opportunities for ordinary Liberians,” he said.
Looking ahead to the 2029 Presidential and Legislative Elections, Bishop Donyen indicated that he remains open to another run for the District #2 representative seat, but said the decision will ultimately depend on divine guidance.
For many residents of District #2, the bishop’s greatest political credential may not be campaign promises but his continued record of service long after elections.
In a political environment where community projects often fade after electoral cycles, Bishop Donyen’s sustained engagement has earned him admiration from supporters who view him as a leader whose commitment extends beyond politics.
As the 2029 elections gradually approach, one message remains central to his vision: public service is not measured by victory at the polls, but by the lives touched along the journey.
