— Montserrado District One Lawmaker Delivers Second Legislative Report
By Staff Writer
Montserrado County District #1 lawmaker Rugie Yatu Barry has delivered her second district sitting report, asserting that she has effectively represented her constituents.
Speaking over the weekend in Bentol City, Barry outlined her legislative and advocacy efforts over the past year.
She said she co-sponsored a bill to establish a National Rehabilitation Commission and introduced another aimed at promoting inclusion, employment and support for persons with disabilities.
Barry detailed a series of formal communications sent to government officials on behalf of her district. On Jan. 28, 2025, she wrote to the Liberia Telecommunications Authority, raising concerns about poor GSM services and requesting intervention.
On Feb. 13, she contacted the Ministry of Lands and Mines, seeking the lifting of a ban on mining activities in Benben Town to support local livelihoods.
She also reported multiple interventions in land disputes, including communications to the House speaker regarding conflicts involving residents of Kpanjah Town, Dennis Town and Pipeline Community in Louisiana.
Additional requests were made to the Ministry of Justice and national security authorities to ensure police protection during land surveys in Caldwell, Johnsonville and surrounding areas.
On June 26, 2025, Rep. Barry said she requested an increase in the University of Liberia’s budget from $33 million to $45 million for 2026 while in July, she wrote to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., highlighting infrastructure challenges in District #1 and urging improvements in roads, electricity and water systems.
She credited subsequent electrification in Bensonville and Crozierville as progress. Further communications addressed concerns ranging from alleged environmental damage by a rock-crushing company in Louisiana to railway safety following an accident involving a China Union train.
She also said that she pushed for improved telecommunications services and raised allegations of poor labor practices by a private investment company in Harrisburg.
The district one lawmaker said her oversight role included participation in plenary sessions and committee work on foreign affairs, gender equity and social services, as well as engagement with public and private sector stakeholders.
Barry said she remains committed to addressing the needs of District one residents. Attendees at the sitting, including local officials and community representatives, largely praised her performance.
District Education Officer Dr. Roland B. Gonte rated her 8 out of 10, commending her transparency but noting the absence of detailed funding sources in her report.
Louisiana Township Commissioner Moses K. White welcomed the report, calling it a responsibility of elected officials, and credited Barry’s efforts with the establishment of a police station. Councilman Denis Moses Bolay also praised her work, urging recognition of her contributions.
