Deputy Internal Affairs Minister-designate for Operation, R. Matenokay Tingban, has promised to build strong relationship with traditional leaders as a way of strengthening the local governance system.
Deputy Minister-designate Tingban said chiefs, elders and zoes have important role to play in the governance of the people and must not be left out in the decision-making process of the country.
He promised to cooperate fully with other authorities at the Ministry of Internal Affairs to ensure that traditional leaders are well-respected and their authorities binding.
Speaking to the Hot Pepper ahead of his induction ceremony this week, the Deputy Minister-designate praised President George Manneh Weah for his appointment, noting that it was based purely on confidence and trust reposed in him by the leader.
Minister Tingban promised to uphold the confidence reposed by living up to the expectation of the government and the citizenry while serving as Deputy Internal Affairs Minister.
He indicated further that he brings vast experience to the ministry, adding that the President made no mistake in appointing him.
Matenokay Tingban, a member of the opposition Unity Party (UP) and former Nimba County Representative, was recently appointed by President George Weah to serve as Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs for Operation in his government.
The preferment of Tingban to serve in the strategic cabinet position was well-received by members of the opposition block who see the gesture as a manifestation of the President’s readiness to run an inclusive government.
Pundits say the appointment of the tough-talking former lawmaker will bring credibility to the government.