Krahns in Australia Want Amicable Solution to Land Conflict in Gbor, Bah Towns
It can be recalled that in recent times, residents of Gbor and Bah Towns in Kparblee chiefdom, Nimba County, were involved in a serious clash about a land issue where one person was killed
The All Krahn Association of Australia (AKAA), an association of the Krahn native tribe based in Australia, has called on the Liberian government to amicably find a lasting solution to the land conflict that exists between the people of Gbor and Bah towns in Nimba County.
According to a press release from the Association, the land dispute among the people of the towns has caused some social and economic disruptions over the years and, if nothing is done, it has the potential of affecting future generations.
It can be recalled that in recent times, residents of Gbor and Bah Towns in Kparblee chiefdom, Nimba County, were involved in a serious clash about a land issue where one person was killed and several others injured.
The Association is asking for an immediate deployment of security forces in the area to keep thorough surveillance there and to check for unlawful firearms and any other illegal weapons.
According to the release, they further urged the government to form a committee coordinated by a conflict resolution team from the government that will comprise elders and prominent individuals from both towns to investigate the root cause of the conflict as well as to prosecute the perpetrators as a way to dispense justice and to restore peace and stability.
The release underscored the need for the government to provide incentives to resettle the displaced residents.
“We also want to encourage the government to find a peaceful settlement of the land dispute. It is heartbreaking for citizens to be killing one another for land rights. The government should do everything possible to restore peace in the areas,” the release said.
“Each town may intend to exclusively use and enjoy its land or forest without any interference. But they should understand that as neighbors, they must coexist. Mainly, they should understand their livelihoods primarily revolve around farming and hunting. They may increase their own hardships if they prevent each other from using and enjoying the surrounding environments,” the release cautioned.
Meanwhile, the Association has thanked the Liberian government for promptly responding and for putting the situation under control thus far.
“We would also like to thank the government for taking care of the medical bills of those who have been injured and for providing consolation and other necessary needs to the families of the deceased,'' the release concluded.