Tensions Escalate in Grebo-Krahn National Park: FDA Officials in Jeopardy
Tensions in Grebo-Krahn National Park have escalated as FDA agents face hostility from traditionalists. Zone Warden Selma Kolako narrowly escaped arrest, while Ranger Oliver Jelleh is feared to be held hostage. Community dissatisfaction over promised benefits has led to increased conflicts, prompting calls for urgent governmental response and stakeholder dialogue.
Recent events in Grebo-Krahn National Park highlight significant tensions between the Forestry Development Authority (FDA) officials and local traditional leaders. Two key figures, Zone Warden Selma Kolako and Ranger Oliver Jelleh, are at the center of these issues; Kolako narrowly escaped capture following threats from traditionalists, while Jelleh remains missing after being reportedly held hostage for over a week.
Warden Kolako, tasked with overseeing activities in Grebo-Krahn National Park, fled after being warned of possible arrest due to accusations of defying local traditions. His absence creates worry among family members regarding Jelleh, who is feared to be facing severe treatment at the hands of traditional authorities. In light of these concerns, the family has urged governmental intervention to protect their son from potential harm.
Kolako described the day of his escape, recounting how he was urged to leave immediately by a concerned individual who knocked on his door persistently. He hastily departed on his operational motorbike, leaving his belongings behind, only to later discover that his home was ransacked by suspected agents of the local tradition.
The FDA has expressed growing unease regarding its operations in Grand Gedeh County, particularly concerning intimidation from locals with vested interests in cocoa farming. Kolako cautions that ongoing conflicts could lead to significant loss of park territory to both local residents and Burkinabe migrants.
The confrontations began in early January 2025, as traditional leaders prohibited FDA surveillance activities related to environmental conservation. Tensions escalated after several communities obstructed FDA’s initiatives alongside partners such as the United Nations Development Program, citing unfulfilled promises from before the park’s establishment.
In response to these tensions, community leaders requested a reassessment of the management strategy, calling for a revision to align with the government’s ARREST agenda. Despite efforts by FDA officials to arrange a stakeholder meeting, resistance from traditionalist supporters complicated discussions, leading to further discord following recent visits from influential figures like Senator Thomas Yaya Nimely.
As the situation deteriorates, stakeholders convened a meeting intending to address the problems arising in Grebo-Krahn National Park, but failed to reach a resolution. Adding to the complexity, Grand Gedeh County officials have remained silent and unresponsive to the escalating issues despite prior notifications from the FDA, indicating a lack of engagement in resolving community and conservation conflicts.
The ongoing strife in Grebo-Krahn National Park underscores the delicate balance between local traditions and conservation efforts. The actions against FDA personnel reflect a growing frustration among the community regarding benefits and management. As urgency mounts for governmental intervention and dialogue, the future of both the park and its sustainable management remains precariously uncertain.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com
