Residents of Western Area Rural have raised serious concerns over the government’s proposed redistricting of 12 villages ahead of the 2028 presidential elections, warning that some communities may face increased hardships and lack access to essential services.
The concerns were voiced during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Wednesday, 20th August 2025, at the Western Area Rural District Council hall in Waterloo, attended by government officials including the Minister of Local Government.
Among the 12 villages slated for redistricting, Deep Eye Water, Yams Farm, Mabala, and Crossing were highlighted as particularly vulnerable. Local leaders, including Western Area Rural District Council Chairman Kasho Hollande Cole, urged the government to carefully consider factors such as access to markets, schools, hospitals, and other essential amenities before implementing any changes.
Residents of Deep Eye Water expressed concern over the proposed division into upper and lower sections. They warned that quarry activities, which form the basis of local livelihoods, would be restricted to the lower section, potentially sparking conflicts between residents of the two areas.
At Yams Farm, the plan to create an upper settlement called “New State” has divided the community. Supporters argue that the split would enable better local development, citing disputes over land sales by current headmen who allegedly refused to allocate land for public facilities. Opponents, however, fear further division and social tension.
Similar land disputes have surfaced between Mabala and Crossing villages, with stakeholders from Crossing pushing for the integration of Mabala into their locality. Residents of Mabala strongly opposed the proposal, claiming the move is motivated by headmen seeking personal gain through land sales rather than community development.
Local leaders stressed that the redistricting process must prioritize practical needs over politics or sentiment, ensuring that residents’ livelihoods and access to essential services are safeguarded.
Observers warn that unless carefully managed, the proposed redistricting could exacerbate tensions, fuel conflicts, and deepen divisions within affected communities.
