BENBEN TOWN, Montserrado County — In a demonstration of her commitment to grassroots engagement, Montserrado County District #1 Representative Rugie Yatu Barry celebrated her birthday on Sunday, September 6, with residents of Benben Town, describing the people she represents as an extension of her family.
Speaking during the gathering, Rep. Barry said birthdays are traditionally occasions shared with family and loved ones, and because she considers the people of District #1 to be her family, she deliberately observes the milestone each year in different communities across the constituency.
She emphasized that the annual tradition reflects her appreciation for the confidence reposed in her by the electorate and reinforces her commitment to maintaining close ties with the communities she serves.
The celebration was warmly embraced by residents, several of whom described the occasion as unprecedented, noting that it was the first time they had witnessed a sitting lawmaker commemorate a personal milestone in such a direct and meaningful way with members of the community.
As part of the event, Rep. Barry donated four sets of football jerseys to teams representing four neighboring communities, underscoring her continued support for youth development and community participation through sports.
The District #1 lawmaker also reaffirmed her commitment to working closely with local authorities and community stakeholders to address pressing development challenges. She identified the absence of a primary school in Benben Town as a critical concern, observing that the community’s growing population makes access to basic education an urgent priority.
Rep. Barry pledged to collaborate with local leadership and relevant stakeholders to mobilize support for the construction of a primary school to serve children in the community.
The celebration brought together traditional and community leaders, youth and women’s representatives, elders, members of the Liberty Party Executive Committee, and Montserrado County District #5 Representative Hon. Precilia Cooper.
For many residents, the occasion extended beyond a birthday celebration. It served as a platform for meaningful interaction with their elected representative, allowing community members to discuss local concerns while reaffirming the importance of responsive leadership and sustained community engagement.
