VP Koung Advocates for Tribal Support in Nimba County Senatorial Election

Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung faces criticism for promoting divisive tribal politics in Nimba County ahead of the upcoming Senatorial By-election. He has urged the Mah tribe to support Gio candidate Samuel Kogar, suggesting that any votes for other candidates would be wasted. His appeals have raised concerns about the implications for tribal representation in Liberian politics.

Liberia’s Vice President, Jeremiah Kpan Koung, has been accused of rekindling divisive tribal politics reminiscent of the late Senator Prince Yorme Johnson in Nimba County. In the lead-up to the upcoming Senatorial By-election, he has expressed a preference for the Mah-speaking people and other tribes to support Senatorial Candidate Representative Samuel Kogar, who is from the Gio-speaking tribe, asserting that voting for any other candidate would be a waste.

Vice President Koung’s statements suggest a call for tribal exclusivity, as he urged Mah tribe members to consider relinquishing their claim to the senatorial seat in favor of candidates from the Gio tribe, in order to maintain a “peaceful and balanced” leadership in Nimba. His plea centers around the notion that having a fair representation among tribes is essential for stability.

In a recent telephone interview, Koung emphasized the unfairness of a single tribe holding both senatorial seats, appealing to the Mah people not to contest the seat in honor of balance and stability within the county. His concern echoes ongoing tensions over tribal representation in government following the legacy of Johnson, who significantly influenced Nimba politics.

The National Elections Commission has slated April 22, 2025, for the Nimba County Senatorial By-election to fill the seat vacated by the late Senator Johnson. Nineteen candidates are vying for the position, including Representative Samuel Kogar, who currently represents Nimba County District 5. Koung supports Kogar’s candidacy, calling him the candidate to best represent Nimba’s interests.

Koung highlighted the potential for a wasted vote if constituents choose candidates other than Kogar, reiterating, “If anyone voted other than Kogar, they will be wasting their votes.” Through his endorsements and appeals, the Vice President urges his kinsmen to align politically for the benefit of Nimba County’s future governance.

Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung’s comments regarding tribal politics in Nimba County have stirred controversy as he urges tribes to support the Gio candidate, Samuel Kogar, in order to ensure fair representation. His emphasis on balance and stability within the political framework reflects ongoing tensions surrounding tribal affiliations in Liberia. The upcoming Senatorial By-election on April 22, 2025, marks a significant political event influenced by these dynamics.

Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com