NATIONAL NEWS
PAYNESVILLE – Liberia’s Vice President, Jeremiah Kpan Koung, has raised concerns over the country’s economic progress, business climate, and energy challenges, calling for urgent reforms to address what he described as critical national issues.
By: Kabina S. Kabah – kabinaskabah98@gmail.com
Speaking in separate interviews on ELBC and Prime FM, Vice President Koung highlighted structural constraints affecting Liberia’s economy, including concession agreements, business ownership practices, and limited access to electricity.
APM Terminals Agreement Under Scrutiny
The Vice President expressed concern over the long-standing concession agreement with APM Terminals, describing it as a major obstacle to economic progress.
The agreement, initially intended to modernise port infrastructure and improve trade efficiency, has faced criticism over what Koung called restrictive provisions — including a 25-year period before any meaningful review.
“The agreement, as it stands, has constrained our capacity to fully leverage one of our most critical economic assets,” he said. “A 25-year wait before review is not in the best interest of a developing economy like ours.”
Concerns Over ‘Fronting’ in Business Sector
Vice President Koung also raised alarm over widespread “fronting” in Liberia’s business sector, where companies registered as Liberian-owned are allegedly controlled by foreign interests.
“On paper, these businesses belong to Liberians, but in practice, many are owned and controlled by foreigners,” he said. “Our people are merely fronting for these entities, sometimes for little or no real benefit.”
He noted that the practice poses challenges for regulation and enforcement, and called for urgent measures to address what he described as a barrier to genuine economic empowerment.
Energy Challenges Hampering Development
The Vice President underscored the importance of electricity in driving Liberia’s development agenda, warning that inadequate power supply continues to affect key sectors.
“Electricity is not a luxury — it is essential to achieving our development goals,” he said. “Without stable power, we cannot fully unlock the potential of our economy.”
He pointed to the impact on commerce, healthcare, and education, and called for stronger investment in energy infrastructure.
Vice President Koung also urged major concession companies, including Bea Mountain and ArcelorMittal Liberia, to align with government efforts to expand electricity access nationwide.
Commitment to Peace Amid Border Concerns
On regional security, the Vice President reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to peace amid concerns over border tensions with Guinea.
“Liberia will not go to war with Guinea,” he said. “We are one people, bound by shared history and regional ties.”
He emphasised the importance of dialogue and diplomatic engagement in maintaining stability and strengthening bilateral relations.
Call for Reform
The Vice President’s remarks have sparked debate over the need for urgent reforms to address Liberia’s economic and structural challenges.
Analysts say tackling these issues will require stronger enforcement of laws, improved verification systems, and policies that balance foreign investment with meaningful local participation.
Vice President Koung reaffirmed the government’s commitment to reforms aimed at protecting national interests while maintaining a business-friendly environment.
