NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – Opposition Alternative National Congress Political Leader Alexander Cummings has strongly criticized ongoing efforts by the Liberian House of Representatives to expel Montserrado County District #10 lawmaker Yekeh Y. Kolubah.
He described the action as politically motivated and inconsistent with democratic principles.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
In a statement issued under the title “Let’s Stop the Hypocrisy,” Cummings acknowledged that he often disagrees with Kolubah’s choice of words, but stressed that the true test of free speech lies in protecting expression that is uncomfortable or unpopular.
He argued that the justification being advanced by the House alleged statements made by Kolubah regarding Liberia’s border does not reflect the real reason behind the push for his expulsion.
According to Cummings, the move is instead driven by Kolubah’s continued strong opposition to the current government, which he once supported.
Cummings further noted that Kolubah’s outspoken and radical political style is not new, pointing out that he was similarly tolerated during the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) administration when he was a vocal critic of the then-government.
He said it is therefore contradictory for similar conduct to now be used as grounds for disciplinary action under a Unity Party-led government.
Describing the situation as “hypocrisy,” the ANC political leader warned that expelling Kolubah would set a dangerous precedent by suggesting that free speech is only protected when it aligns with those in power.
He also rejected comparisons of the matter to contempt-related cases, arguing that expelling an elected lawmaker undermines the will of voters who elected him to represent District #10 for six years.
The ANC leader stressed that the power of expulsion should be exercised cautiously and not used, in his view, as a tool for political revenge.
Mr. Cummings also questioned the financial and national priorities of such a move, noting that a by-election would require public funds that could instead be directed toward critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and water supply.
He argued that removing Kolubah would not address pressing national challenges such as fuel prices, electricity instability, inflation, or infrastructure deficits.
Concluding his statement, Cummings urged lawmakers pushing for the expulsion to focus instead on addressing the country’s broader challenges, insisting that “Liberians deserve better.”
