Liberia’s Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Slams Lawmaker’s Expulsion as Threat to Democracy
Monrovia, Liberia – Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, Liberia’s former president and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has condemned the expulsion of Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Y. Kolubah, branding the move a dangerous assault on free speech and democratic principles. Speaking on Truth FM’s Breakfast Show on Thursday, April 30, Sirleaf emphasized that such actions undermine Liberia’s constitutional protections and democratic governance.
“Expelling someone for exercising their freedom of speech is not the way to go,” Sirleaf declared. “Freedom of speech is integral to good governance, and it must be respected.”
Kolubah’s expulsion came after a special session of the House of Representatives, where 49 of 73 lawmakers voted in favor of the resolution, meeting the two-thirds majority required. However, controversy surrounds the decision, with Representative Sam Jallah of Bomi County claiming he never signed the resolution. The move was based on allegations of gross breach of duty, misconduct in office, and violations of his oath, brought forward by Montserrado County District #3 Representative Sumo Mulbah and Inspector General of Police Gregory O.W. Coleman.
Sirleaf’s critique aligns with a growing chorus of disapproval from prominent Liberians, including Senators Abraham Darius Dillon and Amara Konneh, as well as lawyer Tiawan Gongloe and businessman Alexander Cummings. Many argue that silencing dissenting voices sets a troubling precedent for Liberia’s democracy.
Sirleaf Reflects on Her Legacy of Free Speech
Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female president, used the platform to highlight her administration’s commitment to press freedom and transparency. During her tenure (2006-2018), Liberia enacted the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act of 2010, which expanded public access to government records. She also championed the Declaration of Table Mountain, advocating for the repeal of criminal defamation laws across Africa.
“These reforms were meant to strengthen democratic governance,” Sirleaf said. “We must uphold these principles to ensure Liberia’s progress.”
Nearly two months ago, Sirleaf delivered a historic address to Liberia’s House of Representatives, urging lawmakers to tackle pressing national issues, including constitutional reform and the rehabilitation of Monrovia. She emphasized the importance of addressing youth unemployment through practical initiatives, such as organized city cleanups, which could simultaneously improve sanitation and create jobs.
‘Filthy Monrovia’: A Stark Warning
Sirleaf did not mince words when assessing the state of Liberia’s capital, describing Monrovia as “filthy” and a reflection of deeper governance challenges.
“I drive through the city from time to time, and I’m ashamed,” she said. “Poor sanitation is damaging Liberia’s international image and deterring potential partners.”
She warned that addressing the sanitation crisis could also help restore national pride and attract foreign investment. “This is an opportunity,” Sirleaf said, urging authorities to prioritize meaningful interventions over superficial projects like excessive billboards.
Post-Presidency Advocacy and Calls for Unity
Since leaving office in 2018, Sirleaf has remained active in global initiatives, working with organizations like The Elders and the Mastercard Foundation. She described her post-presidency life as “busy and fulfilling,” emphasizing the need to invest in Liberia’s youth through education and job creation.
“Education is the most important tool,” she said. “Our young people must be equipped with the skills to drive national development.”
Sirleaf also weighed in on her relationship with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, describing it as cordial but infrequent. “I do my work, he does his,” she said. “We are good friends, although we don’t speak often.”
In closing, Sirleaf called for unity and collective leadership, urging Liberian leaders to prioritize the country’s development over partisan interests.
“The country must come first,” she said. “Accountability, inclusion, and long-term vision are essential to Liberia’s future.”
— Reported by Nexio News
