By James M. Kanneh
I find it deeply troubling to agree with both partisans and non-partisans of the ruling Unity Party who are advocating against the expulsion of District #10 lawmaker Yekeh Kolubah from the House of Representatives.
Beyond our everyday political disagreements, the ongoing border tension between Liberia and Guinea is not a normal issue. It is a matter of national significance that must not be treated lightly. At a time when our sovereignty is being tested, we must rise above partisan loyalty and focus on protecting the territorial integrity of our country.
Many within the ruling establishment are defending Representative Kolubah based on his past contributions to the political process and his role in bringing the current government to power. However, such arguments are misplaced. No individual’s political contribution should outweigh the importance of Liberia’s sovereignty.
We must be clear: national interest must always supersede personal or political allegiance.
This situation is unprecedented in Liberia’s history—a sitting lawmaker publicly making statements that appear to support claims against our own territorial integrity. Such declarations are not only irresponsible but dangerous. They risk emboldening external actors and weakening our position in resolving sensitive national issues.
When statements of this nature are made, they cannot be ignored or dismissed as mere political rhetoric. They carry serious implications for national security and international perception.
There must be consequences.
Setting a strong precedent at this moment is critical. Failure to act decisively sends the wrong message—not only to current leaders but also to future generations—that actions undermining national sovereignty can go unpunished.
Politics is about the exchange of ideas and the pursuit of solutions. However, these exchanges must never come at the expense of our country’s integrity. Unfortunately, some political actors appear more interested in leveraging this situation for political gain rather than defending Liberia’s national interest.
Representative Kolubah crossed a dangerous line. This is not a matter that should be softened by political sentiment or reduced to partisan debate. It requires firm and decisive action.
Around the world, leaders and public officials are held accountable when their actions violate the law or undermine national values. Such accountability serves as a deterrent and reinforces respect for institutions.
Liberia must not be an exception.
Too often, a culture of leniency—“let it pass”—has hindered our national progress. This approach weakens institutions and emboldens misconduct. If we are serious about moving forward as a nation, we must begin to enforce standards consistently and without bias.
This is also a matter of historical responsibility. We teach our children history not just to remember the past, but to learn from it—to understand what went wrong and to ensure that we do not repeat those mistakes.
If we fail to act now, what lesson are we teaching?
This is a defining moment. Liberia must demonstrate that its sovereignty is non-negotiable and that any action perceived to undermine it will be met with appropriate consequences.
For these reasons, Representative Yekeh Kolubah should face expulsion from the legislature—not out of political vendetta, but as a necessary step to uphold the dignity, integrity, and sovereignty of the Republic of Liberia.
James M. Kanneh is a political commentator who provides his opinions on national issues.
