Nimba County – Senator Samuel Kogar of Nimba County has delivered a series of strong statements addressing national leadership, integrity, and the role of key political figures, sparking widespread debate across Liberia’s political landscape.
Speaking during an engagement in District #7, Senator Kogar tackled growing public discussions about his leadership and relationship with prominent national figures, including Vice President Jeremiah Koung and President Joseph Boakai.
Recalling public sentiments about his political rise, Kogar stated, “The people said Samuel Kogar will replace Prince Johnson. Will you allow me to be disgraced? No.” He emphasized his commitment to integrity and principle, declaring, “I won’t do scary things to protect a job.”
Turning his attention to President Boakai, Senator Kogar criticized what he called “regional labeling” of the President.
“When you call Boakai the ‘Godfather of Lofa,’ you weaken his image. He’s President of Liberia, not just Lofa,” Kogar said. “That makes him look unpopular.”
Vice President Jeremiah Koung also featured prominently in Kogar’s remarks. The senator expressed concern over what he perceives as efforts to diminish the Vice President’s national stature.
“The Vice President is not the first of Nimba; he’s the second of the Republic,” Kogar stressed. “No other Vice President in Liberia has been reduced to a county figure — that’s wrong.”
He further criticized certain political behaviors, saying, “You can’t be the referees and then want to be football players.”
Despite acknowledging a traditional father-son relationship with Vice President Koung, Kogar clarified that his political responsibilities come first.
“Traditionally, Jeremiah Koung is my son, and I respect him. But as a leader, I must speak the truth. If he wants a face-off, I’m ready.”
Senator Kogar also spoke on what he described as the “silence of opportunism” within government.
“Some people stay silent because they want to keep power and play sycophancy,” he said. “As senator, I can tell the President I can’t work with someone, and he will listen. The President needs me more than them.”
He went on to criticize traditional elders, accusing them of compromising their moral authority due to government affiliations.
“Elders nowadays are all compromised because they’re on government payrolls,” he asserted. “They no longer speak fairly among their children but support those in higher positions because they don’t want to lose their jobs.”
Senator Kogar’s remarks have ignited renewed discussion within Liberia’s political circles, with observers noting that his comments may signal shifting alliances and emerging tensions within the country’s leadership ranks.
