The Political Leader of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), Alexander B. Cummings, has strongly criticized ongoing efforts within the House of Representatives to expel Montserrado County District 10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah, describing the move as hypocritical and a threat to Liberia’s democratic principles.
In a strongly worded statement, Cummings acknowledged that he does not always agree with Kolubah’s choice of language, but stressed that true commitment to free speech is tested by society’s tolerance for views that are uncomfortable or controversial.
“Our commitment to free speech is not tested by the words we like, but by the words that unsettle us,” Cummings asserted, adding that attempts to remove Kolubah appear politically motivated rather than based on genuine legislative concerns.
The ANC leader accused members of the House of Representatives of Liberia of using recent comments made by Kolubah regarding Liberia’s border as a pretext to silence a critical voice. According to him, Kolubah’s consistent and “fierce opposition” to the current administration is the real reason behind the push for expulsion.
Cummings pointed out what he termed a double standard, noting that Kolubah’s outspoken and confrontational style was tolerated during the previous Congress for Democratic Change (CDC)-led government, but is now being condemned under the ruling Unity Party administration. “The same firebrand politics once defended cannot now be condemned simply because they target the current regime,” he stated, labeling the situation as “the height of hypocrisy.”
He further argued that expelling Kolubah would not only undermine democratic values but also disregard the will of thousands of voters in District 10 who elected him in the 2023 elections. Cummings emphasized that such an action would set a dangerous precedent, where dissenting voices could be removed under questionable justifications.
Addressing the broader implications, Cummings warned that expulsion would trigger a costly by-election at a time when Liberia faces pressing socio-economic challenges. He stressed that public funds would be better spent on critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and access to safe drinking water.
“Expelling Yekeh will not reduce the price of goods, stabilize electricity, or improve roads. It will only satisfy egos and burden taxpayers,” he added.
Cummings concluded by urging lawmakers advocating for Kolubah’s removal to redirect their focus toward policies and actions that directly improve the lives of ordinary Liberians.
“Liberians deserve better,” he declared.
Author: Samuel B. Johnson
