The Government of Liberia has moved to quell growing public debate over the expulsion of former Montserrado County District #10 Representative, Yekeh Kolubah, with Deputy Minister for Public Affairs, Daniel Sando, firmly rejecting claims of executive interference. Appearing on the Prime Morning Drive show on Prime FM, Minister Sando dismissed accusations from critics and opposition figures suggesting that Joseph Boakai played a role in Kolubah’s removal from the House of Representatives of Liberia.
According to Sando, the decision to expel Kolubah was solely the responsibility of the Legislature, taken after what he described as “careful consideration” of statements made by the former lawmaker.
“The President and the Executive Branch had absolutely nothing to do with the expulsion,” Sando emphasized. “This was an internal legislative decision based on actions and statements the House deemed unprofessional and unpatriotic.”
He pointed specifically to remarks attributed to Kolubah regarding a disputed area near the Solumba border, which lawmakers reportedly viewed as undermining national interest. The House, Sando noted, acted within its constitutional authority. Citing Article 38 of the Liberian Constitution, the Deputy Minister explained that the Legislature has the power to discipline or expel its members for cause.
“Freedom of speech does not mean freedom from responsibility,” Sando said. “Members of the Legislature are expected to uphold decorum and respect the rules governing their conduct.”
Addressing concerns that the move signals a crackdown on dissent, Sando rejected comparisons with the administration of former President George Weah. He argued that the current government remains committed to protecting free expression and has no interest in targeting critical voices. “This government is not in the business of silencing opposition,” he stated. “Our focus is on development, maintaining peace, and delivering services to the Liberian people.” Sando further urged supporters of the embattled former lawmaker to remain calm and avoid politicizing the issue, stressing that the matter falls squarely within the purview of the Legislature. As of press time, Kolubah has not publicly responded to the government’s latest remarks.
Author: Samuel B. Johnson
