By Godgift Harris
Having falling apart with Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung for apparent policy differences, Nimba County Senator Samuel G. Kogar over the weekend reproached President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
In a fresh wave of political tension, which reportedly emerged in Nimba County, Sen. Kogar accused Pres. Boakai, and his administration of “fueling tribal division” in the county.
He claimed Boakai was “practicing selective governance,” a charge that has further deepened political debate in Nimba.
While on a local radio program, Sen. Kogar expressed disappointment and surprise over reports of a planned public feast in honor of the late Senator Prince Y. Johnson.
He denied being informed or consulted about the pending event.
Meanwhile, Kogar has described the pending initiative as “an act of disrespect to the bereaved family, and contrary to Nimba’s traditional values.”
“The late Senator Prince Johnson’s feast is news to me. I am just hearing about it,” Kogar told his listeners and followers when went live on his social media page with his statement.
“Traditionally, for someone to hold a feast for your deceased father or relative without consulting the family, is a serious act of disrespect.”
Kogar further claimed that internal disputes among members of the Johnson family made the planned celebration “inappropriate.”
He alleged that certain political actors were taking advantage of family tensions for “personal or political interests.”
“There’s still division within the family. When you’re financially weak, people tend to exploit any situation that comes against you. That what’s happening here. You can’t have ongoing family conflict, and yet celebrate publicly.”
Beyond the feast controversy, Sen. Kogar launched a strong critique of the Unity Party-(UP) led government, accusing it of entrenched corruption, and regional favoritism, similar to what was often attributed to the regime of erstwhile ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC).
“We campaigned against the CDC, because of corruption that the signs were so visible to everyone,” Kogar said.
On the contrary to the campaign slogans on corruption, Kogar accused the UP government of massive corruption, which he claimed: “is even deeper; the only difference is the faces in the leadership.”
He further alleged that Pres. Boakai’s has disproportionately favored Lofa County; the President home region in political appointments and developments, drawing a comparison to how the previous government was perceived to have favored the Southeast.
“We voted the CDC out, because the government concentrated power and projects in the Southeast.”
“But today, it’s the same thing with the focus on Lofa, where many of the top positions are filled by Lofaians.”
Sen. Kogar also criticized government’s recent decision to replace Wilmot Paye as Mines and Energy Minister with Richard Mantenokay Tingban, both of whom hail from Nimba County.
He argued that the reshuffle was a politically calculated move aimed at dividing Nimba leadership base.
“The decision to remove Mr. Paye, and replace him with Tingban was meant to divide Nimbaians,” Kogar contended.
“We were not consulted. I am a straightforward person; if you do the right thing, I will commend you; if you do the wrong one, I will speak against you without fear.”
Despite his sharp criticism, Kogar called on Nimbaians to remain peaceful, united and vigilant, warning against political manipulation that could undermine the county social fabric.
“I urge the people of Nimba to stay united, and not allow anyone to divide us. I am not a disrespectful person, but I will always speak the truth to power.”
Kogar’s comments have reignited national discussion on tribal balance, corruption, and inclusiveness under the Boakai administration.
While his statements reflect growing dissent among some lawmakers, supporters of the Unity Party have defended the government record, insisting that appointments are based on competence, not tribal affiliation.
As tensions simmer, the situation in Nimba County underscores the fragile nature of Liberia’s political unity, and the challenge Pres. Boakai faces in balancing regional expectations, while maintaining his administration’s promise of national reconciliation.