The role of a Vice President, often shrouded in ambiguity, oscillates between constitutional obligations and the dynamics of political reality. In Liberia, the sentiment expressed by Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung, mirroring the words of his predecessor, now President, Joseph Boakai, likens the position to an “old car parked in the garage,” immobile without presidential approval. This metaphor encapsulates the perceived powerlessness of the office, raising questions about the Vice President’s capacity for independent action and influence within the political landscape. This essay delves into the complexities of this role, comparing Liberia’s experience with other African nations and the Western world, exploring the potential for Vice Presidents to transcend their prescribed duties and become active agents of change.
The constitutional framework typically defines the Vice President as the presiding officer of the Senate and the successor to the presidency in case of a vacancy. However, this limited definition fails to capture the potential for a more dynamic role. The effectiveness of a Vice President is often shaped by the political context, personal ambition, and the relationship with the President. In the United States, Vice Presidents like Joe Biden and Al Gore have demonstrated the potential for influence, tackling significant national issues and building coalitions. This proactive approach contrasts sharply with the prevailing narrative in parts of Africa, including Liberia, where patronage systems and presidential dominance often restrict the Vice President’s agency.
The Liberian political landscape, even under the leadership of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female president, seemingly reinforced this limited view of the Vice Presidency. Joseph Boakai, despite his inherent political acumen, was perceived as occupying a largely ceremonial role, his potential constrained by Johnson Sirleaf’s firm grip on power. This experience reflects a broader trend across Africa, where Vice Presidents often navigate complex power dynamics, sometimes leading to political stagnation. However, counter-examples, such as Yemi Osinbajo in Nigeria, showcase the possibility of a Vice President achieving prominence through proactive engagement with public policy and grassroots initiatives, demonstrating that individual initiative can transcend systemic limitations.
It is crucial to acknowledge that individual capabilities play a significant role in shaping the Vice President’s trajectory. The constitutional framework provides a foundation, but the historical, political, and cultural context, along with the relationship between the President and Vice President, ultimately determines the extent of their political agency. Drawing parallels with the United States, the dynamic between the President and Vice President reveals a similar interplay of factors. When Presidents empower their Vice Presidents, as Barack Obama did with Joe Biden, the outcomes can redefine expectations. Conversely, restrictive environments can stifle initiative and limit the Vice President’s impact.
Recognizing the prevalence of the “old car” analogy in describing Vice Presidents in Africa, it becomes imperative to reimagine the potential of this office. The Vice Presidency should not be relegated to ceremonial duties and subordination. Instead, it should be viewed as a platform for fostering dialogue, bridging divides between the elite and the citizenry, and facilitating smoother governance. This requires a shift in narrative, recognizing Vice Presidents as vital participants in national discourse, capable of driving change through collaboration, accountability, and leadership.
For Liberia and other African nations, the challenge lies in creating an environment where Vice Presidents can operate effectively and independently without appearing to challenge presidential authority. Strengthening collective governance, fostering mutual respect, and promoting open dialogue are crucial steps towards empowering Vice Presidents to move beyond ceremonial roles. While the “old car” analogy highlights the limitations imposed by existing structures, it also presents an opportunity for transformation. By encouraging active participation and collaboration, nations can redefine the Vice Presidency, transforming it from a dormant fixture into a dynamic force for progress, unity, and collective strength. The potential for evolution exists; it requires both Vice Presidents and Presidents to embrace this opportunity and work together to unlock the full potential of this vital office. By actively engaging with the citizenry and driving positive change, Vice Presidents can shed the image of the “old car” and become true vehicles of progress, navigating the complexities of governance and leading their nations towards a brighter future.
