The political landscape of Nimba County, Liberia, is once again embroiled in tribal tensions as the upcoming senatorial by-election approaches. Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung stands accused of reviving divisive tribal politics, reminiscent of the strategies employed by the late Senator Prince Yorme Johnson. Koung has publicly endorsed Representative Samuel Kogar, a member of the Gio tribe, urging the Mah tribe and other ethnic groups in the county to support Kogar’s candidacy. This appeal is rooted in Koung’s belief that the two senatorial seats should not be held by members of the same tribe. With the current Senator, Nya D. Twayen, Jr., being a Manor native (the second largest tribal group), Koung argues that it is the Gio tribe’s turn to hold the vacant seat, previously occupied by the late Senator Johnson, also a Gio native. This overt tribal appeal has sparked concerns about the potential for escalating ethnic divisions within the county.
Koung’s call for inter-tribal cooperation is framed as a means to achieve “peaceful and balanced” leadership in Nimba. He asserts that allowing the Gio tribe to fill the vacant seat would ensure equitable representation and contribute to overall stability within the county. However, critics argue that this approach undermines the democratic process by prioritizing tribal affiliations over individual qualifications and the voters’ right to choose their preferred candidate. Koung’s endorsement of Kogar has further fueled these concerns, as he has explicitly cautioned against voting for other candidates, claiming such votes would be wasted. This statement effectively discourages voters from exercising their democratic right to choose their representatives based on merit, rather than tribal identity.
The late Senator Prince Yorme Johnson, widely regarded as the “godfather of Nimba Politics” and a prominent figure from the Gio tribe, had a history of employing tribal politics to maintain his influence. Vice President Koung, also a Gio native, appears to be following a similar path, potentially exacerbating existing tribal tensions within the county. The emphasis on tribal identity in the current election campaign raises concerns about the future of political discourse in Nimba and the possibility of further marginalizing smaller tribal groups. By prioritizing tribal affiliations, the focus shifts away from addressing critical issues facing the county and its citizens, potentially hindering development and fostering resentment among different ethnic groups.
The by-election, scheduled for April 22, 2025, features nineteen candidates vying for the vacant senatorial seat. Kogar, the candidate endorsed by Koung, currently serves as the Representative for Nimba County district #5. Should he win the senatorial election, another by-election will be necessary to fill his vacated representative seat, further complicating the political landscape and potentially prolonging the focus on tribal politics. This succession of elections could create instability and divert attention from crucial governance matters. The current situation underscores the need for a broader conversation about the role of tribalism in Liberian politics and the importance of promoting inclusivity and unity.
Koung’s direct appeal to the Mah tribe, asking them to “come to the coop” and support the Gio candidate, is seen by some as a calculated political maneuver to consolidate Gio voting power and ensure Kogar’s victory. This tactic, while potentially effective in the short term, risks further entrenching tribal divisions and creating a perception of favoritism towards certain ethnic groups. A healthy democracy relies on the participation of all citizens, regardless of their tribal background, and such overt appeals to tribal loyalty can undermine the principles of fairness and equal representation. The focus should be on electing candidates who possess the necessary skills and experience to effectively represent the entire county, not just their own tribe.
The political climate in Nimba County is at a critical juncture. The upcoming by-election will not only determine who fills the vacant senatorial seat but also potentially set the tone for future political discourse in the region. Whether the county moves towards a more inclusive and unified political landscape or continues down a path of tribal division remains to be seen. The outcome of the election and the subsequent actions of elected officials will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Nimba County and its diverse communities. It is essential for political leaders to prioritize unity and address the concerns of all citizens, regardless of their tribal affiliations, to foster a stable and prosperous future for the county.
