Liberia’s VP Koung Sparks Controversy with Tribal Politics in Nimba County By-Election
Ethnic Allegiances Take Center Stage in Campaign Strategy
GANTA, Nimba County – Liberia’s Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung has ignited a political firestorm by openly embracing tribal politics during campaign rallies for the upcoming Nimba County senatorial by-election. His vocal support for Gio tribe candidate Representative Samuel Kogar under the slogan “THIS THING FOR THE GIO PEOPLE” has drawn both strong support and sharp criticism across Liberia’s political landscape.
The Tribal Balance Argument
At a campaign stop in Nimba Electoral District #8, VP Koung made his position clear: with current Senator Nya D. Twanyen, Jr. being from the Mano tribe, he argues the next senator should come from the Gio tribe to maintain ethnic balance. “If you support them (Gios), they will support you (Manos) in 2029,” Koung declared, framing his stance as honoring longstanding traditions rather than promoting tribalism.
Internal Political Maneuvering
The Vice President’s strategy extends beyond simple ethnic alignment. He revealed advising political rival Edith Gongloe Weh, a Mano tribe member, to abandon her senatorial bid and instead prepare for a 2029 representative race. “Let’s keep this county balanced,” Koung reportedly told her, though Gongloe Weh has maintained her candidacy despite this counsel.
Growing Backlash and Women’s Rights Campaign
The tribal-focused campaign has drawn significant criticism, particularly from women’s groups supporting Gongloe Weh, the only female candidate in the race. Activists argue the emphasis on ethnicity distracts from critical issues like development, social equity, and governance reforms in Nimba County.
#SheDeservesASeat Movement Gains Momentum
A coalition of Liberian women has launched the #SheDeservesASeat campaign nationwide, framing Gongloe Weh’s candidacy as pivotal for gender equality in Liberian politics. “Her voice in the Senate would reflect the voices of countless women and girls across the nation,” said spokesperson Naomi Tulay Solanke.
The movement highlights systemic barriers facing women in Liberian politics, from online harassment to limited campaign resources, while positioning Gongloe Weh as a qualified trailblazer rather than just a symbolic female candidate.