Liberian politics has taken a dramatic turn with Yekeh Kolubah, the outspoken former Montserrado County District 10 representative, expressing regret over his relationship with President Joseph Boakai. Kolubah had backed Boakai in 2023 but later turned against him. A rumor had been circulating that Kolubah was preparing to reconcile with the President, but he poured cold water on it during a recent interview.
The rumor of reconciliation began with a Facebook post by Kolubah's media consultant, Samson Moseray, stating that Kolubah was ready to mend fences with the President due to frustration with the opposition's disintegration. However, during an interview on Spoon TV, Kolubah expressed regret over his past association with Boakai, a statement that suggests closure rather than reconciliation.
Kolubah's expulsion from the House of Representatives on April 17, 2026, was a result of his remarks on the Liberia-Guinea border dispute, which sparked uproar. He maintained his stance on the issue during the Spoon TV interview, stating that the land Liberia occupies belongs to Guinea. This position is unlikely to be resolved and could hinder any potential reconciliation with President Boakai.
A pledge Kolubah reportedly made has raised the stakes, stating that if he reconciles with Boakai, it would be equivalent to him killing his own mother. This vow changes the dynamics of the situation, making it challenging to patch up the dispute with a simple communiqué or handshake.
Since his expulsion, Kolubah has toured the country with the opposition, speaking critically of the government. His camp's recent message about the opposition's disintegration suggests growing disillusionment with the coalition. However, it is unclear if this frustration would lead Kolubah to reconcile with Boakai.
The situation unfolds against a constitutional backdrop, with Article 37 of the 1986 Constitution requiring a by-election within 90 days of a legislative seat falling vacant. However, nearly 170 days have passed since Kolubah's expulsion, and no replacement has been chosen, leaving residents of District 10 without a voice in the House.
The outcome of the reconciliation talks remains uncertain, with Kolubah's words suggesting that he is unlikely to make a full return to Boakai's camp. On October 10, Kolubah is set to address the media, which may provide clarity on his intentions. Until then, his previous statements suggest that reconciliation may not be imminent.
Key points
- Kolubah expresses regret over his relationship with President Boakai.
- Reconciliation talks face challenges due to Kolubah's stance on the Liberia-Guinea border dispute.
- Kolubah's pledge regarding his mother's memory raises the stakes in the reconciliation process.
