House Considers Expulsion of Rep. Yekeh Kolubah

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House Considers Expulsion of Rep. Yekeh Kolubah
House Considers Expulsion of Rep. Yekeh Kolubah

Africa-Press – Liberia. The House of Representatives is weighing possible disciplinary action, including expulsion, against Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah, following controversial remarks on the Liberia–Guinea border, a move that is already drawing resistance from some lawmakers.

Sources within the Legislature say members could soon reconvene for a special sitting—potentially triggered by a recall from President Joseph Nyuma Boakai—to address urgent national matters, including Kolubah’s comments.

What Did Kolubah Say?

Kolubah’s remarks come amid rising tensions along the border between Liberia and Guinea, particularly around the Sorlumba area in Lofa County.

Speaking on Spoon TV after returning from Ghana, Kolubah asserted that the disputed territory belongs to Guinea, claiming that residents of Lofa County are aware of this.

“We need to be very frank with the Liberian people… from my information… that place is for the Guineans,” Kolubah said.

His comments have since sparked outrage among colleagues, with some arguing that the statement undermines Liberia’s territorial integrity.

Push for Expulsion

Montserrado County District #3 Representative Sumo K. Mulbah has formally petitioned the House leadership to take action.

In a March 22 communication, Mulbah requested that the House initiate proceedings to either suspend Kolubah for six months or expel him, describing the remarks as “reckless” and incompatible with legislative duties.

Mulbah argues that Kolubah’s statements undermine Liberia’s sovereignty, violate his oath of office, bring the Legislature into disrepute and risk inciting public unrest in border communities.

The lawmaker further cited Article 76 of the Constitution, warning that advocating for the surrender of Liberian territory could be interpreted as treason under the Penal Law.

He also referenced provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), cautioning against speech that could incite hostility.

In addition to sanctions, Mulbah is calling on Kolubah to issue a public apology reaffirming his commitment to Liberia’s territorial integrity.

Speaker’s Office: Expulsion Not Ruled Out

The Office of House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon has acknowledged ongoing discussions about a possible recall of lawmakers.

According to spokesperson V. Vehzelee Sumo, while no final decision has been made, Kolubah’s case could form part of the agenda if the House is reconvened.

“As to whether the issue about Rep. Kolubah is part of the reasons… it’s only speculation. However… it could as well form part of the agenda,” he said.

Resistance Emerges

Despite the push for disciplinary action, Bong County District #3 Representative Marvin Cole has openly opposed any attempt to expel Kolubah.

Cole emphasized due process and cautioned against what he described as a rush to judgment.

“I am not going to be part of any expulsion of any of our colleagues… Issues involving our colleague being expelled should allow him the opportunity to be heard,” Cole said.

He argued that the Legislature should instead focus on the broader security situation in Lofa County and invite key government officials—including ministers of Justice, Foreign Affairs, Internal Affairs, and National Defense—to provide clarity on the border crisis.

Broader Tensions

The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of escalating concerns over reported movements of Guinean security forces along the Makona River, a long-recognized boundary between Liberia and Guinea.

Amid the tension, Speaker Koon has called for an urgent Mano River Union parliamentary meeting in Abidjan to address regional security concerns and reinforce diplomatic engagement.

Uncertain Outcome

As pressure mounts within the House, it remains unclear whether lawmakers will proceed with suspension, expulsion, or a formal investigation.

The unfolding debate highlights a deepening divide within the Legislature—between those pushing for punitive action over perceived threats to national sovereignty and others urging caution, due process, and a broader focus on resolving the border crisis diplomatically.

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