MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Journalist Emmanuel Kangar has spoken out against the political double standards in Liberia, particularly in the treatment of activists like Martin K.N. Kollie, who has long fought for transparency and the eradication of corruption. In his latest editorial, Kangar sheds light on the difficulties faced by Kollie, once a widely respected figure, who is now being disparaged by politicians and their supporters due to his persistent criticism of government leadership.
Kangar begins by reflecting on how the tides have turned for Kollie, a man who once enjoyed praise from political figures and the general public for his anti-corruption stance. When Kollie stood with the masses and pointed out the government’s failings under President George Weah, he was celebrated. However, as Kollie’s opposition grew fiercer, so did the attacks against him from those who once saw him as a champion for good governance. His advocacy for truth and accountability has, instead of earning him continued respect, led to his marginalization.
According to Kangar, this shift reveals a deeper problem within Liberia’s political system, where loyalty to political leaders often trumps the principles of justice. He emphasizes that it’s not uncommon for politicians to embrace activists as long as their views align with the leadership, but when the narrative changes, these same individuals are cast aside. Kangar points out the paradox that Kollie now faces: the very people who once applauded his calls for a better society now dismiss him as a “nuisance” for holding powerful figures to account.
The journalist underscores the irony in this situation, noting that Liberia’s political elite only tolerate activists who do not challenge the existing power structures. As Kollie continues to challenge corruption, his support from those in power has waned, revealing the transactional nature of political loyalty in Liberia. “It’s a bitter irony,” says Kangar. “When Kollie was speaking for the people, he was celebrated; when he spoke truth to power, he was silenced.”
This behavior, Kangar asserts, has broader implications for the country’s democratic processes. He critiques how politicians in Liberia often view activists not as allies in the fight for justice, but as obstacles to their own political agendas. Kangar strongly condemns the government’s efforts to silence dissent by labeling activists as troublemakers or trouble-inducing figures. For him, Kollie’s ongoing activism serves as a stark reminder of the essential role public scrutiny plays in a healthy democracy.
The journalist also calls out the disheartening trend in which loyalty to a political figure supersedes the quest for justice. Kangar urges citizens to look beyond partisan interests and focus on the greater goal of ensuring accountability, no matter who is in power. “Our leaders must be held accountable,” Kangar writes. “This is not about supporting one leader over another—it’s about supporting truth.”
Kangar urges his fellow countrymen to stand by activists like Kollie, whose efforts, though controversial, are necessary for the country’s advancement. He emphasizes that activists who fight for transparency, justice, and good governance deserve protection and support, as they are the true defenders of the nation’s democracy. “It is our collective responsibility to defend voices like Kollie’s,” Kangar concludes, “for in their pursuit of truth lies the future of Liberia.”
