MONROVIA – The expulsion of Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah from the House of Representatives of Liberia has sparked sharp political reactions, with Representative Musa Hassan Bility describing the decision as “retribution for dissent” rather than a legitimate act of justice.
Kolubah was officially removed on Friday, April 17, 2026, after 49 members of the 55th National Legislature signed a resolution endorsing his expulsion. The decision followed a heated legislative process linked to allegations surrounding Kolubah’s public statements on Liberia’s territorial integrity.
Reacting strongly to the outcome, Bility criticized the move, arguing that Liberia’s legal framework already provides established procedures for investigating and prosecuting matters involving alleged threats to national sovereignty. He maintained that bypassing judicial processes in favor of legislative punishment undermines democratic governance.
“This should not be mistaken for justice,” Bility stated. “If there were genuine concerns about violating Liberia’s sovereignty, our laws already provide the proper path for investigation and prosecution.”
He further warned that the action could have far-reaching implications for democratic accountability within the House, cautioning that it risks weakening checks and balances while fostering fear among lawmakers who may hold dissenting views.
“What we have seen instead appears to be retribution for dissent,” he added. “That is dangerous for our democracy. It weakens checks and balances, creates fear within the House, and sends the wrong message to those who dare to speak against power.”
While the majority of lawmakers supported the expulsion, the decision was not without opposition. Sinoe County District #2 Representative Samson Wiah firmly rejected the move, declaring his vote as “NO” and warning that the action undermines constitutional order and democratic principles.
“Every elected lawmaker represents the will of the people,” Wiah stated, stressing that any attempt to remove a sitting representative must strictly follow due process and constitutional safeguards.
He further emphasized that dissenting opinions, even when controversial, are an essential part of democratic governance and should not be grounds for expulsion. Wiah cautioned that the decision could establish a dangerous precedent that may weaken Liberia’s democratic space in the future.
“My vote remains NO,” he concluded.
Despite the objections, the resolution passed with 49 lawmakers appending their signatures. The supporting legislators were drawn from across the country, including Bomi, Bong, Gbarpolu, Grand Bassa, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh, Grand Kru, Lofa, Margibi, Maryland, Montserrado, Nimba, River Gee, and Rivercess Counties.
Among those in Bong County who supported the measure were lawmakers such as Moima Dabah Briggs-Mensah and others, while a majority of Montserrado County representatives also backed the decision, reflecting strong support from the capital’s delegation.
