MONROVIA, LIBERIA – In an exclusive interview with Smart News Liberia on Sunday, December 8, 2024, Bishop Kortu K. Brown, former President of the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC), addressed pressing national issues, including the ongoing leadership conflict in the House of Representatives and the death of Nimba County Senator Prince Y. Johnson. Bishop Brown, who is also the pastor of the New Water in the Desert Assembly Apostolic Pentecost Church International in Brewerville, Montserrado County, delivered a strong appeal for unity and responsible leadership to guide Liberia through its challenges.
On the legislative crisis, Bishop Brown highlighted the need for members of the House of Representatives to resolve their differences and restore order.
“I know a lot of people are complaining about what the Supreme Court said. For me, the Supreme Court gave us an opportunity for our leaders to go fight and be men. Sit down among themselves and solve their problems,” Bishop Brown stated.
He emphasized that the lawmakers must act decisively to prevent further division within the legislature, pointing out that having factions led by embattled Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and the Majority Bloc is a constitutional violation.
“There’s no need to have two chambers for one House. The Constitution says there will be two Houses — the Senate and the House of Representatives. Now we’ve got three Houses. It’s a shame, and we pray that God will take that shame away,” he said.
Bishop Brown also reminded lawmakers of Liberia’s rich legislative history, noting that the legislature was the first branch of government established in 1847, even before the presidency and judiciary. He called on lawmakers to honor their historical responsibility by acting as role models and prioritizing the country’s welfare over personal interests.
Reflecting on Liberia’s broader challenges, including poverty, hunger, and post-conflict recovery, Bishop Brown urged the government to focus on rebuilding the lives of ordinary Liberians.
“Our leaders need to act responsibly. This is peace time, and we pray for peace in the hearts of the residents. We need to rise up and deal with the shame that holds us back as a nation,” he declared.
Despite the challenges, Bishop Brown expressed optimism for Liberia’s future, citing the return of Liberians from the diaspora as a sign of hope. He encouraged collective efforts to strengthen national unity and pride.
“We’ve got to work on the things that disgrace us as a nation. If we keep doing the wrong things, Liberia will remain in shame. But together, we can lift our heads high and restore hope for our country,” he asserted.
Bishop Brown also expressed his condolences to the family and constituents of Nimba County Senator Prince Y. Johnson, who recently passed away.
“My heartfelt condolences go to his family, children, and the people of Nimba County,” he said, acknowledging the late senator’s significant influence on Liberian politics.
