By Bill Sinyea Ballah
The denial of former President George Weah the use of the VIP lounge at the Reberts International Airport by the Unity Party government has raised concerns and sparked discussions about the motives behind this decision.
Some believe that this action reflects a disregard for the peace of Liberia and an attempt to deliberately embarrass former President Weah.
It is important to note that VIP lounges at airports are not exclusively reserved for presidents. In countries like the United States, VIP facilities at airports, such as those at JFK Airport, are available to various individuals, including high-profile individuals, celebrities, diplomats, government officials, and even regular travelers who are willing to pay for upgraded services. These VIP services aim to provide a more comfortable and convenient travel experience, often offering exclusive lounges, expedited security checks, private transportation, and other amenities.
The fact that the VIP lounge at the Reberts International Airport was built during the Weah administration makes the decision to deny Weah access even more perplexing. It is understandable why some perceive this as a deliberate attempt to embarrass the immediate past president.
Furthermore, it is crucial for President Joseph Boakai and the ruling Unity Party to prioritize the peaceful coexistence of the people of Liberia. The CDC party, as the most powerful opposition to the Unity Party, cannot be disregarded. Denying Weah access to the VIP lounge, especially considering his significant following, could potentially ignite trouble and disrupt the peace that has been carefully maintained.
The repeated actions that seem to humiliate Weah can be seen as an aggression against a party that has the power to stall the progress of the Boakai government. It is important for the government to be cautious and avoid making decisions that could undermine the peace of Liberia.
The number of mistakes being made since the inception of the Unity Party government raises concerns about the level of control and decision-making within the administration.
In summary, the denial of former President Weah access to the VIP lounge at the Reberts International Airport by the Unity Party government raises questions about the government’s motives and its commitment to maintaining peace. It is important for President Boakai and the ruling party to consider the potential consequences of their actions and ensure the peaceful coexistence of the people of Liberia.