Opinion Piece by Strong Ghana Pekin
LIBERIA – In recent days, social media has been abuzz with images of Representative Yekeh Kolubah engaging with a high school student in what appeared to be a social exchange. These images generated a lot of attention and criticism, with many taking the opportunity to criticize the Honorable Kolubah due to his previous controversial public engagements.
Since this incident, I have noticed members and officials of our Rescue Mission seizing on the issue and using it as a means to celebrate their victory, given Yekeh’s recent stance against the government. While I do not support Yekeh’s insults towards President Boakai or his wife, we must not forget that this is the same approach he used against President Weah, which ultimately influenced public perception of his government in a negative light and gave the Rescue Mission an advantage. Regardless of what one may think about Yekeh’s unconventional methods, he is an effective communicator within his own sphere.
It is important to note that the majority of Liberians do not prioritize issues of morality or integrity. If we did, a significant number of our current and former legislators and officials wouldn’t be in government positions. Liberians are more concerned with who can speak up for them and provide them with their daily needs without unnecessary obstacles.
To those within the hierarchies of the UP-led Rescue Government, I offer a simple piece of advice: reach out to Yekeh and extend an olive branch. Do not repeat the mistakes made by the CDC-led government, who turned against those who helped them ascend to power simply because of criticism. What should be even more concerning is that Yekeh was on the frontlines to ensure the success of the Rescue Mission. Frankly, Yekeh doesn’t have much to lose, even if he were to be impeached. He could still be utilized for even greater causes, such as promoting the Rescue Mission’s agenda and activities, while countering attacks from the opposition. Even if Yekeh is perceived as eccentric by some, let him be our eccentric advocate.
It is often more challenging to fix things than to break them. Those who are open to listening, take heed.
