Timothy Waka, an outspoken member of the Liberia People’s Party (LPP) in Margibi County, has drawn public attention with a vivid metaphor he says reflects the nature of political loyalty and power relations in Liberia.
In a reflective piece shared on Monday, February 2, 2026, Waka recounted a personal experience while visiting a friend. He described enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned living room as they watched an English Premier League match, only to step outside and notice a large Tiger Generator operating under the scorching sun.
According to Waka, the generator — which provided electricity and comfort to those inside — was left uncovered and exposed to the elements. When he questioned his friend about the situation, he was told the generator was “just a standby” and that building a proper shelter for it was not a priority.
That moment, Waka said, sparked what he called the “Tiger Generator Metaphor,” which he used to illustrate what he believes is a troubling dynamic in Liberian politics.
“The Tiger Generator Relationship mirrors how politicians thrive on the sacrifices of their loyalists,” Waka wrote. “Like the generator that powers the household but remains outside in the heat, loyal supporters pour out their energy, reputation, and time to keep politicians comfortable, yet they are left exposed, mocked, and unrewarded.”
Waka argued that political loyalty in Liberia is often blind and one-sided, benefiting those at the top while grassroots supporters remain impoverished and neglected. He described the relationship as exploitative, noting that loyalists are frequently treated as tools rather than partners in national development.
“In Liberia, the Tiger Generator is more than a machine,” he stated. “It is a symbol of the imbalance between power and sacrifice, and a warning that loyalty without reciprocity leads only to exhaustion and despair.”
Waka’s commentary has sparked discussion among political observers and party supporters, with some praising the analogy for its simplicity and relevance, while others debate its broader implications for political engagement and accountability in the country.
