By G. Watson Richards
A series of strong reactions from pro-government figures and political commentators has followed recent public comments attributed to former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, with critics questioning her record on free speech and governance during her administration.
Emmanuel Azango of the National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) called for consistency in the former president’s public positions, arguing that her recent stance appears contradictory.
“Madam former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, you need to be clear and consistent as a national leader,” Azango said. “On one hand, you support the Supreme Court for punishing Prophet Key over what can be considered free speech, even if it involved insulting national leaders.
On the other hand, you criticize the legislature for carrying out its constitutional responsibility, specifically, for questioning their colleagues over actions deemed reckless and capable of bringing the House of Representatives into public disrepute. This apparent inconsistency raises concern about the application of principle. Leadership requires a balanced and consistent stance when it comes to upholding constitutional authority and accountability across all branches of government.”
Former National Port Authority (NPA) staffer Emmanuel Gonquoi also criticized Sirleaf, referencing his own past legal troubles.
“Ma Ellen, your administration jailed me because I said in 2011 da you will not be inducted into office. Da was not free speech too right? Sen. Dillon, Min. Tingban and Sen. Tyler at that time fought for my release! Enh da hypocrisy u on?” he asked.
Political commentator James Samuel Goodday Flomo also weighed in, accusing the former president of double standards in her approach to dissent during her time in office.
“The same Ellen that jailed Koijee, Hon. Acarous Moses Gray, Mulbah Morlu, Vandalark R. Patricks, Henry P. Costa, and many others because they criticized her government, is here today to lecture us about free speech,” Flomo said. “Liberia is an interesting country, mehn.”
Varney Sackey, identified as a Unity Party strategist, offered a more reflective critique of Sirleaf’s legacy, particularly her handling of political disputes during her presidency.
“I am sitting here and thinking about the past political operations of my aunty former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as it relates to the removal of former Speaker Edwin Snowe and former Speaker Alex Tyler,” Sackey said. “I really hope my aunty former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf can focus on her Foundation and play low on everything that has to do with governance in our country. As President, my aunty was a QUIET DICTATOR.”
The comments reflect ongoing political tensions in Liberia, where debates over free speech, executive power, and legislative accountability continue to shape public discourse years after Sirleaf’s presidency ended.
