In a letter that has stirred political debate across Nimba County, Rev. Dr. Prince S. Woniewala, a prominent activist, has accused Vice President Jeremiah Koung and Senator Samuel G. Kogar of betraying the Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR).
Addressed directly to the Vice President and the Nimba County Senator, the open letter expresses profound disappointment over what Rev. Woniewala describes as their failure to publicly support the MDR candidate in the recent by-election for Electoral District #5.
Known for his outspoken activism, Woniewala criticized both officials for what he views as a serious breach of political loyalty and a disregard for the values of the party founded by the late Senator Prince Y. Johnson.
Johnson, a controversial but influential figure in Liberian politics, died earlier this year.
“You were given opportunities to serve the people of Liberia — Vice President Koung as a Representative, then Senator, and now Vice President-through the political foundation laid by Senator Johnson,” the letter states. “It is disheartening that you would now jeopardize his legacy.”
Senator Kogar was also called out for allegedly attempting to undermine Johnson’s authority within the Nimba County Legislative Caucus. Woniewala referenced a failed effort by Kogar to remove Johnson as Caucus Chair, despite Johnson’s pivotal role in advancing Kogar’s political career.
“Senator Johnson was instrumental in your ascent within the Legislature, yet you opposed his leadership,” the letter reads.
The activist questioned the officials’ loyalty, arguing that their silence during the by-election suggests a lack of commitment to the party and its supporters.
“If you cannot stand firmly behind the political institution that elevated you into public office, how can we expect you to make decisions that benefit the people of Nimba County?” he asked.
Woniewala further accused the two leaders of putting personal interests above party duty, calling their actions “shameful and disgraceful.”
The letter ends with a strong appeal to voters in Nimba County to hold their elected leaders accountable.
“If these political leaders cannot stand firm in their convictions, they certainly will not act in the interests of the county,” he warned. “As we approach future elections, let us remember that credible representatives are essential for our county’s progress.”
As of press time, neither Vice President Koung nor Senator Kogar had issued a public response to the accusations.
The open letter has since gone viral on social media, igniting political debate in Nimba County, Liberia’s second most populous region.
With by-elections and national political realignments already underway, the growing divide between MDR loyalists and sitting officeholders may have far-reaching consequences for the party’s future.
