In what could become a significant political embarrassment, newly elected Montserrado County District #3 Representative, Sumo Kollie Mulbah, is facing the prospect of a lawsuit initiated by a large coalition of youth groups.
Verity News has learned that the relationship between Rep. Mulbah and the youth of his district has been strained since his election, and this tension has resulted in a planned legal action against him.
The core of the conflict stems from an incident on June 3, 2024, when Rep. Mulbah, during an interview on Okay FM’s Afternoon Show with Journalist Julius Jeh, referred to all of the young people of District #3 as “criminals.”
Mulbah accused them of vandalizing street lights he had installed throughout various communities. When pressed by Jeh to retract his statement, Mulbah refused, asserting that some youths had been caught in the act.
This blanket accusation has sparked outrage among the district’s youth, leading to the mobilization of the Concerned Youths of District #3.
The group, which claims to represent over three thousand young people, argues that Mulbah’s comments were defamatory and unjustly tarnished their reputations.
They are preparing to file a lawsuit for defamation of character, a move that could have serious implications for Mulbah’s political career.
The strained relationship between Mulbah and his constituency is not a new development. Since taking office, Mulbah’s interactions with his constituents have often been fraught with tension, resulting in a series of unresolved issues. The recent inflammatory remarks appear to be the tipping point for many in the community.
The Concerned Youths of District #3 asserts that Mulbah’s statements have caused significant reputational damage, portraying the youth as inherently criminal and thereby undermining their standing within the broader society.
This lawsuit, if filed, would mark the first instance in the 55th Legislature where a lawmaker faces legal action from such a large segment of their constituency.
Sources close to the youth group indicate that preparations for the lawsuit are underway, with members actively mobilizing support and gathering evidence.
They believe that holding Mulbah accountable is crucial not only for their own dignity but also as a warning to other public officials against making irresponsible statements.
For Mulbah, this legal battle represents a precarious challenge early in his political career. If the lawsuit proceeds, it could potentially derail his legislative agenda and damage his reputation both within Montserrado County and beyond.
As a first-term representative, navigating this legal and public relations crisis will be critical to his future in politics.
The looming legal confrontation between Rep. Sumo Kollie Mulbah and the youth of District #3 underscores the deep divisions and dissatisfaction within his constituency.
As the situation develops, it will be a crucial test of Mulbah’s leadership and his ability to reconcile with his constituents while addressing their grievances.