Monrovia — Nimba County Senator Nyan D. Twayen has strongly dismissed widespread public claims of a political rift involving Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung and fellow lawmaker Samuel Koga, describing the narrative as misleading, divisive, and a distraction from the real work of governance.
Addressing constituents, Senator Twayen insisted there is “zero conflict” between the Vice President and Senator Koga, emphasizing that lawmakers maintain regular communication among themselves and with the executive branch.
“There is zero conflict. Zero,” Senator Twayen stressed. “We meet in session every day, we talk, we compare notes every day, and we also compare notes with the Vice President.”
He underscored that members of the Legislature are not adversaries of the executive but are constitutionally obligated to provide oversight and constructive criticism in the national interest.
“Our job is to critique the executive. Why would we do that and then say we are against the county? That is not being against the county,” he said.
‘Sr. and Jr. Senator’ Debate Dismissed as Empty Tradition
Senator Twayen also addressed persistent public arguments over the so-called “Senior” and “Junior” senator titles, dismissing the controversy as politically manufactured and legally meaningless.
According to him, the distinction lost all constitutional relevance following Liberia’s post-war elections and now exists only as a ceremonial tradition within the Senate.
“Once the special elections were over, the issue of Senior and Junior senator became nominal,” he explained. “It comes with no extra benefits, no special treatment it is zero. It’s just a tradition, not a position.”
He clarified that the categorization merely determines voting order and carries no authority, privilege, or advantage under the law.
Warning Against Division
In a sharp rebuke of political actors fueling public tension, Senator Twayen warned that excessive focus on internal rivalries weakens national unity and distracts from pressing national challenges.
“We are wasting our time discussing things that divide this county and divide this country,” he cautioned. “There are serious issues we should be talking about.”
He concluded by calling on the people of Nimba County, particularly those recently returned to the county, to reject divisive narratives and remain focused on collective development and national progress.
The remarks come amid heightened political chatter and social media speculation over alleged power struggles within the Senate and between lawmakers and the executive claims Senator Twayen says are being exaggerated for political gain.
