Monrovia – As the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) fights to capture Nimba County, the second most populous county in Liberia, during the Presidential run-off election slated for November 14, 2023, Representative Larry P. Younquoi, who was defeated in the recently concluded Legislative Election, has now become the latest figure from the county to endorse the re-election bid of President George Weah.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh (0886729972) – [email protected]
Representative Younquoi, who has been a vocal critic of President Weah over the past six years, announced his endorsement on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, in Monrovia. He stressed that Liberia stands at a critical juncture, and the path the country chooses is of paramount importance.
Younquoi explained, “The second reason is to sustain the development, peace, and tranquility in the country. In Nimba County, we have observed that our county, much like Liberia, is at a crossroads.”
Notably, two prominent figures in the county, Senator Prince Johnson and Senator Jeremiah Koung, were staunch supporters of the ruling CDC. However, they have since joined the Unity Party, with Senator Koung becoming the vice standard-bearer to former Vice President Joseph Boakai.
Younquoi elaborated on the reason behind his endorsement, stating, “What motivates some of us to join the ruling party and ensure its continuity is our desire to avoid Nimba County being perceived as ungrateful or antagonistic toward the government.”
He also addressed the historical context, noting, “There have been numerous atrocities in Liberia, some of which Nimba County has been connected to. It happened because the people in the county did not have the courage to speak up.”
Younquoi criticized the U-turn taken by Senators Johnson and Koung, who once strongly supported the CDC but are now associated with the Unity Party. He remarked, “The ruling party played a pivotal role in their political careers and economic success. For them to reverse their allegiance, while those of us who lacked trust in them remained silent, feels like aiding and abetting.”
The Representative underscored the importance of addressing issues before they escalate into violence, emphasizing the need for the people of Nimba County to stand up and speak their minds. He explained, “The security of our people, be it economic or physical, requires us to take the initiative and join our compatriots who have already endorsed the ruling party.”
Younquoi also defended his position, stating, “Not everyone in Nimba is ungrateful. We acknowledge how President Weah supported our two senators, providing them with homes and farms. If anyone were to oppose the ruling party, it should not be our two senators. Remaining neutral would be ungrateful to the ruling party.”
In conclusion, Younquoi credited President Weah for the infrastructure developments in Nimba County, including road construction and improved access to electricity. He stated, “The progress we see in our county today is not a coincidence; it is because of President Weah.”
The endorsement of Representative Larry P. Younquoi adds to the growing support for President Weah’s re-election bid, with prominent figures such as former superintendent Edith Gongloe-Weh and other individuals from Nimba County already backing the incumbent.