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ADNews-Monrovia,Liberia: The fundamental pillar of democracy, freedom of expression, is under increasing pressure under the Unity Party (UP)-led administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, with opposition figures, members of the diplomatic community, and other stakeholders facing backlash for expressing their views.
Among those affected are Montserrado County District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah, Ambassador-at-Large Sheick Kouyateh, European Union Ambassador Nona Deprez, and Nigerian cleric Primate Elijah Ayodele, whose comments and opinions have drawn adverse reactions from the government.
Representative Kolubah’s expulsion from the 55th Legislature gained momentum after he expressed his personal views regarding the ongoing Liberia-Guinea border situation. His remarks prompted some of his colleagues to pursue actions that led to his removal, despite the fact that he had long been one of the most vocal critics of previous administrations and a political figure whose advocacy contributed to the rise of the current government.
On March 6, 2026, the Government of Liberia wrote Madam Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, accusing the Head of the European Union Delegation to Liberia, Ambassador Nona Deprez, of making derogatory remarks about the government during several engagements with Liberian officials, as well as in private conversations with key stakeholders and investment partners. However, the allegations have yet to be independently verified.
As a result, the Liberian Government requested the immediate recall of Ambassador Deprez, warning that failure to do so could result in her being declared persona non grata.
In the case of Ambassador-at-Large Sheick Kouyateh, a key supporter of President Boakai’s anti-corruption campaign, his relationship with the administration deteriorated after he publicly expressed concerns about the Legislature, describing it as a corrupt branch of government in need of comprehensive reform.
Kouyateh has remained unapologetic about his remarks, maintaining that those who champion equity and accountability must themselves possess clean hands. He further argued that fighting corruption was one of the administration’s principal campaign promises and a commitment intended to free the country from what he described as a long-standing national problem.
Meanwhile, Nigerian cleric Primate Elijah Ayodele has become the subject of controversy after releasing a prophecy concerning the Boakai administration that was not well received by government supporters. Reports indicate that Liberian authorities communicated their concerns to their Nigerian counterparts regarding the clergyman’s statements, despite the fact that Ayodele is a private citizen and religious leader.
Supporters of the government have launched attacks against the cleric, subjecting him to public ridicule and criticism over his prophecy rather than responding through dialogue or seeking spiritual clarification, questioning his credibility and motives.
These developments have generated considerable discussion within diplomatic, political, and civil society circles as the government action by targeting elected officials, diplomats, religious leaders, and other individuals for expressing their views could undermine Liberia’s democratic credentials and international reputation.
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