“‘Irresponsible, Reckless, and Inflammatory’: Gongloe Blasts VP Koung Over ‘Take a City in Guinea’ Remark”

Monrovia, Liberia: Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe has sharply criticized Vice President Jeremiah Koung over what he describes as a dangerous and provocative statement suggesting that a few individuals in Liberia could “take a city in Guinea,” warning that such rhetoric threatens regional stability.

Speaking on the growing border tension between Liberia and Guinea, Gongloe said the Vice President’s comments were not only inappropriate but risk inflaming an already sensitive situation. “There is a current darkness permeating the circles of our government,” he declared.

Gongloe pointed directly to the Vice President’s recent remarks, stating, “Just two days ago, our Vice President made a very inflammatory statement… when he said that there are people in Liberia… two or three of them can take a city in Guinea.”

He did not mince words in his condemnation, asserting, “That statement was irresponsible, reckless, and inflammatory. And it is not expected of a responsible Vice President of Liberia.”

According to the LPP political leader, such comments undermine the dignity of the office and pose serious diplomatic risks. “He undermined his position by making that statement; jeopardizing the relationship between Liberia and Guinea. We don’t need that,” Gongloe warned.

Drawing from his diplomatic experience, Gongloe emphasized that tensions between the two neighboring countries should not be escalated through rhetoric. “I can put my head on the chopping board, Guinea will never fight Liberia,” he said, referencing his time as a former presidential envoy.

He further revealed that Guinean authorities had previously expressed deep appreciation toward Liberia. “I was told by the Guinean authorities that the Republic of Guinea owes so much to Liberia that it can never pay,” Gongloe added.

Despite his confidence in peaceful relations, Gongloe stressed the importance of responsible governance in addressing disputes. “When there’s a problem, there should be attempts to solve them,” he noted, calling for calm and diplomacy.

Concluding his remarks, Gongloe urged the administration to take concrete steps to investigate the border situation. “I suggested that the President establishes a Commission of Inquiry to find out what happened at the border. That’s what a responsible government do,” he said.