Vice President Koung Reflects on Tense Encounter with Weah
Vice President Jeremiah Koung discussed a tense encounter with former President Weah, who refused a handshake during a visit to the late Senator Johnson’s home. Koung speculated that the refusal stems from hurt feelings over the 2023 elections. He emphasized the need to move forward while acknowledging their political aspirations.
Vice President Jeremiah Koung has recently shared details of an uncomfortable encounter with former President George Weah during his visit to the home of the late Nimba County Senator, Prince Yormie Johnson. This visit, which marked Koung’s first trip to the United States since taking office, unveiled the tension following the 2023 presidential elections.
In an interview, Koung described arriving early to express condolences to the Johnson family and was soon joined by former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Upon Weah’s arrival, Koung sought to greet him, but the former president notably refused to shake his hand, which caught Koung off guard. Along with him, Weah also snubbed other political figures, including Rep. Samuel Kogar and Labor Minister Cooper Kruah.
Koung reasoned that Weah’s refusal may have been influenced by personal conflicts from the recent elections, where Koung supported Unity Party candidate Joseph Boakai. He noted, “If you’re hurt because of my support to the Unity Party, then you have five years to be hurt because I’m now the Vice President. This is something you have to live with.” He emphasized the importance of moving forward and preparing for the next election cycle instead of harboring resentment.
Koung also addressed the notion of presidential ambitions, suggesting that Weah should await the 2029 elections rather than dwell on his feelings of discontent regarding Koung’s political choices. He expressed his own aspirations, stating, “Just how you wanted to remain as president, I, too, Jeremiah Koung, wanted to be a vice president.”
The encounter between Vice President Koung and former President Weah highlights the ongoing political tensions in Liberia post-election. Koung’s comments reveal not only his surprise at being snubbed but also acknowledge the implications of their political affiliations on personal relationships. As the political landscape evolves, both leaders face the challenge of navigating their ambitions while addressing past grievances.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
