By Pewu Y. Sumo
Monrovia – Alexander B. Cummings, Political Leader of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), has strongly condemned the ongoing efforts by the House of Representatives to expel District #10 Representative Yekeh Kolubah, describing the move as “the height of hypocrisy.”
In a strongly worded statement issued Tuesday, Cummings argued that while he often disagrees with Kolubah’s rhetoric, the lawmaker’s right to free speech must be protected to preserve Liberia’s democratic integrity.
“Our commitment to free speech is not tested by the words we like, but rather it is tested by the words that unsettle us,” Cummings stated. “That is the true measure of tolerance.”
Politics of Vengeance?
The ANC leader suggested that the official reason cited for the expulsion—statements made regarding border issues—is merely a smokescreen. He alleged that the true motivation is Kolubah’s “fierce opposition” to the current administration, noting that the lawmaker’s radical style was once defended by many when it was directed at the previous CDC government.
“The same firebrand politics once defended cannot now be condemned simply because they target the current regime,” Cummings noted, warning that punishing a dissenting voice sends a dangerous message that free speech is only tolerated when it is convenient for those in power.
Economic and Democratic Implications
Beyond the principles of democracy, Cummings highlighted the practical and financial burdens of removing a sitting lawmaker. He argued that a potential by-election would be an unnecessary drain on the national coffers.
Cummings argued that funds for a by-election should instead be directed toward healthcare, education, and safe drinking water instead of diverting such funds for elections in the event of the removal of the District 10 lawmaker.
The ANC Political Leader noted that expelling Kolubah will not stabilize the Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), lower the price of gasoline, or improve farm-to-market roads.
He emphasized that thousands of Liberians in District #10 voted for Kolubah to serve a six-year term, and that the House should not exercise its power to expel “loosely” or as a “tool for vengeance.”
A Call to Focus on the People
The ANC leader concluded by urging members of the House of Representatives to abandon the expulsion proceedings and redirect their energy toward legislative priorities that benefit the Liberian people.
“Expelling Yekeh will only soothe some egos, cost taxpayers more money, and further undermine our young democracy,” Cummings warned. “Liberians deserve better.”
Cummings defense of the under fire Montserrado County District 10 lawmaker follows similar move by the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) on Monday, April 13, 2026.