Vice President Jeremiah Koung recounted an awkward encounter with former President Weah during a visit to the late Senator Johnson’s home, revealing unresolved political tensions after the 2023 elections. Koung attempted to greet Weah but was snubbed, leading to speculation about lingering hurt from political affiliations. He emphasized the need to accept current circumstances, stating that such tensions may persist until the next election.
Vice President Jeremiah Koung has recently shared details of an uncomfortable encounter with former President George Weah during a condolence visit to the home of the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson in Liberia. In an interview with the Closing Argument Platform, Koung recounted the incident, which took place shortly after Johnson’s passing last year and while he is visiting the United States for the first time since taking office.
Upon arriving at Senator Johnson’s residence, Vice President Koung expressed his condolences to the grieving family. He welcomed former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who notified him of her planned visit. However, upon the arrival of former President Weah, the situation escalated when Koung extended his hand for a greeting, only to be snubbed by Weah, along with Representative Samuel Kogar.
Initially, Koung believed the refusal was due to health precautions, but he was taken aback when Weah proceeded to shake hands with various other attendees. It was noted that Weah also declined to greet Labor Minister Cooper Kruah, indicating an unusual reserve. Koung speculated that unresolved tensions following the 2023 presidential election may have contributed to the incident.
Reflecting on the situation, Koung pointed to the emotional aftermath of the election in which he served as the running mate for Unity Party candidate Joseph Boakai. He expressed that if Weah felt hurt due to his political allegiance, it was something he would have to accept for his term as Vice President, suggesting, “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. Nothing can change this until the next election.”
In summary, Vice President Jeremiah Koung’s disclosure of an unsettling encounter with former President George Weah sheds light on the ongoing political tensions in Liberia following the 2023 elections. Koung’s remarks suggest a complex interpersonal dynamic rooted in unresolved feelings surrounding party affiliations and political aspirations. His comments underscore the deep-seated emotions that can accompany political rivalries and the challenges of maintaining relationships in such a charged environment.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
