Monrovia – Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung has proven to be a steadfast and loyal deputy to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, diligently executing every task assigned to him. However, political observers believe Koung may be positioning himself for a presidential run in 2029, should President Boakai choose not to seek re-election due to age limitations.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
While Koung has publicly downplayed any presidential ambitions, sources close to him suggest he is quietly laying the groundwork for a potential campaign. FrontPageAfrica has learned that the Vice President is exploring opportunities to bolster his political standing in anticipation of a 2029 bid, should the opportunity arise.
One key element of Koung’s strategy appears to be forging a partnership with Deputy Speaker Thomas P. Fallah. Recently expelled from the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), Fallah has served as a Representative for four consecutive terms, making him the longest-serving member of the House of Representatives with 18 years of service. Despite his expulsion, Fallah’s political influence remains significant.
Having represented Montserrado’s 5th Electoral District for 18 years, Fallah switched allegiance to his native Lofa County, where he defeated incumbent Representative Francis Nyumalin in a fiercely contested 2023 election. Through significant investments, Fallah has solidified his position as a leading political figure in Lofa County.
Mending Fences
Deputy Speaker Fallah’s political relationship with President Boakai has historically been fraught, marked by their ideological differences and the violent clashes during the 2023 presidential and legislative elections, which resulted in the death of a CDC supporter. However, after Boakai’s inauguration, the Lofa Legislative Caucus visited the President, during which Fallah and Boakai reportedly reconciled their differences.
This reconciliation sparked criticism from CDC supporters, who accused Fallah of socializing with their political rival.
Sources indicate that VP Koung is acting as a mediator between Fallah and President Boakai, aiming to strengthen ties that could pave the way for a potential Koung-Fallah ticket in 2029. The trio—Koung, Fallah, and Boakai—were recently seen together in Lofa County at celebrations marking the counties that attained status in 1964, further fueling speculation of a burgeoning political alliance.
Fallah’s Controversial Role
Fallah has faced backlash for his role in ousting Speaker Fonati Koffa. Despite pledging to support Koffa, Fallah joined the Majority Bloc lawmakers in declaring the Speaker’s seat vacant and presided over the election of Representative Richard Koon as the new Speaker. He also dissolved committees set up by Koffa and presided over the suspension of pro-Koffa lawmakers. This action enraged the CDC, leading to his suspension and subsequent expulsion.
Koung and Fallah’s cordial relationship dates back to their time in the 54th Legislature, where Koung served as Co-Chairman of the Ways, Means, and Finance Committee, and Fallah served as Chairman. Koung is reportedly leveraging this past partnership to bridge Fallah’s relationship with Boakai, potentially laying the groundwork for a 2029 ticket.
Mixed Reactions
The growing proximity between Fallah and Boakai has drawn varied reactions from political observers and the public. M. Dweh Yudeh Wilson writing on Facebook said: “This is politics—a very dangerous game. Learn to play it fair.” Saye Shedrick Montgomery noted: “We knew he was playing a Lofa County game. I’m only sorry for our brothers who died in Lofa because of this.”
“I don’t trust Thomas Fallah’s proximity to Uncle Joe. A man who betrays a party that made him what he is today must be thoroughly watched.,” said Paul Kanneh:
Kpissay Mulbah: “Fallah wants to be VP to Koung. His distancing from the CDC at this time shows his intentions. The Vice Presidency may likely go to someone like Brownie Samukai.
Lansanh Dukuly: “Fallah’s affiliation with Boakai is certain. I’m waiting to see how this end.”
A Calculated Alliance
Observers note that Vice President Koung’s calculated moves could position him as a formidable contender in Liberia’s political landscape. If successful, a Koung-Fallah ticket could appeal to a broad spectrum of voters, combining Koung’s experience and loyalty with Fallah’s extensive legislative background and grassroots appeal.
