Vice President Jeremiah Koung shared an awkward encounter with former President George Weah at a memorial gathering, detailing Weah’s refusal to shake his hand. Koung attributed the tension to residual feelings from the 2023 election and emphasized the need for focusing on future political dynamics.
In a recent interview, Vice President Jeremiah Koung discussed a tense encounter with former President George Weah at the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson’s home in Gbarnga. This visit came shortly after Johnson’s passing, marking Koung’s first trip to the U.S. since taking office. He recounted his surprise when Weah declined to shake his hand during an unanticipated reunion.
Koung had arrived early to pay his respects to the Johnson family and was later joined by former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, whom he greeted. However, tensions escalated when Weah arrived. “As a sitting Vice President and small brother to him, I decided to walk to his car to welcome him. I extended my hand to him to shake his hand, but he snubbed me,” Koung stated.
Initially, Koung speculated that Weah’s refusal was due to health concerns. However, his assumptions faltered when he observed Weah shaking hands with other guests, including Labor Minister Cooper Kruah. This led Koung to speculate that unresolved emotions from the 2023 presidential election might be at play. “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,” he remarked.
Koung urged Weah to focus on the future, asserting that the dynamics between them should improve over time. He pointedly addressed Weah’s aspirations by saying, “If you still want to be president, wait for 2029 and stop being so hurt because I supported the Unity Party.” This highlights the ongoing political tensions stemming from the recent elections.
Vice President Koung’s encounter with former President Weah highlights ongoing political tensions in Liberia. His reflection on the unexpected snub emphasizes the personal ramifications of political allegiances. As they navigate their respective roles, Koung’s statements suggest a call for reconciliation ahead of future elections.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
