Liberia: ‘Barking Dogs’ Remark Sparks Political Firestorm as Bishop Brown Urges Boakai to Clarify - FrontPageAfrica

Monrovia – Rising political tensions in Liberia have taken a sharper turn following controversial remarks by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, with senior clergy calling for calm, clarity, and more responsible national discourse.

By Obediah Johnson

The latest wave of reactions stems from a parable delivered by President Boakai during the dedication of the Ministry of Local Government in Monrovia on April 20. In his remarks, the President said: “If you are going somewhere and dogs are barking at you, if you stop to throw stones at every dog, you will not reach your destination.”

While some interpreted the statement as a call for focus amid criticism, others—particularly opposition figures and critics—viewed it as derogatory, suggesting that the President likened Liberians or his critics to “barking dogs.” The fallout has since triggered a barrage of insults between supporters of the ruling Unity Party and loyalists of former President George Manneh Weah and his Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), with both sides trading jibes using the same language.

Bishop Brown Calls for Clarification

Amid the growing uproar, Bishop Kortu K. Brown, former head of the Liberia Council of Churches (LCC), has urged President Boakai to clarify his statement, warning that the controversy could deepen political divisions ahead of the 2029 elections.

Speaking to FrontPage Africa on Sunday, Bishop Brown acknowledged that the President may not have intended harm but stressed that the weight of presidential words requires careful communication.

“What the President says carries significant weight. From the reactions we are seeing, many people feel offended. It is only honorable that he clarifies what he meant,” Bishop Brown said.

He cautioned that the current tone of political exchanges could foreshadow a more toxic environment in the years ahead if not properly managed.

Border Dispute Raises National Concern

Beyond the controversy, Bishop Brown also expressed concern over the prolonged presence of Guinean soldiers and customs officers in Sorlumba Town, Foya District, Lofa County—an issue that has stirred unease among citizens.

He called on the government to provide consistent updates and engage the public more constructively, noting that while diplomatic efforts are commendable, silence or dismissive responses could heighten public anxiety.

“We are dealing with a national issue. Government should speak more responsibly and avoid attacking those with differing views,” he said, adding that diplomacy should not be mistaken for weakness.

Intolerance in Governance

Bishop Brown also weighed in on the recent decision by the House of Representatives to expel embattled lawmaker Yekeh Kolubah following controversial comments about the border dispute—comments now being challenged before the Supreme Court.

He described both Kolubah’s remarks and the legislature’s response as reflective of growing intolerance within Liberia’s political space.

“People yelling across the table is not good for our democracy. The level of discourse we are seeing is not enriching and should be avoided,” he said.

Warning Over New Banknote Plan

Turning to economic matters, Bishop Brown raised concerns about the government’s proposal—through the Central Bank of Liberia—to print L$79 billion in new banknotes by 2030.

He warned that if not handled transparently and in the country’s best interest, the move could trigger negative economic consequences and erode public trust, drawing parallels to the controversial L$16 billion printing saga under the previous administration.

“The authorities must clearly explain why the money is being printed, the impact on the economy, and how they will protect the credibility of the process,” he emphasized.

Call for Economic Transparency

Bishop Brown further criticized what he described as an “information deficit” within government, particularly among members of the Economic Management Team, whom he said have remained largely silent on key economic challenges, including rising commodity prices.

“It will help if those responsible speak directly to the people—tell us what is being done to address inflation and ease the burden on ordinary Liberians,” he said.

As Liberia grapples with mounting political and economic pressures, Bishop Brown’s intervention underscores growing calls for restraint, transparency, and leadership clarity in navigating an increasingly polarized national landscape.