Senator Kogar Challenges VP Koung’s Cuttington Pledge, Calls for Budgetary Transparency
SUAKOKO, Bong County – Nimba County Senator Samuel Kogar has criticized Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung’s recent pledge to support Cuttington University, arguing that government commitments involving public resources should be made through established budgetary and legislative processes rather than public pronouncements.
Speaking to reporters after the 64th Commencement Convocation of Cuttington University, Senator Kogar said while he welcomed any effort aimed at improving the institution, he was concerned by the Vice President’s announcement that the government would electrify the university’s campus through the installation of solar lighting.
According to Kogar, such declarations risk creating the impression that public funds can be committed without legislative authorization.
“The approach to the public should be clear and transparent,” Kogar stated. “When government resources are being committed, there should be an appropriation in the national budget approved by the Legislature. Government commitments should not appear as personal promises.”
The senator emphasized that supporting public institutions remains a constitutional responsibility of the government, but maintained that all financial commitments must be subjected to proper legal and budgetary procedures.
“If someone wishes to make a personal contribution from his salary or private resources, that should be clearly identified as a personal donation,” he said. “However, if it is a government commitment, then it should be reflected in the national budget and approved through the appropriate legislative process.”
Kogar clarified that his remarks were directed at the Vice President in his official capacity and should not be interpreted as a personal attack.
“I am not speaking to Jeremiah Koung as an individual,” he explained. “I am speaking to him as Vice President of the Republic of Liberia because he spoke on behalf of the government.”
Asked whether he was disappointed by the message delivered on behalf of President Joseph Boakai, Kogar said his concerns were rooted in governance, accountability, and transparency rather than politics.
The senator also dismissed suggestions that he felt slighted after not being formally recognized during the commencement program despite being Nimba County’s senior senator.
“I don’t have a problem with that,” he said. “Programs follow protocols, and those listed in the program are recognized.”
Kogar revealed that he attended the ceremony primarily as a proud parent, noting that his daughter graduated with a master’s degree from the university.
Despite his criticism, the lawmaker praised portions of Vice President Koung’s commencement address, particularly the emphasis on character development and ethical leadership.
“The message about character is true,” Kogar said. “Education must be accompanied by good character.”
However, he questioned what he described as the context in which the message was delivered, remarking, “The message is true, but the evidence is false.”
He declined to elaborate further on the statement, saying he would leave its interpretation to the media and the public.
Vice President Koung, who delivered the keynote commencement address, announced plans aimed at supporting Cuttington University’s development, including initiatives intended to improve the institution’s infrastructure and electricity supply.
The remarks have since sparked discussion over the boundaries of executive commitments and the role of the Legislature in approving government expenditures, highlighting broader concerns about transparency and accountability in public governance.
