By Bill W. Cooper
The former Minister of National Defense, Browne Samukai, has announced his candidacy for the 2029 senatorial elections in Lofa County, disclosing, “Lofians will get their stolen victory back.”
It can be recalled that Browne Samukai’s political career in 2020, was marked by both significant achievements and serious controversies, having been overwhelmingly elected as Senator of Lofa.
It all started following his election victory in 2020, the Supreme Court of Liberia rendered a guilty verdict against him over allegation of misappropriation of over US$1 million intended for the AFL soldiers during his tenure as Defense Minister.
The high court also mandated Samukai to repay the funds in government’s coffer or risked being denied his seat, but Samukai could not live up to the high court’s mandate.
This resulted to Samukai’s denial to represent his people at the Legislature.
The ruling was however a significant blow to Samukai, who got the overwhelming mandate from his constituents, having contested on the then opposition Unity Party’s (UP) ticket, during the government of former President George Weah.
The controversy surrounding his financial dealings at the time further raised questions about transparency and accountability in the country’s political system, leading to a widespread public discourse on the matter in 2020 and beyond.
But speaking on Truth FM radio station yesterday, October 7, 2024, Samukai expressed his determination to reclaim what he described as the “stolen victory” of the people of Lofa, noting that they deserve better.
He said, “They deserve a leader who will fight for their rights and ensure that their voices are heard. I am here to tell you that I am back. I will run for the Senate in 2029, and together, we will get our stolen victory back.”
The UP stalwart also emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust with the electorates, thus outlining his strategy that focused on community engagement, transparency, and accountability.
He maintained, “Since that political trial, I have been with my people and they have already pleaded with me to contest. So, I will listen to them. We have already begun engaging with community leaders, ensuring that their voices are heard in the Senate.”
Samukai at the time, pledged to be transparent about his financial dealings and to advocate for stronger oversight of public funds, ensuring that the people of Lofa County get the needed and adequate representation they long yearned for in the Legislature.
“I will lobby with my colleagues to ensure that the ‘Executive’ becomes accountable for its actions, as well as work to establish mechanisms that promote transparency and prevent any form of corruption or whatsoever,” he added.
Meanwhile, Browne Samukai’s announcement to run for the Senate in 2029 has reignited discussions about accountability and governance in Liberia, with some seeing his decision as welcoming while others have described it as counterproductive to the fight against corruption.
