“You Can’t Preach Liberian Culture Without Living It; Minister Piah Fires Back at Gongloe
By: Feeme M. Wantee
January 27, 2026
Monrovia: Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah has launched a blistering response to opposition leader Cllr. Tiawon Saye Gongloe over his criticism of President Joseph N. Boakai’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), accusing the Liberian People Party (LPP) political leader of hypocrisy and empty posturing.
Cllr. Gongloe had told reporters that President Boakai failed to adequately emphasize Liberian culture and tradition during his SONA. However, Minister Piah wasted no time in shutting down the claim, insisting that Gongloe lacks the credibility to lecture the nation on cultural identity.
“You cannot demand cultural recognition from the President when you yourself refuse to reflect Liberian culture,” Minister Piah declared. “At no time has Cllr. Gongloe presented himself in a manner that visibly represents Liberian cultural identity.”
The Information Minister argued that Gongloe’s criticism was not driven by genuine concern for cultural preservation but by political opportunism.
According to Piah, advocating for Liberian tradition goes beyond rhetoric and must be demonstrated through personal conduct and public appearance. “If he truly cared about Liberian culture, he would wear it, live it, and promote it not only mention it when it suits his political narrative,”
Piah asserted “Next time he wants to speak on culture, he should first dress like a Liberian.” Minister Piah further stressed that the Boakai administration remains committed to promoting Liberia’s cultural heritage through policy, institutions, and national programs, not performative criticism. He warned that opposition figures should desist from what he described as “selective outrage” aimed at discrediting the government, adding that Liberians can clearly distinguish between genuine advocacy and political grandstanding.
The sharp exchange has intensified political debate over cultural identity, national representation, and the responsibility of leaders to embody the values they publicly defend.
