VP Koung Warns of Possible Rebellion Over Electricity Crisis in Liberia
Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung warns of potential citizen rebellion due to slow development and insufficient electricity in Liberia. He highlights the urgent need for energy improvements, criticizes long-term development plans, and stresses immediate actions to facilitate agricultural and healthcare advancements to stabilize the economy and reduce living costs.
In a recent address, Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung articulated concern over the slow pace of development in Liberia and its potential to incite citizen unrest. The lack of adequate electricity supply, he noted, significantly contributes to the high cost of living and poses severe challenges to the nation’s economic and social progress. He emphasized that the current energy crisis could undermine government stability if not addressed promptly.
VP Koung further elaborated on the societal impacts of electricity shortages, referencing public discontent expressed via social media. He remarked, “You could wake up one morning, and the people take to the streets, and they can bring the government down,” indicating the gravity of the situation. He underscored the urgent need for reliable energy sources to avoid further unrest due to citizens’ frustrations over development delays.
During the commissioning of the Liberia Energy Efficiency and Access Project, VP Koung stressed the interlinkage of energy supply and agriculture, asserting that agricultural growth is impossible without adequate electricity. He pointed out that electricity and improved infrastructure are essential for Liberia’s overall development, stating, “With electricity, someone can manage food for an entire week because of the electricity storage facility.”
The Vice President criticized the Vision 2030 framework proposed by development partners, describing its timeline as overly ambitious given the citizens’ immediate needs for effective change and progress. He expressed concern that the protracted timelines of such initiatives leave citizens in dire conditions, stating that the country requires immediate solutions to its pressing electricity and infrastructure issues.
VP Koung was optimistic about upcoming renewable energy initiatives, including solar projects and the expansion of the Mount Coffee hydroelectric facility. He stressed the necessity of addressing power generation specifically, sharing a somber scenario where power cuts during operations could result in preventable fatalities. He remarked, “Imagine someone on the operation table, and LEC is rationing electricity… someone loses their life.”
The Vice President concluded by emphasizing that resolving the electricity crisis could dramatically lower living costs in Liberia. He noted that many citizens must shop daily due to the inability to store food, leading to waste and economic hardship. He stated, “If we can address the availability of electricity, we will address the bread-and-butter issues that our people face. “, advocating for immediate action to address these energy challenges.
In summary, Vice President Koung’s remarks highlight the urgent need for improved electricity supply in Liberia to prevent civil unrest and promote economic stability. He critiques the lengthy timelines proposed by international partners and calls for immediate action on renewable energy projects to enhance the quality of life for citizens. By emphasizing the critical role of electricity in daily living and healthcare, Koung underscores the interconnectedness of energy availability and national stability.
Original Source: thenewdawnliberia.com
