The question that every Liberian politician must ask themselves is whether or not their action is in the best interest of the country. From recent history it doesn’t seem that some prominent politicians have demonstrated the maturity to deal with political adversity that is deserving of their office. Instead of saving face by resigning honorably like most astute politicians would do, especially when it seems the odds are certainly overwhelming, they often choose a path of public humiliation, disgrace and complete destruction of their entire political career before finally being thrown out of office. Is that smart politics? I think not.

Let’s consider the case of former NTGL Speaker George Dweh. Speaker Dweh’s political career was decimated after he was publicly humiliated and kicked out of office for corruption. Had he resigned honorably and showed some contrition for his behavior I believe the Liberian people would have forgiven him and perhaps he might have some political capital left for another run for office in the future, at least in theory. I believe we observed some of this “do or die” political phenomenon during the Presidential campaign when candidate George Weah didn’t handle his defeat gracefully. He caused public outrage by making incendiary remarks that resulted in violence, causing fear in the population. That will certainly come back to hunt him in the future should he decide to run again. Basically he proved his critics right that he does not possess leadership qualities.

History is repeating itself again. This time it’s the Speaker of the honorable House of Representatives. Assuming that the Speaker reasonably suspects some of his colleagues were bribed to oppose his leadership, but having voted to remove him as their leader, what interest does it serve to continue fighting a loosing battle? How will he govern were he to retain his post? The problem for the Speaker is, by continuing the “do or die” fight and making insidious remarks against the President, his colleagues and others, he expends all his political capital, permanently poisons the “political well” and damages his public image as a statesman. Consequently the country’s business hangs in the balance because of one individual – this is not in the best interest of the country, needless to say the embattled Speaker.

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