By 
Monrovia, Liberia – Vice President Jeremiah Koung has responded to allegations from former Mines and Energy Minister Wilmot Paye, stating he will not dignify public radio attacks from “any child of Nimba.” The brief remark closes the door on further direct engagement with Paye over claims of political interference.
Background to the Exchange
The exchange stems from Paye’s interview on _Spoon Talk_ Tuesday, June 23. The dismissed minister accused Koung of orchestrating his removal from cabinet, alleging the Vice President opposed his nomination from the start. Paye claimed Koung viewed him as a “Ngafuan ally” due to his ties with Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan, and considered him an obstacle to the VP’s future political ambitions.
Paye went further, alleging that Koung and House Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah founded “Nimbo,” an independent political movement launched by Fallah. According to Paye, the bloc was created to influence government appointments and advance specific interests within the Boakai administration. He framed his dismissal as driven by internal power dynamics rather than performance.
VP’s Response
Responding to the claims Wednesday, Koung declined to address the substance of Paye’s accusations. Instead, he said he would not respond to “any child of Nimba who goes on the radio,” signaling a refusal to debate the matter publicly. The comment appears aimed at lowering the temperature of the back-and-forth while avoiding direct rebuttal of Paye’s specific allegations.
The VP’s stance shifts the focus from the claims of political rivalry to a broader posture of non-engagement with public media disputes involving fellow Nimbaians.
Paye served as Minister of Mines and Energy under President Joseph Boakai before his dismissal. He has since framed his exit as the result of political maneuvering rather than administrative reasons. Koung’s response leaves the allegations unanswered, with no indication from the Vice President’s office that a detailed rebuttal will follow.
