MONROVIA – Brownie J. Samukai’s return to the political arena carries two unavoidable frames: a conviction and a presidential pardon, and a public still split on whether his case was accountability or politics. By doubling down—saying he has “no regrets” and would act again to save soldiers—Samukai is betting that Lofa voters will prioritize his defense credentials and access to national networks over the baggage of the past, while repositioning himself as a voice on resource governance and the cost-of-governance debate. He appears on a local radio talk show yesterday, as The Analyst reports.
Former Defense Minister Brigadier General (Rtd.) Brownie J. Samukai has strongly defended decisions tied to the case that led to his conviction, insisting he acted lawfully and ethically to protect Liberian troops abroad, and has confirmed his intention to contest the Lofa County senatorial seat in 2029.
Samukai made the remarks during a live telephone interview on OK Morning Rush on Monday, after traffic reportedly prevented him from appearing in studio.
Addressing the controversy surrounding his conviction, Samukai argued that when leaders are entrusted with the lives of soldiers, their first responsibility is safety and preparedness.
According to him, said decisions about funding troop welfare were taken under authorization by the Commander-in-Chief at the time, former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, and aimed at covering training, logistics, feeding, medical evacuation, and operational needs.
He cited a case involving evacuation and overseas medical treatment for a wounded Liberian soldier as an example of decisions he said were made to save lives, emphasizing that he did not personally receive funds and that payments were made directly to service providers.
Samukai said he respects the rule of law but believes politics influenced the outcome of his case, asserting that “the system failed” him.
He acknowledged the President’s constitutional authority to grant a pardon, while noting the political consequences that followed, including disruption of his earlier Senate win.
Looking ahead, Samukai said he remains willing to participate in a Unity Party primary if required, citing long-standing relationships and constituency engagement in Lofa.
He described spending the holidays in the county and participating in community activities, including programs involving large numbers of children.
On national issues, Samukai urged caution and transparency regarding any potential exploitation of Wologizi Mountain, calling for scientific assessment and better deal structures that avoid minimal national benefit and environmental damage.
He also weighed in on the debate over lawmakers’ compensation, saying public frustration is understandable but constituency demands are intensified by weak social services, leaving legislators pressured to cover funerals, medical costs, school fees, and community projects.
The former Defense Minister argued the structural solution is economic expansion and stronger public services to reduce dependency on individual lawmakers.
Samukai expressed optimism about Liberia’s seat on the UN Security Council, praising national leadership and emphasizing continuity and strategic use of the position.