The NEWS (Monrovia)
17 April 2008
Monrovia — As economic hardship pinches Liberians, it seems that high profile former government officials are also feeling the impact.
One of such former government officials who could not hold back his words was former House Speaker George Koukou who was recently implicated in subversive activities but was later pardoned by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and released from further detention.
Mr. Koukou told The NEWS Wednesday that he needs his salary arrears and benefits owed by the Liberian government.
"They should pay the money they owed me so that I can go back on my farm in Nimba County," Koukou added.
Wearing a white shirt and black pants, the former speaker stated that he is currently residing in Nimba County where he is involves in farming activities.
When asked whether he would accept an appointment in government, Koukou stressed that he does not need a government job to survive, adding "since I came from jail I have not been involved into politics and I don't think I will get involved now."
He said life in his county was well with him; "I am enjoying life though not working."
Speaking on the subversive allegation brought against him by former Grand Bassa Senator Thomas Woewiyu, Koukou said he has extended olive branch to Woewiyu and others who may have hurt him adding, "I have no dealing with Tom; I have forgiven him and all others. We are Liberians; so let us unite."
Koukou was granted an executive clemency by President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf early this year after staying in jail for over three months at the Monrovia Central Prison on charges of treason.
Woewiyu had linked Koukou to coup plot against the Liberian government, a claim Koukou denied, describing his release from detention as "the work of God".
Mr. Koukou served as Senior Senator for Nimba County in the Charles Taylor administration, and later as Assemblyman in the Transitional Legislative Assembly in the erstwhile transitional government chaired by Mr. Charles Gyude Bryant.
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