By Jerromie S. Walters
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Henry P. Costa, the controversial former political commentator, has publicly denied any strain in his relationship with President Joseph Boakai, labeling speculation of a rift as a baseless “frenzy” fueled by his routine social media management.
The rumors began circulating after Costa, a once-vocal critic of Boakai, deleted several old Facebook posts that favored the President. This digital “housecleaning” coincided with President Boakai’s nomination of Stevquoah for the vacant Minister of State for Presidential Affairs position—a role many political observers believed Costa was actively seeking.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, Costa moved to quell the speculation. “I’m amazed and somewhat amused by the frenzy surrounding my removal of old Facebook posts from my page,” he wrote. “Let me set the record straight: I’ve been doing this for years due to the sheer volume of posts I make. It’s a simple housekeeping task.”
He emphatically declared his alliance with the President unshakable, stating, “My relationship with my dear Uncle, the President, remains as strong as ever. We chatted on WhatsApp just last Wednesday… no one – not a soul, can cause my uncle and me to fall apart again.”
A History of Shifting Allegiances:
Costa’s declaration of loyalty marks the latest chapter in a dramatic political evolution. Initially a major critic of former President George Weah’s administration, Costa performed a stunning political U-turn during the 2023 presidential elections.
After his relationship with then-candidate Boakai reportedly broke down over a failed bid to become his vice presidential nominee, Costa became one of Boakai’s most ardent critics. He launched a campaign questioning Boakai’s health, financial status, and integrity, while simultaneously offering unexpected praise for Weah and his Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) party.
Less than a year into President Boakai’s term, Costa again reversed course, publicly apologizing and reconciling with the President. The two have since been photographed together at informal engagements, fueling speculation about Costa’s desired role in the new administration.
In his statement, Costa suggested his focus has shifted from political commentary to private enterprise, signaling a new, more subdued phase of his career.
“Right now, I’m focused on my highly promising gold mining business and enjoying the quiet time in my beloved country,” Costa stated. Addressing his supporters directly, he added, “The old Henry Pedro Costa is gone, and the new Costa is far more mature, strategic, and focused.”
