Monrovia, Liberia – The Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Liberia’s most entrenched political party, has announced an upcoming convention in August. This convention aims to rejuvenate the party after a tumultuous period following its narrow defeat in the 2023 presidential election to the Unity Party, led by former Vice President Joseph Boakai.
The CDC, led by George Weah, experienced an unexpected and significant defeat, losing by under 17,000 votes. This loss marked one of the biggest upsets in Liberia’s electoral history, leading to considerable disorientation within the party. In the wake of the defeat, party chairman Mulbah Morlu resigned, taking responsibility for the loss. Janga Kowo was subsequently appointed to lead the party towards the upcoming convention.
Since Kowo’s appointment, the CDC has faced internal disintegration, most notably with the departure of its major coalition partner, the National Patriotic Party. The CDC has also been uncharacteristically silent on national issues and has seen its leadership in the House of Representatives align closely with the government, failing to pose any significant challenge.
There has been growing consensus that a convention, where party leaders are elected by the members, is crucial to reinvigorate the party. The announcement of the convention has been met with widespread joy among CDC supporters. Initially scheduled for January 2025, the convention has been moved up to August due to increasing dissatisfaction with the current government.
While specific details about the convention are still emerging, sources close to Chairman Kowo indicate that the party will soon formalize the decision. A number of prominent CDC figures are expected to vie for the party chairmanship, each bringing unique strengths and challenges.
Potential Candidates for Chairmanship:
Jefferson Koijee: Seen as the future of the CDC, Koijee commands the party’s most radical faction. He served as Mayor of Monrovia under the CDC administration and is known for his loyalty to the party. However, his chances may be hindered by recent sanctions from the U.S. State Department for human rights abuses and corruption.
Thomas Fallah: A powerful and resourceful lawmaker, Fallah is the longest-serving member in the lower house and deputy speaker of the 55th National Legislature. Despite his substantial support within the party, his recent alignment with President Boakai has drawn criticism from CDC supporters who feel he should oppose the government’s excesses more vigorously. His tribal relationship with the president is also seen as a potential hindrance.
Eugene Nagbe: Favored for his open-mindedness and willingness to speak out, Nagbe led President Weah’s campaign during the 2023 election. While he struggles to connect with the most radical base of the party, observers believe his progressive stance could help the party connect with a broader base. However, his lack of connection with the party’s grassroots could be a significant obstacle.
Finda Bundoo: Known for her close relationship with President Weah, Bundoo is a strong contender for the chairmanship. President Weah’s support for women’s inclusion in politics may bolster her candidacy. However, her perceived loyalty to Weah over the party could be a drawback.
Maxwell Kemayan: The former Foreign Minister is also considered a potential candidate but faces similar challenges as Bundoo in terms of his perceived connection to the party base.
CDC member Jack Doe expressed his excitement about the convention: “This convention is a much-needed step for our party. It’s a chance to elect leaders who can bring us back to our roots and re-establish CDC as the voice of the people.”
Political analyst Hawa Johnson also highlighted the importance of the upcoming leadership election: “The August convention will be crucial for CDC’s future. The new chairman will have the responsibility of uniting the party and effectively challenging the current government.”
The upcoming convention is seen as a pivotal moment for the CDC. Many party members believe that to reclaim power in the 2029 elections, the party must establish itself as an effective opposition. The election of a new chairman in August is crucial for this endeavor.
