By Stephanie M. Duncan
ZWEDRU, Grand Gedeh County – Former President George Manneh Weah has declared that the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) remains united and poised for a political comeback, using the party’s 22nd anniversary celebration to rally supporters, criticize the Unity Party-led government, and launch what he described as the beginning of the road to the 2029 general elections.
Addressing thousands of partisans and invited guests in Zwedru on Saturday, June 27, Weah said the CDC had survived political setbacks and remained Liberia’s strongest grassroots political movement.
“The CDC is alive. The CDC is united. The CDC is organized. The CDC is energized. And the CDC is coming back to power,” Weah declared to loud applause.
The anniversary celebration attracted opposition political leaders, government critics, and supporters from across the country. Among those attending were Alternative National Congress (ANC) Political Leader Alexander Cummings, Citizens Movement for Change (CMC) Political Leader Musa Hassan Bility, All Liberian Party (ALP) Political Leader Benoni Urey, Movement for Progressive Change (MPC) Political Leader Simeon Freeman, Movement for Economic Empowerment (MOVEE) Political Leader Dee-Maxwell Kemayah, Senator Thomas Yaya Nimely, former Justice Minister Kabineh Ja’neh, and former Finance Minister Amara Konneh.
Weah thanked the visiting opposition leaders for what he described as a demonstration that political parties can unite around national interests despite their differences.
Reflecting on the origins of the CDC, Weah said the party was founded by ordinary Liberians seeking equal opportunity and inclusion in national leadership.
“The CDC was never just a political party. It was—and remains—a revolution of hope: a movement of ordinary people determined to do extraordinary things,” he said.
Recalling his own journey from poverty to the presidency, Weah said his election symbolized the aspirations of ordinary Liberians rather than a personal achievement.
“When I walked into the Executive Mansion, millions of Liberians walked through that door with me. That is the story of the CDC. That is our legacy. That is our pride,” he stated.
The former president also defended his administration’s development record, citing investments in roads, market facilities, housing projects, and education as evidence of the CDC government’s commitment to improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
A significant portion of Weah’s address focused on criticism of President Joseph Boakai’s administration. He accused the Unity Party government of failing to fulfill campaign promises, worsening economic hardship, undermining democratic institutions, and engaging in political persecution.
Among his allegations were claims that the government has weakened the rule of law, disregarded Supreme Court decisions, curtailed free speech, tolerated security force brutality, and failed to adequately address national security concerns.
Weah further accused the administration of allowing Liberia to become a hub for drug trafficking, alleging that government officials were being shielded from accountability.
Despite the criticisms, Weah urged opposition parties and civil society organizations to remain united in holding the government accountable while preparing for future elections.
“The road to 2029 begins today,” he declared. “This is not the time for division. This is the time for mobilization.”
The former president also expressed appreciation to former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor for issuing a statement supporting the CDC anniversary celebration.
Meanwhile, ANC Political Leader Alexander Cummings commended the former CDC administration for securing financing for the southeastern road project before leaving office.
Speaking with journalists after the anniversary program, Cummings said the paved road to Tappita was in satisfactory condition and acknowledged the previous government’s contribution toward extending the highway to Fish Town.
“The road I will describe as okay is paved all the way to Tappita Town. Thanks to the CDC, which I understand procured the money before leaving office to take the road all the way to Fish Town,” Cummings said.
His remarks recognized the former administration’s role in arranging financing for a project widely regarded as vital to improving transportation and economic connectivity across southeastern Liberia.
The 22nd anniversary celebration concluded with renewed calls for party unity and preparations for the 2029 elections, as CDC leaders vowed to rebuild the party and intensify opposition activities in the coming years.
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