By Jamesetta D. Williams
MONROVIA-The Movement for Democracy and Reconstruction (MDR) has called on Nimba County Senator Samuel G. Kogar to withdraw remarks describing the party as a “rebel transition party,” warning that it could take further action if the statement is not retracted.
The demand follows comments reportedly made by Senator Kogar during the MDR Youth Retreat, where he questioned the level of participation and influence of elected officials within the party.
“MDR is a political party with representatives and a senator, yet these leaders have no voice in the party. Should someone who has been duly elected by the people have no voice within the party? These are individuals who pay their dues. How can the party function effectively if it lacks critical voices to advocate on its behalf?” Kogar said.
The senator’s comments have sparked debate within the party, with some members focusing particularly on his reported characterization of the MDR as a “rebel transition party.”
Responding on behalf of the party, MDR National Vice Chair for Mobilization Melvin Yealue rejected the description, insisting that it misrepresents the party’s identity and history.
Yealue acknowledged that the late Senator Prince Yormie Johnson, the party’s founding political leader, had previously led a rebel movement during Liberia’s civil conflict. However, he stressed that the MDR itself was not created as an extension or transformation of any rebel group.
According to Yealue, the party was established by a new generation of Liberians, many of whom had no involvement in the country’s civil war, with the objective of advancing democratic governance and national development through constitutional and peaceful means.
He urged Senator Kogar to immediately withdraw the statement, arguing that such remarks could damage the party’s reputation and undermine the contributions of its members.
“The party is not taking this statement lightly, and further actions will be taken if the senator fails to withdraw his statement,” Yealue warned.
The dispute comes at a time when internal discussions about leadership, representation, and decision-making within the MDR have gained increased public attention. Senator Kogar’s comments regarding the role of elected officials have fueled broader conversations about internal democracy and the extent to which party leaders and elected representatives participate in shaping the organization’s direction.
As of the time of this report, Senator Kogar had not publicly responded to the party’s demand for a retraction.
The developing disagreement highlights growing tensions within the MDR as party leaders seek to preserve unity while addressing concerns raised by some of its senior members
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