By Jerromie S. Walters
The former Liberian President, Dr. George Manneh Weah, has returned to Liberia after a long vacation following his defeat by the former Vice President, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, in the just-ended 2023 elections. Speaking to the media upon his arrival at Roberts International Airport, the former Liberian President said he has returned to put his party, the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), together to engage in active politics. The Coalition has nine constituent member parties, including the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), the National Patriotic Party (NPP), and the Movement for Economic Empowerment (MOVEE), among others.
Political pundits have indicated that if the ruling Unity Party continues on its present trajectory of going after former government officials without seeking to consolidate its power by taking actions to reconcile the country through the formation of a government of inclusion, they say President Boakai should then be prepared for more political pressure from the opposition considering his marginal victory of twenty thousand votes difference.
The Former Liberian Leader, together with his wife, Madam Clar Weah, and entourage were reportedly denied usage of the newly furbished VIP Lounge at the Roberts International Airport. This incident, purportedly under the instruction of higher up in the JNB’s government, has made Liberians believe that the new government is leading on the wrong trajectory.
The VIP Lounge at the Roberts International Airport was refurbished and dedicated by George Weah in December of 2023, just weeks before his term as president came to an end. The unveiling of the upgraded facility, which was named in honor of the former first lady, Clare Marie Weah, was meant to symbolize a step towards modernization and improved services for high-profile visitors and dignitaries.
However, it was reported that upon their arrival at the Airport on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, Mr. Weah and his entourage were directed to use the old VIP lounge instead of the new one.
In a Facebook post following their arrival at the Roberts International Airport (RIA), former presidential aid Sekou Kalasco disclosed that the former president was denied from using the new VIP lounge. He wrote: “Troubling sign! A call from the above denied President Weah of using the VIP Lounge!”
In response to the allegation, Presidential Press Secretary Kula Fofana noted via her official Facebook page that the information was untrue. She wrote: “Former President George Weah was never denied access to the VIP Lounge at the Airport! In fact he was welcomed with open arms.”
However, former President George Weah along with his entourage, was vividly seen at the old VIP Lounge at the Roberts International Airport (RIA), upon their arrival and even till they exited the airport.
Hours later, Madam Fofana emphasized: “We have a government to run. We will not be in the business of responding to baseless propaganda! Liberia has 1 President and JNB is the Man! We will not be distracted!” It can be referenced that former president Weah refurbished and dedicated the Roberts International Airport (RIA) VIP Lounge in December of 2023, weeks before he departed from the presidency. He named it in honor of his wife, Mrs. Clar Marie Weah.
What Liberians think
Since the end of the general elections and the smooth transition of power, Liberia has been globally celebrated. Much attention was brought to the West African State after Mr. Weah, who was then the incumbent, conceded defeat following the disclosure of less than 90 percent of the total election results by the National Elections Commission (NEC). Considering all of these, Liberians have frowned at the decision which was allegedly influenced by the current President.
Upon the public being alerted about the information, Aaron Gee, a Liberian and social media user wrote: “I’m here thinking if Boakai really read history. There were tyrant leaders before him, where are they today? Boakai is testing our patience and we are doing nothing in response. The time is coming when men will rewrite the history of this country. We here!!!”
Like Gee, George Johnson noted: “I don’t know if the story is true, but if so then this is the wrong way we are proceeding coz Weah is a former president of Liberia and he protection and respect. We are speaking about maintaining the peace of this country coz issues like this could spark up something different which we don’t want plz.”
Another Liberian added: “The path this government is taking is totally wrong elections are over and we need to come together as one for the betterment of our beloved country Liberia.”
Weah’s return message
Following his return from a little over a month of vacation, Liberia’s immediate former President appears to be back with an ardent zest for his involvement in national politics and ensure the proactive resurgence of the Coalition for Demonstrate Change (CDC).
Weah told reporters at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) that his return marks the genesis of the rebranding of the CDC., and his commitment to remaining engaged with Liberians. “We have the opportunity now to move around and to guide our party into the next journey of the party and now we are ready to speak about the ills in society.”
When quizzed about life after the Presidency, Weah admits to the beauty of freedom he now enjoys, which is not as compared to what it was during his time in office as President. Weah departed Liberia on Monday, January 22, 2024, following the inauguration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
Morlu’s resignation
Meanwhile, as former president Weah returns, Mulbah K. Morlu, the Chairman of the Coalition for Demoncratic Change (CDC) and the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), has resigned his post
In his communication published Tuesday, February 27, 2024, he noted: “Today I resigned my position as Chairman of the CDC, the following letter to the Standard-bearer outlines the details, let’s keep the CDC & Liberia, peaceful. I am writing to formally tender my resignation as Chairman of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC). Consequently, I am also stepping down from the position of Chairman of the Coalition for Democratic Change.
Despite resigning from the chairmanship after six years of service, Morlu says he remains a member of the coalition. “I want to assure you and the National Executive Committee that I remain a committed lifelong member of the Congress for Democratic Change. Undoubtedly, I have faced numerous challenges, particularly during the past six years of the CDC’s governance. However, I hold no resentment towards anyone for these difficulties, and I do not desire conflict.
Throughout these trials, he noted: “I am thankful to God for granting me the strength and patience to persevere. Despite the hardships, they are not the primary reason for my resignation. However, one factor influencing my decision is the diminishing opportunity for me to effectively fulfill my role as the People’s Chairman. As an advocate dedicated to supporting the people, it is disheartening to encounter constraints that limit my ability to carry out my responsibilities.
Morlu: Mr. Standard-bearer, however, after careful consideration, I have chosen to remain positive and continue contributing to the peace and stability of the CDC despite resigning from the chairmanship.
As emphasized earlier, I hold deep love for the CDC and immense gratitude towards the hundreds of thousands of loyal partisans, young militants, and foot soldiers who have supported me during my tenure.
Therefore, he stated: “in my effort to uphold internal party cohesion, I am exercising caution in my words to prevent any potential crisis. Although some may seek to exploit this situation for personal gain, my commitment to the party’s well-being will prevent me from endorsing such endeavors. As the longest-serving Chairman of the Congress for Democratic Change, I am humbled by the overwhelming support I have received from our dedicated partisans across various demographics and locations. This support has contributed to a long period of stability, peace, and adherence to the rule of law within the CDC.”
Despite encountering challenges during their governance, he acknowledged, “we have achieved significant milestones, including upholding the rights of our partisans, maintaining a peaceful and democratic political institution, and ensuring the CDC’s strength and competitiveness. Mr. Standard-bearer, regardless of recent election outcomes, we have made remarkable progress together. As your first militant since 2005, I have been one of your most steadfast political soldiers.”
Morlu: While my loyalty to the CDC has been unwavering, I have occasionally found myself in disagreements with you, driven solely by my principles and love for the party. I am proud that despite crucial hurdles, we have painstakingly kept the torch of the CDC burning, such that even those who didn’t believe in its efficiency now look up to it as the most potent political mechanism of redemption. Having served in various capacities over nearly two decades, I have diligently fulfilled my responsibilities, always with good intentions and without malice, even in my mistakes.
He added: “Resigning from my position has undoubtedly been one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever faced, yet it was necessary to uphold the stability of the CDC and prevent any internal discord that could disappoint our loyal supporters, particularly the youth who have placed their trust in our party.
Similarly, the prospect of opposing you deeply troubles me, which is why I opted not to assume the chairmanship when Mr. George G. Solo was removed in 2013. Moreover, I harbor doubts that I would have accepted the chairmanship in 2018 had I been offered a suitable governmental role, foreseeing inevitable disagreements or necessary contention with you in the future.
Now that he’s no longer Chairman, he believes he has newfound freedom to advocate for social justice and champion the interests of marginalized communities, irrespective of political affiliations. “In the coming months, I intend to engage in consultations with relevant stakeholders both within and beyond the CDC, aiming to rally passionate individuals to safeguard democracy, promote good governance, and uphold the rule of law.”
Morlu: “While I trust that the CDC will continue its efforts to address injustices and hold the Unity Party-led government accountable, I am committed to contributing from a civil society perspective, advocating for peace, good governance, human rights, the rule of law, and socio-economic equality for all Liberians.
I appreciate the members of the independent press who, despite not always aligning with my preferences in their publications or broadcasts, mostly exhibited fairness and balance in covering our press conferences and interactions.”
In conclusion, he stated: “I would like to offer one final piece of advice, Mr. Standard-bearer, which I have previously communicated to you in a briefing note. It is crucial to assemble a proficient team of foreign policy experts to engage with key Western capitals such as Washington, Brussels, Number 10 Downing Street, and others. These engagements should involve discussions regarding international decisions made during our tenure, aiming to rebuild confidence and provide assurances to our international partners.”
As they endeavor to revitalize the CDC’s domestic and global political standing, he stressed: “I stress the importance of prioritizing the enhancement of relations with Washington and its invaluable allies. Neglecting to capitalize on our historical ties with the U.S. would be a missed opportunity, especially considering Liberia’s strategic significance within the United States’ sphere of influence. Therefore, strengthening ties with the U.S. and its European counterparts is a good step forward, even for a major opposition party.”
