ZWEDRU, Grand Gedeh County — In a strong display of opposition solidarity ahead of the 2029 elections, Alternative National Congress (ANC) Political Leader Alexander B. Cummings delivered a blistering keynote address Saturday at the Congress for Democratic Change’s (CDC) 22nd anniversary celebration in Zwedru, calling for a united opposition front to challenge the Unity Party government.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh
Addressing a gathering that included Rep. Musa Hassan Bility, political leader of the Citizen Movement for Change, Simeon Freeman, Political leader, Movement for Progressive Change and other opposition figures, Cummings said Liberia’s future depends on opposition collaboration and accountability.
“The fear of opposition unity is real,” Cummings declared. “The kind of change we seek is bigger than any one person. Our strength lies in unity and not in individuals.”
The ANC leader used the occasion to praise the CDC’s political journey, describing the party as a movement that gave voice to ordinary Liberians and opened doors for citizens from marginalized communities.
“The Congress for Democratic Change gave hope to the hopeless and courage to the downtrodden,” he said, noting that the party’s rise demonstrated the power of ordinary Liberians who had long been excluded from national leadership.
Drawing parallels between his own background and that of former President Weah, Cummings described both men as products of humble beginnings who rose through perseverance and hard work.
“I was overlooked and underestimated,” he said. “George Weah, a simple man blessed by God, rose from Clara Town to global football success before returning home to serve his people. This moment is about triumph, resilience, and perseverance.”
Sharp Criticism of the Unity Party Government
Cummings accused the administration of President Joseph Boakai of perpetuating inequality, deepening political divisions, and failing to address the country’s longstanding socio-economic problems.
He argued that successive governments have become “governments for the few” rather than governments that serve all Liberians.
“Instead of building bridges across ethnic and political lines, the Unity Party government has deepened the cracks, allowing Liberia to regress into dangerous tribal cleavages and partisan extremism,” he said.
According to Cummings, Liberia’s inability to change stems from three major challenges: governance that benefits only a privileged minority, weak state institutions, and widespread poverty and inequality.
Concerns Over Institutions and Rule of Law
The ANC political leader accused the government of undermining democratic institutions through what he described as selective justice, political interference, and disregard for the rule of law.
He cited the removal of tenured officials, alleged political witch hunts, disputes involving the judiciary, and controversies surrounding legislative leadership as examples of institutional weakness.
“When institutions are weak, accountability collapses and abuse of power thrives,” Cummings said.
He warned that legislative and executive excesses pose equal threats to Liberia’s democracy and called for stronger, independent institutions capable of delivering justice fairly and without political influence.
Drug Bust Investigation
A significant portion of Cummings’ address focused on the recent US$19 million drug seizure at Roberts International Airport, which has become a major political issue.
He called for an independent and transparent investigation into the case and vowed that the opposition would continue pressing for accountability.
“If we are serious about fighting drugs, this would be a good start,” he said. “No one will be allowed to ‘eat show’ on us with this case.”
Cummings also pledged to engage international partners and friends of Liberia to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
In addition, he called for an independent investigation into the Foya development project and recent tensions along the Liberia-Guinea border.
Call for Opposition Alliance
Perhaps the most politically significant aspect of Cummings’ speech was his open appeal for greater opposition cooperation ahead of the 2029 elections.
He named several opposition parties—including the ANC, CDC, CMC, MPC, NPP, LPP, and ALP—as potential partners in a united effort to challenge the ruling establishment.
While acknowledging speculation about his presidential ambitions, Cummings said he was prepared to play any role necessary to achieve political change.
“If I have to be the driver or the car boy to get us to our destination of a better Liberia, I will,” he told the crowd.
The ANC leader emphasized that hardship transcends party affiliation.
“Bad roads know no partisan. Poor healthcare knows no difference between CDCians and UPists,” he said.
Looking Toward 2029
Cummings concluded his address by urging Liberians to reject division and embrace a shared national purpose, arguing that equality, social justice, democracy, and inclusive development must guide the country’s future.
“Together, we can build a Liberia where opportunity is not the privilege of a few but the right of all,” he said.
In what appeared to be a direct political message ahead of the next presidential election, Cummings declared: “Together, we can replace the failed Rescue Mission in 2029 and begin the mission to fix Liberia.”
The ongoing Zwedru anniversary celebration brought together some of Liberia’s most prominent opposition figures, fueling growing speculation about possible alliances and cooperation among opposition parties as the country gradually shifts its focus toward the 2029 elections.
