By Socrates Smythe Saywon
MONROVIA – The Citizens Movement for Change (CMC) has described the eviction of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) from its national headquarters on Saturday, August 23, 2025, as a “sad day for Liberian politics and for our democracy,” urging all political actors to uphold civility, tolerance, and the rule of law.
In a statement issued on the same day, the CMC acknowledged that while the eviction may have been justified under the law, its execution left an impression of humiliation, division, and triumphalism that could be damaging to Liberia’s fragile political culture.
“The humiliation of any political party is not a victory for democracy. The only proper and legitimate way to defeat a political party is through the ballot box. To celebrate otherwise is to cheapen the very foundation of multiparty democracy that Liberia has fought so hard to build. What happened should not have happened, and no one should find joy in it,” the statement read.
The CMC also raised questions about the CDC’s leadership in handling the longstanding dispute over the headquarters. “The issue of tenancy and legal obligations has been ongoing for years. What precautionary measures did the party take to avoid this outcome? Could the humiliation we witnessed have been prevented through foresight, negotiation, or compromise? Leadership is tested not only in times of triumph, but in the ability to anticipate challenges and protect the dignity of one’s institution,” the statement added.
The opposition movement also directed a message to the ruling Unity Party (UP), cautioning against celebrating the eviction. “This is not a moment for celebration, but a moment for reflection. Years back, when the political climate was in reverse, you too faced similar circumstances. That was not a laughing matter. That was not a funny moment. The same accusations now being leveled against you, of having a hand in this eviction, were yesterday leveled against the CDC,” the statement read.
The CMC called for a new attitude in Liberian politics, emphasizing that democracy cannot survive on humiliation and revenge but only through tolerance, civility, and the competition of ideas.
“It is our hope that the CDC will use this painful experience as an opportunity to retool, revamp, and focus on strengthening its internal structures and service to its members. For the ruling establishment, this should be a time of reflection on how to engage opponents with civility and maturity. And for Liberia as a whole, let this serve as a reminder: humiliation is not democracy, and democracy cannot survive without respect, fairness, and peace,” the statement concluded.
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