Philadelphia, USA – The President of the Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA), Mohamed ‘MSG1’ Keita, has openly endorsed Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Sr. for the 2029 Presidential Election, a move that goes against the organization’s longstanding tradition of political neutrality.
Keita made the endorsement after presenting a petition to the Vice President on behalf of diaspora Liberians facing immigration challenges in the United States.
Concluding his remarks at the Vice President’s Town Hall Meeting on March 8, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Keita declared: “Remember, 2029 is coming. If you are ready, we are ready!”
It remains unclear whether Vice President Koung, who is in his late 40s, intends to contest the presidency in 2029. The election, set for October of that year, will determine Liberia’s next president, vice president, and lawmakers.
Keita’s endorsement has drawn attention as it contradicts ULAA’s tradition of remaining nonpartisan. The organization, which serves as the umbrella body for Liberian associations in the United States, Canada, Central, and South America, has historically refrained from endorsing political candidates, instead focusing on advocating for Liberians abroad and at home.
Before endorsing Koung, Keita had addressed issues of corruption in the Liberian government and the immigration challenges facing diaspora Liberians.
However, during his formal remarks and the subsequent Q&A session, Vice President Koung did not acknowledge Keita’s endorsement. He did, however, acknowledge that corruption remains a major challenge for the Liberian government.
Koung’s silence on the endorsement may stem from a recent warning by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to members of his administration. During his first Cabinet meeting of the year on March 3, President Boakai made it clear that anyone prioritizing the 2029 election over their current duties should step down.
“If your focus is on 2029, you may respectfully resign. My priority is serving the Liberian people right now,” President Boakai stated.
Keita’s public endorsement of Koung is expected to stir debate, particularly within ULAA, as it raises questions about the organization’s commitment to its nonpartisan stance.
