By Stephen G. Fellajuah
MONROVIA, June 30, 2026 – Liberian political analyst Abdullah Kiatamba has described the country’s opposition as the weakest in recent history, arguing that its inability to effectively challenge the Boakai administration has allowed the government to avoid sustained political pressure despite what he considers governance shortcomings.
Speaking Monday on OK FM’s Morning Rush program, Kiatamba said opposition political parties have failed to capitalize on several national controversies that, in his view, should have generated stronger public scrutiny of the government.
He, however, expressed hope that the recent gathering of opposition leaders at the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) anniversary celebration in Grand Gedeh County could mark a turning point for the opposition.
According to Kiatamba, issues such as the Foya project, the controversial yellow machines procurement, unresolved investigations into major national matters, and what he described as policy inconsistencies have not been effectively used by the opposition to build sustained political momentum.
He also cited the removal of former House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, whom he described as one of the opposition’s most vocal figures, saying the episode exposed the opposition’s inability to maintain pressure on the government.
Kiatamba further criticized the government’s handling of the fight against illegal drugs, despite its commitment to make the issue a national priority.
“An effective opposition would have picked up these issues and given them a stronger national voice,” he said. “Former President Weah has not been able to endorse or effectively rally sustained public action around these concerns.”
The political analyst argued that former President George Manneh Weah should play a more active role in mobilizing the opposition around issues affecting the country.
He also said the opposition appears disconnected from the concerns of ordinary Liberians, stressing that it must reconnect with citizens’ daily struggles if it hopes to become a more effective political force.
Commenting on the economy, Kiatamba said he believes living conditions for ordinary Liberians have seen little improvement and urged the government to intensify efforts to create jobs and improve livelihoods.
His remarks come amid increasing political activity ahead of the 2029 general elections, with opposition parties seeking to strengthen cooperation following recent engagements in Grand Gedeh County.
