Trouble Brews in UP Backyard

PAYNESVILLE, Liberia, October 13, 2026 — County chairpersons of the ruling Unity Party (UP) from Liberia’s 15 counties are demanding greater grassroots empowerment, regular financial support, fair access to opportunities, and internal reforms ahead of the 2029 general elections.

The demands were contained in a resolution adopted on Sunday, October 11, at the close of a three-day retreat held at the Golden Key Hotel in Paynesville, Montserrado County.

The resolution comes amid concerns expressed by some UP supporters over limited grassroots recognition, economic opportunities, and the government’s responsiveness to ordinary partisans.

Presenting the resolution, retreat organizing chairman D. Nelson Bearngar said the county leaders want stronger party structures, greater accountability, and improved recognition of grassroots members who contributed to the party’s political success.

The chairpersons reaffirmed their support for President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration but called for greater inclusion of women, young people, and long-serving partisans who sustained the party during its years in opposition.

They also demanded decentralization of party resources, transparent financial management, and predictable funding to enable county structures to function effectively.

The county leaders emphasized that their demands were not intended to secure government appointments or privileges regardless of qualifications, but rather to ensure fairness, inclusion, and recognition of members’ contributions.

Responding to the resolution, UP National Chairman Rev. Dr. Luther Tarpeh assured the county leaders that the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) would review their recommendations.

“The NEC will review the proposals and take appropriate action,” Tarpeh said.

He urged partisans to remain united and committed to strengthening the party despite its internal challenges.

The resolution places grassroots empowerment and internal accountability among the issues confronting the ruling party as it prepares for the 2029 elections.