Zwedru, Grand Gedeh County – Alexander B. Cummings, the political leader of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), has called on Liberia’s opposition parties to come together ahead of the 2029 elections, stating that individual political aspirations must yield to a shared goal of saving the nation from what he called “worsening governance, deepening poverty, and weakening democratic institutions”.
As the keynote speaker at the Congress for Democratic Change’s (CDC) 22nd anniversary celebration in Zwedru, Cummings launched a broad criticism of President Joseph Boakai’s Unity Party administration, accusing it of fostering division, undermining the rule of law, and failing to improve the lives of citizens. He also praised the CDC’s role in empowering ordinary Liberians.
Speaking to thousands of supporters and opposition leaders gathered for the festivities, Cummings stated that equitable opportunity, not political power, has always been the focus of Liberia’s long-running battle. He said, “We have failed because what should be a government of the people, by the people, and for the people has become a government for the few,” contending that successive administrations have put narrow political interests ahead of the advancement of the country.
He warned that Liberia could become more divided if leaders continue to prioritize politics over the country, accusing the Unity Party government of widening party and ethnic rifts rather than promoting national unity. Citing examples like the illegal dismissal of tenured officials, contempt for Supreme Court rulings, selective anti-corruption campaigns, and politically motivated prosecutions, Cummings further asserted that state institutions are now vulnerable to political meddling.
He also expressed concern about the country’s growing drug problem, citing the recent seizure of drugs valued at approximately US$19 million at Roberts International Airport. Along with calling for what he called a truly independent investigation into the case, he warned that the opposition would seek outside help to ensure accountability if senior government officials were implicated. “The spread of drugs is serious,” he said. No one will be allowed to “eat show” on us in this situation.
Cummings painted an awful picture of Liberia’s economic circumstances in addition to its administration, highlighting widespread unemployment, food insecurity, and poverty despite the country’s official claims of economic growth. He asserted that millions of Liberians still suffer from malnutrition, inadequate healthcare, and limited educational opportunities and that economic statistics are useless when the average person cannot afford necessities.
The ANC leader called on the CDC, Citizens Movement for Change (CMC), Movement for Progressive Change (MPC), National Patriotic Party (NPP), All Liberian Party (ALP), and other opposition parties to work together to hold the government accountable and develop a unified political alternative. Cummings acknowledged the opposition’s widespread speculation about presidential aspirations while attempting to downplay concerns that personal interests could undermine collaboration. He stated, “I have said and will continue to say that nobody runs for vice president. However, the kind of change we want goes beyond any one individual.”
In one of his most persuasive pleas, Cummings stated that he was willing to take on any role required to promote opposition unity. Supporters assembled at the ceremony applauded him as he said, “If I have to be the driver or the car boy to get us to our destination of a better Liberia, I will.”
Despite the fact that several of the attendees are thought to be prospective presidential candidates themselves, the event reaffirmed growing calls among opposition leaders for increased cooperation ahead of the 2029 election. Cummings emphasised that poverty, bad healthcare, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure impact all Liberians, regardless of party membership, and urged them to reject political divisions and embrace national unity. He said, “Hardship knows no party lines.” Social justice, democracy, equality, and inclusive growth are essential. We are responsible for keeping them.
