A New Dawn for the Congress for Democratic Change
The Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has faced significant challenges over the past two years, but its dedicated supporters and partisans have remained steadfast in their commitment to the party. Despite losing power to the Unity Party (UP) in 2023 and the subsequent demolition of its previous national headquarters, the CDC continues to show resilience and determination. This spirit was on full display during the groundbreaking ceremony for the party’s new headquarters, which took place on Tubman Boulevard in Congo Town.
Thousands of CDC supporters, including many “Weahcians,” gathered to celebrate what they see as a new chapter in the party’s political history. The event was marked by a sense of unity and hope, with participants singing both old and new songs that reflect the party’s renewed vigor and aspirations for a political comeback in 2029.
Former President Weah’s Message of Resilience
In a powerful message delivered to the gathering, former President George Manneh Weah reaffirmed his commitment to rebuilding the CDC’s new national headquarters “in record time” and in a state-of-the-art manner. He criticized the ruling UP, stating that the CDC is a builder while the opposition is seen as destroyers. Weah emphasized that the spirit of the party lives within its supporters, not just in physical structures.
“If you like, you can go and break all the walls – break all the physical structures, but you can’t break the CDC because the spirit is within. For us, we build, not destroy. And so, we build, they break, they break, we build – that’s what we are noted for,” he said, drawing cheers from the crowd.
Weah also urged partisans to remain resilient and united in their efforts to rescue Liberia from what he described as “charlatans and mountebanks.” He stressed that the CDC’s resolve to work for the Liberian people, regardless of their affiliations, is a testament to the party’s commitment.
Koffa’s Optimism for 2029
Speaking earlier, the CDC Headquarters Construction Committee Chair, former Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, expressed confidence in the CDC’s return to power in 2029. He highlighted the new headquarters as a symbol of resilience and revival following the “unprecedented eviction and demolition” of the previous headquarters by the UP-led government.
“This is a sophisticated edifice that will emerge as a symbol that truth crushed to the ground will rise again,” Koffa declared. He accused the government of attempting to erase the CDC from Liberia’s political history, but instead, the party’s strength only grew.
A Chat with a UPist
The Grand Kru County Electoral District 2 Representative revealed a conversation purportedly between him and a UP supporter. The exchange highlighted the UP’s alleged misuse of power, with the UPist boasting about their control. In response, the representative criticized the UP’s actions, such as turning police into a shoot-and-kill death squad, taking jobs from Liberians, and favoring foreigners.
“I know the Ministry of Ma Pa Cuss will get ready for me, but thank God my Ma and Pa are dead — they will not hear it,” Koffa added, showing his defiance against the UP’s tactics.
CDC Is Stronger Than Ever
The National Chairman of the CDC, Atty. Janga Kowo, affirmed that the party remains stronger than ever despite attacks from the opposition. He emphasized that the CDC, being a grassroots movement, cannot be erased from Liberia’s political history. All efforts to silence the party only serve to make it stronger due to its committed supporters.
Time to Help the CDC
Margibi County Senator Nathaniel F. McGill called on CDC supporters to contribute meaningfully to the construction of the new headquarters. He noted that the party had long supported its members and now it was time for members to reciprocate.
“Everything can’t be the Standard Bearer alone,” McGill said, urging support for the project.
More Donations for the Project
As the CDC seeks resources for its new headquarters, the groundbreaking ceremony also featured a fundraising rally. Guests made cash donations and pledges toward the initiative. The opposition Citizens Movement for Change (CMC) announced a contribution of US$5,000, expressing solidarity with the CDC and commitment to fostering unity among political institutions.
Other donors included former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor, who donated US$5,000, and CDC lawmakers who pledged US$5,000 each. District #14 Representative Muka Kamara promised to exceed the individual pledge by contributing US$15,000, while Bomi County Senator Edwin Snowe Jr. donated US$10,000 and pledged to contribute at every stage of the project.
CDC HQ Committee Extols Well-wishers
The CDC Headquarters Construction Committee expressed gratitude to partisans, sympathizers, and well-wishers for their presence and financial support at the groundbreaking ceremony. The committee emphasized its commitment to transparency, accountability, and efficient project delivery, ensuring all contributions are properly recorded and utilized.
“As we begin the actual construction in the coming days, we encourage continued support from all stakeholders, including partisans, sympathizers, civil society members, and the general public, to ensure the smooth and timely completion of this significant project.”
