Former President George Weah is galvanizing supporters with a fervent message of resilience and determination to reclaim state power, barely 15 months after losing voters confidence to 80-year-old Joseph Boakai.
Addressing a diverse crowd of his Coalition for Democratic Change members, party officials, and supporters, on April 12, Weah invoked Nelson Mandela to underscore his commitment to leadership, stating, “I was not a messiah, but an ordinary man who had become a leader because of extraordinary circumstances.”
Weah reflected on his tenure and the recent electoral defeat, asserting that his concession was a testament to his strength and commitment to peace, not a signal of weakness.
“I chose peace over conflict. I chose the Constitution over chaos. I chose democracy over division,” he declared, emphasizing the importance of a disciplined, democratic movement.
The former president was highly critical of the current government, describing it as ineffective and claiming that the nation is suffering under its leadership.
“This government is failing. And Liberia is paying the price,” Weah said, pointing to various issues, including alleged executive overreach and security forces’ brutalization of peaceful citizens. “The real problem is the Unity Party that is now in power!”
The rally, marked by chants of support and a palpable atmosphere of determination, was intended to be both a pledge to the party’s legacy and a call to action for its members.
Weah encouraged supporters to invest not just financially but also emotionally in the party, urging them to preserve solidarity as they prepare for the next electoral contest.
“We will not rest. We will not retreat. We will organize, mobilize, and energize until we reclaim what is rightfully ours—the leadership of Liberia!” he said.
Weah also launched a new “Due Payment Campaign,” calling on party members to contribute financially to strengthen the CDC ahead of the anticipated political battles.
“Your dues are more than money. They are a seed of commitment, a pledge of loyalty, and a symbol of hope,” he proclaimed, reinforcing the grassroots nature of the party and energizing the crowd.
Weah urged all Liberians, particularly those who had distanced themselves from the CDC, to return to the fold and work towards a common goal.
“Come back home and let’s complete the task. Return to the masses party and let us thrash out whatever differences and move forward,” he said, insisting on the strength found in unity for the betterment of the country.
The former president left supporters with a rallying cry for the future: “The future is not behind us. The future is still ahead.
