Liberia’s main opposition party, the Congress for Democratic Change is poised to begin construction of its national headquarters for the first time in over 20 years. This comes on the heels of a tumultuous period for the party, which recently lost its previous home under contentious circumstances tied to the current ruling Unity Party.
Earlier this year, on August 23, a court order led to the demolition of the CDC’s facility, an action many believe was orchestrated by the government of Joseph Boakai as part of a broader strategy to undermine the opposition.
The ruling government has faced strong accusations of plotting the party’s forced eviction, resulting in widespread dissatisfaction among CDC supporters. The Joseph Boakai has rejected the accusation, calling the demolition application of the law.
Following this setback, CDC leaders rallied the party to turn adversity into opportunity. They vowed to move out of rented accommodations and establish a permanent headquarters, expressing determination to do so swiftly.
Now, nearly two months after the demolition, the CDC has announced that groundbreaking for the new headquarters will occur this Saturday, October 18, in Monrovia.
Ex- House Speaker Fonati Koffa, who heads the committee overseeing the construction project, denied reports that a lawsuit could derail plans.
“We’re not just going to sit back and allow our efforts to be thwarted. We are committed to building a space that represents our values and the voice of our supporters,” he said.
“We met with the gentleman this morning. He realized he was pursuing the wrong path. The case was withdrawn, and we’re back on course.
“We haven’t even started full mobilization, but partisans, sympathizers, independents, and even ruling party members have reached out to support the project.
“Our main property is already purchased and titled in the name of the CDC,” he explained. “We only entered negotiations to acquire adjoining lots to expand the complex. But there was no $5,000 payment, and certainly no $300,000 deal.
“The Minister of Justice has agreed to meet with us to finalize arrangements for a peaceful program.”
This development is particularly notable as it marks a revival of the party’s presence in Liberian politics, further intensified by the recent political distractions they allege have been initiated by the government.
In a parallel effort, the Unity Party is mirroring the CDC’s construction plans, signaling a competitive race for the political limelight in Liberia.
Political analysts suggest that the decision of the CDC to move ahead with its construction plans could serve to solidify the party’s support base as it seeks to regain momentum in a bid to retake state power lost to the UP in 2023.
