Former Liberian President George Manneh Weah has called on Liberians to rise above political divisions and embrace compassion, humility, and unity, urging citizens and public officials alike to act with humanity regardless of party affiliation.
Speaking on Sunday at Faith Life Ministries, the former president shared personal anecdotes to illustrate what he described as the dangers of political intolerance and the need for empathy in public life.
Mr. Weah recounted receiving a message from a young girl requesting assistance with her school fees. When he asked what he could do, the girl reportedly identified herself as a supporter of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), Weah’s former ruling party.
The former president said he jokingly asked her to send him CDC hats and T-shirts as proof, but days passed without her doing so.
Weah said he later discovered through a photograph that the girl was in fact wearing a Unity Party T-shirt and was actively aligned with the ruling party.
When confronted, she admitted the truth and apologized. The incident, Weah said, reinforced his belief that helping others should not be conditioned on political loyalty.
“That is why we should do things for God’s sake,” he told the congregation. “Whether you are Unity Party or CDC, we are all Liberians. That is why, when we were in government, we worked together.”
The former president also referenced a recent interaction with a senior government official whom he said he cautioned against using harsh language toward citizens. Weah recalled reminding the official that during his time in opposition, he too had relied on the goodwill of others for basic support.
“When the children are calling you now, do the same,” Weah said he advised. According to him, the official acknowledged the message and apologized.
Weah used the occasion to emphasize humility and shared humanity, noting that social status or political power should not separate Liberians from one another.
“I can walk into a kitchen and ask for food because I am a human being,” he said. “Let us not hate each other because of party colors or because of what we believe.”
His remarks come amid heightened political polarization in Liberia, with debates over governance, accountability, and national reconciliation increasingly marked by partisan tension.
Former President Weah’s comments reflect a broader appeal for social cohesion at a time when the country continues to grapple with economic hardship and political mistrust.
Mr. Weah concluded by reiterating that Liberia’s strength lies in its 0shared identity, urging citizens to see one another first as people, not as political opponents.
