Liberty Party (L.P.) has reconciled its two significant factions to restore its image as one of Liberia’s most constructive political institutions. A newly adopted resolution, backed by the National Executive Committee and county leadership, sets the stage for a Special National Convention (SNC) in December 2024 to unify the party and revitalize its influence in Liberian politics.
The L.P., established as a prominent opposition party and once celebrated for its democratic principles, has faced internal turmoil since the January 2021 convention in Gbarnga, Bong County. Disputes over constitutional provisions and filing procedures with the National Elections Commission (NEC) led to a split within the party, with two factions forming – one led by the National Chairman and the other by Political Leader Senator Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence. This division intensified leading up to the 2023 Legislative and Presidential Elections, with each faction endorsing different candidates. The rift significantly damaged L.P.’s public image, making this recent resolution a crucial step toward regaining stability.
The resolution lays out a straightforward, structured reconciliation process, requiring both factions to work together over a 30 to 60-day period. The parties will jointly review the party’s Constitution, focusing on presenting an amended version at the SNC. Scheduled for December 13-15, 2024, in Ganta City, Nimba County, the SNC will serve as a platform to adopt the new Constitution and endorse a unified leadership structure. This convention is a pivotal moment for the L.P., offering an opportunity to restore trust among its supporters and reposition itself as a cohesive political force.
The reconciliation process, however, isn’t limited to procedural changes. The resolution also proposes a proportional leadership structure, where key roles within the party will be divided equally between the two factions. This approach ensures that both sides feel adequately represented, promoting long-term unity and preventing future power struggles.
The document outlines several specific measures aimed at fostering unity and ensuring a smooth transition, including setting up a Special National Convention (SNC), which will be held in December 2024, with delegates expected to adopt a new constitution, validate a leadership team based on a proportional representation model, and approve transitional clauses. This event is anticipated to mark the formal end of the L.P.’s internal conflicts.
According to the document, Leadership roles within the National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Advisory Council (NAC) are split 50:50 between the two factions. The resolution also reserves the NEC Chairperson position for a member of one faction, ensuring an equitable power distribution.
The National Youth and Women Congresses will also follow a proportional representation model. Party A will appoint the head of the Youth Congress, while Party B will nominate the head of the Women Congress. This arrangement reflects the L.P.’s commitment to inclusivity, with additional considerations for religious and gender representation within the party’s leadership.
Senator Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence will remain the Political Leader until one year before the 2029 General Elections when a new standard-bearer is elected. This provision ensures continuity in leadership, allowing the party to stabilize under familiar guidance before transitioning to new leadership ahead of the following primary election.
Current county chairpersons will retain their roles until a restructuring process, outlined in the transition clause, is implemented. This decision provides continuity at the grassroots level, giving the party a stable foundation as it undergoes leadership changes at the national level.
The decision to move forward with a unified approach comes after numerous consultative meetings between the factions. Party members recognized that the prolonged internal conflict was unnecessary and counterproductive to the L.P.’s goals. The new resolution is a testament to the willingness of both sides to put aside personal differences for the greater good of the party.
Both factions will sign a joint resolution during a Reconciliation Retreat on November 2, 2024, to formalize this commitment. This agreement will set the groundwork for the SNC and introduce a leadership slate based on the proportional representation model. Following this retreat, the resolution will be presented to L.P. partisans in Buchanan City, Grand Bassa County, on November 10, 2024. This presentation is expected to generate significant interest among supporters and reaffirm the party’s dedication to unity and inclusiveness.
For many supporters, the reconciliation process and upcoming SNC represent a much-needed opportunity to heal the wounds of division. The Liberty Party has historically played an essential role in Liberia’s democratic landscape, advocating for accountability, justice, and political stability. The party hopes to rebuild its image and re-establish its place as a formidable opposition force by coming together.
Political analysts view the L.P.’s efforts to resolve internal disputes as a positive sign for Liberia’s political stability. The successful implementation of this resolution could set a precedent for other political parties facing similar challenges, showcasing the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving long-term goals. However, the L.P. must maintain transparency and inclusivity throughout the reconciliation process to regain public trust and avoid future divisions.
As Liberia moves toward the 2029 elections, the L.P.’s unified front may strengthen its position as a critical player in the political landscape. The upcoming SNC will be a defining moment for the party, providing a platform for renewed commitment to its principles and a fresh start for members and supporters alike.
Liberty Party’s resolution marks a milestone in its journey toward recovery. By addressing internal conflicts and implementing an inclusive leadership structure, the L.P. is poised to regain its influence and reassert its role in shaping Liberia’s democratic future. The upcoming SNC offers a hopeful vision for a united Liberty Party, ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow with a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
