The former Chairperson of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) in Grand Gedeh County, Dede D. Mechlain, has resigned from both his position and membership in the party, citing unfulfilled promises by former President George M. Weah, alleged disrespect toward his leadership, and a desire to pursue a new political path.
In a resignation letter dated August 3, 2026, and addressed to CDC National Chairman Janga Augustus Kowo, Mechlain said his resignation takes immediate effect in accordance with Article 17 of Liberia’s Constitution.
Mechlain said his decision was driven largely by what he described as the CDC’s failure to fulfill major development commitments made by former President George Weah during a visit to Grand Gedeh on February 21, 2021. He claimed the unfulfilled pledges embarrassed his leadership as county chairperson.
Among the projects he said were never completed are the renovation of the Albert T. White Sports Pitch, beautification of the Zwedru City Hall, construction of the Elim Chapel Assemblies of God Church, construction of the Timah Town Market, renovation of the Zwedru Multilateral High School basketball court, and modernization of the Smile FM building.
The former county chairman also accused some former CDC government officials of undermining his authority while he served as the party’s Grand Gedeh leader. He further alleged that anniversary committee members for the county were selected without his consent, despite his position as county chairperson.
Mechlain said he now intends to focus on his family and prepare for what he described as a “new political endeavor.” He also emphasized the need to prioritize the development of Grand Gedeh County, arguing that the county should no longer be treated merely as a “reserve voting bloc.”
In a notable shift, Mechlain praised the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, saying the Unity Party-led government has made tangible development gains in Grand Gedeh under its ARREST Agenda.
He credited the government with expanding electricity to towns and villages, maintaining the road linking Grand Gedeh and Nimba counties, providing 16 pieces of earth-moving equipment, placing volunteer teachers on the government payroll, ensuring timely salary payments, renovating public schools and supplying educational materials, constructing a modern student center at Grand Gedeh University, and improving the timely release of budgetary allocations to public institutions.
Despite his departure, Mechlain wished the CDC well in its efforts to regain political power in the 2029 general elections.
His resignation represents another political setback for the former ruling party as it seeks to rebuild support ahead of the next electoral cycle.
