The Liberia People Democratic Party (LPDP), a foundational member of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), announces its withdrawal from the coalition following significant internal discord.
Established as a cornerstone of the CDC in 2016, the LPDP played a pivotal role in shaping coalition policies and strategies.
However, recent developments have highlighted deep-seated dissatisfaction within the LPDP ranks, culminating in a dramatic decision to sever ties with the coalition that once promised a united front in Liberian politics.
The decision to withdraw was underscored by a press conference held at the LPDP’s National Headquarters in oldest Congo-Town, where George Woodtor, the National Vice Chairperson for Press and Public Affairs, delivered the somber news to the nation.
“It is with regret but firm resolve that we announce the LPDP’s withdrawal from the Coalition for Democratic Change,” Woodtor declared, his voice reflecting a mixture of disappointment and determination.
The LPDP’s discontent stems primarily from its perceived marginalization within the coalition, exacerbated by the results of the 2023 Presidential and Legislative Elections.
Despite reaffirming their commitment to the New Coalition Framework Document in 2023, which aimed to consolidate power-sharing agreements and policy alignments among coalition members, the LPDP’s expectations of a fair distribution of authority and influence were reportedly unmet.
“The LPDP’s purpose of joint governance, for which it recommitted itself to the aforementioned instrument, was undermined by the painful defeat in the said elections by the Unity Party of Former Vice President Joseph Boakai, now President of Liberia,” Woodtor explained.
The unexpected electoral defeat dealt a severe blow to LPDP’s aspirations of influencing national policy through coalition governance.
In addition to the withdrawal, internal strife within the LPDP has escalated, leading to the indefinite suspension of D. Eric Kpayea, the party’s National Secretary General. Woodtor disclosed that Kpayea’s suspension was triggered by public statements made on radio that were deemed damaging to the LPDP’s public image.
“Honorable D. Eric Kpayea has been suspended indefinitely by the National Executive Committee of the LPDP, subject to investigation by an Investigative Committee,” Woodtor clarified.
The decision to suspend Kpayea, a prominent figure within the party, underscores the LPDP’s efforts to maintain internal discipline and uphold its reputation amidst external pressures and challenges.
As part of the transitional measures following Kpayea’s suspension, Deputy National Secretary-General Gbalee Gray has been appointed as Acting National Secretary General.
Gray, a party loyalist, is expected to steer the LPDP through these turbulent times until a permanent resolution is reached.
The LPDP’s withdrawal from the CDC marks a significant setback for former President George Weah and the coalition’s stability.
With the departure of a key member, questions arise about the CDC’s ability to maintain a cohesive agenda and command majority support in legislative deliberations and policy implementations.
Moreover, the political ramifications of LPDP’s decision could potentially reshape the dynamics of Liberian politics, paving the way for realignments, alliances, and strategic recalibrations among political actors vying for influence and power in the coming electoral cycles.
The repercussions of LPDP’s withdrawal from the CDC reverberate across the nation as political pundits keep deliberating on the matter.
Citizens, stakeholders, and international observers of the political arena alike are keenly watching developments unfold, anticipating the next chapter in Liberia’s democratic journey.
By: Willie N. Tokpah/ Contributor
