More than half of the entire membership of the 54th National Legislature on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 endorsed the second-term bid of the President of Liberia and Standard Bearer of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), George Menneh Weah. Fifty-six (56) out of the total of 103 lawmakers of the bicameral Legislature endorsed the President.
Fifty-six lawmakers amount to more than 50% representation of the entire citizenry, arguably making the endorsement the largest, in context, for the up-coming 2023 general and presidential elections.
The CDC Legislative Caucus and several other lawmakers supportive of President Weah’s re-election on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 endorsed the President as their candidate for re-election for another six-year term in the October 10 polls “in consideration of the enormous and gigantic transformation” the country has witnessed under his watch over the last six years.
The endorsement ceremony was held at the CDC headquarters, with senators Edwin Melvin Snowe, Emmanuel Nuquay, Albert Chie, as well as representatives Dr. Bhofal Chambers, Abu Kamara, Zoe Emmanuel Pennue, etc. in attendance.
Nimba County’s district #9 Representative, Johnson N. Gwaikolo, delivered the lawmakers to President Weah, while the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Bhofal Chambers, and the Pro Tempore of the Liberian Senate, made separate endorsement statements representing the members of the upper and lower houses in attendance.
Accepting the endorsement, President Weah said the action shows the lawmakers’ fervent belief in his vision to change the developmental trajectory of the country, and assured of defeating his opponents in the October polls owing to the myriad of tangible development initiatives undertaken under his leadership, including macroeconomic stability and transformation of all sectors.
In his statement of acceptance at the occasion, witnessed by thousands of jubilant and enthusiastic partisans at the CDC headquarters, the CDC Political Leader said he was glad that the entire membership of the Legislative Caucus, which he said represented a significant percentage of the membership of the 54th Legislature of the country, is standing behind his leadership and candidacy in the upcoming elections.
He said the unwavering support and endorsement of his candidacy, which is a reaffirmation of trust and confidence in him and his family, also fuel their determination to continue serving with the utmost dedication.
President Weah told cheering partisans and supporters that his endorsement is not just a seal of approval for their policies and programs but also a testament to his unwavering commitment to the Liberian people.
“Our accomplishments during my first term have been significant,” he said amidst thunderous applauses. “We have transformed the face of our nation through infrastructure development, empowered our youth to become the driving force of change, and achieved economic stability that has positively impacted the lives of countless Liberians.”
He added that “the achievements are a testament to the resilience and determination of our people”.
Speaking of victory in the ensuing elections, the CDC Standard Bearer, in an energized voice, said, “Though the opposition may try to impede progress, they shall not prevail.
“They will witness the strength and unity of the CDC as we march towards an overwhelming triumph. The Liberian people know that our unwavering dedication to their well-being sets us apart,” Dr. Weah said further.
According to him, the CDC remains undistracted, steadfast in its commitment to deliver tangible results that transform the lives of Liberians, while the opponents resort to empty promises and divisive tactics.
He assured CDCians in particular and Liberians in general that their voice will be heard and that the will of the people is an unstoppable force.
“Together, we will shape the future of our great nation. Victory is not just within our grasp; it is inevitable,” he underscored. “Victory is not just within our grasp; it is inevitable. I am convinced that the Liberian electorate, wise and discerning, will make the right choice by returning us to office.”
The Liberian Leader also assured Liberians that the up-coming elections will be nothing short of a shining example of democracy in action.
Quoting South Africa revolutionary icon and former President, the late Nelson Mandela, the CDC Strongman, said, “The true character of a society is revealed in how it treats its citizens during the election process.”
President Weah reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the democratic principles that underpin the nation while assuring that his government would ensure a free, fair, transparent, credible and peaceful electoral process.
He used the occasion to welcome newcomers to the party, describing the CDC as a beacon of hope and progress for all Liberians, not merely a political party.
“Within our ranks,” he noted, “there is space for every citizen, regardless of their party affiliation. Together, we will build a stronger and more prosperous Liberia.”
He continued, “Together, we will forge ahead, driven by the unyielding spirit of progress and the belief that the change we offer is the ‘Change You Can Count On’, the ‘Hope for Change’ that Liberians deserve.”
