On Saturday, August 5, 2023—the day the National Elections Commission (NEC) officially declared campaign open for the October 10 general and presidential elections—the National Youth League of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), headed by Emmanuel Mulbah Johnson, mysteriously took to the principal streets of Monrovia with a coffin bearing pictures of the Unity Party (UP) Standard Bearer and lead opposition figure in the election, Ambassador Joseph N. Boakai, symbolizing his “death [defeat]” ahead of the polls.
As a means of defending the action, which many have termed as unacceptable, CDC Youth Chairman Johnson claimed that their action was instigated by confirmed information that the UP is planning to portray a casket bearing the image of President George M. Weah and Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor, which was already making rounds in various UP chatrooms.
“It’s important to note that the Unity Party’s only message prior to or after the opening of the campaign is ‘war, war, war’. A few days ago, we just saw that affirmation when the official spokesman of the Unity Party confirmed his party’s support for the junta leaders in Burkina Faso and the anti-peace posture to counter the ECOWAS peace mission in Niger…Hoping to see a release of condemnations regarding these acts,” Johnson defended his action.
However, Johnson and his youth league have begun receiving the backlashes for what is being termed as a provocative display that undermines the very essence of the hard-earned democracy.
Bomi County Senator, Edwin Melvin Snowe, who recently pledged his support for President Weah’s second-term bid, said, “As a passionate and ardent believer in the principles of democracy, I am compelled to speak out against the recent actions witnessed during yesterday’s parade organized by a group of overzealous youth of the CDC.
According to Senator Snowe, “It deeply saddens me to see a casket with the image of the lead opposition leader, Ambassador Joseph N. Boakai, Sr., of the Unity Party, paraded in such a manner.
“As someone who has declared support and endorsed the second-term bid of President Weah, I must emphasize that I cannot condone any action that undermines the very essence of our hard-earned democracy.
“Our democracy thrives on the pillars of respect, inclusivity, and constructive debate. Using provocative displays like the one witnessed in yesterday’s parade only serves to stoke division and animosity among fellow citizens. Such actions do not only tarnish the reputation of the CDC, but also threaten the foundation of our nation’s democratic principles.
“Let it be known that I firmly stand against any groupings within the CDC or any political party that resort to tactics that harm the spirit of our democracy and undermine our peace. We must uphold our shared responsibility to foster a political environment that encourages open dialogue, understanding and unity among all citizens.”
In a related development, the CDC National Campaign Team, headed by Lenn Eugene Nagbe, said the CDC Youth League’s action is unacceptable and does not represent the set of activities that have been envisioned to characterize this crucial democratic exercise.
In a release issued over the weekend, the Weah-Taylor 2023 Campaign Committee recommitted itself to the conduct of an issue-based campaign that emphasizes the exceptional record of development and good governance of His Excellency President George M. Weah, while also underscoring the importance of maintaining a peaceful democratic environment.
“The Weah-Taylor 2023 Campaign Committee therefore deplores the action of some of its over-exuberant supporters who marched the streets toting a casket on Saturday during the official start of the period of political campaign for the presidential and legislative elections in October,” the release stated.
The release underscored, “This action is unacceptable and does not represent the set of activities that have been envisioned to characterize this crucial democratic exercise.
“The committee believes that the unprecedented gains the Weah Administration has made over the years provide sufficient nuggets for a massive victory in the upcoming elections. It therefore urges everyone working towards this ultimate goal to remain on message.”