Paynesville, Liberia – In a decisive effort to mend internal rifts, the Liberty Party (LP) has launched a reconciliation initiative aimed at resolving a long-standing conflict that has plagued the Party for years. The party’s leadership, one of Liberia’s key political forces, is focused on unification ahead of the Special National Convention (SNC) scheduled for December 13-15, 2024, in Ganta City, Nimba County.
This initiative follows a series of discussions between two factions that emerged after the LP’s Special National Convention in January 2021, which resulted in the election of Senator Nyonblee Kangar-Lawrence as the Political Leader. Despite this election, disagreements regarding various constitutional provisions and election protocols quickly escalated, leading to a split that saw both factions support different presidential candidates in the recently concluded 2023 elections.
The ongoing internal strife has not only hindered the party’s unity but has also tarnished its reputation as a prominent political entity in Liberia. To bridge these divides, the LP’s National Executive Committee and county leaders are committed to reconciling their differences within the next 30 to 60 days, laying the groundwork for a united front. Among the key resolutions is the formation of a joint working group tasked with reviewing the party’s constitution.
This group will propose amendments aimed at fostering proportional representation from both factions, and the revised constitution will form the basis for discussions at the upcoming SNC. Additionally, factions will come to mutual agreements regarding transitional leadership clauses and the restructuring of county leadership roles. Each faction is set to nominate members, including a religious leader, to form a committee that will oversee the SNC preparations. As part of the reconciliation strategy, both groups intend to sign a united resolution at a retreat scheduled for November 2, 2024.
To further cultivate a spirit of cooperation, pending legal disputes between the factions will be withdrawn, creating a more harmonious environment leading into the SNC. Current Political Leader Senator Nyonblee Kangar-Lawrence will continue in her role until a new Standard Bearer is elected, allowing county chairpersons to maintain their positions during the transitional phase. During the reconciliation retreat on November 2, Senator Kangar-Lawrence encouraged party members, both domestically and abroad, to revive their commitment to the LP’s core values.
“The past crisis has made us stronger; now is the time to move the party forward,” she asserted. The Senator emphasized the LP’s legacy of integrity and high standards, asserting that the party must commit to maintaining peace, love, and unity. “There is a time for every season,” she reflected, reminding attendees that challenges can serve as catalysts for strength. Liberty Party Chairperson Representative Rugie Yatu Barry echoed this sentiment, stating that it is time to move past earlier discord and work together as a unified party.
“No one was right or wrong; what’s important now is to put the past behind us,” she declared. Senator Dillon, a key faction leader, affirmed the importance of looking ahead, noting that many individuals are eager to join the LP, pending resolution of the current crisis. “Let’s let go of the past and work together,” he urged.
This reconciliation effort is viewed as a crucial step for the Liberty Party as it seeks to reclaim its position in Liberia’s political landscape and prepare for upcoming electoral challenges. The initiative underscores the party’s commitment to unity and effective governance as it strives to overcome its recent turmoil.
