MONROVIA, Liberia — Five major opposition political parties in Liberia have signed a joint communiqué committing themselves to greater cooperation on issues of national concern, following political roundtable discussions held on September 6 and September 27, 2026. The parties said their objective is to build a broader, people-centered alternative for Liberia based on unity, mutual respect, shared ownership and national interest.
The communiqué was signed by former President George Manneh Weah of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), Alexander B. Cummings of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), Dee-Maxwell Saah Kemayah of the Movement for Economic Empowerment (MOVEE), Simeon C. M. Freeman of the Movement for Progressive Change (MPC), and Jonathan A. Mason of the Union of Liberian Democrats Party (ULDP). The parties said their cooperation is not intended simply to oppose the government, but to contribute to a broader national agenda focused on accountable governance, equal opportunity and respect for democratic institutions.
One of the most prominent issues raised is Liberia’s territorial sovereignty. The opposition leaders allege that Liberian territory in Foya District, Lofa County, has been occupied by Guinea and accuse the government of failing to resolve the matter through effective diplomacy. They are calling for stronger action involving ECOWAS, the African Union and the United Nations to protect Liberia’s territorial integrity.
The parties also criticized the government’s foreign-policy approach, particularly its relationship with the European Union. The communiqué references the government’s March 2026 request for the recall of EU Ambassador/Head of Delegation Nona Deprez over comments concerning transparency in Liberia’s mining sector. The opposition argues that diplomats should be allowed to express views on matters affecting democracy, the rule of law and economic governance.
Another issue highlighted is the reported arrangement between Liberia and the United States concerning the transfer of up to 1,200 third-country nationals to Liberia. The opposition parties say the government has not provided sufficient information to the Liberian public about the arrangement and are demanding greater transparency, particularly regarding its implications for Liberia and the welfare of the migrants involved.
On the economy, the opposition says poverty, unemployment and difficulties facing the private sector remain major challenges. The parties argue that many Liberian businesses continue to struggle to access financing and that government policies, regulation and procurement practices are not adequately protecting opportunities for Liberian-owned businesses. They also questioned the impact of the government’s increased domestic revenue on ordinary Liberians.
The communiqué devotes significant attention to corruption, with the opposition accusing the government of applying anti-corruption measures selectively. Among the matters cited are the US$10 million Foya construction project and an alleged US$8 million transfer of reserve funds from the Central Bank of Liberia to SIB Liberia. The opposition is calling on the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission to conduct independent investigations into these and other allegations involving current and former government officials.
The opposition leaders also raised concerns about judicial independence and freedom of expression. They allege that the government has disregarded Supreme Court decisions and interfered with the justice system, while also expressing concern over the use of the Cybercrime Act against citizens who criticize government officials. The parties said they support legislation against genuine cybercrime but oppose what they describe as the use of such laws to suppress legitimate criticism protected by Liberia’s Constitution.
The security situation surrounding former President George Weah and the government’s handling of major drug investigations were also addressed. The opposition alleges that a threatening environment was created around Weah following his return to Liberia on September 2 and calls for an independent investigation into recent drug seizures, including cases involving alleged narcotics valued at US$19 million and US$317 million. The parties propose the involvement of civil society, religious organizations, the Press Union of Liberia and other stakeholders in such an investigation.
Beyond politics, the parties identified economic opportunities, healthcare and education as areas requiring urgent attention. They raised concerns about property rights, access to government procurement opportunities, teacher and health-worker compensation, and the quality of education and healthcare. The communiqué concludes with a commitment to continued opposition cooperation while maintaining the individual identities and organizational independence of each party. The parties have established an Opposition Political Parties’ Joint Technical Committee, which will coordinate further consultations and engagement with opposition lawmakers, civil society, professional groups and citizens. They also pledged to support an independent National Elections Commission and protect the credibility of Liberia’s 2029 General and Presidential Elections.
The Truth Is Our Guide