Former National Chairman of Liberia's Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Mulbah K. Morlu Jr., has announced his return to the opposition party. He made the announcement on Saturday in response to a petition from grassroots supporters urging him to rejoin the party. Morlu resigned as national chairman in June 2024, citing a desire to prevent internal divisions within the party following its defeat in the 2023 presidential election.
Morlu emphasized that his return to the CDC would be as an ordinary member, and not as an attempt to reclaim the party's chairmanship or compete for another leadership position. He stated that his resignation was motivated by the party's survival, which he believed was more important than holding onto leadership. Morlu expressed pride in his decision, saying it helped create a period of peace and stability within the CDC.
Morlu warned the party must overcome internal disagreements and unite ahead of the 2029 general and presidential elections. He challenged the party's future leadership to embrace inclusiveness, arguing that a chairman must be capable of bringing together supporters of different factions. Morlu described a successful leader as one who can form a team, even with those who disagree with their leadership.
Beyond his return to the CDC, Morlu criticized President Joseph Nyuma Boakai's administration, accusing it of targeting opposition figures through politically motivated prosecutions and selective justice. He called on the CDC to abandon its policy of constructive engagement with the government and adopt a more confrontational approach. Morlu maintained that his return would not affect his role as Chairman of the Solidarity Trust for a New Day (STAND).
Morlu acknowledged that his decision to return could affect some personal relationships, particularly with individuals who may disagree with his political position. He insisted that political differences should not destroy personal friendships. Morlu alleged that House of Representatives Deputy Speaker, Thomas Fallah, refused to allow him entrance to his house after news of his return to the CDC.
Morlu described the CDC as one of Liberia's most significant political institutions, saying its survival must go beyond the ambitions and interests of individual leaders. He emphasized that the party's survival is crucial, stating that it must outlive all of its members. Morlu's return comes at a critical moment for the opposition party as it seeks to rebuild its political strength and position itself for the 2029 elections.
The implications of Morlu's return and his warnings for the CDC and the wider Liberian political landscape remain to be seen. His decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some supporters welcoming his return and others expressing concerns about his influence on the party's future. As the CDC prepares for the 2029 elections, Morlu's role within the party and his relationship with its leadership will be closely watched.
Key points
- Mulbah Morlu returns to CDC as an ordinary member, not seeking party leadership.
- Morlu criticizes President Boakai's administration, accusing it of targeting opposition figures.
- Morlu challenges CDC's future leadership to embrace inclusiveness ahead of 2029 elections.
