The Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas has endorsed Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung for the 2029 presidential election, a notable break from their tradition of remaining politically neutral. This endorsement follows a petition related to immigration issues presented to the Vice President. However, his potential candidacy remains uncertain owing to directives from President Boakai cautioning against aspirations for the upcoming elections.
Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung is garnering early support for the 2029 presidential election, despite not officially declaring his candidacy. His endorsement by Mr. Mohamed ‘MSG1’ Keita, President of the Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA), marks a significant deviation from the organization’s tradition of neutrality in electoral matters.
Mr. Keita’s endorsement followed the presentation of a petition addressing immigration issues for Liberians in the U.S. during a Town Hall Meeting on March 8, 2025. He fervently urged supporters, stating, “Remember 2029 is coming, if you are ready, we are ready!” Nonetheless, it remains uncertain if Vice President Koung plans to run for the presidency.
The upcoming elections in October 2029 will see Liberians choosing new lawmakers and electing a President and Vice President. ULAA’s endorsement of Vice President Koung contradicts its long-standing policy of refraining from supporting candidates. The organization aims to collaborate with all Liberian administrations for the diaspora and nationals alike.
Before receiving the endorsement, Vice President Koung underscored concerns about corruption within the government and the challenges faced by Liberian immigrants. Although he did not directly address Mr. Keita’s endorsement, he recognized the issue of corruption as a persistent challenge.
It is worth noting that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has advised his administration members, including Vice President Koung, to resign if they are contemplating a 2029 run. He emphasized during a recent Cabinet meeting, “If your focus is on 2029, you may respectfully resign. My priority is serving the Liberian people right now.”
The recent endorsement of Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung by ULAA President Mohamed Keita for the upcoming presidential election represents a significant departure from ULAA’s tradition of neutrality. The Vice President’s acknowledgment of corruption issues, coupled with the President’s warning to cabinet members about focusing on future elections, creates a complex political landscape in Liberia as the 2029 elections approach. The direction of these developments remains to be seen as the election date draws closer.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com
