Philadelphia, USA – The Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has declared its unwavering commitment to national renewal and democratic accountability, delivering a powerful message of unity and resilience during its USA National Convention held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The statement, which outlined the party’s vision for the coming years and its role as a constructive opposition, was read by Williametta Edouarda Saydee-Tarr, the CDC Vice Chair for Political Affairs, on behalf of the National Chairman, Atty. Janga Augustus Kowo. In her address to delegates, partisans, and international guests gathered from July 29 to August 1, 2026, Madam Saydee-Tarr conveyed Chairman Kowo’s vision of Philadelphia as more than just a host city, but as a “meeting place of conviction” and a “gathering place of democrats.”
The statement acknowledged the concerns of Liberians both at home and abroad regarding the rising cost of living, economic hardship, and the need for governance that strengthens public trust. Emphasizing the party’s role in the current political landscape, the CDC reiterated its responsibility to hold the government accountable through constitutional means, describing this as a “democratic obligation” rather than a mere political tactic.
“History measures great political movements not by temporary setbacks, but by their resilience, discipline, and ability to renew themselves,” the statement read. “The Coalition for Democratic Change has repeatedly demonstrated that resilience… because our foundation is built upon millions of ordinary Liberians who believe that democracy must create opportunity, justice, dignity, and hope.” The Chairman’s message placed significant emphasis on the importance of internal cohesion, urging party faithful to view “unity” as a deliberate decision rather than a simple slogan. “Unity means placing Liberia above personal ambition,” the statement declared, warning that no individual is greater than the movement, and no movement is greater than the Republic.
In a direct appeal to the diaspora community in the United States, the CDC leadership stressed that they are “stakeholders” and “vital partners” in the movement, whose expertise and advocacy are crucial for the party’s strength. The convention also served as a moment to honor the party’s Political Leader and Standard Bearer, former President George Manneh Weah. The CDC praised his leadership and his “respect for Liberia’s democratic process during a pivotal period in our national history,” noting that he continues to inspire millions of Liberians.
Looking ahead to the 2029 elections, the CDC underscored that the groundwork begins now. “The journey to 2029 does not begin in 2029. It begins here. It begins today,” the statement asserted, calling for the strengthening of county structures, youth and women empowerment, and the deepening of the party’s policy capacity. The Chairman’s address concluded with a rallying cry for the convention to send a clear signal from Philadelphia to Monrovia. “Let them say that the delegates who gathered in Philadelphia chose unity over division. They chose service over selfishness. They chose ideas over insults,” it read.
The convention reaffirms CDC’s preparedness to serve Liberia, with Ms. Saydee-Tarr concluding the statement with a call for God’s blessing on the CDC, the Liberian diaspora, and the Republic of Liberia.
