Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas President, Mr. Keita, endorsed Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung for the 2029 elections. This endorsement is against ULAA’s tradition of remaining politically neutral. Keita’s support follows discussions on immigration issues affecting Liberians abroad, while Koung himself has not confirmed his candidacy amid existing political guidelines from President Boakai.
The Vice President of Liberia, Jeremiah Kpan Koung, has garnered early support for the upcoming 2029 presidential elections from the Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA), despite not yet officially declaring his candidacy. Mr. Mohamed ‘MSG1’ Keita, President of ULAA, violated the organization’s customary practice by endorsing Koung, stating the support follows discussions concerning immigration issues faced by Liberians living in the United States.
During a Town Hall Meeting on March 8, 2025, in Philadelphia, Keita presented a petition to the Vice President on behalf of diaspora members with Immigration concerns. He concluded his remarks with a call to action, saying, “Remember 2029 is coming, if you are ready, we are ready!” However, it remains uncertain if Vice President Koung intends to run for presidency in 2029 as elections will take place in October of that year.
ULAA’s endorsement is atypical because traditionally, the organization refrains from endorsing any political candidates, seeking instead to maintain a collaborative relationship with every administration for the benefit of its members. Despite the endorsement, there has been tension regarding the Vice President’s acknowledgment during the meeting, where he focused on broader issues including corruption, rather than discussing the specifics of Keita’s endorsement.
The Vice President’s reticence may also be influenced by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s warning to his executive team, discouraging any individuals with aspirations for the 2029 electoral cycle from remaining in their current roles. As stated by President Boakai, “If your focus is on 2029, you may respectfully resign. My priority is serving the Liberian people right now.”
The endorsement of Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung by ULAA’s President, Mr. Mohamed Keita, marks a significant departure from the organization’s tradition of political neutrality. With the 2029 elections approaching, this shift in support could have wider ramifications for Koung’s potential candidacy and the political landscape among the Liberian diaspora. Furthermore, President Boakai’s caution to his executive members reflects ongoing concerns surrounding political aspirations at this stage.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com
