Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung has received an endorsement for the 2029 presidential election from ULAA’s President, Mr. Mohamed ‘MSG1’ Keita, breaking the organization’s tradition of non-endorsement. Koung has not confirmed a candidacy, and the endorsement raises concerns about his adherence to the current administration’s focus on governance. The national elections in Liberia will occur in October 2029.
The Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA) has officially endorsed Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung for the 2029 Presidential Election, a significant departure from its traditional stance of remaining neutral in political matters. President Mohamed ‘MSG1’ Keita presented this endorsement after discussing immigration issues affecting diaspora Liberians with Koung, emphasizing the support he perceives among the community.
During a Town Hall Meeting in Philadelphia on March 8, 2025, Keita highlighted the organization’s readiness for Koung’s potential campaign by stating, “Remember 2029 is coming, if you are ready, we are ready!” Despite this endorsement, it remains uncertain whether Koung will actually run for the presidency, as he has not made any official announcement.
Elections are scheduled for October 2029, with voting for new lawmakers and the presidency in Liberia. The ULAA’s endorsement is particularly notable, as the organization typically maintains a policy of non-endorsement to promote cooperation with all Liberian administrations for the benefit of diaspora members and citizens in Liberia.
Additionally, Koung has previously addressed issues of government corruption and the plight of Liberians abroad but did not directly respond to the endorsement during the Town Hall. His hesitance may be due to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s warning to Cabinet members about the implications of having ambitions for the presidency, suggesting that they focus solely on current governance responsibilities.
Boakai remarked, “If your focus is on 2029, you may respectfully resign. My priority is serving the Liberian people right now,” underscoring the urgency of addressing immediate concerns over future ambitions.
In summary, the ULAA’s endorsement of Vice President Koung signifies a notable shift in its traditional operations, reflecting potential support among the Liberian diaspora for his 2029 presidential aspirations, although no official campaign has been announced. Kuong’s current stance remains cautious in light of presidential warnings about focusing on governance over future ambitions. Therefore, the intersection of these political dynamics will be pivotal as Liberia approaches the next elections.
Original Source: www.liberianobserver.com