“Many parties exist only during campaign season and dissolve immediately afterward. This pattern has created confusion among voters, weakened institutional continuity, and made our politics more dependent on personalities than on clear national policies.”
Those were words of Mr. Bernard Goah while describing murkiness of the Liberian multi-partyism and the political culture in the country that he believes creates more confusion in the voters than clarify the process. See full open letter, dated October 17, 2026, to the Liberian Legislature on strengthening multi-party democracy.
“Honorable Members of the Liberian Legislature:
“I write to you with deep respect for your service to the Republic and with sincere concern for the future of Liberia’s democratic stability.
“Our nation has made significant strides since the restoration of peace, yet one challenge continues to weaken our political system… (the persistent rise and fall of political parties with every election cycle).
“Many parties exist only during campaign season and dissolve immediately afterward. This pattern has created confusion among voters, weakened institutional continuity, and made our politics more dependent on personalities than on clear national policies.
“It is time for Liberia to consider a structural reform that strengthens our democracy for generations to come.
“I respectfully propose that the Legislature introduces legislation establishing four standing political parties, each grounded in a distinct political ideology. These parties would not be owned by individuals or political groups. They would be permanent national institutions, belonging to the Republic of Liberia and serving the long‑term interests of the Liberian people.
“Under this proposal, each party would receive basic government funding until Liberia’s GDP surpasses two billion dollars. This temporary support would allow the parties to build strong institutional foundations, including research departments, county offices, youth and women’s wings, leadership development programs, and policy think‑tanks.
“Once the economy grows stronger, the parties would transition to sustaining themselves through lawful, transparent, and accountable means.
“This reform does not restrict political freedom. Independent candidates would still be free to contest elections. Citizens would remain free to join any party of their choice. What this proposal does is strengthen the institutional backbone of our democracy so that leadership is shaped by ideas, values, and national vision rather than short‑term political movements.
“A structured system with four ideological parties would bring clarity to voters, reduce political fragmentation, and encourage long‑term planning. It would help future administrations maintain policy continuity, attract investment, and build trust with international partners.
“It would also reduce the influence of private financiers and foreign interests, because parties would no longer depend entirely on external funding to operate.
“Liberia needs political institutions that endure. We need parties that can produce leaders who understand governance, development, and national priorities. We need stability that reassures citizens, investors, and partners that Liberia is committed to consistent and predictable leadership.
“A permanent ideological party system would help achieve these goals and strengthen the democratic foundation upon which our nation stands.
“Honorable Legislators, this idea comes from my commitment to Liberia’s future and my belief that our democracy can be stronger, clearer, and more stable. I respectfully ask that this body considers opening a national dialogue on the establishment of four standing political parties.
This is not a political agenda. It is a structural reform intended to support national unity, strengthen governance, and prepare Liberia for long‑term development.
“Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your continued service to the Republic of Liberia.”
About The Author: Mr. Bernard Gbayee Goah is President of Operation We Care for Liberia, a social political and humanitarian advocacy group based in the United States of America. Bernard has written several articles discussing the problems with Liberian politics, the culture of impunity in Liberia.
