CDC Turns on VP Koung, Pennue

By Kruah Thompson

MONROVIA, June 23, 2026 – The opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has accused Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung Sr. and Grand Gedeh County Senator Zoe E. Pennue of interfering with the party’s planned 22nd Anniversary and Militant Month Celebration scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, in Zwedru.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday at the CDC headquarters in Sinkor, Youth League Chairman Alvan Wesseh alleged that the party’s constitutional right to peacefully assemble was being undermined.

According to Wesseh, the CDC had previously secured permission to use a major football field in Zwedru for the celebration. However, he said the party was informed just one day before the event that the venue had already been reserved by the ruling Unity Party for activities on the same date.

Wesseh accused Vice President Koung of orchestrating the decision, describing it as an attempt to disrupt the CDC’s anniversary celebration and broader political activities in Grand Gedeh County.

He said the party has formally notified several international partners, including the United States Embassy, the European Union, the United Nations, ECOWAS, the African Union, and other diplomatic missions, about what it described as political interference.

According to Wesseh, the CDC believes the incident raises broader concerns about Liberia’s commitment to political tolerance, democratic participation, and constitutional freedoms.

“This issue goes beyond a disagreement over a venue,” Wesseh said. “It raises concerns about whether opposition parties can freely organize and conduct lawful activities without political interference.”

The CDC also expressed concerns over national security, public accountability, and proposed amendments to Liberia’s election laws. The party warned that any changes that limit the ability of political parties to challenge election irregularities or effectively monitor elections could undermine transparency and public confidence in the electoral process.

Despite its concerns, the CDC reaffirmed its commitment to peace and urged supporters attending the celebration to remain calm, disciplined, and law-abiding. Wesseh said the anniversary celebration would proceed regardless of the venue dispute.

The CDC is marking its 22nd Anniversary and Militant Month Celebration under the theme: “Zwedru Rises: 2029 Victory Is the Final Destination.”

Editor’s note: The allegations made by the CDC against Vice President Koung and Senator Pennue had not been independently verified at the time of publication, and no response from the two officials was immediately available.