MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Saturday, December 6, 2025, delivered an emotional message to thousands of partisans gathered in Oldest Congo Town, declaring the Unity Party’s return to its original headquarters as a victory of resilience, conviction, and divine grace. Speaking at the Homecoming, Fundraising, and Headquarters Dedication Ceremony, the President said the day was not merely about occupying a building but about “celebrating a defining chapter in our journey, one that speaks to resilience, unity, and the unwavering commitment of our loyal partisans.”
In his address, President Boakai honored the founding figures of the party, describing them as bold Liberians who “stood firm when silence would have been easier.” He invoked the memories of Dr. Edward Binyah Kesselly, William Gabriel Kpolleh, and Jackson Fiah Doe, emphasizing that their sacrifices laid the foundation for Liberia’s democratic pluralism. “Though they have transitioned, their examples continue to illuminate our path,” he told the audience.
The President became somber as he remembered five partisans who died in two separate incidents during the 2023 campaign season. He recalled the November 20 tragedy on Broad Street, where a speeding vehicle “cut short the precious lives of three of our own.” He also mourned two supporters who died during the September 17 campaign rally. “These five fallen heroes are not just names in our history; they are part of our story, our struggle, and our soul,” President Boakai said, asking the crowd to observe a moment of silence.
Reflecting on the party’s 2021 eviction from the same compound, the President said many believed the expulsion marked the end of the Unity Party. But he declared that history had proven otherwise. “They counted us out. They were certain we would never return. But they underestimated our resolve,” he said. He added that the party’s resurgence mirrored Scripture: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.”
Boakai credited the party’s leadership and grassroots members for keeping the movement alive through difficult years. He praised Chairman Luther Tarpeh for what he called resolute and inspiring leadership, and applauded the Headquarters Steering Committee led by Senator Dabah Mabande Varpilah for transforming “a dream into a living reality.” He stressed that the return to the compound was “earned through sacrifice, steadfastness, and the belief that no impediment is final unless we accept it.”
Turning to national affairs, President Boakai said Liberians voted in 2023 to “reject the chaos, incompetence, lethargy, and reckless mismanagement” of the previous administration. He maintained that Liberia’s reputation has improved under his leadership. “Respect and reverence for Liberia is rapidly rising again. Our passports have earned greater weight. Liberians abroad now move with confidence, not embarrassment,” he said, noting the country’s re-election to the IMO Council and its imminent seating on the UN Security Council.
Boakai also highlighted progress in the economy, infrastructure, and governance. He said market prices are stabilizing, investors are returning, and road connectivity has improved. “Liberians no longer have to cross through another country just to reach the Southeast. Dignity has been restored,” he asserted. But he cautioned the audience that nation-building is a continuous struggle: “Transformation is not an event, and a single battle victory does not amount to winning a war.”
He called on partisans to recommit to strengthening the Unity Party by contributing their time, energy, and resources. He urged full support for his ARREST Agenda, which he described as “the best vehicle for delivering accountability, reform, economic stability, service delivery, and transparent governance.”
The President also acknowledged opposition and independent lawmakers who attended the ceremony, describing their presence as a symbol of national unity. He extended an open invitation to them to join the Unity Party, telling them: “Hop on board and make the Unity Party your political home.”
In closing, President Boakai thanked partisans of the Rescue Mission and the party’s 23 alliance members for their longstanding support. “Rest assured, we will not let you down,” he said. He ended with a rallying call: “Long live the Unity Party! May God continue to bless our Party and the Republic of Liberia.”
