[By: Pewu Y. Sumo]
GBARNGA, BONG COUNTY – After a two-day intensive convention in the heart of Bong County, the Inter-Party Consultative Committee (IPCC) has officially elected its new leadership. Gabriel B. Saydee of the CLP emerged as the National Coordinator in a series of polls that delegates described as “tense but peaceful.”
The elections, held at the Gbarnga Administrative Building on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, marked a significant milestone for Liberia’s political landscape. The process followed a foundational session on Monday where delegates formally adopted a new constitution to govern the Secretariat’s operations.
A Call for Political Unity
Ahead of the voting, the Chairperson of the National Elections Commission (NEC), Madam Davidetta Brown Lansanah, addressed the representatives of Liberia’s various political parties. She emphasized that the gathering in Gbarnga was more than just a procedural exercise; it was a vital step toward national stability.
“It is a great day to see all of you here to assemble for a singular purpose,” Madam Brown Lansanah stated. “That purpose in my mind is unity among the political parties.” She also reflected on the “long journey” required to establish the IPCC as a functional framework for inter-party dialogue.
Overcoming Delays
The path to the Gbarnga polls was not without obstacles. Originally slated for the first week of December, the elections were pushed back by seven days. Election Committee Chairman Thomas O. Walker, Jr. explained that the delay was necessary due to “logistical constraints, unforeseen circumstances, and administrative adjustments.”
Despite the wait, the election proceeded smoothly, with a mix of contested races and “white ballot” (uncontested) victories.
Election Results: The New IPCC Leadership
The election filled ten key positions within the Secretariat. Five candidates were elected unopposed, while the remaining five secured their seats through competitive voting.
Contested Winners:
- National Coordinator: Gabriel B. Saydee (CLP) – 52 votes
- National Administrator: Albert C. Wah (EFFL) – 80 votes
- National Project Officer: Jeremiah E. Paye (MOVEE) – 77 votes
- National Deputy Coordinator for Administration: Williette P. Coorper (LP) – 68 votes
- National Deputy Coordinator for Operations: Whroway Bryant (UP) – 47 votes
Uncontested (White Ballot) Winners:
- National Secretary General: Leayee Togba, Jr. (LFM)
- National Deputy Assistant Secretary General: Jerry A. Garglahn (LTP)
- National Financial Secretary: Vasco G. Johnson (NLP)
- National Treasurer: Florence C. Kaydee (LRP)
- Liaison Officer: Mohammed M.J. Manssalay (ALSOP)
Looking Ahead: A Two-Year Mandate
The newly elected officials are set to serve a two-year term. Their primary responsibility, according to Chairman Walker, will be the critical task of mitigating election-related disputes within and between Liberia’s political parties.
As the Secretariat begins its work under the newly adopted constitution, the focus now shifts to how this leadership will translate the theme of “unity” into practical conflict resolution ahead of future electoral cycles.
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