Former Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) Captain, Jerry Kerkulah Kollie, has accused the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) and the ruling Unity Party of promoting what he described as “bad tribalism” and worsening political divisions in Liberia.
Speaking during a radio interview in Monrovia, Captain Kollie expressed concern over what he characterized as increasing hostility between supporters of the two major political parties, arguing that political loyalty has increasingly taken precedence over national unity, humanity and the welfare of ordinary Liberians.
The former military officer alleged that political divisions have reached a level where some supporters of opposing parties show little sympathy for one another, even during periods of illness, economic hardship and personal tragedy.
He argued that partisan interests have weakened the spirit of solidarity among Liberians, creating an environment in which political differences appear to outweigh basic human compassion.
Captain Kollie further alleged that some political actors would rather see members of opposing political camps suffer than extend assistance, describing such attitudes as dangerous to the country’s social cohesion.
He also linked the growing political intolerance to incidents of violence and killings reported during the 2023 general elections, including cases in Lofa County.
According to him, the political atmosphere surrounding the elections exposed the extent of divisions within the country and raised concerns about the commitment of political leaders to peaceful coexistence.
The Bong County native argued that Liberia’s political leadership has failed to adequately prioritize national development, as political competition and partisan interests continue to dominate public discourse.
He maintained that the country’s future should not be determined by political affiliation, ethnic background or loyalty to individual political leaders, but by a collective commitment to national progress.
In a particularly strong criticism of the country’s political establishment, Captain Kollie called for the dissolution of both the CDC and the Unity Party, accusing the parties of contributing to political division and instability.
He argued that Liberia needs a different political direction, one that places national interest above party loyalty and encourages cooperation among citizens regardless of their political differences.
His comments come amid continuing debates about political intolerance, ethnic divisions and the responsibility of political parties to promote national reconciliation.
However, his call to dissolve the two major political parties raises broader questions about political pluralism, democratic participation and the role of political institutions in strengthening Liberia’s democracy.
Captain Kollie’s allegations place renewed attention on the need for political leaders and party supporters to demonstrate tolerance, respect opposing views and promote peaceful coexistence.
The CDC and Unity Party had not responded to his allegations at the time of publication.
