Published: October 16, 2024
Woodbridge, Virginia — In a dissent, Mardia Gibson Yarmeto, a key figure within the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) and a leader of the CDC-USA Reformers, has openly criticized the election of Yahaya Talata Sheriff as the Chairman of CDC-USA. According to Yarmeto, the election was marred by constitutional and procedural flaws that have intensified internal conflicts within the CDC’s diaspora chapter.
Yarmeto, representing a group known for highlighting governance issues within the party, declared the election illegitimate. “This election is a travesty, failing to adhere to the constitutional processes essential for our party’s governance,” she asserted. Despite calls for unity from Sheriff, who Yarmeto accuses of masquerading as the elected leader, she insists the election overlooked critical voices within the party, undermining its democratic foundations.
Labeling the event the “Iowa Fiasco,” Yarmeto criticized the election procedures at the controversial Iowa convention, which she believes were riddled with irregularities and exclusions. “The Iowa election was unconstitutional and dismissive of disenfranchised members’ concerns, which makes discussions about unity farcical under the current mismanagement,” she argued.
Yarmeto advocates for a transparent and inclusive approach to resolve the CDC-USA’s internal disputes. “We demand a return to our foundational principles of transparency, fairness, and respect for all members’ voices, which are currently being compromised,” she stated, condemning the secretive nature of decision-making within the party.
The CDC-USA Reformers, as per Yarmeto, are committed to restoring integrity and democratic processes within the party. “Our dedication is to the party’s democratic essence, not to the power plays of a few,” she emphasized, signaling a preparedness to challenge the current leadership to safeguard the party’s interests.
Yarmeto vows that the Reformers’ voice will not be stifled, underscoring their resolve to champion significant reforms within CDC-USA. “This struggle isn’t about personal gains; it’s about preserving our party as a beacon of democracy,” she stated.
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