MONROVIA – In a step toward fostering unity within the Liberty Party (LP), Cllr. Charlyne Brumskine-Dennis, daughter of the party’s founding father, emotionally presented a symbol of reconciliation to Political Leader and President Pro-Tempore of the Liberian Senate, Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence.
The heartfelt gesture drew tears from many, including Cllr. Brumskine-Dennis herself, Madam Karnga-Lawrence, Montserrado County Senator Abraham Darius Dillon, members of the National Executive Committee, and several partisans. The emotional moment unfolded during the party’s International Women’s Day (IWD) program at its national headquarters in Congo Town, Monrovia.
The reconciliation symbol featured images of the late Cllr. Charles Walker Brumskine—founding father, former political leader, and presidential candidate of the Liberty Party—alongside the party’s National Chairperson, Representative Rugie Yatu Barry (Montserrado County District #1), and the current political leader, Madam Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence.
A Party Reunited
The Liberty Party, one of Liberia’s most prominent democratic institutions, had been embroiled in internal divisions following its January 2021 convention in Gbarnga, Bong County. Disputes over constitutional provisions and filings with the National Elections Commission (NEC) led to a split, creating two factions—one led by former National Chairman Representative Musa Hassan Bility (Nimba County District #7) and the other by Political Leader Karnga-Lawrence, which later endorsed the Unity Party of now-President Joseph Nyuma Boakai in the 2023 presidential and legislative elections.
This discord deeply impacted the party’s performance during the 2023 elections. Cllr. Brumskine-Dennis, in that period, aligned with the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP), serving as the running mate to Alexander B. Cummings, political leader of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), a constituent member of the CPP.
A Call for Reconciliation
Presenting the symbol of unity, Cllr. Brumskine-Dennis addressed Madam Karnga-Lawrence with heartfelt admiration. “Madam Political Leader, my big sister, you are a strong woman,” she said. “I have learned so much from you, and we can never return to that dark path again.”
She reflected on the party’s internal crisis, expressing regret over how political disagreements in Liberia are often unnecessarily escalated. Despite the past rift, she emphasized her enduring respect for Karnga-Lawrence as both a leader and a resilient woman.
“You know, during the crisis within our party, everyone went their separate ways. But the respect I have for her as a leader, as a woman—I cannot take that away,” she noted.
The occasion also honored the resilience of female partisans. Cllr. Brumskine-Dennis praised Karnga-Lawrence for enduring public criticism and political challenges that would have deterred many from leadership.
“Sometimes when you face disputes and disappointments, you can pick yourself up and use them as stepping stones to achieve your goals. She has reached one of the highest positions within the Liberty Party,” she added.
According to her, the reconciliation symbol represents the spirit of unity that Liberia urgently needs—not only within the Liberty Party, but across all sectors of society. She decried divisions based on religion, politics, and social lines, urging Liberians to pursue reconciliation, shared identity, and peace for national advancement.
A Commitment to Women’s Leadership
Reflecting on her own political journey, Cllr. Brumskine-Dennis recalled facing skepticism over her youth during her vice-presidential bid. Despite these challenges, she stood firm, demonstrating the power and promise of women’s leadership.
“After all, we have a woman occupying one of the highest positions in government—our Political Leader. I’m here trying to follow her example and bring other young women along as well,” she stated.
Reaffirming her loyalty to the Liberty Party, she declared, “The party is in our blood, so we’re not going anywhere.” She emphasized that while the party had gone through divisions, every member retained their LP identity until unity was restored.
She also extended an invitation to all Liberians, stressing that the Liberty Party is not exclusive to Grand Bassa or Montserrado counties, but open to all who believe in Liberia’s growth and prosperity.
Madam Karnga-Lawrence Expresses Gratitude for Honors Bestowed
In her remarks, Madam Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence expressed deep appreciation for the gesture and recognition by Cllr. Brumskine-Dennis and fellow partisans.
“I thought we were here to celebrate others being honored today, but we’ve turned this into an emotional day,” she said. “I am very happy that in the Liberty Party, we no longer speak of division.”
She praised the party’s capacity to overcome internal struggles and emerge stronger, stressing its unity and resilience.
While commending the event’s keynote speaker and panelists—gathered under the theme “Accelerate Action to Unlock Rights, Power, and Opportunity for Women and Girls”—she announced plans to establish a youth and women’s mentorship program aimed at nurturing future leaders.
“We have the facilities here, and we’re going to make good use of them to build strong female leaders and inspire others through our own stories,” she emphasized.
Karnga-Lawrence also recognized the resilience of female partisans and the supportive role of male allies like Senator Dillon and Jacob Smith, who have championed women’s leadership in the party.
“To have a party where the Political Leader, Chairperson, and Advisory Council Chair are all women—and where 50 percent of the Executive Council is made up of women—is a testament to the support of our male colleagues,” she noted.
The Liberty Party’s reconciliation marks a renewed chapter of unity and shared purpose. As it moves forward, the party aims to empower women, foster inclusive leadership, and serve as a beacon of political healing in Liberia.
LP’s Vocational Program Initiative
During the event, Liberty Party National Chairperson Representative Rugie Yatu Barry unveiled plans to establish a vocational training center for partisans.
“We must accelerate actions to unlock opportunities by investing in women’s economic empowerment,” she said. “Women entrepreneurs, professionals, and innovators are the backbone of our economy.”
Barry emphasized the need to dismantle barriers that restrict access to financial resources, education, and mentorship. She stressed that every girl in Liberia should grow up knowing her dreams are valid, her skills valuable, and her future limitless.
“Women are not just participants in national development—they are leaders, innovators, and nation-builders. Yet, many still face gender-based violence, economic inequality, and limited access to leadership roles,” she said. “These are not just women’s issues; they are national issues that demand our collective commitment.”
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