By Amos Harris
Former Speaker of the House of Representatives Fonati Koffa has ruled out contesting for the chairmanship of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), declaring that his immediate priority is the construction of the party’s national headquarters rather than pursuing its top leadership position.
Former Speaker Koffa confirmed his decision on Friday, October 30, 2026, in response to an inquiry from journalists, dismissing speculation about his possible participation in the anticipated leadership contest.
“No, I’m not running. You can quote me that I’m not contesting; I am busy with party HQ work,” he stated, leaving little doubt about his position.
His announcement comes at a time when political discussions are intensifying within the CDC over its future leadership, particularly following Montserrado County District #9 Representative Frank Saah Foko Jr.’s declaration of support for Janga Kowo as a potential contender for the party’s chairmanship. The development has further highlighted emerging political alignments and competing interests within the opposition movement.
However, Mr. Koffa’s decision has generated mixed reactions among party supporters, with questions being raised about his political influence, relationships with fellow lawmakers, and his standing within the CDC. Some partisans reportedly believe his political influence was affected by his engagements with members of the ruling establishment during his tenure as Speaker of the House.
Other party supporters have questioned whether Koffa’s political approach and decisions contributed to existing divisions, particularly among lawmakers and influential party figures who may have disagreed with his leadership style. These differing opinions expose the internal disagreements that could complicate the CDC’s next leadership transition.
Despite the criticism, Koffa remains a significant political figure within the opposition party, having maintained relationships with several lawmakers during his tenure as Speaker. Among those associated with his political support is Montserrado County District #7 Representative Emmanuel Dahn, whose political affiliation and electoral history have also attracted discussions among some CDC partisans.
Rather than entering the chairmanship contest, Representative Koffa is calling on party officials, elected representatives, influential members, and ordinary partisans to put aside personal political ambitions and collectively support the construction of the CDC’s national headquarters. He argues that the party has several capable individuals who can provide leadership without allowing the leadership race to undermine its institutional development.
Koffa further indicated that former President and CDC Standard-bearer George Manneh Weah wants the headquarters completed as a symbol of peace, unity, and political organization. He believes the proposed facility could strengthen the party’s institutional capacity and provide a permanent center for political activities, coordination, and collective participation.
As the CDC prepares for its next leadership contest, Koffa’s decision not to run raises broader questions about internal unity, political loyalty, and the party’s ability to manage competing interests. While the construction of a permanent national headquarters is important, the real test for the CDC will be whether its leadership can address internal divisions, rebuild confidence among its supporters, and establish a credible political structure ahead of future elections.