PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania – Former Liberian President and Political Leader of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), George Manneh Weah, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2029 presidential election, promising what he described as a renewed vision to restore hope, create jobs, and improve the living conditions of Liberians.
Addressing delegates and supporters at the CDC USA 2026 National Convention in Philadelphia, Weah announced that he had resolved to once again seek the presidency after what he said was careful reflection and consultations with ordinary Liberians both at home and abroad.
“I am coming back,” Weah declared, drawing applause from supporters attending the convention.
The former President said his decision was not motivated by personal ambition but by what he called a deep conviction that Liberia can achieve greater progress.
“I stand before you not merely as a former President, but as a son of Liberia whose faith in our people has never wavered,” Weah told the gathering. “After listening to the cries of ordinary Liberians—from our market women and motorcyclists to our teachers, farmers, students, healthcare workers, and members of the Liberian diaspora—I have resolved to once again present myself as a candidate for the Presidency of the Republic of Liberia in the 2029 general elections.”
Weah said Liberia is currently at a defining moment, pointing to unemployment, rising living costs, inadequate public services, and declining economic opportunities as major challenges confronting the country. He said many young Liberians have lost hope and called for a renewed national commitment to economic recovery and inclusive development.
Outlining his vision for a potential return to office, Weah pledged that his campaign would be anchored on integrity, national unity, accountability, inclusion, and economic transformation.
He identified job creation as his administration’s foremost priority, promising to expand investments in agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing, technology, tourism, and small businesses. He also pledged greater support for Liberian entrepreneurs through improved access to financing, vocational training, and policies designed to encourage local production.
The former President also outlined plans to prioritize education by strengthening public schools, improving teacher welfare, expanding technical and vocational education, and investing in digital learning to better prepare young Liberians for future employment opportunities.
On healthcare, Weah promised to improve hospitals and clinics, strengthen maternal and child healthcare services, recruit and retain medical professionals, and increase access to essential medicines across the country.
He further pledged continued investment in roads, electricity, clean drinking water, sanitation, and modern communication infrastructure, describing these sectors as critical to Liberia’s long-term development.
Agriculture, according to Weah, would once again become a central pillar of national economic policy. He said farmers would receive improved seeds, equipment, irrigation systems, storage facilities, and better market access to transform agriculture into a major engine of economic growth.
Addressing governance, Weah committed himself to transparency and accountability, promising stronger public institutions, improved financial oversight, and responsible management of public resources.
The former Liberian leader also made direct appeals to key segments of the population, including young people, women, and members of the Liberian diaspora.
To Liberia’s youth, he pledged greater opportunities for employment and skills development, while encouraging them to believe in a future where they can succeed without leaving the country in search of better opportunities.
He reaffirmed his commitment to expanding opportunities for women in education, business, public service, and leadership while strengthening protections against violence and discrimination.
Recognizing the contributions of Liberians abroad, Weah praised the diaspora for supporting families and contributing significantly to the country’s economy. He promised deeper engagement with the diaspora through increased opportunities for investment, skills transfer, and national development.
In concluding his address, Weah called for peaceful political engagement ahead of the 2029 elections, urging Liberians to reject division and embrace reconciliation, democratic governance, and national unity.
“My fellow Liberians, 2029 is not simply about electing another President. It is about choosing the direction of our Republic for generations to come,” Weah said. “I ask you to join this movement with courage, optimism, and unwavering belief that together we can build a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous Liberia.”
The declaration marks Weah’s first formal announcement of his intention to seek a return to the presidency since leaving office following the 2023 elections and sets the stage for what is expected to be a closely watched political contest leading up to Liberia’s 2029 general elections.
