MONROVIA – Alternative National Congress (ANC) Political Leader Alexander Benedict Cummings has openly acknowledged critical shortcomings in his 2023 presidential campaign, citing weak communication, ineffective voter protection, and coordinated political attacks as major factors behind his defeat.
Speaking candidly during a radio appearance on Okay FM, Cummings offered one of his most detailed post-election assessments, taking responsibility for strategic failures while also pointing to what he described as deliberate efforts by opponents to derail his campaign.
“There is no one thing,” Cummings said. “There are many things… and I own where I find myself. I take responsibility.”
Communication Breakdown and Missed Opportunities
At the center of his critique was what he described as a flawed communication strategy that allowed opponents to define his public image.
“Our whole media, communications, propaganda stuff wasn’t very effective,” he admitted. “We let them define me… and we didn’t really react.”
He pointed specifically to false narratives—including allegations about his personal life and claims that he was out of touch with ordinary citizens—that gained traction during the campaign.
“We should have been more effective… we should have defined me and not let the opposition define me,” he added.
Failure to Protect Votes
Cummings also pointed to serious operational failures on Election Day, particularly in safeguarding votes at polling stations.
“Our vote watching… was horrible, was abysmal, was a failure,” he said bluntly.
According to him, inadequate systems for monitoring results and ensuring electoral integrity contributed to what he described as an unexpectedly poor outcome.
“That’s why we got a one percent result,” he noted, underscoring the magnitude of the campaign’s shortcomings.
CPP Collapse and Internal Sabotage
The ANC leader further blamed internal divisions within the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP) for weakening his candidacy.
Reflecting on the coalition, he said it represented both the promise and pitfalls of Liberian politics.
“On the good side, it showed we can come together… but on the other side, it reflected what’s bad about Liberia—the crab mentality,” Cummings said.
He alleged that false accusations and internal disputes within the CPP were “all orchestrated” to undermine his momentum at a critical stage of the campaign.
“We had momentum prior to that… they wanted to slow it down. It was intentional,” he claimed.
Rebuilding ANC and Positioning for the Future
Despite the setbacks, Cummings expressed optimism about the future of his political movement, outlining plans to revitalize the ANC and re-engage voters.
“We are in the process now of trying to re-energize the party,” he said. “Liberians will see a re-energized ANC… more robust in the media.”
He emphasized that rebuilding would include strengthening communication structures, expanding outreach, and reconnecting with grassroots supporters—particularly young people, whom he admitted were not effectively engaged during the campaign.
A ‘Third Way’ Vision
Cummings also positioned himself as part of what he described as a growing demand among Liberians for a political alternative beyond the country’s dominant parties.
“I believe many Liberians want a third way… a better way,” he said.
He acknowledged that he has yet to fully establish himself as that alternative but insisted the opportunity remains open.
“It’s up to me… to make the case that we can be that third option,” he added.
Determined to Continue
Despite the challenges of the past election, Cummings made it clear that he is not retreating from politics.
“I’m not discouraged… I’m a very optimistic person,” he said. “We will learn from the mistakes.”
His remarks suggest a political recalibration—one grounded in reflection, accountability, and a renewed push to reshape both his image and his party’s strategy ahead of future elections.
As Liberia’s political landscape continues to evolve, Cummings’ candid assessment may signal the beginning of a more competitive and self-aware opposition movement.
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