MONROVIA – Alexander B. Cummings, two-time presidential candidate and leader of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), has sparked debate by embracing the label of a “proud one-percenter,” despite winning only 1.61% of the national vote in the 2023 elections.
Speaking at the Center for the Exchange of Intellectual Opinions (CEIO) on Thursday, Cummings announced plans to produce T-shirts emblazoned with the phrase, framing it as a badge of resilience rather than failure.
He dismissed the official vote tally as “fraudulent,” claiming it was manipulated to undermine his political standing. “If my support were truly so low, why did both the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) and the Unity Party (UP) seek my endorsement?” he questioned.
Cummings’ claims, however, have been met with skepticism. Critics point out that he did not file a formal complaint with the National Elections Commission (NEC), raising doubts about the legitimacy of his fraud allegations. “If he believes his one percent was manipulated, why didn’t he challenge the NEC officially?” one political analyst said, adding that the argument “carries little weight without evidence.”
Beyond the electoral controversy, Cummings addressed Liberia’s escalating drug crisis, calling for a crackdown on suppliers and importers. He advocated for stricter border controls, harsher penalties for traffickers, and rehabilitation programs for users, including vocational training to reintegrate them into society.
However, some of his remarks drew criticism. Cummings asserted that he should not be expected to personally lead the fight against drugs, stating, “Those in power are paid monthly to serve the Liberian people. It’s their responsibility.” Analysts interpreted this as a suggestion that he would only act on such national issues if holding presidential office.
Looking ahead to the 2029 elections, Cummings said the ANC is open to alliances with any political party, not exclusively the CDC. He also encouraged young Liberians to aim high, advising them not to settle for “second or third place.”
Political commentators suggest that while Cummings’ rhetoric signals potential collaboration, his “second to none” posture may complicate coalition-building. His declaration as a “proud one-percenter” continues to provoke debate across Liberia’s political landscape, interpreted by supporters as a sign of resilience and by critics as political denial and irrelevance.
