MONROVIA – As the Alternative National Congress (ANC) gears up for its much-anticipated national convention slated for the weekend of October 2 in Margibi County, political leader Alexander B. Cummings has issued a rallying call to partisans, urging them to set aside internal differences and embrace a renewed spirit of unity, volunteerism, and purpose.
In a video message addressed to ANC supporters both in Liberia and abroad, Cummings emphasized the importance of the upcoming convention as a turning point in the party’s trajectory.
“We need to start a new chapter in the ANC — one where we’re all willing to work, to sacrifice, to volunteer on behalf of our country, our people, and our party,” Cummings said.
The former corporate executive turned politician and now a political party leader, called on partisans to focus on electing “qualified, committed, passionate people who support the ANC in our mission and values,” and reiterated his belief in the future of the party.
“I’m excited about the convention, but more importantly, I’m excited about the future of the ANC,” he added. “Because I know all of you will work together so we can have this vibrant and exciting political institution.”
A Pivotal Moment for the ANC
The October convention comes at a critical juncture for the ANC, which has faced a series of internal and electoral challenges in recent years. Once hailed as a rising force in Liberia’s opposition landscape, the party has seen fluctuating support and intense political competition, particularly during the 2023 presidential and legislative elections and of recent with the formation of the near rival party, Citizens Movement for Change (CMC) of Representative Musa Hassan Bility, who was a very close associate of Cummings in CPP.
Cummings, who previously led the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP) — an alliance of opposition groups that included the Unity Party, Liberty Party (LP) and the All-Liberian Party (ALP) — saw the coalition unravel due to internal disputes and legal battles over the CPP framework document. The fallout weakened the broader opposition front and left the ANC politically isolated heading into the last elections.
Despite those setbacks, Cummings and his core supporters have remained vocal, positioning the ANC as a reform-minded alternative to the political establishment. The upcoming convention is expected to not only restructure the party’s leadership but also set the tone for its political direction heading into the 2029 elections.
What Lies Ahead for the ANC
Analysts view the October convention as a litmus test of Cummings’ leadership and the ANC’s ability to regroup, rebrand, and reenergize its base after a period of political stagnation. Key decisions to be made include electing new national executives, updating the party’s strategy, and redefining its role within the opposition space — whether independently or through renewed collaboration.
With the Boakai administration facing mounting pressure on governance, economy, and anti-corruption issues, there is growing space for a revitalized opposition voice. Cummings, with his emphasis on competence, accountability, and private-sector experience, continues to appeal to urban voters and segments of the Liberian diaspora, but rebuilding a nationwide grassroots presence remains a formidable challenge.
Observers say the success of the convention — in terms of turnout, leadership elections, and messaging — will play a crucial role in determining whether the ANC remains a relevant player in Liberia’s evolving political landscape.
Background: The ANC at a Glance
Founded in 2013, the Alternative National Congress emerged as a progressive political force under the leadership of Alexander Cummings, who brought international business acumen from his tenure as an executive at Coca-Cola. The ANC contested its first presidential election in 2017, with Cummings placing fifth.
The party gained further national prominence during the brief life of the CPP, which aimed to consolidate opposition efforts against the then-incumbent Weah administration. Despite internal breakdowns, the ANC maintained its call for reform, transparency, and economic transformation. As the 2025 convention approaches, the ANC faces the task of moving beyond past divisions and articulating a fresh, compelling vision for Liberia’s future.
