Africa-Press – Liberia. The ruling Unity Party (UP) has suspended 28 senior members of its National Executive Committee (NEC), including sitting and former lawmakers, high-profile legal professionals, and prominent political figures, for what the party describes as gross negligence and consistent failure to perform their duties.
The sweeping disciplinary action was announced following a Special Sitting of the NEC held on September 13, 2025. The meeting, according to the party’s leadership, was convened to address the persistent absenteeism and lack of participation in party activities by several NEC members despite multiple warnings.
In a statement issued to the public, Lansana Pawenneh Fofana, National Assistant Secretary General for Press, Publicity & Outreach, said the suspensions are in line with the Unity Party’s Constitution and reflect the leadership’s commitment to accountability, discipline, and internal reform.
The suspended members have been fined one thousand United States dollars each, which must be paid to the party’s account within one month. Proof of payment must be presented at the next NEC sitting, according to the party. “Any member who fails to meet the terms of the suspension risks expulsion from the committee, as outlined in Articles 16.4 and 19 of the Unity Party’s Constitution,” the party said.
According to the party, this firm action is intended to reinvigorate discipline within the institution and ensure that those holding executive positions contribute meaningfully to the growth and activities of the Unity Party.
The list of suspended officials includes several political heavyweights such as Senator Nya D. Twayen, Jr. of Nimba County, former Party Chairman Wilmot J.M. Paye, Finance Minister Augustine K. Ngafuan, Health Minister Dr. Louise Kpoto, Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah and former Representatives Josephine George Francis and Francis S. Nyumalin (Internal Affairs Minister), among others.
Others suspended include Cllr. Bushuben M. Keita, legal advisor to the President, Cllr. Augustine Fayiah (Solicitor General of Liberia), Atty. Kula B. Fofana (Presidential press secretary), Madam Magdalene Dagoseh (Minster of Commerce), S. Tornorlah Varpilah (former Senator), Harrison O. Kai, and Julius K. Sele, among others. Each of them faces a one-month suspension coupled with the $1,000 fine.
The Unity Party did not stop at suspensions. The Special Sitting also called on all delinquent due-paying members to settle their outstanding dues within one month.
According to the party, its operations and effectiveness are heavily dependent on contributions from its partisans. Those who fail to comply within the specified time risk further penalties consistent with the party’s internal rules.
While reactions to the mass suspension have been swift, public opinion appears divided. Some supporters have praised the leadership for taking a bold stand against internal indiscipline and absenteeism. One supporter, speaking under condition of anonymity, said the decision was long overdue, stating that too many individuals have been using the party for personal gain without any real contribution.
Others, however, questioned the timing and motive behind the suspensions. Critics argue that the move may cause further internal divisions and alienate key political figures who still command influence in their constituencies. One political observer said the decision, while lawful, could have far-reaching political implications for the Unity Party if not handled with care.
In the face of mounting public interest, the party reiterated its commitment to building a disciplined, united, and responsive institution. According to the statement, the Unity Party will continue working to strengthen its structures and ensure that elected and appointed officials within the party adhere strictly to their duties and responsibilities.
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