Monrovia, Liberia – With the dust still settling from the contentious 2023 presidential election, Liberians are already looking ahead to 2029, and the question on many minds is: can Alexander B. Cummings, leader of the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP), finally break through and secure the nation’s highest office?
Cummings, a former Coca-Cola executive, has contested the presidency twice, in 2017 and 2023, falling short of ultimate victory on both occasions. While respected for his business acumen and focus on economic development, he has struggled to translate those qualities into a winning electoral formula.
In 2017, Cummings garnered less than 8% of the vote, a disappointing showing that placed him well outside contention. He returned in 2023, hoping to capitalize on voter dissatisfaction with the incumbent, George Weah. While he improved his performance and the CPP played a significant role in the political discourse, Weah ultimately secured a second term.
So, what are Cummings’ chances of a comeback in 2029?
Challenges Remain:
- Building Trust and Broadening Appeal:Â A consistent criticism levelled against Cummings is his perceived detachment from the everyday struggles of Liberians. Overcoming this perception and building genuine connections with diverse communities will be crucial.
- Navigating the CPP:Â The CPP, a coalition of opposition parties, has faced internal divisions and power struggles. Cummings will need to solidify his leadership and ensure the CPP remains a united and effective force.
- Shifting Political Landscape:Â Liberian politics are notoriously fluid, and the landscape is likely to change significantly in the lead-up to 2029. New political figures and movements could emerge, presenting fresh challenges to Cummings’ ambition.
- Incumbency Advantage:Â Assuming His Excellency Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Sr. runs and serves out his first term and decides not to contest, his chosen successor will likely benefit from the advantages of incumbency, a significant hurdle for any challenger.
Opportunities for a Revival:
- Learning from Past Elections:Â Cummings has the benefit of experience. Analyzing past campaigns, identifying weaknesses, and adapting his strategy will be essential.
- Focusing on Key Issues:Â Liberia faces persistent challenges including poverty, corruption, and unemployment. Cummings can position himself as the solution by presenting concrete and credible plans to address these issues.
- Uniting the Opposition:Â A fragmented opposition is unlikely to succeed. Cummings has the opportunity to lead efforts to forge a broader coalition against the ruling party, potentially attracting disillusioned voters from across the political spectrum.
- Leveraging Economic Expertise:Â Cummings’ business background remains a key asset. He can highlight his ability to attract foreign investment and create economic opportunities, appealing to voters concerned about the country’s economic future.
“Cummings has the potential to be a serious contender in 2029, but he needs to be strategic and proactive,” says political commentator, Jallah Thompson. “He needs to demonstrate that he has listened to the Liberian people, learned from his past mistakes, and is truly committed to serving their interests.”
Some of his supporters say Cummings needs to support President Boakai and plays more of statesman’s role at this critical period of the country’s renewal. It might endear him to a huge bloc of constituents.
The next few years will be critical for Cummings. His actions, his message, and his ability to connect with the Liberian people will ultimately determine whether he can rewrite his political story and finally achieve his long-held ambition of leading Liberia. The road ahead is undoubtedly challenging, but the possibility of a Cummings presidency in 2029 remains a topic of keen interest and debate across the nation.
