Alexander B. Cummings: A Third Bid for Liberia’s Presidency – What Are His Chances?

By Jean Durand

Monrovia, Liberia – Alexander B. Cummings, a prominent figure in Liberia’s political opposition, is once again at the forefront of the nation’s political discourse. Despite two previous unsuccessful bids for the presidency, the globally recognized businessman, philanthropist, and politician is poised for a third attempt, raising the crucial question: what are his chances of finally leading Liberia?

Cummings, a name synonymous with corporate success and integrity, has transitioned from the heights of international business to the challenging landscape of Liberian politics. Born at the Old Government Hospital in Monrovia and raised in the working-class neighborhood of Point Four, Bushrod Island, his life story is one of remarkable achievement against humble beginnings.

From Humble Roots to Global Corporate Heights

A graduate of the College of West Africa (CWA), Cummings pursued higher education in the United States, earning a BA in Finance and Economics from Northern Illinois University and an MBA in Finance from Clark-Atlanta University. His professional career began at the Liberian Bank for Development & Investment before civil unrest prompted his return to the US.

It was in the corporate world that Cummings built an unblemished record of success. He spent nearly four decades in international business, notably an almost two-decade career at The Coca-Cola Company. Joining in 1997, he quickly distinguished himself as Managing Director for Nigeria, driving significant growth. His ascent continued, becoming President and Chief Operating Officer of Coca-Cola’s Africa Group, overseeing operations in 56 countries. His pinnacle came as Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, the second-highest-ranking officer, responsible for vast global operations across five groups and 200 countries, with a budget of roughly $1 billion.

Before Coca-Cola, Cummings was Vice President of Finance for Pillsbury International, where he was the youngest ever senior executive and its most senior of African descent. His career spans living and working across the UK, US, Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa, showcasing a truly global perspective. He retired in 2016 to dedicate his focus to Liberia.

Philanthropy and Commitment to Liberia

Beyond his corporate achievements, Cummings’ philanthropic endeavors through the Cummings Africa Foundation, launched in 2015 with his family, underscore his deep commitment to his homeland. The foundation has invested approximately USD 1.5 million in critical sectors such as health, education, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure, directly impacting lives in Liberia. In recognition of these humanitarian efforts, he received Liberia’s highest honor, the Humane Order of African Redemption, in 2015.

The Political Journey: Consolidating Opposition Power

Cummings first contested the Liberian presidency in 2017. While that attempt, and a subsequent one, did not yield the desired outcome, he has steadily consolidated his influence within Liberia’s fractured opposition.

He currently serves as the Political Leader and Standard Bearer of the Alternative National Congress (ANC). Crucially, he was instrumental in the legal formation and chairmanship of the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP), Liberia’s largest opposition electoral coalition. Under his leadership, the CPP demonstrated its formidable strength in the December 2020 midterm elections, where the ruling party secured only 3 of 15 Senate seats, with CPP and CPP-aligned candidates winning the majority.

Now, as the elected Standard Bearer of the CPP, Cummings is still positioned to be the consensus opposition presidential candidate for the crucial 2029 elections.

What Are His Chances?

Cummings presents himself as a candidate uniquely prepared for the nation’s highest office. His platform is built on combating endemic corruption and restoring good governance. He envisions rebuilding Liberia’s international standing and fostering economic empowerment through diversified growth, attracting foreign investment, public-private infrastructure development, and substantial investment in entrepreneurship, STEM/TVET education, and primary healthcare.

His supporters argue that his extensive global experience, unblemished record of integrity, and proven ability to build strong teams make him the most formidable contender yet. The unified front presented by the CPP, combined with the tangible momentum from their 2020 electoral success against the ruling party, could prove pivotal. His background as a successful executive suggests an ability to implement complex strategies, manage large budgets, and drive results – qualities many Liberians believe are sorely needed in their leadership.

However, the political landscape remains complex. While his past failures might suggest an uphill battle, his current standing as the leader of a demonstrably loose opposition coalition, coupled with his reputation for integrity and a clear vision for national development, positions Alexander B. Cummings as a significant force in Liberia’s upcoming 2029 presidential election. The question remains whether Liberian voters will now translate his unparalleled corporate and philanthropic success into the ultimate opportunity to lead their nation.

Several analysts believe in Liberia’s 2029 Presidential Race, Cummings’ ambitions hinges on shifting political sands, emerging contenders.  As Liberia begins to look towards its next electoral cycle, likely in 2029, political observers and pundits are already engaging in fervent speculation about the potential contenders for the nation’s highest office. Amidst these early discussions, it is clear that the name of Alexander B. Cummings, a prominent figure in opposition politics, is frequently mentioned, with a potential presidential role for him seen as a strong possibility under various scenarios.

However, sources close to political circles suggest that Cummings’ path to a presidential bid is intricately linked to a delicate dance of factors concerning the incumbent administration and the aspirations of other influential figures. His potential candidacy may be particularly “though given” if President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. decides to seek a second term.

President Boakai, who recently assumed office, has yet to signal any intentions regarding a re-election campaign. His decision will undoubtedly cast a long shadow over the political landscape, influencing the strategies of both his allies and his potential challengers.

Equally crucial to the evolving scenario is the performance and positioning of current Vice President Jeremiah Kpang Koung. If VP Koung continues to remain focused, instrumental, and dynamic in his role, he could either bolster the unity and appeal of the sitting administration for a potential second term, or, conversely, position himself as a strong contender for the top job should President Boakai choose not to run or if a joint ticket is re-evaluated. Koung’s trajectory will be under intense scrutiny.

Beyond the dynamics of the ruling party, the field of potential aspirants is already showing signs of becoming crowded and diverse. This layering of complexity adds further variables to Cummings’ strategic considerations. Among the names frequently whispered in political corridors and public discourse are:

• Business Executive Simeon Freeman: Known for his strong intellect, understanding of global politics, jobs and wealth creation, and economic dynamics, entrepreneurial background and past political activism, Freeman represents a voice from the private sector and reason. His main strength lies in economics and the trust and respect he garnered in the business community and with international investors.
• Finance Minister Augustine Ngafuan: A seasoned economist and respected senior government official, Ngafuan’s experience in stewardship of the nation’s finances could make him an attractive candidate.
• Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon: As the head of the House of Representatives, Speaker Koon commands a significant legislative platform and political network.
• Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence: A strong female voice in Liberian politics, Senator Karnga Lawrence’s leadership in the Senate positions her as a formidable contender.
• Liberian Ambassador to Japan Edward Wade Appleton: Having come third in the last presidential election, Ambassador Appleton demonstrated a notable level of public support, making him a perennial figure in the upcoming 2029 race.
• Dr. Clarence Moniba: An academic and development expert, Moniba represents a younger generation of leaders with a focus on policy and reform.
• Leymah Gbowee: The Nobel Peace Laureate, while primarily focused on civil society and peacebuilding, her moral authority and international recognition could place her in a unique position should she choose to enter the fray.
• John Morlue: Another political figure and known financial specialist and auditor whose name frequently surfaces, representing various political leanings and experiences.
• Former Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa: The respected lawyer and de facto potential leader of the Congress for Democratic Change political conglomerate largely seen as a viable alternative and replacement for former President George Manneh Weah.
• Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti: A career United Nations diplomat, former assistant secretary general of the United Nations and international development executive whose foreign policy leadership has rebranded Liberia on the international stage, subsequently leading to the country’s leadership of the United Nations Security Council in 2025 is appealing. Her record makes her a dignified as well as nationally and internationally respected candidate.
• Bong County Senior Senator Prince Kermue Moye: As a political savvy and consensus-building legislator and a member of the country’s largest and populous ethnic group (the Kpelle tribe), Moye chances of mounting a serious challenge is crucial if he can mobilize his people and win over other supporters from across the nation.
• Cllr. Negbalee Warner: An immediate past Dean of the Louis Arthur Grimes School of Law and Senior Partner at the Heritage Partners and Associates Law Firm, a system thinker and integrity icon, corporate boardroom executive and leader, Warner enjoys the respect of Liberians across all spectrums as well as members of the international community. His national appeal to young people and admiration by intellectuals and ordinary Liberians makes him a key factor and contender should he decides to finally seek the high office in 2029. A native of River Gee County, he enjoys the most respect and trust of the citizens and residents of the south-eastern region including Sinoe, Maryland, Grand Gedeh, and River Gee counties.

The potential entry of such a diverse pool of candidates – encompassing seasoned politicians, technocrats, business leaders, and civil society icons – suggests a potentially fractured and intensely competitive presidential race. For Alexander Cummings, whose past presidential bids have seen him as a significant opposition leader, navigating this complex political chessboard will demand meticulous strategy. His success, or even the viability of his candidacy, hinges not only on his own political machinery but also on how these interlinked presidential ambitions and scenarios ultimately unfold in the lead-up to 2029.

Only time will tell how these early political currents will shape the future leadership of Liberia. The nation’s next presidential election is already shaping up to be a compelling and closely watched contest.