The Liberia Political Centrism Movement (LPCM), a group that has positioned itself as a moderating force in Liberia’s sharply polarized political landscape, has suffered its first major internal blow. The Head of Secretariat of the LPCM Diaspora Network, James Koryor, has tendered his resignation, citing what he describes as a troubling departure from the movement’s foundational principles. The resignation comes just days after LPCM issued a public commendation of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s governance style, sparking internal questions about whether the group was shifting from its centrist role toward open political patronage.
In his resignation letter, Mr. Koryor stated that he did not join LPCM to participate in what he termed a “Choir for Praise-Singing.” He noted that the organization was founded to champion balanced, moderate, and citizen-centered political engagement, but alleges that the leadership has begun to drift into partisan loyalty.
“Over time, it has become clear that the Movement has deviated from the balanced, moderate, and people-centered principles that once defined its purpose,” he wrote. “As these changes no longer align with my convictions, I must step aside in good faith”, he added.
Koryor expressed gratitude for his service in the Diaspora Network but emphasized that the growing misalignment between the movement’s practices and its founding ideology left him with no alternative. The Liberia Political Centrism Movement emerged in 2021 as an alternative voice seeking to bridge Liberia’s long-standing political divide.
Its early messaging resonated strongly with Liberians at home and abroad particularly with the diaspora community, which contributes an estimated 21–26% of Liberia’s GDP through remittances, one of the highest dependency rates in Sub-Saharan Africa. Analysts say the resignation of such a key diaspora figure could signal deeper internal disagreements. Diaspora constituencies have historically played a significant role in shaping political narratives, funding grassroots programs, and advocating for reforms.
Losing a Secretariat head in this segment could weaken LPCM’s perception as an independent political force. The controversy began earlier this week when LPCM publicly endorsed President Boakai’s governance approach, citing national healing and anti-corruption efforts.
While the endorsement was applauded by some supporters, others like Koryor believe the movement is abandoning its non-aligned stance. Political observers note that such shifts often come at a cost. Liberia’s political climate remains sensitive, with more than 76% of citizens expressing distrust in political institutions, according to recent governance surveys, and over 60% calling for non-partisan civic movements to play a stronger oversight role. Koryor said he hopes LPCM will “one day return to its founding ideals,” emphasizing that moderation, accountability, and people-focused leadership remain essential for Liberia’s democratic maturity.
The LPCM leadership has not yet issued an official response to the resignation.As Liberia prepares for continued governance reforms, economic recovery efforts, and growing political competition, the internal direction of civic and political groups like LPCM will likely remain under close public scrutiny.
By: Julius Konton
