Jimmy Smith Dumps CDC Legacy, Praises Boakai Government’s “Mature Leadership

Paynesville City, Liberia: Former Montserrado County District #2 Representative Jimmy Smith has praised the leadership approach of the Boakai-Koung administration, describing the current government as more mature and responsive than the immediate past Coalition for Democratic Change, CDC-led government.

Smith made the statement during a pre-groundbreaking ceremony for the proposed headquarters of the National Independent Movement for Boakai, NIMBO, where he addressed reporters and openly expressed support for the organization’s vision and leadership.

During the event, the former lawmaker praised Deputy Speaker Thomas Fallah, whom he described as a strategic political figure seeking to unite influential and resourceful Liberians behind what he called a listening and efficient government.

According to Smith, the country needs political actors who are willing to prioritize national development and constructive engagement over political bitterness and division.

The former representative also used the occasion to sharply criticize his former political institution, the Coalition for Democratic Change, accusing its leadership of abandoning loyal members and operating with selfish interests.

Smith said he voluntarily suspended his membership from the former ruling party after becoming disappointed with what he described as the conduct and attitude of some senior figures within the institution.

He alleged that the CDC leadership became self-centered, egotistic, and vindictive during and after its time in government, adding that many committed partisans and supporters were neglected despite years of loyalty and sacrifice.

The former lawmaker further urged the Boakai-Koung administration to remain focused and establish practical mechanisms that will strengthen governance, law enforcement, and the implementation of public ordinances across Liberia.

He emphasized that while the current administration appears to be taking a more mature path, Liberians are expecting tangible improvements in national leadership, accountability, and public service delivery.

Background on Jimmy Smith

Jimmy Smith is a former lawmaker, retired Police Lieutenant-Colonel, and former Liberian diplomat who once served as Representative of Montserrado County District #2.

Smith was previously associated with the Coalition for Democratic Change, the political coalition that brought former President George Weah to power in 2017.

The CDC was one of Liberia’s most dominant political institutions during its six years in power, but following its defeat in the 2023 presidential election to President Joseph Boakai, internal tensions and criticism have continued to emerge from some former officials and partisans.

Smith’s latest comments appear to signal a growing political realignment among some former CDC figures who are now publicly expressing support for the Unity Party-led government or distancing themselves from the opposition bloc.

The National Independent Movement for Boakai, NIMBO, is one of several emerging political support structures seeking to consolidate backing for President Boakai’s administration ahead of future political engagements.