Staunch Unity Party Supporter Switches Political Allegiance to CDC

KAKATA, MARGIBI COUNTY: Jarius Joe, a staunch member of the ruling Unity Party—Margibi Chapter has broken political ties with the party and openly declared support for the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change.

Joe who served as Publicity Chair of the Unity Party in Kakata, Margibi County, during the 2023 General Elections, attributed his decision to allege neglect and mistreatment by officials of the Unity Party in the county.

“They are very mean and wicked. I campaigned for them, and I almost lost my life here in Kakata during the 2023 election. Today, they cannot even give me one bag of water", he stated.

The now former UP loyalist explained that he had sacrificed to mobilize, clean and provide security for the Unity Party headquarters in Kakata, yet his efforts have not been recognized.

According to him, despite the sacrifices, his plights have been consistently ignored by local officials, and an attempt to express himself during official programs has been resisted.

Jarius Joe revealed that he has not benefited for his contributions to the party, stating that his livelihood is heavily dependent on outside sources. He said: “I am leaving their party and going to the CDC".

The shocking move comes when grassroots supporters across Margibi County are voicing frustrations of being sidelined by party elites after election victories.

Pundits say Joe’s decision underscores a broader pattern of discontent within the local structure of the Unity Party, raising questions about loyalty, fairness, and treatment of frontline political actors.

Many view the cross-carpeting by the prominent local figure as a setback for the UP Margibi Chapter, arguing that it builds opposition forces in the strategic bases of the ruling establishment.

During the 2023 presidential runoff, Unity Party candidate and President Joseph Boakai secured 63,431 votes (47.08%) in Margibi, compared to 56,272 votes (41.76%) for then-incumbent President George Weah of the Coalition for Democratic Change.

Political analysts say Joe’s departure reflects both a personal protest and a warning to the Unity Party ahead of future elections, joining ranks with its fierce political rival. The pronouncement was made on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.