The Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA) has strongly denied media reports suggesting that its president, Mohammad Keita, has endorsed Vice President Jeremiah Koung for the 2029 election.
In a release issued and signed by President Keita on March 16, 2025, ULAA also emphasized that such claims are unfounded, baseless, misleading and contradict ULAA’s longstanding tradition of political neutrality.
Reinforcing the organization’s dedication to serving the interests of Liberians without favoring any political figure, the Association maintained, “ULAA is committed to a strictly nonpartisan stance.”
Recently, it was reported by some media institutions that on March 8, 2025, Keita openly endorsed VP Koung for the 2029 Presidential Election at a Town Hall meeting in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a move that goes against the organization’s longstanding tradition of political neutrality.
According to the reports, Keita made the endorsement after presenting a petition to the Vice President on behalf of the diaspora Liberians facing immigration challenges in the United States, adding, “Remember, 2029 is coming. If you are ready, we are ready!”
The controversy highlights the importance of maintaining impartiality within community organizations, as Keita calls for unity and focus on issues affecting Liberians both at home and abroad.
But in response to the publications, ULAA, in its release also clarified, “Let it be clear that at no point has President Keita offered any endorsement of Vice President Koung or any political candidate.”
According to the release, ULAA is committed to a strictly nonpartisan stance, as articulated in its organizational bylaws, and emphasized, “This unwavering commitment to political neutrality is foundational to our mission, ensuring that ULAA serves as an inclusive platform that represents the interests of all Liberians, irrespective of their political affiliations.”
ULAA reiterates, “The remarks made by President Keita during the Town Hall Meeting on March 8 in Philadelphia have been taken out of context. His statements were intended to foster dialogue with the Liberian government, advocating for the needs and aspirations of Liberians in the diaspora as we approach the pivotal 2029 sections.”
“ULAA remains dedicated to championing essential issues such as out-of-country voting and the establishment of safety nets for Liberians returning home–critical components of a democratic process that must engage all Liberians, no matter where they reside.
As s we move forward, ULAA will continue to play a proactive role in advocating for the rights and interests of Liberians both abroad and at home, and we will engage constructively with the government and various stakeholders to advance our agenda,” the release asserted.
“While steadfastly maintaining our policy of non-endorsement of specific candidates, this ensures that ULAA remains a neutral and unifying force for all Liberians, and we appreciate the continued support of our members and the broader Liberian community as we uphold our mission to advocate for a brighter future for all Liberians”, the release concluded.
