By Moses J. Dawoe
-Maryland (freelance)
A former senatorial candidate, Eric Wlea Giko, has publicly expressed regrets over his endorsement of the Unity Party during the 2023 general elections.
Speaking at a press conference held at his residence in Pleebo, Maryland County, on November 26, 2024, Mr. Giko accused the party of neglecting the candidates who supported its presidential bid.
Mr. Giko, who contested the 2020 Special Senatorial Election under the Alternative National Congress and ran as an independent candidate in the 2023 Presidential and Representative elections, revealed that he was among several political figures who aligned with the Unity Party’s “Rescue Mission” initiative.
He cited fellow 2023 senatorial candidates, including Williams Philip Anderson, Henrique B. Wilson, former Senator H. Dan Morias, and the late Dr. Wollor Topor, as others who also lent their support to the Unity Party.
During the 2023 campaign, Giko claimed he was approached by Liberia’s two leading political parties; the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) and the Unity Party with requests to back their presidential bids.
Ultimately siding with the Unity Party, Giko said he was assured of opportunities for his supporters, especially those who campaigned and voted to propel the party to power.
However, Mr. Giko criticized the current Unity Party-led administration, accusing it of failing to fulfill these promises.
“No prominent Marylanders have been appointed to key positions in government, whether as ministers or ambassadors,” he lamented, emphasizing the lack of representation for his home county in the administration.
The former candidate also took aim at lawmakers in the House of Representatives, accusing them of prioritizing personal interests over the needs of their constituencies. He described the majority and minority blocs in the legislature as ineffective in delivering tangible benefits to voters.
Mr. Giko also expressed disappointment in southeastern lawmakers, including those from Maryland County, who he claimed are neglecting critical issues such as road connectivity in favor of pursuing personal benefits.
Despite his grievances, Mr. Giko reaffirmed his commitment to Maryland County, emphasizing his focus on infrastructure development, healthcare, and human capital investment.
He underscored his longstanding interest in the county’s progress, citing his previous bids for office in 2011, 2020, and 2023 as evidence of his dedication.
Mr. Giko called on the Unity Party to address pressing issues, including the status of government-acquired “Yellow Machine” equipment and buses, as well as allegations of corruption in the overseas scholarship program for Liberian students.
“The Unity Party must do serious business and restore public confidence by addressing these concerns,” he concluded.
Mr. Giko’s comments come at a time when political alliances and governance in Liberia remain under scrutiny, with citizens and stakeholders increasingly demanding accountability and equitable development.
