MONROVIA, August 14, 2025 – The Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) says it is moving ahead with plans to construct a brand-new national headquarters, as the party faces an ongoing legal battle over ownership of the property it has occupied in Congo Town for over two decades.
Addressing journalists at the CDC’s current headquarters opposite LoneStar Cell in Congo Town, National Chairman Atty. Janga A. Kowo reaffirmed the party’s commitment to the rule of law while revealing that preparations are underway for an “orderly transition” to a new home for the former ruling party.
The announcement comes after months of legal wrangling between the CDC and the Intestate Estate of Martha Stubblefield Bernard, represented by Mr. Ebrima Varney Dempster. According to the party, it accepted a Right of First Refusal offer to purchase the property in 2024, but when it began due diligence, the landlord reacted with hostility, initiating what the CDC describes as an “illegal eviction attempt.”
Following a Supreme Court ruling in May 2025 that affirmed the CDC’s legal tenancy, the party says it sought to finalize the purchase. However, it alleges the estate acted in bad faith by issuing a one-week eviction notice in June, violating the original agreement.
The matter has since escalated to the Civil Law Court, where the CDC filed a suit for Specific Performance to enforce the sale agreement. Chairman Kowo criticized the court’s handling of the case, accusing Presiding Judge George W. Smith of dismissing the suit without hearing its merits and taking “unprecedented” steps such as ordering police intervention in what should be a civil matter.
The CDC has filed appeals to the Supreme Court in both the Specific Performance and Summary Proceedings cases, with its legal team finalizing the process.
Despite the dispute, Kowo urged partisans to remain calm and patient, emphasizing that the construction of a new headquarters will ensure the CDC has a permanent home that reflects its vision and longevity in Liberian politics.
“We have occupied this ground for more than twenty years, but our commitment to the CDC’s future goes beyond these walls. We will build a headquarters that is ours by right, free from legal uncertainty,” Kowo declared.
The party did not disclose the exact location or timeline for the new construction, but officials hinted it will be a modern facility symbolizing stability and resilience as the CDC navigates both political opposition and legal hurdles.
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