Duncan Launches ‘Our Movement’ Initiative-Calls for national awakening, Announces Civic Reform Platform

MONROVIA – The launch of Senator Crayton O. Duncan’s civic initiative “Our Movement” signals a new attempt to reshape Liberia’s political discourse around economic justice, institutional independence, and public education. Framing the initiative as an ideological awakening rather than an electoral vehicle, Duncan’s message reflects growing frustration among citizens about corruption, foreign economic dependency, and legislative complacency. His remarks echo broader calls for systemic reform and national self-reliance as Liberia confronts unemployment, inequality, and governance challenges. Whether the initiative evolves into a political force or remains an educational campaign, it highlights rising public appetite for new ideas about economic sovereignty and accountable leadership. THE ANALYST reports.

Sinoe County Senator Crayton O. Duncan has announced the formation of a new civic initiative branded “Our Movement,” describing it as a long-term educational and ideological platform aimed at confronting corruption, economic exploitation, and what he termed Liberia’s structural dependency on foreign interests.

Speaking Wednesday on Okay FM during an interview with Clarence Jackson, Senator Duncan said the movement is not merely a political vehicle but an awakening campaign intended to empower young people and ordinary citizens to demand systemic reform.

“I have formed a movement,” Duncan declared. “That movement is to educate. If we educate our people and open their minds to the facts, they will make better decisions about the future of this country.”

Not Presidential Bid, He Says

Pressed by the host on whether “Our Movement” is a pathway toward a presidential bid, Duncan avoided making a direct electoral declaration but stressed that his mission goes beyond contesting power.

“I am not looking for friends; I am looking for people whose minds will resonate with this message,” he said. “For the rest of my life, I will educate.”

According to him, the movement has already attracted a significant number of young people, with meetings being held to build what he described as an informed generation capable of confronting entrenched political and economic forces.

He argued that Liberia’s biggest weakness is ignorance of systemic realities, noting that many citizens recognize corruption but fail to understand the deeper structures enabling it.

“Our people know corruption is hurting this country, but they don’t see the forces over it,” he said.

Critique of Legislature and Party Loyalty

Drawing from his legislative experience, Duncan criticized what he described as excessive party loyalty and executive influence within the National Legislature.

He argued that lawmakers often prioritize political alliances and personal benefits over independent oversight of the Executive Branch.

“When we are elected, we forget that we were sent there by the people. We remember party affiliations instead,” he asserted.

According to him, fear of losing political favor, appointments, or relationships discourages lawmakers from standing firmly against policies that disadvantage ordinary citizens.

“If we had independent minds in the Legislature, the Executive would be put to task,” he maintained.

Economic Dependency and Foreign Influence

A significant portion of the discussion centered on Liberia’s economic framework and foreign influence. Referencing the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Duncan questioned whether Liberia possesses the institutional strength to negotiate economic policies on equal footing.

“We say they are our friends, but do we have the capacity to say no?” he asked.

He argued that Liberia’s laws and concession agreements often favor external actors while local communities remain impoverished.

“We take our mineral resources, they transform them, and bring them back to us as products we cannot afford,” Duncan said. “We must change the laws that keep us disadvantaged.”

Focus on Everyday Struggles

The Sinoe County lawmaker insisted that national debates must focus on everyday struggles faced by Liberians—education costs, housing affordability, healthcare access, and unemployment.

“What does a road mean when parents cannot afford to send their children to school?” he questioned.

He pointed to the high cost of cement and housing materials, arguing that infrastructure discussions must translate into tangible economic relief for citizens.

“Our responsibility is shelter, food, health opportunities and real social protection,” he stressed.

Lessons from Recent Politics

Reflecting on recent political history, Duncan referenced the rise of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) and the enthusiasm that brought former President George M. Weah into office, only for many supporters to later express disappointment.

According to him, Liberia’s recurring political pattern stems from leaders’ failure to confront systemic forces and enact structural change.

“The people are hopeful,” he said. “But leaders must be strong enough to face the forces suppressing this country.”

Despite skepticism about whether intellectual advocacy can gain traction in Liberia’s political environment, Duncan remained resolute.

“Those who understand will come to Our Movement,” he said. “Someone must begin the fight to educate.”

Political Observers React

Political observers say “Our Movement” could represent an emerging ideological platform aimed particularly at young voters and reform-minded citizens seeking alternatives to traditional party structures.

Whether it evolves into a formal political party remains unclear. However, Senator Duncan’s remarks signal a deliberate attempt to shift from conventional politics toward what he describes as a long-term campaign for national consciousness and economic sovereignty.

For now, “Our Movement” positions itself as an emerging voice challenging Liberia’s status quo, calling for independence of thought, institutional courage, and a restructured economic model centered on the Liberian people.

Duncan’s initiative, some say, reflects growing national conversations about corruption, unemployment, and foreign economic dependency. According to other analysts such movements may influence future political debates, particularly among young voters seeking new leadership ideas.

Whether symbolic or transformative, “Our Movement” adds a new voice to Liberia’s evolving political landscape.