The return of former Liberian President George Weah on Monday, September 22, 2025, ignited a firestorm of political tension in Monrovia. As hundreds of fervent supporters from his party, the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), flocked to Roberts International Airport (RIA) to welcome their “Heaven-sent” leader, their enthusiastic reception quickly escalated into a clash with state security forces. The scene was set for a dramatic showdown, with the anticipation of Weah’s arrival hanging heavy in the air.
The Liberian National Police (LNP), anticipating potential unrest, had preemptively established roadblocks and cordoned off sections of the airport. This show of force, coupled with the relocation of CDC supporters to the nearby Smell No Taste Community, did little to quell the rising tide of excitement and anticipation. The situation deteriorated further when the LNP, under the command of Deputy Inspector General for Operations, Atty. J. Nelson Freeman, resorted to tear gas to disperse the crowd. This heavy-handed tactic sparked outrage among CDC loyalists and observers alike, who condemned the action as an unwarranted abuse of power.
The use of tear gas served as a catalyst, igniting a volatile reaction from aggrieved CDC supporters. In retaliation, some individuals reportedly hurled stones at security personnel, exacerbating the already tense standoff. This back-and-forth between supporters and security forces created a chaotic scene, but fortunately, calm was eventually restored before the afternoon, preventing the situation from spiraling further out of control.
In the aftermath of the airport clash, political analysts keenly observed Weah’s re-entry into the political arena. His return, coupled with his reaffirmed commitment to the CDC, held significant implications for Liberia’s political future. Weah wasted no time in asserting his intentions, declaring his unwavering dedication to the party’s founding principles and promising the swift construction of a new CDC headquarters. This decisive action signaled his intent to revitalize the party and reassert its influence on the national stage.
Upon arrival, Weah addressed the tumultuous welcome, expressing gratitude to his supporters while also subtly criticizing the day’s events. He acknowledged the clashes, stating that while he deemed them unnecessary, he was relieved to be back in Liberia. His focus remained on his political mission, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding the CDC and providing the party with a new home. This forward-looking approach aimed to shift the narrative from the airport incident to his plans for the future.
Beyond the immediate political agenda, Weah’s message promoted unity and civility. He urged Liberians to refrain from confrontation and embrace peaceful political engagement. His call for restraint reflected a desire to move past the day’s unrest and foster a more constructive political environment. He reassured his supporters of his commitment to their cause and shed light on his recent European trip, explaining that it included supporting his son, Timothy Weah, in his new football venture with Olympique Marseille. This personal touch humanized the political figure and allowed his supporters to connect with him on a more personal level. The airport incident, while disruptive, served as a backdrop to Weah’s broader message of political revitalization and national unity.
