Former Finance Minister Nathaniel Barnes, who since announcing his presidential bid last year has not been unable to muster enthusiasm beyond friends and family networks, has put an end to his campaign and withdrawn from the October 10 elections.
Barnes’ decision follows his inability to mount any serious presidential campaign to even be considered among the top five or six frontrunners for the October polls, which is expected to be a three way contest between Presidential George Weah, former Vice President Joseph Boakai, and Alexander Cummings.
“And as a deeply spiritual person, I arrived at the conclusion, along with my wife, that it would not be prudent to continue this quest,” Barnes, who is also former Liberian Ambassador to the U.S., said in a release.
“Therefore, with the utmost respect for the democratic process and the will of the people, and after deliberate introspection and consultation with my campaign team, family, and advisors, I have determined that the best course of action at this time is to withdraw my attempts to participate in the race for President of Liberia,” he added.
Barnes announced his presidential bid in March 2022 during the installation ceremony of the Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA). During the event, he rose to challenge an announcement by then Minister of State for Presidential Affairs, Nathaniel McGill, that the Government of Liberia would fund ULAA in the following year’s budget to the tune of US$300,000.
“Given the fact that our country is among the poorest in the world, I take exception,” Barnes said, “that the Government of Liberia will offer to underwrite or make a donation to ULAA, which is an independent organization.
More importantly… ULAA is supposed to be providing assistance to Liberia. So why would our government provide financial support to ULAA, who has over the past provided through remittances from the Diaspora, better than half a billion dollars annually?”
And while Barnes was hailed by many for standing up to the powerful McGill, within less than 72 hours of that encounter, the Liberian Ministry of Justice had added Barnes’ name to a list of individuals who were to defend their alleged involvement with the mismanagement of US$5 million, at Criminal Court ‘C’, in Monrovia.
Barnes, who had nothing to do with the money in question, was named in the case because, as a private consultant for a private company owned by two brothers from the Czech Republic and a Liberian, he “created an avenue” for the company to secure duty free privileges in 2016. According to the Justice Ministry, the company did not qualify for such privileges.
Meanwhile, Barnes emphasized that the decision to drop out of the race was reached with the utmost respect for the democratic process and the will of the people, and believed that withdrawing from the race was the best course of action at this time.
In his withdrawal statement, Barnes argued that he remained focused on the needs and aspirations of the Liberian people and an agent of positive change.
He added that his decision to withdraw weighed heavily on his heart and marked a significant turning point in his political journey but he remains motivated and optimistic about the future of Liberia.
“I have critically scanned the political landscape, the needs of our people, and the challenges we face in maintaining stability, creating opportunities, and building prosperity in our country,” Barnes said.
“I deeply appreciate the unwavering support that I have received from my campaign volunteers, donors, and voters who believe in my vision for a brighter Liberia,” he said. “Please know that this decision was not made casually, but after prioritizing the best interest of my beloved Liberia and its beautiful, resilient citizens.
“Your dedication, passion, loyalty, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in propelling this campaign forward, and your commitments will forever be cherished. I pray for your continued support going forward.”
Although no longer pursuing the presidency, Barnes claimed that he wouldremain fully committed to the values and principles that have guided his ambition and has pledged to remain an active contributor to the causes and issues that matter most to the Liberian people.
Barnes also advises voters to remain engaged and informed, emphasizing the importance of participating in the democratic process to shape the future of the nation.
“My withdrawal does not mean I have given up on Liberia — I never will. While I may not occupy the highest office, I firmly believe that change begins at every level of society. This country still needs honest, humble, courageous and disciplined patriots to participate in its success.
Meanwhile, Barnes had claimed that he would still champion the crusade for more investment in Liberia resulting in employment, and creation of real and sustained wealth specifically for Liberians.
“I will continue to do so as an agent of positive change, promoting the interest of the people,” he said. “But I remain motivated and optimistic about the future. Together, as one united nation in harmony, we can overcome our present challenges and achieve a just, inclusive, and prosperous society.”
