A Warning from the Past: The NPP’s Struggle for Identity and Relevance
Senator James P. Biney, a former National Chairman of the National Patriotic Party (NPP) and current Maryland County Senator, has raised concerns about the party’s internal divisions and unclear direction. In a strong statement on November 4, 2025, he questioned the NPP’s identity and warned that if these issues persist, the party could lose its political significance.
Biney highlighted the confusion surrounding the NPP’s alliances, noting that the party seems to oscillate between being part of the CDC and operating independently. He posed a critical question: “What really is NPP now, or better still, what does the party stand for?” This uncertainty, according to him, is causing further division within the party.
Following the 2023 general elections, the NPP’s National Executive Committee (NEC) decided to return to an independent status. Biney explained that this move was intended to allow the party to assess national issues without partisan influence. An independent NPP, he argued, would be in a better position to criticize government policies when necessary and commend them when appropriate.
He outlined three key reasons for the importance of independence:
- To unite both sides of the party under a single agenda
- To rebuild internal structures
- To strengthen recruitment efforts
Biney pointed out that members who supported the UP and those who backed the CDC may not fully accept their roles as either opposition or government supporters. An NPP free from the influence of these larger parties could focus on rebuilding its structures and expanding its reach, which it cannot achieve while under another party’s umbrella.
Reflecting on past mistakes, Biney cautioned against repeating the 2017 election experience, when the NPP lost all respect and was told to be grateful for its minimal impact. He expressed concern that some are following the same path without learning from previous errors.
In a personal reflection, Biney emphasized that his independence stems from principle rather than convenience. He mentioned that he had a good relationship with the former President but chose to walk away despite potential personal benefits. His decision was based on the need for change, even if it meant sacrificing personal gains.
Biney also acknowledged the success of the 2017 coalition victory, which was attributed to smaller parties joining the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC). He believes that the NPP must learn from such experiences to regain its footing.
Looking ahead, Biney reaffirmed his commitment to contesting the 2029 elections, stating that his loyalty lies solely with the NPP. He emphasized that no desperation should lead him to prioritize the CDC or UP over the NPP. He also noted that the party’s visibility has diminished, with even the ANC and Liberty Party being more prominent.
Biney lamented that except for NPP partisans, few know where the party’s headquarters is located. He believes that a forward-thinking leadership can still transform the party across Liberia before 2029, making it so attractive that it won’t have to rely on other parties.
On a serious note, Biney warned that if the NPP miscalculates its approach in 2029, it could vanish into oblivion. He stressed that people cannot keep doing the same things and expect different results.
Meanwhile, NPP Standard Bearer and Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor has responded to internal divisions by calling for reconciliation and unity. She emphasized that the NPP’s survival is more important than any individual. “My commitment to peace, unity, and the forward march is most important,” she stated. “No noise, no word, no distraction will lead me away from this path.”
Madam Taylor revealed that plans are underway for a reconciliation meeting involving all party leaders and stakeholders. “This is the first step. All will be included. The future is ours to take and forge a new day. Together we can turn our stones into building blocks,” she added.