Duku Jallah emerges as presumptive FLY president after Kpator disqualified, Gbollie withdraws

Ernest Duku Jallah

Monrovia, Oct 25 — Ernest Duku Jallah has emerged as the presumptive president of the Federation of Liberian Youth (FLY) after two leading contenders — Samuel James Kpator and Mandela S. Gbollie — dropped out of the 2025 presidential race in separate developments marking the federation’s controversial electoral process.

Kpator, one of the frontrunners, was disqualified for exceeding the federation’s constitutional age limit. Article 14 of the FLY Constitution stipulates that “any individual seeking an elected position should be not more than 35 years of age prior to their application. If their election will take them beyond 35 years while serving, he or she is not qualified to be considered an applicant.” At 33, Kpator’s tenure would extend beyond FLY’s age threshold, prompting his exclusion.

Gbollie, the only candidate who was to face Jallah, withdrew from the race, describing the process as “illegitimate and compromised” under a leadership he claims has overstayed its mandate. His withdrawal follows weeks of disputes over the credibility of the Independent Elections Commission (IEC) and the legitimacy of FLY’s outgoing administration.

With both major contenders now out, Jallah — a former FLY Head of Secretariat and founder of the “Up to Us” National Youth Agenda — stands as the presumptive president.

Jallah, who has yet to issue a formal statement on his presumptive position, is expected to face immediate pressure to unify a politically fragmented federation. His campaign has centered on accountability, entrepreneurship, and youth participation in governance — issues pivotal to Liberia’s emerging generation.

Founded in 1974, the Federation of Liberian Youth serves as the national umbrella body for student and youth organizations across Liberia.

___________________________________

Get Involved

Do you have additional facts to add to this insight or an opinion you would like to express?

Email Us

analysis@insightsliberia.com