Monrovia – The Coalition of Caregivers and Advocates for the Elderly in Liberia (COCAEL) has elected a new corps of officers for the first time since its establishment.
The election, held on February 26, 2026, marks a significant milestone in the organization’s commitment to strengthened leadership and effective stewardship.
The electoral process brought together representatives from across Liberia at the Martha Proud Dennis Chapter Central Office during the Liberia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. An Ad-hoc Elections Commission, chaired by Mr. J. Momolu Passewe, successfully conducted the process, resulting in the election of nine officers who will serve a two-year term.
In his brief welcoming remarks, Mr. Passewe expressed heartfelt gratitude to the outgoing leadership for effectively organizing and managing the operations and functions of COCAEL over the years. He commended members for their resilience, teamwork, mutual respect, and the high level of maturity demonstrated throughout the process.
“We, as young people, have a responsibility to build partnerships with the aging population. We feel very humble and honored to share this historic moment with our elders,” Mr. Passewe stated. He described the election as one of the most peaceful and inclusive processes he has witnessed in over twenty years, attributing its success to the unity, diversity, and experience of the members.
Mr. Passewe further announced that, in accordance with the Coalition’s bylaws, five aspirants were disqualified for not meeting the eligibility requirements for the positions they sought.
The following officers elected unopposed to lead the Coalition for the next two years include, Momo Allison Bainda, National Executive Director, J. Togar Seekpee, First Deputy Director for Administration, Rev. Khartouma Y. Grado Harris, Second Deputy Director for Operations, Albert Scott, General Secretary, Madam Ma-Do Zoe Lake, Financial Secretary, Rev. Gardea Henny, Treasurer, Madam Esther J. S. Clarke, Program Coordinator, Sam O. E. Cole – Relief Director and Nathaniel Jackson, County Coordinator.
All officials were elected by white ballot, reflecting overwhelming support and collective confidence from the Coalition’s membership.
In his appreciation statement, the newly elected National Executive Director, Mr. Momo Allison Bainda, thanked members of the Coalition for entrusting them with the responsibility to manage both the national and international affairs of the organization.
“As you have given us the responsibility to lead, we assure you that we will not disappoint your trust,” Mr. Bainda said. “As we have worked collaboratively in the past to achieve our goals, so shall we continue. Let unity remain our pillar of strength.”
He emphasized the importance of proactive leadership and urged members to intensify efforts to advance the organization to its next stage of growth. He also referenced pending legislation before the Liberian Senate concerning the welfare of the elderly, encouraging members to engage relevant authorities to ensure its passage and the allocation of financial support within the national budget for elderly citizens across Liberia.
Mr. Bainda concluded by expressing appreciation to Richard Nagbe Koon, Speaker of the 55th National Legislature, for his continued support of the Coalition.
“Our responsibility has just begun. We are called to serve our people not for our people to serve us,” he emphasized. The Ad-hoc Elections Commission was represented by the Ministry of Gender, the Independent National Commission on Human Rights, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), with Mr. Jeremiah S. Swen serving as chairperson.
