Monrovia — The Unity Party standard bearer, Joseph Boakai, has distanced himself from the speculations that he is preferring Senator Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence as his running mate.

Amb. Boakai in a press statement clarified that his presence in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County last weekend was solely the purpose of the fundraising rally organized by Sen. Karnga-Lawrence.

During the fundraising, several supporters of Sen. Karnga-Lawrence and Amb. Boakai were seen wearing paraphernalia bearing the images of both Nyonblee and Lawrence.

The former Secretary General of the Unity Party also posted to Facebook: "We are not ambivalent, we are not ambiguous and we know exactly where we stand. The T-Shirt tells where we stand and that's on periodtt."

However, Amb. Boakai says his presence was in support to the cordial relationship between the Unity Party and the Liberty Party.

The statement: "The Former Vice President just recently on August 28 was illustriously hosted by the Political Leader of the All Liberian Party, Hon. Benoni Urey at his home in Careysburg, Montserrado County along with his lovely wife Mrs. Kartumu Boakai, when they celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary.

"Because Ambassador Boakai is highly respected amongst equals and enjoys the confidence of his political allies, he never hesitates to responding favorable to their invitations be it political or social."

The Unity Party indicated that a high level of intraparty and individual consideration and a wide range of consultation with prominent citizens, including traditional, religious, and civil society leaders, are being undertaken.

"This process also includes personal reflection based on his experiences over his many years in public service. So, at the appropriate time Ambassador Joseph Nyuma Boakai will rally the nation to inform the Liberian people of his choice as a running mate," the Unity Party stated.