26/04/2026
Authorities have confirmed the death of George Solo, former Chairman of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), who passed away on Friday, April 24, during a flight from Casablanca to New York. The Liberian politician was reportedly traveling to the United States to seek medical treatment for an undisclosed illness.
The incident occurred aboard Royal Air Maroc Flight AT200. According to fellow passengers, Mr. Solo showed signs of severe physical distress while in transit at the Casablanca airport. Samuel Dahn, a passenger who befriended Solo during the layover, noted that the former chairman appeared to be struggling with respiratory issues and physical exhaustion long before boarding.
Mr. Dahn, who assisted Solo through the boarding process, described the politician as being in a fragile state but determined to reach his destination.
"He was struggling to breathe and sweating heavily," Dahn said. "I spoke with him at the gate, and despite his condition, he insisted he was okay. He mentioned he was heading to Minneapolis for 'real help,' referring to the medical care he hoped to receive in the U.S."
Witnesses stated that Solo’s health deteriorated rapidly approximately mid-way through the seven-hour journey over the Atlantic Ocean. As he became increasingly restless and incoherent, cabin crew issued an emergency call for medical professionals.
Two physicians on board—an obstetrician and a private practitioner—responded to the call. The medical team initially suspected complications related to severe diabetes and attempted to stabilize him. Despite the administration of emergency medication and nearly an hour of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), Mr. Solo remained unresponsive.
The flight crew eventually pronounced him dead while the aircraft was still in international airspace. To maintain the dignity of the deceased and the privacy of other passengers, Solo’s body was moved to a restricted area at the rear of the aircraft for the remainder of the flight.
Upon landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport, the aircraft was met by port authorities and medical examiners. Passengers were held on board for approximately one hour while security officials conducted a preliminary investigation into the circumstances of the death.
The news of Solo’s passing has sparked a wave of tributes within the Liberian community. Known for his once-vibrant role in the country’s political landscape, his sudden death has left many in shock.
The incident has raised questions regarding airport screening protocols in Casablanca. Witnesses observed that Solo was visibly unwell prior to boarding, leading to calls for better situational awareness and medical intervention training for ground staff at international transit hubs.
Mr. Solo’s family and colleagues have been notified. At this time, funeral arrangements have not been made public, and the official cause of death remains subject to a medical examiner's report.