By Festus Poquie
Forces of lawlessness, power struggle and intolerance are pushing Liberia, once viewed as a beacon of democratic stability in West Africa, back into a likely state turmoil.
Constitutional dispute that has intensified a leadership crisis within the House of Representatives encountered epic phenomenon Wednesday when a devastating fire destroyed parts of the Capitol Building, the seat of the Legislature.
The blaze erupted early Wednesday morning amid an escalating political tension in the West African nation of 5.5 million people.
The fire started in the annex that houses the rotunda and joint chambers, as firefighters and police scrambled to contain the flames. Despite their efforts, the fire wreaked extensive damage, revealing the country’s precarious state as it grapples with both political and security challenges.
President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, who visited the scene shortly after the fire broke out, condemned the incident as a “serious threat to Liberia’s democracy.”
He vowed to pursue those responsible, stressing that any acts aimed at undermining government operations would not be tolerated.
“I have authorized the Minister of Justice to lead an investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice,” President Boakai stated.
As fear and chaos enveloped Monrovia, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) expressed profound concern regarding the rising tensions in the country.
In a statement, ECOWAS condemned the violent clashes between police and protestors on the same day, calling for restraint from all parties involved. “We urge all Liberian protesters and the Liberia National Police to exercise their rights and mandates peacefully,” the regional bloc said.
The cause of the Capitol fire remains unknown, although police have begun interrogating individuals as part of their investigation. ECOWAS has called for transparency in the inquiry and insists that the findings be made public to maintain trust among the citizenry.
In light of these events, observers warn that Liberia’s democracy is under serious threat, with the potential for further unrest if the situation is not managed effectively.
The regional community has appealed for genuine dialogue and reconciliation among political leaders to foster long-lasting peace and stability in Liberia.
With Liberia facing this dual crisis of governance and security, the need for a return to calm and adherence to the rule of law has been advised by the United States and other international actors.
