Major opposition parties in Liberia have united in a strong denunciation of President Joseph Boakai’s administration, accusing it of political targeting and repressive tactics in response to the controversial detention of several lawmakers on arson charges related to the Capitol Building fire.
The Alternative National Congress (ANC), Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Movement for Economic Empowerment (MOVEE), and the Citizens Movement for Change (CMC) have jointly condemned the detainment of former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, Dixon W. Seboe, Abu Kamara, and Jacob Debee, II., asserting that these individuals are being unjustly persecuted as part of a broader political strategy to stifle dissent.
In a press release issued Saturday, the opposition leaders described the recent actions against these lawmakers as reminiscent of oppressive tactics employed by previous regimes, stating, “The peace and stability of Liberia rest heavily on the government’s ability to act with integrity and fairness.” The opposition is particularly alarmed that the inquiry into the Capitol fire is being used as a political weapon rather than a straightforward investigation.
The lawmakers were summoned for questioning by the Liberia National Police, spending nearly a full day in custody, which the opposition has interpreted as a precursor to further incarceration. “Such tactics are undemocratic and counterproductive to the rule of law,” the release stated, emphasizing the potential risks of generating political instability through the government’s current handling of the situation.
As tensions rise, the opposition reaffirmed their commitment to justice and democracy, demanding the immediate release of the detained lawmakers while asserting that the investigation into the Capitol fire must remain impartial, free of political motivations. “We remain unreserved in our commitment to uncovering the truth behind the Capitol Building Fire incident, but this must be done impartially,” they stressed.
In a display of solidarity, former Vice President Sunday Madam Taylor visited the detained lawmakers and reported that they were in good spirits as they prepared for their court proceedings set for Monday. She expressed her hopes that the legal process would be honored, reflecting mixed sentiments about the integrity of the judicial system.
“I am hoping that the legal process takes its course,” Taylor said. “It is very sad—something I never expected. But again, he [Koffa] respects the rule of law and is complying with the process.”
Criticism of the government has also come from former presidential candidate Alexander Benedict Cummings, who labeled the detention of Koffa and the other lawmakers as “shameful.” In an interview, he highlighted the legislators’ entitlement to immunity and emphasized that given their status, they should not have been imprisoned prior to court proceedings. “I am very disappointed in the Unity Party-led government for this behavior,” he lamented.
As this political drama unfolds, all eyes are on the government’s next moves and the implications of the ongoing standoff for Liberia’s future.
