The Alternative National Congress (ANC) has called on the Government of Liberia to demonstrate compassion, accountability, and people-centered leadership in the wake of recent demolition exercises carried out by the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL).
While acknowledging the importance of improving the welfare and working conditions of Liberia’s military personnel, the ANC stressed that such efforts must not come at the expense of ordinary citizens’ dignity, safety, and livelihoods.
The demolition of homes and businesses in the 72nd Community, the party noted, has once again exposed troubling weaknesses in governance—marked by poor planning, weak coordination, and a lack of empathy. Hundreds of residents, including women, children, and the elderly, were left homeless, displaced from their businesses, and traumatized about their uncertain future.
“The Unity Party–led government has so far shown little compassion, urgency, or leadership in responding to the humanitarian consequences of its actions,” the ANC declared.
The party emphasized that governance must never be reduced to the exercise of power without responsibility. Development initiatives that displace citizens without consultation, compensation, or resettlement, it argued, are not progress but failures of leadership.
The ANC condemned actions that render Liberians homeless in the name of development or national security, urging the government to immediately prioritize relocation, compensation, and welfare for all affected citizens. It further demanded that no future demolition be undertaken without comprehensive resettlement plans, community engagement, and social safeguards.
“A responsible government plans before it acts and protects its people, especially the most vulnerable, from avoidable suffering,” the statement read.
The ANC underscored that true leadership is measured not by force or authority but by compassion, foresight, and respect for human dignity. It urged the government to embrace transparent, inclusive, and consultative processes by engaging community leaders, civil society, and relevant stakeholders before implementing actions that directly impact citizens’ lives.
At this critical juncture, the party argued, Liberia needs leadership that rescues its people rather than reduces them to beggars—leadership that builds homes instead of destroying lives.
“The Unity Party–led government must rise to its responsibility and govern with empathy, justice, and accountability,” the ANC concluded. “No Liberian should be made homeless by their own government.”
