By Festus Poquie
Senator Edwin Snowe has raised alarm bells regarding his safety following accusations from the Liberian government that he intends to destabilize the nation.
In a statement delivered from the floor of the Senate, Snowe said he believes his life is in jeopardy due to claims made by the Ministry of Information.
The fire-starting statement from the government accused the former House Speaker, who also has familial ties to convicted warlord Charles Taylor, of plotting to sabotage the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
According to the Ministry, Snowe allegedly plans to use his influence within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to undermine the government, discourage foreign investment, and ultimately create chaos in Liberia with the intention of positioning himself for the presidency.
“My life is in the hands of the state. If I die today, the government will be held responsible because of the statement issued by the Ministry of Information,” Snowe declared, condemning the government’s assertions as “false and unfounded.”
Since the issuance of the government’s statement on May 24, Snowe has reported receiving threatening messages directed at both himself and his family.
He revealed the distress the situation has caused, particularly to his 90-year-old mother, whose health has deteriorated since the news broke.
“Her pressure has risen significantly since the statement was released. We initially hid the news from her to avoid distress,” he said.
In light of these events, Snowe has appealed to the Senate for two critical actions: the publication of an international investigation’s findings to clear his name of any treasonous claims and a formal retraction and apology from the Ministry of Information.
“The situation is dire, and I require security protection,” Snowe said, underlining the gravity of the threats he says he has received.
The government’s accusations against Snowe have sparked intense debate within the political sphere, raising questions about freedom of expression and the safety of political figures in Liberia. Snowe maintains that the government’s allegations are politically motivated and unfounded, calling for public support to safeguard his rights as a citizen and senator.
