The Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) has expressed grave concern over a fire incident at the Capitol Building in Liberia, demanding a swift and impartial investigation into the matter. The party vehemently denounces what it perceives as premature attempts by the government to implicate individuals in the incident before a thorough investigation has been conducted. The CDC specifically criticizes the hasty arrest order issued for Montserrado County District Nine Representative Frank Saah Foko, alleging a connection to the fire without substantial evidence. The party views this move as a politically motivated witch-hunt designed to divert attention from the government’s potential culpability or complicity in the incident. The CDC argues that the government’s swift accusation of arson against Representative Foko, even before the commencement of a formal investigation, suggests a predetermined narrative. This hasty judgment raises suspicions about the government’s true motives and its commitment to uncovering the facts surrounding the fire.
The CDC highlights the significant security presence at the Capitol Building, particularly in the days leading up to the fire, due to the planned Citizens’ Peaceful March. The party notes the heavy deployment of the Liberia National Police (LNP) and other security agencies, including instances of LNP officers using force against CDC lawmakers on the Capitol premises. Given this heightened security, the CDC questions how a fire could have occurred without the knowledge or involvement of these security forces. The party contends that the government’s rush to blame Representative Foko serves as a convenient scapegoat to deflect public scrutiny and potential accusations of government negligence or involvement in the fire. The CDC believes the government is attempting to shield itself from responsibility by shifting blame onto political opponents.
Furthermore, the CDC draws attention to the timing of the fire, occurring shortly after a Supreme Court ruling related to a legislative impasse. The party suggests that the incident might be a deliberate attempt by elements within the ruling Unity Party to divert public attention and international pressure from their alleged disregard for the Supreme Court’s decision. This politically charged context underscores the need for a transparent and independent investigation, potentially with international support, to ascertain the true cause of the fire and identify those responsible. The CDC emphasizes its commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law, urging Liberians to remain peaceful and law-abiding while exercising their fundamental rights to free speech, assembly, and protest.
The CDC’s statement further alleges the government’s attempts to frame “patriotic and law-abiding citizens” who have no motive to commit arson. The party emphasizes that the heightened security presence at the Capitol, particularly following the announcement of the Citizens’ Peaceful March and the subsequent violent suppression of the protest, makes it highly improbable that any unauthorized breach could have occurred without the knowledge of the LNP or other security agencies. The CDC argues that this inherent security presence raises serious questions about the government’s narrative and reinforces the suspicion of a politically motivated cover-up. The party insists that a thorough and impartial investigation is essential to uncover the truth and hold the responsible parties accountable.
The CDC also raises concerns about the increasing international pressure on the government regarding its alleged disregard for the Supreme Court’s opinion in the ongoing legislative impasse. The party suggests that the fire incident may be a diversionary tactic employed by the Unity Party to deflect attention from this issue and mitigate international criticism. The CDC calls for international support in conducting the investigation to ensure impartiality and transparency, emphasizing that scapegoating political opponents will not resolve the matter or address the underlying concerns about the government’s respect for the rule of law. The party reiterates its commitment to democratic principles and urges all Liberians to remain peaceful and law-abiding while defending their constitutional rights.
In a separate development, the CDC demands the immediate and unconditional release of Sekou Kalasco Damaro and other individuals arrested during the protests. The party asserts that these arrests are arbitrary and based on fabricated charges, constituting a further assault on democratic freedoms. The CDC links the arrests of Damaro, Representative Foko, and others to the exercise of their right to protest, portraying these actions as part of a broader pattern of government suppression of dissent. The party warns against the dangers these abuses pose to Liberia’s democracy and reiterates its call for respect for fundamental rights and the rule of law. The CDC emphasizes the importance of upholding democratic principles and protecting the rights of all citizens to express their views and participate in peaceful assembly.
