The Liberia National Police (LNP) is bracing for potential unrest as several lawmakers appeared in court following their arrest in connection with a December 2024 arson attack on the Capitol Building. Inspector General of Police, Gregory O. W. Coleman, issued a stern warning against any attempts to incite violence or disrupt the peace, emphasizing the nation’s hard-won stability. He stressed the LNP’s commitment to upholding the law impartially and protecting all citizens, regardless of political affiliation. The arrests have heightened political tensions and sparked public protests, with the opposition alleging political motivation behind the detentions.
A month-long investigation by joint security and law enforcement agencies concluded that the arson attack was a coordinated effort to destabilize the nation and destroy a national symbol. Both private individuals and sitting lawmakers have been implicated, based on verified evidence, according to IG Coleman. The charges, including arson, criminal conspiracy, and related offenses, fall under Liberia’s Revised Penal Code. Coleman emphasized that the legal process will be followed, and urged Liberians to respect the judicial proceedings and resolve differences through dialogue rather than destruction.
Four lawmakers, Representatives J. Fonati Koffa, Jacob Debee, Dixon Seboe, and Abu Kamara, were arraigned and denied bail, further inflaming opposition supporters who view the arrests as a politically motivated attempt to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2029 elections. Protests erupted outside the Monrovia Central Prison, where the lawmakers are being held, prompting increased security measures. The court proceedings are being closely watched as a critical test of Liberia’s justice system and political stability.
The former ruling Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) mobilized supporters and opposition allies to gather at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia in solidarity with the detained lawmakers. CDC National Chairman Janga Kowo called the lawmakers “political prisoners” and demanded their immediate release, accusing the ruling Unity Party of undermining the opposition. He asserted the opposition’s commitment to peace, but warned of the precarious nature of stability in the face of perceived political persecution.
The LNP’s warning underscores the potential for escalating tensions and the risk of violence. The convergence of opposition supporters at the Temple of Justice presents a significant challenge for authorities, who are wary of potential clashes with anti-riot police. The government’s actions are being interpreted by the opposition as a direct attack, raising concerns about the potential for further unrest and the erosion of trust in the judicial process.
The situation in Liberia is a delicate balancing act between upholding the rule of law and maintaining political stability. The outcome of the legal proceedings against the lawmakers, and the government’s handling of the opposition protests, will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the nation’s political landscape. The international community is being urged to monitor the situation closely, as the potential for further unrest remains a significant concern. The emphasis on dialogue and respect for the judicial process is paramount in preventing further escalation and preserving Liberia’s hard-won peace.
