The Liberian government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and stability amidst rising political tensions, marked by protests and calls from some opposition figures for the removal of President Joseph Boakai. These calls, according to the government, are deliberate attempts to undermine the nation’s hard-won peace and are being met with strong condemnation. Information Minister Jerolinmek Mathew Piah, speaking at a press briefing, assured the public that the government would not succumb to these destabilizing efforts and remains steadfast in its duty to protect the nation, particularly during the festive season. He accused certain opposition members of exploiting local media platforms to spread dissent and advocate for unconstitutional actions, including the removal of the current administration. The government, he stated, will not allow these individuals to achieve the notoriety they seek by creating chaos.
The government’s firm stance comes in the wake of a protest outside the Capitol Building, where demonstrators demanded a resolution to the ongoing political dispute within the legislature, specifically the controversial removal of Speaker Koffa. While the protest began peacefully, it quickly escalated into a violent confrontation between demonstrators and security forces, resulting in injuries and arrests. This incident further underscores the volatile political climate and the challenges the government faces in maintaining order. Minister Piah responded to the protest by stating that the government would not give undue attention to opposition figures who, having lost their opportunity to serve the Liberian people through legitimate means, are now resorting to disruptive tactics during a time traditionally reserved for peaceful celebration.
Despite these challenges, the government maintains its commitment to upholding democratic principles and respecting the rights of its citizens. Minister Piah acknowledged that some individuals are actively seeking opportunities to portray themselves as heroes through manufactured conflict. However, he stressed that the government would not play into their hands and remains focused on its primary responsibility of protecting lives and property. He emphasized that the vast majority of Liberians desire continued peace, particularly during the festive season, and questioned the motives of those attempting to sow unrest and instability. The government, he reiterated, is fully in control and will take all necessary and legal measures to ensure peace and security prevail.
The Liberian government’s position is that the narrative being presented on various platforms does not accurately reflect the situation on the ground. The Boakai administration remains committed to its development agenda despite these attempts to undermine and destabilize the country. The government sees these actions as distractions from the real work of governance and nation-building, and remains resolute in its focus on progress and stability. The government is keen to emphasize its commitment to the democratic process and the rule of law, even while facing these challenges.
The core message from the Liberian government is clear: Maintaining peace and security is paramount, and the government will not tolerate actions that threaten the nation’s stability. While acknowledging the right to protest, the government condemns any attempts to incite violence or undermine democratic processes. The government’s focus remains on ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for all citizens, especially during the festive season, and on continuing its development agenda despite these political distractions. The government is keen to project an image of strength and stability, while simultaneously upholding democratic principles and respecting the rights of its citizens.
The government’s response to the protests and calls for President Boakai’s removal reveals a strategic approach aimed at minimizing the impact of these disruptive actions. By refusing to engage directly with the demands of the protesters and downplaying the significance of the opposition figures involved, the government seeks to avoid legitimizing their grievances and prevent them from gaining further traction. At the same time, the government underscores its commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law, emphasizing that it will uphold the rights of its citizens while also taking decisive action to maintain peace and security. This balanced approach allows the government to address the immediate challenges while also reinforcing its commitment to long-term stability and development.
