The Liberian nation is ablaze with outrage over the alleged rape of a 14-year-old girl by J. Bryant McGill, the Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports. Public pressure is mounting on Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman to ensure McGill is brought to justice, with calls for swift action echoing from civil society groups, legal advocates, and the general populace. Coleman’s recent press briefing, while acknowledging the ongoing investigation, has done little to quell the public’s anger, particularly given the non-bailable nature of rape under Liberian law and the perceived lack of urgency in apprehending McGill.
The victim, the daughter of a Ministry of Youth and Sports employee, was reportedly lured into McGill’s office on several occasions. Found distressed near the Ministry, she disclosed that McGill had “tampered with her.” Medical examinations subsequently corroborated the allegations of sexual assault. Despite the gravity of the accusations and the supporting evidence, McGill remains free, having only requested a leave of absence pending the investigation. This leave request is currently awaiting approval from President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
The public’s frustration stems from the apparent disparity between the seriousness of the allegations and the measured pace of the investigation. Coleman’s explanation that the police are prioritizing a thorough investigation to ensure a successful prosecution over a hasty arrest rings hollow for many Liberians. The public’s demand for immediate action is fueled by the understanding that such crimes leave indelible emotional scars on victims and that swift justice is crucial for both the survivor and the broader fight against sexual violence in Liberia.
Adding to the public outcry are the actions of various organizations demanding justice for the victim. The Movement Against Rape and Sexual Gender-Based Violence (MARSGBV) staged a powerful demonstration at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex, denouncing rape and calling for McGill’s immediate dismissal and thorough investigation. The Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL) also condemned the handling of the case, expressing shock at the lack of an arrest and warning against any interference that could obstruct justice.
The investigation, being conducted by the LNP’s Women and Children Protection Section in conjunction with the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the GBV Division, and the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Crimes Unit, is reportedly analyzing CCTV footage and providing social worker support to the survivor. While these steps indicate progress, the absence of an arrest continues to fuel public discontent. The police chief’s explanation regarding the need for a subpoena for McGill’s call logs for geo-location analysis and the intention to request foreign DNA testing, while seemingly procedural, adds to the perception of delay and inaction.
The case has become a focal point in Liberia’s struggle against sexual violence. The public’s demand for accountability goes beyond this specific incident; it reflects a broader call for a justice system that truly protects the vulnerable and delivers justice efficiently. The pressure on President Boakai to ensure justice is served is immense. The nation is watching, and the outcome of this case will send a powerful message about the government’s commitment to eradicating sexual violence and upholding the rights of all its citizens. The stakes are incredibly high – for the survivor, the credibility of the justice system, and the future of Liberia’s fight against this pervasive societal ill.
