Monrovia – The Alternative National Congress (ANC) has called for urgent action to address the deepening political crisis in Liberia, following the fire incident at the Capitol. The ANC through its political leader Alexander B. Cummings emphasized that the fire should serve as a stark reminder of the fractured state of the nation’s politics and the urgent need for political leaders to act decisively to restore stability and unity.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh, [email protected]
“The scene of fire engulfing the Capitol should serve to remind all Liberians that our politics is seriously broken,” said Mr. Cummings. “Our political leaders must do everything within their power to pull the country back from the brink.”
Recently, the joint chamber of the Capitol Building was engulfed in flames. Authorities are yet to determine the cause of the fire, but there is speculation that it may have been deliberately set. This incident happened after the Supreme Court’s ruling failed to resolve the ongoing House leadership dispute.
Reflecting on Liberia’s recent history, Cummings stressed that the nation has repeatedly faced dire consequences when extremism takes root. He urged leaders and citizens alike to reject radicalism and instead embrace the principles of compromise and moderation.
In a passionate appeal, the ANC called on all stakeholders to prioritize finding an amicable solution to the impasse currently paralyzing the Legislature and creating uncertainty across the country. The party highlighted Liberia’s two-decade-long track record as a beacon of democratic governance and stability in Africa, particularly in the West African sub-region where democratic backsliding has been prevalent.
“A speedy and peaceful resolution of our current political crisis is necessary for us to continue building on our democratic gains and avoid the fates of other countries in the sub-region,” Cummings stated.
The ANC reiterated its commitment to working with all political parties and interest groups to mediate the nation’s differences peacefully. The party called on Liberians to reject a zero-sum approach to politics, where one side wins everything and the other loses all, and instead see politics as a means to mediate differences constructively.
“Liberia is the only country we have,” Cummings said. “Let us resolve to pass it on to our children as the peaceful and prosperous country they deserve.”
The ANC’s statement serves as a clarion call for unity and action to protect Liberia’s democratic heritage and to ensure a stable future for the nation. The party reaffirmed its readiness to lead efforts toward reconciliation and progress, urging all Liberians to work collectively to overcome the challenges facing the nation.
