MONROVIA – The Concerned Citizens for the Protection of Our Constitution, Democracy, and Rule of Law has condemned the government of President Joseph N. Boakai for what it described as “brutal repression” of peaceful protesters on Capitol Hill.
The group claims that unarmed citizens, who had gathered on Tuesday to petition the National Legislature to restore constitutional order, were met with violence from state security forces acting on orders from the President and Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the group denounced the actions as “insensitive, brutal, inhumane, and barbaric,” alleging that live rounds, tear gas, and other lethal measures were used to disperse the protesters.
“President Boakai has proven to be a curse upon the Liberian people. It is imperative for all Liberians, regardless of political affiliation, to unite and bring an end to this suffering. In light of these atrocities, we, the Concerned Citizens for the Protection of Our Constitution, Democracy, and Rule of Law, hereby announce the Boakai-Koung Step Down Campaign.”
The group further revealed that over 75 protesters were “shot, wounded, tear-gassed, and unlawfully arrested and brutalized” by the Liberia National Police. It called for their unconditional release, alleging that detained individuals are at risk of torture. “We have credible intelligence that these detained citizens are at risk of being tortured to death. The world must know: if any harm befalls our people, President Boakai and his government will be held fully responsible.” Among those arrested and currently detained is Sekou Kalasco Damaro, an aide of former President George Weah.
“Boakai-Koung Step Down Campaign”
In response to the incident, the Concerned Citizens announced the launch of the “Boakai-Koung Step Down Campaign”, demanding the immediate resignation of President Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Koung. “President Boakai has proven to be a curse upon the Liberian people. It is imperative for all Liberians, regardless of political affiliation, to unite and bring an end to this suffering.”
The group described the campaign as a national mobilization effort that will extend across towns and villages. While the official launch date is yet to be announced, the group has urged all opposition political parties, civil society organizations, and Liberians both at home and abroad to join the effort.
“This is not a time to let personal disagreements overshadow the urgent need for national salvation. We must continue to work together for the redemption of our country,” the statement emphasized.
Call for Unity and Accountability
The Concerned Citizens also expressed gratitude to Liberians for their turnout at the protest and reiterated their commitment to pursuing justice and the restoration of constitutional order. “You are the true heroes of the day, but this is only the beginning,” the group declared.
As tension continues to mount following Tuesday’s events, the group concluded with a clear ultimatum: “President Boakai and Jeremiah Koung must step down now, and this is non-negotiable!”
Government Yet to Respond
The Boakai administration and the Liberia National Police have yet to respond to the allegations. Meanwhile, civil society organizations and international observers are closely monitoring the situation as calls for accountability and dialogue intensify.
Tuesday’s protest comes amid rising political tension in Liberia, with critics accusing the Boakai administration of undermining constitutional processes and suppressing dissent. The Boakai-Koung Step Down Campaign could mark a significant turning point as opposition groups and activists rally for change.
