Monrovia – On the heels of recent unfavorable incidents on Capitol Hill and at the Capitol Building – seat of the Liberian Legislature, the National Civil Society Council of Liberia (NCSCL) has strongly condemned the incidents and is seeking speedy probe.
Two terrible incidents have resulted in fear gripping Liberians regarding the peace and security of the state.
It can be recalled that under the rising sun of Tuesday’s morning, December 17, 2024, protesters under the banner: “Concerned Citizens for the Protection of Our Constitution, Democracy, and the Rule of Law” stormed Capitol Hill to agitate against several counts of bad governance, hardships and fragrant disregard to the rule of law.
But while in their attempt forcibly to enter the Capitol Building Compound, they (protesters) were greeted by stiff resistance from the riot unit of the Liberia National Police (LNP) – the Emergency Response Unit (ERU), who reportedly returned their action with teargas, live bullets and pepper spray.
Most terribly, the Capitol Building during the early morning hours of Wednesday, December 18, 2024 was gutted by fire or set ablaze – a second in a series since the ongoing power struggle within the House of Representatives.
On the heels of the growing waves of violence, the Council immediately issued a statement signed by its Chairperson Madam Loretta Alethea Pope-Kai to detest both incidents.
NCSCL pointed out that violence should absolutely have no space in Liberian society irrespective of whatever political disagreements, as such is counterproductive to peace and security of the state.
The Council noted that these uncivilized acts of violence must be condemned by all well-meaning Liberians regardless of one’s political affiliation, tribal line or religious backgrounds.
“The National Civil Society Council of Liberia condemns in the strongest terms, recent developments on Capitol Hill – from the violent protest to the burning of the Capitol Building. We condemn the acts of lawlessness orchestrated by some Liberians who had sought to undermine the essence of the peaceful protest. The Council at the same time condemned the action of the police for using excessive force on these unarmed civilians. Even if they were hostile in the process, the reported use of live bullets, teargas and pepper spray was far more excessive by the police, who are clothed with the responsibility to save lives.”
“At the same time, the National Civil Society Council detests the burning of the Capitol Building allegedly by known individuals. This is scary; it undermines our peace and security and our flourishing democracy. We call on Liberians of all walks of life to join us in condemning this uncivilized act of violence. This should have no space in our democracy.”
Meanwhile, the Council has called for an independent and speedy investigation to be launched into the two different fracas so as to bring the would-be perpetrator(s) to justice.
In a related development, the Chairperson of the Council Madam Pope-Kai is
calling on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., to exercise wisdom and take total
leadership of the country.
Though the Liberian Chief Executive has mandated the Justice Ministry through Minister Oswald Tweh to launch an immediate probe to bring the perpetrator(s) to book, the Council’s Chairperson in an open letter to the President, echoed her voice to Liberian leader to match his words with deeds by leaving all stones unturned in ensuring that such investigation is done in a more timely manner.
“This is scary for the country and this other investigation should not be a business as usual. The President needs to be more proactive by ensuring that everything is done in time so that would-be perpetrator(s) will be brought to book to account for their action.
She asserted that the President of Liberia holds a pivotal role in addressing these challenges and steering the nation towards a path of reconciliation and progress, and as such in the face of a deeply divided society, it is imperative that the President exercises wisdom in decision-making and governance.
This, she said, entails a commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and dialogue, as well as a willingness to listen to diverse perspectives and prioritize the common good over personal or political interests.
“A nation with a history of division and strife, the importance of wise and thoughtful governance cannot be overstated. The country is facing significant challenges, with deep divisions among its people and political representatives. In such a complex and fragile environment, the need for leadership that governs with wisdom and foresight is crucial for promoting unity and stability.”
“The President of Liberia holds a pivotal role in addressing these challenges and steering the nation towards a path of reconciliation and progress. In the face of a deeply divided society, it is imperative that the President exercises wisdom in decision-making and governance. This entails a commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and dialogue, as well as a willingness to listen to diverse perspectives and prioritize the common good over personal or political interests.”
According to her, wisdom in governance also requires a deep understanding of the historical and social context of Liberia, acknowledging past injustices and addressing the root causes of division and conflict.
By promoting reconciliation, respect for human rights, and the rule of law, the CSO Council head maintained that the President must work towards healing the wounds of the past and fostering a sense of national unity and cohesion.
“Furthermore, governing with wisdom entails promoting good governance practices, accountability, and effective institutions that can earn the trust and confidence of the Liberian people. By upholding the principles of democracy, transparency, and integrity, the President can build a foundation for sustainable development and prosperity for all citizens.”
“The challenges facing Liberia demand leadership that governs with wisdom and vision. By prioritizing unity, reconciliation, and good governance, the President can help bridge the divides that threaten the nation’s stability and progress. Through inclusive and transparent leadership, Liberia can overcome its divisions and build a future of peace, prosperity, and unity for all its people.”
