MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police on Saturday confirmed the arrest of Cllr. Janga Augustus Kowo, Chairman of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), for his alleged role in organizing what authorities have described as an unauthorized and disruptive protest.
Deputy Inspector General of Police for Operations, Col. Nelson Freeman, said the arrest was not politically motivated but stemmed from Kowo’s alleged orchestration of a protest aimed at obstructing the lawful detention of several opposition lawmakers, including former House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. “When it comes to operations, I go for the individual who is at the center of coordination,” Col. Freeman stated, emphasizing that Kowo acted as the principal organizer of the demonstration.
According to the police, the protest was not approved under Liberia’s public order laws and posed a threat to public safety and the rights of others. “This is not about politics. This is about law and order,” Freeman asserted. “If anyone in this city attempts to undermine justice or public safety, the Liberia National Police will take action. We’re not backing down.”
Eyewitnesses say a group of CDC supporters, led by Chairman Kowo, gathered earlier in the day to stage what they called a peaceful protest, demanding accountability from the Boakai administration. Protesters reportedly chanted slogans and carried placards, but the situation quickly attracted a heavy police response and descended into chaos.
The protest occurred amid rising tensions following the arrest of several opposition lawmakers linked to the December 2024 Capitol Building arson case. Although police say their actions are based strictly on legal grounds, critics accuse the government of using security forces to target political opponents.
Kowo was released from police custody shortly after his arrest, but the incident has drawn sharp reactions from CDC supporters and further intensified Liberia’s already polarized political climate. Police, however, insist their response was consistent with their constitutional duty to maintain peace and enforce the law.
