MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) has formally charged Representative Jacob Debee of Grand Gedeh County District #3 and Representative Abu Kamara of Montserrado County District #15 with criminal conspiracy and criminal facilitation in connection with the December 18, 2024 arson attack on the Capitol Building. The charges mark a significant development in the ongoing investigation into the mysterious fire that damaged parts of the legislative complex at a time of mounting political tension.
On Thursday, June 6, 2025, the police summoned seven current and former lawmakers affiliated with the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), including former Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, to appear for questioning. The lawmakers were declared persons of interest in the investigation, which the police say is entering its final phase.
While Representatives Frank Foko and Marvin Cole were asked to leave the premises after their appearance, three other lawmakers, former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, Representative Dixon W. Seboe and Representative Priscilla A. Cooper, remain in custody at the LNP headquarters. According to sources within the police, the trio could also face charges as the probe progresses.
The police’s letter of invitation, signed by Inspector General Gregory O. W. Coleman and read during the House’s regular session by Chief Clerk Mildred Siryon, indicated that the inquiry is aimed at concluding the criminal aspect of the investigation surrounding the Capitol fire.
The December 2024 blaze occurred shortly after Koffa’s controversial removal as Speaker, an event that sparked speculation of political retaliation and sabotage. No one was reported injured in the incident, but the symbolic damage to the country’s legislative seat has fueled months of public outcry and partisan tension.
Meanwhile, the internal dynamics within the CDC have become increasingly fractured. Prominent CDC member Abdul Kanneh took to social media to express his frustration with the party’s leadership, accusing senior figures of double standards and calling for a complete rebranding of the party. “We can no longer sit and allow ourselves to be buried alive,” Kanneh wrote. “I hereby pledge my life towards the rebranding and restructuring of our beloved party.”
Ramsey Smith, another vocal CDC supporter, criticized the current leadership, singling out Secretary General Jefferson Koijee and National Treasurer Janga Kowo. Smith alleged that the two are operating under the influence of Deputy Speaker Thomas P. Fallah and accused them of undermining the former Speaker. “Koijee was the main ringleader that betrayed the former Speaker. Those guys are dangerous elements within our party,” he wrote.
