Monrovia — The Movement to Reinforce Constitutional Governance and the Rule of Law in Liberia (RECOGOL) has said the failure for President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to address the impasse at the House of Representatives will undermine the credibility of his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) slated for January 27, 2025.
The group in a statement signed by the Global Chairperson of RECOGOL Dr. Marie Scott Wilson urgently has called on President Boakai to address what it terms as critical issues threatening the nation’s democracy and stability.
According to RECOGOL, Liberia stands at a pivotal crossroads where decisive leadership is paramount to the forward march of the country. RECOGOL states: “The unresolved leadership dispute in the Legislature, divided between majority and minority blocs, jeopardizes the credibility of the upcoming SONA.”
The group added: “RECOGOL strongly urges President Boakai to abide by the Supreme Court’s ruling affirming Hon. J. Fonati Koffa as the legitimate Speaker and resolve the legislative impasse to avert a national crisis.”
RECOGOL also termed the burning of the Joint Chamber at the Capitol Building as an arson attack on the Legislature’s seat of power that signals a dire need for accountability. “Those involved must face the full force of the law to reaffirm Liberia’s commitment to justice and security,” RECOGOL said.
Condemnation of Human Rights Violation
RECOGOL also alarmed over what it termed as an increase in violations of Liberia’s democratic principles, including the unlawful arrests of citizens such as Eric Susay, James Weah, and Andrew Sleh Lawson for expressing their views on national issues.
“Such actions infringe upon fundamental freedoms guaranteed under Liberia’s Constitution. RECOGOL has demanded their immediate release and called on the government to uphold free speech and due process,” RECOGOL in a statement said.
“Justice for Tom Etheridge, Justice for Humanity—Let’s End Torture Now!”
RECOGOL also condemned the reported torture of Tom Etheridge, which constitutes a grave violation of his human rights as enshrined in Article 21(h) of the Liberian Constitution and international conventions. “Torture has no place in Liberia’s democracy and must be unequivocally denounced,” the group said.
RECOGOL has called for independent Inquiry into the allegations of torture and prosecute those responsible. The group is also encouraging human rights organizations to hold Liberia accountable for its international obligations.
RECOGOL has called for the strengthening of human rights advocacy to expose abuses and support victims.
Call to International Partners
RECOGOL, however, urged Liberia’s international allies to prioritize sustained engagement and pressure to safeguard peace and democracy. “The global community must act to ensure Liberia does not regress into instability, impunity, and human rights violations,” RECOGOL said.
