A coalition of four prominent Liberian opposition parties has issued a joint statement strongly condemning what they describe as the government’s politically motivated targeting of lawmakers. The Alternative National Congress (ANC), Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Movement for Economic Empowerment (MOVEE), and Citizens Movement for Change (CMC) are calling on the government to uphold due process and the rule of law amid ongoing investigations into the Capitol Building Fire incident.
In a press release dated June 6, 2025, and jointly signed by the political leaders of the respective parties—including former President George Manneh Weah, Hon. Alexander B. Cummings, Hon. Musa Hassan Bility, and Ambassador Dee-Maxwell Saah Kemayah—the coalition criticized the government’s actions, labeling them as “deeply concerning” and reminiscent of past political repression.
The release specifically protests the summoning and prolonged detention of four lawmakers—Hon. J. Fonati Koffa, Dixon W. Seboe, Abu Kamara, and Jacob Debee II—by the Liberia National Police from as early as 10:00 a.m. until late in the evening on Friday, June 6. The parties assert that the accused pose no flight risk and that the move to detain them reflects a deliberate attempt to incarcerate opposition voices.
“The recent actions taken…are reminiscent of a darker chapter in our nation’s history, where the judiciary was manipulated for political gains,” the release states.
While reaffirming their commitment to uncovering the truth behind the Capitol Building Fire, the opposition parties insist that any investigation must be impartial and free of political interference.
The coalition is demanding the immediate and unconditional release of the accused lawmakers, warning that failure to do so could result in widespread public unrest.
“Our position on this matter is firm and non-negotiable,” the leaders declared, adding that continued detainment could spark “significant public discontent, expressed through legal and peaceful means.”
They also emphasized that their unified stance should not be mistaken for weakness, but rather a resolute commitment to peace, democracy, and national development.
The joint statement concludes with a call on the government to reflect on its responsibilities and act in the best interest of all Liberians.
