Monrovia, Liberia — Concerns are mounting over the treatment of Liberian artist Karwordou Cole, popularly known as Bucky Raw, following what media practitioners, Liberian artists and concerned citizens describe as the public humiliation of a suspect who has not been convicted by any court of law.
In a media statement released on Monday, critics accused the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) of subjecting Bucky Raw to excessive public exposure, heavy security presence, and undue pressure, actions they say undermine the principle of presumption of innocence guaranteed under Liberian law.
“Bucky Raw is only a suspect. He has not been found guilty by any court,” the statement emphasized, noting that the manner in which the artist is being handled is “shameful, unfair, and damaging” to his reputation, career, and family.
The group questioned why the artist is being treated as though he has already been convicted, arguing that public disgrace before judicial determination violates due process and basic human rights. “The law is clear everyone is innocent until proven guilty,” the statement read. “No one should be disgraced in public before a judge makes a decision.”
Bucky Raw, a well-known figure in Liberia’s entertainment industry, is described by supporters as an artist who inspires young people and contributes positively to society. While acknowledging that investigations must take their course, the statement stressed that respectful treatment and fair process are non-negotiable, regardless of one’s status.
The media statement issued a call to action directed at artists and entertainers, human rights organizations, fans, supporters, and justice-loving Liberians to speak out against what it termed trial by public shame. Supporters were urged to stand for fairness and allow the courts not public spectacle to determine guilt or innocence.
“This is not about supporting crime,” the statement clarified. “This is about justice and human rights.”
The call concluded with an appeal for restraint and adherence to the rule of law, urging authorities to allow justice to take its proper course while respecting the rights of the accused.
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