Monrovia, Liberia – Tensions erupted in the heart of Liberia’s capital on Tuesday as President Joseph Boakai’s government clamped down on a group of protestors demanding the upholding of the rule of law. The demonstration, which was led by former officials from the administration of ex-President George Weah, quickly turned violent as police forces were deployed to disperse the crowd. Among those arrested and manhandled by security forces were Sekou Kalasco Damaro, a former presidential aide, Janjay Baikpeh, the former Grand Bassa County Superintendent, and Representative Frank Saah Foko.
The protest, organized by a coalition of opposition figures, aimed to highlight what they perceived as a growing erosion of legal and democratic principles under the current government. Protestors chanted for accountability and the restoration of the rule of law, accusing the Boakai administration of undermining the country’s judicial independence and stifling dissent.
However, what started as a peaceful demonstration soon turned chaotic when police officers, heavily armed and in riot gear, arrived at the protest site. Witnesses described scenes of brutal force, with officers physically manhandling and detaining the opposition figures. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from both local and international observers, who decried the heavy-handed approach by the government.
The opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), led by former President Weah’s party, quickly condemned the police’s use of force, calling it an “unjustified and violent assault on political freedom.” In a statement released shortly after the incident, the CDC demanded the immediate release of all detained protestors and called for an independent investigation into the actions of the police. “This is a clear violation of our citizens’ right to peacefully assemble and voice their concerns. We will not stand by as the government attempts to silence opposition,” the statement read.
As the situation continues to develop, many are questioning the future of Liberia’s democracy. The incident marks a significant turning point in Liberia’s political climate, highlighting deep divisions and a fragile trust in the institutions meant to safeguard its democratic processes.
