Monrovia, Liberia – The political tension in Liberia shows no signs of easing as the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) issued stern warnings against any attempts to arrest its lawmakers in connection with the recent fire at the Capitol Building. The blaze, which caused significant damage to the legislative seat of power earlier this month, has ignited fierce debate and allegations of negligence and sabotage.
At a press conference, CDC Chairman Janga Kowo condemned what he described as targeted efforts against party members and warned the government. “Do not dare arrest any CDC lawmaker linked to the Capitol Building fire incident,” Kowo declared. “Any attempt to arrest them, be prepared to arrest the entire CDC.”
Kowo’s statements highlight the growing friction between the ruling establishment and the opposition, with the CDC positioning itself as a formidable force ready to resist perceived injustices. The warnings come amid mounting speculation about investigations into CDC-affiliated officials over the Capitol Building fire, an event that has become a flashpoint in Liberia’s political discourse.
The party’s stance escalated further with Kowo’s announcement that the CDC Legislative Caucus, headed by Senator Nathaniel McGill, has been instructed to boycott President Joseph Boakai’s upcoming State of the Nation Address. According to Kowo, the boycott directly responds to the administration’s alleged attempts to use the Capitol Building incident as a pretext for political persecution.
“The CDC Legislative Caucus has been directed to stay away from the President’s address,” Kowo said. “We cannot, in good conscience, participate in a process being weaponized to silence opposition voices.”
