The Alternative National Congress (ANC) has strongly criticized the Government of Liberia over recent demolition exercises carried out by the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), describing the action as poorly planned and lacking compassion for affected citizens.
The condemnation follows a demolition exercise in the 72nd Community, which reportedly left hundreds of residents-including women, children, and elderly persons—homeless and without livelihoods.
According to the ANC, the operation exposed serious weaknesses in planning, coordination, and government responsiveness to humanitarian concerns.
While acknowledging the need to improve accommodation and working conditions for members of the Armed Forces of Liberia, the opposition party stressed that such efforts should not come at the expense of ordinary citizens.
“Development that displaces citizens without adequate consultation, compensation, or resettlement is not progress; it is a failure of leadership,” the ANC said in a statement issued on Monday.
The party accused the Unity Party-led government of showing little urgency or compassion in responding to the humanitarian consequences of the demolition.
It argued that governance should not be reduced to the exercise of power without responsibility and warned against actions that render Liberians homeless in the name of development or national security.
The ANC called on the government to immediately prioritize the relocation, compensation, and welfare of all affected residents.
It further urged authorities to ensure that future demolition exercises are preceded by comprehensive resettlement plans, community engagement, and adequate social safeguards.
“A responsible government plans before it acts and protects its people, especially the most vulnerable, from avoidable suffering,” the statement noted.
The party also emphasized the need for transparent and inclusive decision-making, encouraging the government to engage community leaders, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders before implementing actions that directly impact citizens’ lives.
According to the ANC, true leadership is measured not by force or authority, but by compassion, foresight, and respect for human dignity.
The party warned that Liberia needs leadership that builds homes rather than destroys lives.
The statement was signed by Lafayette E.O. Gould, Esq., National Chairman of the Alternative National Congress, who called on the government to govern with empathy, justice, and accountability, stressing that no Liberian should be made homeless by their own government.
