Alexander B. Cummings, Political Leader of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), has cautioned the Liberian government against what he described as “selective justice,” following the recent release on property surety bond of former House Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa and three other lawmakers.
In a statement issued on Monday, Cummings welcomed the release of the lawmakers but emphasized that the matter goes beyond individual politicians.
“Our actions over the last few days aren’t just about Fonati Koffa and others it’s about something bigger: the rule of law, due process, and fair treatment for all citizens, regardless of political alignment,” he wrote.
The ANC Political leader stressed the principle that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty, citing the Liberian Constitution as the foundation of justice.
He expressed concerns over the apparent inconsistency in how the law is applied.
“We can’t support a system where some are treated with discretion like the UP Representative released to her lawyers while others are paraded and punished before trial,” he added.
Mr. Cummings further warned that unequal treatment under the law threatens public trust and undermines democratic values. “Justice must be consistent,” he declared.
He also rejected the notion that poor practices should be excused because they are common elsewhere. “Liberia must lead by doing what’s right not just what’s familiar,” Cummings stated.
He reaffirmed the opposition’s role in holding the government accountable; asserting that criticism of questionable arrests or “politically charged optics” is a democratic right, not a defense of wrongdoing.
“If a crime was committed, let the law take its course,” he wrote. “But let’s do it right without double standards, without theatrics, and with respect for every citizen’s rights.”
Cummings concluded by reiterating the ANC’s core principle: “The ANC is where ‘Everybody is somebody.”
His remarks come amid growing political tension in the country, as opposition parties raise concerns about government overreach and potential political targeting.
