The Political Leader of the Alternative National Congress (ANC), Alexander B. Cummings, has issued a strong rebuke of the Unity Party-led government over what he described as the unconstitutional detention of several opposition lawmakers.
Cummings, a leading opposition figure and former presidential candidate, criticized the government’s recent actions as a serious threat to Liberia’s democracy. He specifically denounced the arrest and incarceration of lawmakers who he insists are protected by legislative immunity as enshrined in the Constitution of Liberia.
“These are elected lawmakers who are performing their duties under the law. To embarrass them and treat them like common criminals, despite their immunity, is disgraceful and unacceptable,” Cummings stated in an exclusive conversation with a team of journalists in Monrovia. “Shame on this government for using the justice system to intimidate the opposition.”
Among those detained is former speaker J. Fonati Koffa, alongside three other lawmakers, who are currently being held at the South Beach prison. The four plus Madam Cooper are facing multiple serious charges, including arson, criminal conspiracy, criminal facilitation, and attempted murder.
While the Unity Party-led government has yet to issue an official response to the accusations, Cummings urged President Joseph Boakai and his administration to respect the rule of law and the sanctity of democratic institutions.
“This is not just an attack on individuals,” Cummings added. “It is an attack on the legislature as an institution and on our democracy as a whole.”
The incident has heightened political tensions in the country, with observers warning that it could deepen divisions ahead of crucial legislative sessions and policy decisions. Analysts say the situation reflects a broader pattern of political infighting that could impact governance and national stability if not resolved.
As public debate intensifies, many are watching closely to see how the administration will address the mounting criticism and whether legal actions against the lawmakers will proceed despite the constitutional concerns raised.
