In a time when Liberia stands at a critical juncture in its democratic journey, the current controversy surrounding the Capitol Building arson investigation threatens to shake the foundation of trust in the justice system. Citizens are watching with increasing concern as the events of December 18th and their aftermath unfold. It is essential that the government, under the leadership of President Joseph Boakai, remains impartial in its pursuit of justice, upholding the rule of law without the stain of political influence and machination.
At the heart of the issue is the ARREST agenda ~ President Boakai’s national development roadmap ~ which emphasizes Agriculture, Road, the Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation and Tourism. Yet, it is the “R” ~ Rule of Law ~ that now appears to be under threat. Citizens are questioning whether this promise of impartial justice truly applies to everyone, including those with political connections.
The controversy stems from the Liberian National Police’s investigation into the Capitol arson case, where five lawmakers have been accused: Grand Gedeh County District #3 Representative Jacob Debee, Montserrado County District #15 Representative Abu Kamara, District #16 Representative Dixon Seboe, District #5 Representative Precillia Cooper, and former Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa. Their charges range from Arson and Criminal Mischief to Reckless Endangerment, Criminal Attempt to Commit Murder, and Criminal Conspiracy.
However, what has ignited public outcry is not just the seriousness of the charges, but the perception of selective justice. While four of the accused, including former Speaker Koffa, were detained, Representative Precillia Cooper was reportedly “prevented” from facing the same fate, despite being equally named in the indictment. No clear explanation has been offered for this disparity, leaving the public to speculate and opponents to decry political favoritism.
Even more troubling are allegations from John Nyanti, a well-known supporter of the opposition bloc, who has accused the government of bribing him with $200K to falsely testify against Koffa and the other accused lawmakers. Though the government has categorically denied these accusations, they have only deepened public suspicion. The matter has even fractured families, with Nyanti’s own uncle ~ an special envoy under the current administration ~ publicly opposing him.
As the case moves to Criminal Court ‘A’, the government now has a responsibility ~ not just to prosecute, but to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Without substantial evidence, any conviction will be viewed as politically motivated, eroding public trust in our institutions. On the other hand, if guilt is established through due process and fair trial, it must be accepted by all, regardless of political affiliation.
But for justice to prevail, we must allow the Court to do its work, free from political pressure and public interference. The judiciary must rise above partisan interests and serve as a neutral arbiter guided solely by the law and the constitution of the Republic of Liberia.
Impunity has long plagued the Liberian nation, but its end must come not through political score-settling, but through genuine commitment to justice ~ one that treats every citizen, whether powerful or powerless, with equal fairness and respect.
To the Liberian government, we urge: Let the evidence, not politics, speak. To the judiciary, we say: Guard your independence fiercely. And to the Liberian people, we appeal: Let us support the pursuit of truth, fairness, and justice with patience and collective resolve, not prejudice or pressure.
Only then can we begin to build a Liberia where the rule of law is not just a slogan on paper, but a reality lived and experienced by all.
