Representative Musa Bility, Chairman of the Rule of Law Caucus in the House of Representatives, has issued a strong condemnation of the Boakai administration’s handling of the Capitol Building fire investigation, accusing authorities of engaging in arbitrary arrests and acts of torture.
In a statement released on Saturday, January 11, Bility warned that the country’s democratic progress and fragile peace are at risk due to what he described as a dangerous slide toward authoritarianism.
Bility expressed deep concern over reports that individuals linked to the Capitol fire have been detained without charges and subjected to inhumane treatment. According to him, such actions demonstrate a blatant abuse of power by the police and security agencies, threatening to erode the rule of law. He argued that these moves are calculated attempts to intimidate lawmakers and suppress dissent, warning that such tactics risk plunging the country back into turmoil.
“Liberia’s hard-won peace is under threat,” Bility declared, stressing that the government’s actions signal a disregard for democratic principles. He urged the public to remain vigilant and united in opposing what he described as the government’s attempts to create a “police state.” According to him, the Liberian people must demand accountability from the authorities to prevent further erosion of their rights.
Bility further called on the government to immediately release all individuals detained unlawfully and ensure a credible investigation into the Capitol fire incident. He argued that without transparency and due process, the government risks losing the trust of its citizens and the international community. Bility’s statement also appealed for urgent intervention from international partners, warning that Liberia could descend into crisis if these alleged abuses are not addressed.
Inspector General of Police Gregory O.W. Coleman had earlier confirmed that the Capitol fire was an act of arson. At a press briefing on January 8, Coleman stated that the Liberia National Fire Service had thoroughly investigated the incident. He assured the public that “contacts with persons of interest have been established, and the law will take its course.” However, critics like Bility argue that the government’s handling of the case lacks transparency and accountability.
Bility’s remarks reflect growing unease among lawmakers and civil society groups over what they perceive as an overreach by the government in its response to the fire. Allegations of torture and unlawful arrests have added to these concerns, with many fearing that such actions could set a dangerous precedent. According to Bility, the government’s failure to adhere to the rule of law undermines the foundation of Liberia’s democracy and poses a significant threat to national stability.
The Capitol fire has become a flashpoint for political tensions in the country, with opposition figures and political commentators accusing the Boakai government of exploiting the incident to crack down on dissent. Bility warned that the Liberian people would not tolerate attempts to govern through fear and intimidation. “Liberia belongs to the people—not a government bent on intimidation and fear. We will not back down,” he asserted.
