Monrovia, Liberia – A devastating fire engulfed the Capitol Building, home to Liberia’s Legislature, in the early hours of Wednesday, December 18, 2024. The cause of the blaze remains unclear, but its rapid spread has left significant damage to the historic structure, raising serious concerns about safety and governance.
Emergency teams from the Liberia National Fire Service responded swiftly to contain the fire as thick smoke filled the skies above Capitol Hill. The incident has prompted a nationwide call for justice and accountability.
In a press briefing, Police Inspector General (IG) Col. Patrick Sudue declared Representative Frank Saah Foko of Montserrado District #9 a “person of interest” in the investigation. According to IG Coleman, Rep. Foko’s earlier remarks threatening to burn the chambers of the Legislature, coupled with his involvement in recent protests, warranted his invitation for questioning.
“These remarks cannot be ignored in light of this incident,” Coleman stated, emphasizing the urgency of a transparent investigation. The police are also investigating possible connections between the fire and the violent protests held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
The protests, led by political activists, blocked Main Street near the Capitol Building as President Joseph Boakai and other officials prepared to attend a condolence book signing for the late Vice President John Gray. The unrest resulted in the arrest of 70 individuals, who have since been charged with crimes including rioting, assault, theft of property, and criminal mischief.
The demonstrators reportedly damaged a government vehicle valued at $40,000, and one patrol officer, Amara Bility, was assaulted and disarmed. Police believe the protest’s chaos may have been a precursor to the Capitol fire.
Three individuals, reportedly staff members of Rep. Foko, were arrested in his office while the Capitol Building burned. They are currently undergoing police interrogation. While Rep. Foko has not yet been formally accused of arson, his previous comments and the arrests of his associates have intensified public scrutiny.
The fire has drawn widespread condemnation from activists, political leaders, and citizens. Exiled activist Martine K. N. Kollie labeled the fire as a possible deliberate act, urging authorities to act decisively. “This appears to be intentional. Those responsible must be identified and held accountable. Violence has no place in our country,” Kollie wrote on social media.
In addition to investigating the fire, the Ministry of Justice has vowed to ensure that those arrested during the protests face due legal process. “The rule of law must prevail, and accountability is non-negotiable,” a ministry official stated.
