In a bold statement calling for immediate reforms in the country’s governance, the Chairperson of the Concerned Citizens for the Protection of Constitution, Democracy, and the Rule of Law, Janjay Baikpah, announced a Nonstop Capitol Lockdown set for tomorrow, Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
The gathering, which is expected to draw thousands of Liberians from all walks of life, is set to take place at the Capitol Building under the theme: White Tuesday – a day for justice and action.
Baikpah’s statement was delivered to the press today, urging all concerned Liberians to rise up and demand that the Boakai-led government restore constitutional order and uphold the rule of law.
The rally is seen as a response to the growing discontent over the recent upheavals in the House of Representatives, particularly the ongoing efforts by President Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Koung to remove House Speaker Fonati Koffa. Critics argue that these actions are unconstitutional and could potentially destabilize the nation.
“Distinguished men and women of the press, we bring you heartfelt greetings at a time where Liberians must stand up and rise to the occasion of demanding a better and peaceful motherland,” Baikpah began, emphasizing the importance of the protest.
The event is expected to feature participants from various political backgrounds, religious groups, and civil society organizations, all coming together to voice their concerns.
Baikpah condemned what he described as an “anti-democratic” move by the Boakai’s Koung Administration, which he claims is attempting to usurp the legislative powers of the House of Representatives. According to Baikpah, President Boakai and Vice President Koung have funneled over $5 million into efforts to destabilize the legislature in order to gain control of the first branch of government.
“The legislative impasse on the Capitol has disrupted the constitutional function of the Legislature, depriving Liberians of the services our lawmakers are elected and paid to provide,” Baikpah said.
He pointed to the numerous social and economic issues facing the country, including rising unemployment, increasing ritualistic killings, and police brutality, as further evidence of the government’s failure to provide leadership.
Baikpah also highlighted allegations of corruption within the Boakai-Koung administration, accusing government officials of living in luxury while the majority of Liberians continue to suffer. “Commissioners at the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) and other officials are displaying opulence in swimming pools while the masses go to bed hungry,” he said, calling out the administration for its inability to address the basic needs of the people.
The statement also referenced several constitutional provisions that Baikpah and his organization believe support their cause. According to Article 1 of Liberia’s 1986 Constitution, all power is inherent in the people, who have the right to alter or reform the government if their safety and happiness require it. Baikpah emphasized the right of the people to peacefully assemble and petition their government for redress of grievances, as enshrined in Article 17.
In light of these grievances, the Concerned Citizens for the Protection of Constitution, Democracy, and the Rule of Law, have called for all Liberians to don white shirts, headscarves, or caps in solidarity for the protest, which will begin at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, December 17, at the Capitol Building. Volunteers will be stationed at various points across Montserrado County to provide transportation, food, and water to attendees, with similar events planned in the country’s other political subdivisions.
“We urge every Liberian to come out in your numbers for what we hope will be the largest historical gathering in the country’s fight for constitutional order, democracy, and the protection of the rule of law,” Baikpah concluded.
The Nonstop Capitol Lockdown promises to be a significant moment in Liberia’s political landscape, as the nation grapples with deepening divisions and ongoing tensions between the executive and legislative branches of government. It remains to be seen how the government will respond to this mass mobilization, but one thing is clear: the people of Liberia are ready to make their voices heard.
By: Benjamin Q Johnson, Contributor
