Monrovia — Normal Sunday worship at the Winners’ Chapel International Church in the Fiamah Community was disrupted following a tense standoff between church members and the branch leadership over an alleged leadership shake-up and claims of financial mismanagement.
The situation prompted the deployment of officers from the Liberia National Police, who maintained a strong presence around the church compound to prevent the dispute from escalating and to ensure the safety of worshippers and nearby residents.
According to several protesting congregants, many of whom previously held administrative roles within the church, they were allegedly removed from their positions by the newly assigned pastor of the branch. The members claim the decision was carried out without due process and have described their removal as unlawful.
The protesters also raised concerns over the management of the church’s finances, calling for greater transparency and accountability regarding the handling of funds generated by the congregation. They are demanding reinstatement to their former positions and the release of a detailed financial report addressing allegations of mismanagement.
Tensions heightened during the standoff when a confrontation reportedly broke out between some protesters and law enforcement officers. Police subsequently arrested one of the protesting members believed to be involved in the disturbance. The individual was taken to the Airfield Depot of the Liberia National Police for further questioning.
As of press time, the pastor at the center of the controversy had not issued a public response to the allegations.
Meanwhile, the atmosphere around the church remained tense, with protesters continuing to call for a reversal of the leadership changes and accountability from the current administration.
Residents of the Fiamah and Weasay communities are closely monitoring the situation as authorities work to prevent further disturbances and restore calm at the church.
