Monrovia – Four of Liberia’s leading opposition political parties—the Alternative National Congress (ANC), Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Movement for Economic Empowerment (MOVEE), and the Citizens Movement for Change (CMC)—have issued a joint statement demanding that the government uphold due process and cease what they perceive as the political weaponization of the judiciary in the ongoing investigation into the Capitol Building arson attack.
The joint declaration, signed by prominent political leaders including Ambassador George Manneh Weah (CDC), Alexander Benedict Cummings (ANC), Musa Hassan Bility (CMC), and Ambassador Dee-Maxwell Saah Kemayah, Sr. (MOVEE), raises grave concerns over actions described as politically motivated targeting opposition lawmakers. Among those cited are former House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, Representatives Dixon W. Seboe, Abu Kamara, and Jacob Debee II.
According to the opposition statement, these lawmakers, who they assert pose no flight risk, were summoned by the Liberia National Police early Friday morning and held in custody until late in the evening on June 6, with what appeared to be an intent for overnight detention. The parties unequivocally condemned the move as “undemocratic” and reminiscent of “a darker chapter in our nation’s history.”
“The recent actions taken against these individuals are deeply concerning and reminiscent of a time when the judiciary was manipulated for political gains,” the joint statement read. The opposition leaders stressed that while they support a thorough and impartial investigation into the fire incident, any attempt to use law enforcement to suppress dissent or target opposition members would be unacceptable.
“Engaging in politically motivated maneuvers that threaten to destabilize our nation is not only imprudent but also perilous,” the statement continued, emphasizing that “the investigation must be conducted fairly and without bias.” The parties further warned that such actions could have serious repercussions for the country’s fragile peace and democratic gains, cautioning that “failure to address this issue appropriately could lead to significant public discontent, expressed through legal and peaceful means.”
They demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the detained lawmakers, insisting that their continued incarceration undermines the rule of law and erodes public confidence in Liberia’s justice system. “Our position on this matter is firm and non-negotiable,” they declared. Despite the tense tone, the signatories reiterated their collective commitment to peace, development, and national unity, but emphasized that this commitment should not be interpreted as weakness. “We stand united in our unwavering commitment to justice, democracy, and the rule of law,” the statement concluded.
Charges and Damage Estimates by Police
Meanwhile, on Friday, Liberia National Police Inspector General Col. Gregory Coleman announced that more than 65 individuals have been questioned in connection with the recent arson attack on the Capitol Building. Authorities report that several suspects have provided confessions, while others were linked to the incident through phone records, surveillance footage, and digital evidence.
Among those charged is Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, who faces multiple counts including arson, solicitation, facilitation, criminal mischief, conspiracy, attempted murder, and reckless endangerment. Representative Dixon Seboe (District #16, Montserrado) is accused of financing and organizing the alleged plot. Representative Abu Kamara (District #15, Montserrado) and Representative Jacob C. Debee (District #3, Montserrado) have been charged with conspiracy and facilitation, while Rep. Priscilla Cooper (District #5, Montserrado) faces charges of solicitation and facilitation.
Several other individuals—Stephen Brough, Eric Susie, and Jerry Pokan (also known as Tyrese)—have been accused of direct involvement in the arson and assault on law enforcement officers. The police have also named John Nynati as the alleged ringleader, who is currently wanted by Interpol. Additionally, three of former Speaker Koffa’s staffers—Patience Desmond, Amos Koffa, and Ms. Grinch-Johnson—have been implicated in the alleged plot.
The Liberia National Police estimate total damages from the attack at $8,672,653.60, covering structural repairs, IT system losses, and restoration costs. Police further stated that significant portions of the Legislature’s archival records, including public petitions, committee reports, and official proceedings, may have been permanently lost.
“This was not just an attack on a building; it was an assault on the state itself,” said Police Inspector General Col. Gregory Coleman. “We are committed to ensuring that all those responsible face the full weight of the law.” Col. Coleman added that all individuals in custody are being treated humanely and have been granted access to legal counsel.
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