In a blazing cloud of teargas, Police and Protesters under the banner “Concerned Citizens for Constitutional Order” on Tuesday December 17, 2024, clashed on Capitol Hill, installing pandemonium among residents and passersby.
According to our reporters, the tension on Capitol Hill erupted after protesters accompanying three Representatives – Yekeh Kolubah, Frank Saah Foko, and Eugene Kollie – attempted forcing their way into the Capitol Building compound and blocking the main road.
The protesters’ actions were met with heavy resistance by assigned police officers, leading to a standoff.
The situation escalated as police responded by firing teargas, thereby dispersing protesters, including the three Representatives.
The chaos left Capitol Hill in turmoil, with fleeing protesters and officers struggling to maintain control.
Amid the chaos, a police officer was reportedly beaten severely by protesters, and his weapon allegedly taken away.
However, the Liberia National Police has denied the report, stating that no weapon was seized during the clash.
Several protesters, including former President Weah’s presidential aide Sekou Kalasco, were arrested and remain in police custody.
Additionally, one injured protester was taken away from the scene for medical attention.
CDC Condemns Capitol Hill Clashes
In response to the Protest, Liberia Leading Opposition Political Party, the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) has strongly condemned what it describes as the “violent suppression” of peaceful protesters on Capitol Hill.
In a statement issued Tuesday December 17, 2024, the CDC expressed alarm over Liberia’s alleged slide into lawlessness under President Joseph N. Boakai.
The party accused the government of excessive force, including the firing of live bullets at unarmed citizens exercising their constitutional rights.
The CDC also criticized the detention of protesters, including former presidential aide Sekou Kalasco, calling for their immediate release.
The party urged international partners to take note of what it termed as “flagrant constitutional breaches” and warned against the return to autocratic practices. The CDC reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, justice, and the protection of human rights in Liberia.
Protesters Announce Step Down Campaign
Meanwhile, the “Concerned Citizens for the Protection of Our Constitution, Democracy, and Rule of Law” also condemned the government’s actions, accusing it of tyranny. The group called for the unconditional release of detained protesters and announced the launch of a nationwide “Boakai-Koung Step Down Campaign.”
In a statement, the group described the crackdown as inhumane and barbaric, vowing to mobilize Liberians and opposition parties to end what they termed as the “Unity Party nightmare.”
They declared that the resignation of President Boakai and Vice President Koung was “non-negotiable.”
However, the government of Liberia denied allegations reported by some media outlets that live ammunition was used during a protest near the Capitol Building.
The government stated that law enforcement employed only non-lethal measures to disperse protesters blocking traffic and disregarding police directives.
The government said while the government respects citizens’ right to protest, it emphasizes that such actions must not infringe on the rights of others.
“The government is committed to maintaining peace and protecting the lives and property of all citizens, urging the public to continue with their daily activities.” Information Minister Jerelimink Piah stated in a Press briefing.
