Monrovia, Liberia – The Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has responded strongly to a request by the Liberia National Police (LNP) to attend a meeting regarding the legal interests of the “Intestate Estate of the late Martha Stubblefield Bernard,” accusing the police of politicization and widespread misconduct. The CDC’s response, dated October 7, 2024, was addressed to the Coalition for Democratic Change chairman, in which the party expressed its refusal to engage with the LNP under its current leadership.
The request for the CDC’s presence at the meeting was made by the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court of Montserrado County, which had invited the J. Johnny Momoh & Associate Legal Chambers to represent the estate in question. However, the CDC rejected the invitation, citing what it called a “deep conspiracy” against the party.
In a strongly worded statement signed by its Secretary General Jefferson Koijee, the CDC criticized the LNP for its alleged unprofessionalism over the past nine months, accusing it of failing to uphold its statutory duties and protect citizens. The CDC highlighted a series of incidents it claims exemplify the police force’s failure, including alleged human rights violations such as the Kinjor Massacre and the fatal shootings of multiple individuals, including a 17-year-old boy and a former city police officer.
The party went on to accuse the police of political bias and violence, claiming that the LNP had attacked CDC partisans, causing significant property damage and injuries during incidents in August 2024. According to the CDC, these actions have caused widespread fear among citizens, and the party condemned the police for what it described as a pattern of “malicious police practices.”
The CDC also pointed to the leadership of Gregory Coleman, who they allege has a controversial past, accusing him of involvement with the notorious “Sons of Demons” unit during the Charles Taylor regime. The party linked Coleman to historical incidents of violence against citizens, including the 2001 University of Liberia invasion, where students were allegedly tortured and forced into combat.
As a result, the CDC has refused to meet with the LNP until justice is served for what it described as “crimes committed against the CDC and the people of Liberia.” The statement concluded by reiterating the party’s resolve to defend its members, vowing never again to allow the police to infringe on its premises or harm its supporters.
The CDC’s response underscores a deepening political divide in Liberia, as tensions continue to rise between the ruling party and the national police force.
