By Monrovia, Liberia – In a bold move aimed at safeguarding its supporters and activities during the ongoing presidential and legislative campaigns, the Unity Party has announced its commitment to self-defense, citing concerns over the Liberian National Police’s (LNP) dedication to their security.
Speaking at a press conference, Mo Ali, the campaign spokesperson for the Unity Party, articulated the party’s stance on self-protection as a direct response to continuous disruptions perpetrated by supporters of the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC). Ali highlighted recent instances of unrest, including the incident on August 5, 2023, where CDC supporters paraded a casket adorned with the image of their standard bearer, Joseph Boakai. Additionally, he referenced the brutal treatment of Unity Party supporters, including the district nine women’s congress coordinator, at the Airfield Junction on August 10, 2023.Mr. Ali stated that these acts of violence “directly contradict the Farmington River Declaration, a solemn commitment that all political parties, including George Weah’s CDC, signed.”
Expressing skepticism about the LNP’s ability to provide impartial security, Ali further emphasized that the Inspector General of the Liberian National Police, Patrick Sudu, is known to be affiliated with the CDC, leading to concerns over the force’s neutrality. “It is disconcerting that the head of the LNP has affiliations with the CDC and might hinder their effectiveness in protecting Unity Party supporters,” Ali commented.
To counter these concerns, the Unity Party has taken the decision to institute self-protection measures for its supporters and activities. Ali outlined the party’s strategy, stating, “We are resolute in our commitment to ensuring the safety of our supporters. If we identify CDC members within a hundred-meter radius of our events, we will consider them a potential threat and will take necessary measures to protect our supporters.”
Ali contended that these acts of violence orchestrated by the CDC are seemingly designed to instill fear among Unity Party supporters and deter their participation in rallies and other campaign activities.
Drawing on his background as a former security official, Ali sternly cautioned that the Unity Party will not tolerate any form of disruption from individuals enjoying the current CDC administration’s patronage.
In a pointed call to action, the Unity Party urged international partners and election observers to closely monitor the ongoing campaign process, particularly the violence that has been attributed to the Weah administration.
As Liberia’s political landscape heats up in the run-up to the 2023 elections, the Unity Party’s decision to prioritize self-defense underscores the heightened tensions and polarization that currently mark the electoral environment. The party’s plea for international scrutiny reflects the importance of ensuring a free and fair democratic process.
For further updates on this developing story and its implications for Liberia’s political landscape, stay tuned to credible news sources.
By: Alphanso G. Kalama
