By Tragedy struck Foya District in Lofa County as election-related violence erupted, resulting in the loss of at least two lives and leaving several individuals injured. Reports emerging from the region indicate that clashes broke out between alleged supporters of the ruling CDC and former Unity Party, casting a shadow over the peaceful atmosphere ahead of the upcoming October 10 presidential and legislative elections. The unsettling situation, which unfolded on a Friday afternoon, disrupted normal activities and created a sense of turmoil among the local population, with the identities of the deceased yet to be disclosed.
Prior to the outbreak of violence, supporters of the Unity Party, led by Joseph N. Boakai, were seen parading through the streets to celebrate the homecoming of Foya-UP Partisans from the diaspora as part of their campaign activities. However, tensions escalated quickly, with a live video circulating on the internet depicting an intense confrontation between the rival groups. Some Unity Partisans alleged that Rep. Thomas Fallah and CDC supporters attacked them while they were en route to welcome their visiting guests from abroad. This unsettling incident occurred just days before the Nationwide Representative Candidate Debate scheduled for the weekend.
In the aftermath of the violence, both political parties involved have vehemently blamed each other for the chaos. CDC Party Chairman Mulbah K. Morlu Jr. took to his Facebook page to claim that the violence in Foya was instigated solely by Unity Party partisans, aligning his statement with remarks made by their standard-bearer. Meanwhile, Unity Party, during a press conference, alleged that the chaos in Foya was orchestrated by Thomas P. Fallah, a CDC candidate vying for a representative post in district one. Unity Party’s Security General, Amos Tweah, accused the CDC of premeditated actions aimed at sowing fear among the peaceful citizens of Foya. With only approximately 11 days remaining until the elections, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for calm and security as Liberia approaches this crucial electoral milestone.
By: Alphanso G. Kalama
