By By: The People News
Political tensions heightened in Liberia over the weekend as the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) accused the ruling Unity Party of orchestrating what it describes as state-backed intimidation, police provocation, and partisan misuse of public institutions. The allegations were outlined in a statement issued Saturday by CDC National Chairman Janga A. Kowo, alleging a coordinated attempt by the government to suppress the party’s activities.
The dispute escalated on December 6 when armed officers of the Liberia National Police reportedly barricaded the construction site of the CDC’s new headquarters on the Tubman Boulevard in Congo Town . The party condemned the police action as a deliberate political interference rather than a normal security measure, claiming the move fits a pattern of what it calls harassment under the Joseph Boakai administration.
The CDC referenced earlier incidents, including the demolition of its former headquarters and a police operation it says was carried out under the pretext of serving documents later believed to be designated for a different location. Party officials argue that these events reflect systematic targeting rather than administrative mishaps.
The statement sharply criticized Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman, accusing him of aligning law enforcement with the ruling party. The CDC cited the police’s role during the Unity Party’s recent “homecoming” celebration, where the streets were filled with motorcyclists and supporters. According to the party, the same police that permitted large celebratory crowds became restrictive and confrontational when the CDC attempted to host a public event of its own.
In its release, the CDC also accused Unity Party-appointed officials of openly engaging in partisan political activities during work hours and violating the Code of Conduct—a document the party says the ruling establishment once championed. The criticisms extended to the Executive Mansion, which the CDC accused of using official communications platforms to promote the Unity Party’s political activities.
The CDC maintained that it has exercised restraint despite what it views as intentional provocations, but warned that continued pressure could provoke national instability. Chairman Kowo described the party’s patience as an effort to preserve peace, but said the government’s actions risk awakening heightened political resistance.
The statement concluded with a declaration that the party will resist any attempt to undermine Liberia’s democracy, calling on supporters to remain alert as tensions between the two political rivals deepen.
The Unity Party and the Liberia National Police have not yet issued a response to the accusations.
