The Government of Liberia has issued a strong warning to political actors who may try to disrupt the peace in the country, emphasizing that anyone who commits a crime will face prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.
During a regular press briefing at the Ministry of Information on Tuesday, June 10, 2015, Deputy Minister for Press and Public Affairs Daniel O. Sando stated that political leaders who engage in misconduct will be apprehended if a crime is committed during the process. He emphasized that the government is committed to identifying criminal offenses and ensuring that those responsible are prosecuted.
Sando noted that a considerable amount of time had been spent investigating lawmakers implicated in the ongoing Capitol Building arson case, where several individuals were identified as persons of interest based on statements made during the investigation. However, he mentioned that two individuals were released because their statements could not be directly linked to the crime, which occurred during a tense political crisis at the Capitol Building.
He further explained that the court operates independently, and former Speaker Fonati Koffa, along with three other lawmakers, was detained based on the court’s order.
Sando urged all Liberians to stay engaged in the outcome of the case but expressed disappointment towards those who claimed that the lawmakers should not have been arrested, despite advocating for the rule of law. “I condemn any actions that threaten the peace of this country. No lawmaker is above the law,” he added.
He called on politicians to address the issue and refrain from disturbing the peace that Liberia currently enjoys, reiterating that the evidence in the government’s possession is undeniable and there is no need to politicize the situation.
