Experiences Break-In Attempt on Her Home
Monrovia, Liberia — The Executive Director of a prominent women’s advocacy group in Liberia is facing mounting threats following a brazen break-in attempt on her home in the FDA Community on the outskirts of Paynesville.
On November 27, Madam Esther S. Davis Yango, a renowned human rights advocate and head of WONGOSOL, returned home after work to a chilling discovery. Her front door had been tampered with, and a broken key lodged in the lock left her locked out, forcing her and her children to seek immediate refuge.
After reporting the incident to the Mount Barclay Police Station, officers escorted her back to her property. There, they encountered a group of young men loitering in her yard. Taking advantage of the darkness caused by a power outage, the intruders fled upon spotting the police. The officers confiscated an abandoned motorbike, but the incident left Madam Yango and her family deeply unsettled and vulnerable.
“My house is not fenced,” she explained, highlighting her exposure. “Community boys have already stolen most of the blocks I bought to build a fence. I’m left with just a few pieces in the yard.” This lack of security, compounded by trespassers, has intensified her fears. “I don’t know what their mission was that night, but I’m afraid,” she added.
A Target for Advocacy
Madam Yango’s tireless advocacy for women, girls, and LGBTQI rights and her outspoken opposition to harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) have placed her squarely in the crosshairs of those who resist change.
“I’ve been receiving constant calls from unknown numbers threatening my life,” she revealed, explaining that while she has faced threats before, the recent surge in frequency and intensity is alarming.
Her unwavering commitment to human rights often clashes with deeply entrenched traditional and conservative norms. Despite the dangers, she remains steadfast in her mission to challenge systemic injustices and promote equality.
Living Under Threat
The break-in attempt is a stark reminder of the precarious reality faced by human rights defenders in Liberia. Madam Yango’s unfenced and exposed home not only heightens her vulnerability but also compromises her children’s safety.
“The threats are not just against me—they jeopardize my children’s sense of security and stability,” she said, expressing her greatest concern as a mother.
The theft of construction materials meant to build a protective barrier around her home further underscores the challenges she faces in safeguarding her family.
A Call to Action
This incident highlights the urgent need for tangible support and protection for human rights defenders like Madam Yango. Immediate measures, such as the construction of a secure perimeter around her home, are essential to ensuring her family’s safety.
Moreover, the threats against her demand a decisive response from law enforcement and government authorities. Thorough investigations and the prosecution of those responsible are critical to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding advocates like Madam Yango.
Her story serves as a stark reminder of the personal costs borne by those who champion justice and equality. As Liberia seeks to uphold democratic principles and human rights, protecting its advocates must be a national priority.
Despite these challenges, Madam Yango remains resolute in her fight for justice. Her courage exemplifies the sacrifices made by human rights defenders worldwide and reinforces the urgent need for solidarity and action.
