-In Capitol Arson Case, As Key Witness Takes the Stand
By Jerromie S. Walters
Monrovia— In a theatrical twist in the alleged Capitol building arson case, state prosecutors have filed a request for additional time to present critical evidence before the Monrovia City Court. This move comes as the prosecution continues to build its case against the defendants involved in the high-profile incident.
During Tuesday’s proceedings, the prosecution called its third witness, Peter Johnson, who delivered compelling testimony against the accused. Johnson, a pivotal figure in the case, presented photocopied WhatsApp messages that he claims were obtained from co-defendant Thomas Etheridge. The messages are believed to contain vital information that could shed light on the events leading up to the alleged arson.
LNP Identified Persons of interest
Last week, the Liberia National Police (LNP) identified embattled House Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, and six other lawmakers of the majority bloc of the House of Representatives as persons of interest in the ongoing investigation into the Capitol Building arson attack.
The other lawmakers include: Montserrado County District #9 Representative Saah Foko, Montserrado County District #15 Representative Abu Kamara, Montserrado County District #16 Representative Dixon W. Seboe, Montserrado County District #5 Representative Priscilla A. Cooper, Bong County District #3 Representative J. Marvin Cole, and Grand Gedeh County District #3 Representative Jacob C. Debee.
The Executive has since been accused of supporting Koffa’s removal. From the birth of the impasse at the House of Representatives, lawmakers alleged that USD$15, 000 was dished out to those that signed the resolution to remove the speaker. Month later, the Executive endorsed the bloc and started working with them.
Following the fire incident at the Capitol, President Boakai statement, “[If] you have a problem, you have the rule of law. We have every way in this place to be able to listen to you…” gave many reasons to believe that he had implicated members of the minority Bloc who were angry over the illegal removal of the speaker. It is worth noting that all of the various lawmakers have opposed his illegal removal of Koffa.
Request a meeting
The LNP has written both the House of Representatives and the Senate, requesting the lawmakers to come in for questioning. “We respectfully request a meeting with the identified representatives at a convenient time to discuss the terms and framework of their participation in this investigation. LNP is prepared to provide any necessary support and coordinate closely with your office to ensure a smooth and effective process-” Gregory W. Coleman, Inspector General of the LNP.
In their communication, the LNP further noted, “Given the sensitive nature of this investigation and the need for transparent proceedings, we would like to inform you that we have identified members of your House as persons of interest to this ongoing investigation and will be calling them for questioning.”
The Police emphasizes, “The LNP is committed to conducting this investigation professionally to ensure that all individuals’ rights are respected. We are confident that the cooperation of the House of Representatives will significantly enhance our efforts to prevent future occurrences of such incidents.”
From the House
The Liberia National Police (LNP) communication to the Honorable House of Representatives regarding its ongoing investigation was read in plenary by Deputy Chief Clerk, Comicks Chea on Thursday, January 23, during the 4th-day sitting of the 1st Quarter of the 2nd Session, the LNP extended its highest regards to the legislature and acknowledged the significant impact of the unfortunate fire on the nation’s legislative activities and cultural heritage.
Following the reading of the LNP’s communication, a motion was proffered by Maryland County Electoral District #2 Representative Anthony Williams to forward the communication to the House leadership.
Meanwhile, the leadership of the House of Representatives affirmed its belief in the rule of law and expressed its commitment to cooperating fully with the Liberia National Police. The House leadership stated that it will work closely with the police to ensure due process and the dispensation of justice.
CDC Vows to resist arrest of their lawmakers
The Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) has warned the government of President Joseph Boakai, labeling it a “tyrannical government” and promising to take a stand against any attempts to arrest its members. This declaration follows reports of impending arrests of several CDC lawmakers allegedly linked to the devastating fire that ravaged Liberia’s Capitol Building on December 18, 2024.
During a press conference held at the party’s headquarters in Congo Town, CDC Chairman Janga Kowo condemned the government’s actions, claiming it is using state security as a tool for political suppression.
The Arson attack
Early on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. residents of Capitol Hill and neighboring communities were jolted awake by a fierce blaze engulfing the Capitol—the seat of the Liberian Legislature. The fire rapidly intensified, wreaking havoc on the building, particularly within the Joint Chambers and adjacent areas of the Capitol’s central wing.
The destruction escalated before the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) arrived on the scene shortly after 7:00 AM. However, the LNFS, alongside the Liberia Water and Sewer Cooperation and the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC), successfully intervened and subdued the flames.
Arson confirmed
On January 8, 2025, Joint Security confirmed that the fire incident at the Capitol Building was an act of arson. Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman announced that there is sufficient evidence to support this determination.
Arson refers to the act of deliberately setting fire to property, whether it be buildings, vehicles, or other structures, with the intent to cause damage or destruction. “We have identified people of interest and those people have been contacted and if they fail to come forward, we will have them arrested,” Coleman stated during a press conference.
