-Family sources confirm, as advocates rally MoJ for justice
By Jerromie S. Walters
Ma Bolor Wisseh, the elderly woman who was recently subjected to maltreatment and brutalization by residents of the Chocolate City community, has died as confirmed by sources within her family.
Vermon Blidi, the niece of Michael Blidi, who spearheaded efforts to raise funds for Ma Bolor Wisseh’s medical care, informed WomenVoices that Ma Bolor Wisseh died around 4:30 PM on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at the ELWA Hospital in Paynesville.
However, Vermon expressed her inability to provide further details on the official cause of death, stating, “I’m not in my right mind now to speak further on this matter please.”
The incident on late March 10, 2024, where Ma Wisseh was brutally assaulted by a group of individuals on false accusations of witchcraft, was widely circulated on social media. The assault, which occurred in the Chocolate City community, prompted disappointment after the erroneous nature of the allegations became apparent.
Many condemned the attack on Ma Bolor Wisseh and questioned why only those who are hugely affected by poverty are considered witches.
Following the incident, Human rights advocates called on the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Ministry of Justice to investigate circumstances surrounding the merciless brutality of Ma Bolor.
Addressing the Director of Police, Coleman, and Justice Minister Tweh, human rights advocate Courage Sundberg Sundberg highlighted the gravity of the situation, emphasizing that such acts of violence not only violate human rights but also undermine the core values of justice and compassion.
“Dear Director Coleman and Justice Minister Tweh, I write to you with a heavy heart regarding a deeply disturbing incident that took place in our Chocolate City community on the 10 of March 2024, where an elderly woman was subjected to a brutal assault by a group of individuals who accused her of witchcraft. This reprehensible act of violence is not only a gross violation of human rights but also an affront to the principles of justice and compassion that we hold dear.”
The letter underscored the urgent need for swift action to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrators responsible for this despicable crime. Sundberg urged the authorities to uphold the rule of law, hold the guilty parties accountable, and prevent further incidents of vigilantism and impunity in society.
Sundberg: “It is with great concern that I bring this matter to your attention, as it is indicative of a larger issue of vigilantism and impunity that threatens the safety and security of our society.”
In his opinion, too often, individuals take the law into their own hands, leading to tragic consequences and the loss of innocent lives. “Such incidents not only undermine the rule of law but also erode the trust and confidence of the populace in the authorities tasked with protecting them.”
Sunberg, “As a human rights advocate, I urge you to take immediate action to apprehend and bring to justice those responsible for this heinous act. The perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions and face the full force of the law.”
Sundberg called for proactive measures to address the underlying issues that contribute to such violence, advocating for tolerance promotion, and support systems for vulnerable community members. Furthermore, he said measures must be taken to address the root causes of such violence, including promoting tolerance and providing support to vulnerable individuals in our communities.
Sundberg stressed the importance of decisive intervention to demonstrate zero tolerance for acts of violence and discrimination.
“I implore the Government of Liberia to intervene decisively in this matter and send a clear message that acts of violence and discrimination will not be tolerated in our society.”
He continued: “We must work together to uphold the principles of justice, equality, and human dignity for all members of our community. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. Like Sundberg, other advocates too have rallied the government to act swiftly.
