Monrovia, Liberia – The Revolutionary National Youth League (RNYL) of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has issued a strong condemnation of the Liberia National Police’s use of live ammunition and excessive force against peaceful protesters gathered at the Capitol today.The police action, ordered by Inspector General Gregory Coleman, has been characterized as reckless and a direct assault on the democratic rights of citizens.
In a press statement released today, the RNYL expressed grave concern over the violent crackdown on unarmed citizens, stating, “This brutal action to suppress our democracy is unacceptable. Mr. Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. is treading a dangerous path that could lead our nation back to its dark past.”
The League emphasized that the right to assemble peacefully is enshrined in Article 17 of the Liberian Constitution, which guarantees all individuals the right to gather and express their grievances in an orderly manner. “These rights cannot be trampled upon by Mr. Boakai or his irresponsible police director, Gregory Coleman,” the statement read.
The RNYL accused the Unity Party government of exhibiting undemocratic and tyrannical behavior, recalling a history of violence associated with the party. “The firing of live bullets at unarmed citizens is a stark reminder of the bloodshed orchestrated by the Unity Party over the years,” the statement noted.
In addition to condemning the police actions, the Youth League called for the immediate and unconditional release of several detained individuals, including Sekou Kalasco Damaro, Cadre Yaya V. Sesay, Thomas Sarbo, and Fatumata alias Lib Simi. Reports indicate that many of these individuals have been taken to undisclosed locations, raising concerns for their safety. The RNYL challenged the police’s claim of only 70 arrests, asserting that the number is much higher.
The statement also included a warning to the government: “We give you a 48-hour ultimatum to release those arbitrarily detained, or we will be forced to take unspecified and sporadic actions.” The RNYL underscored the gravity of the situation, stating, “The blood of innocent souls is on your hands, Mr. Boakai. If those arrested are not released, be prepared for the consequences.”
In closing, the Revolutionary National Youth League expressed solidarity with various groups advocating for justice and the rule of law, including health workers, dismissed officers, student movements, and victims of violence. The League urged young people and supporters of the CDC to unite in resisting what they described as the “evil plan” of Mr. Boakai and the Unity Party to undermine the progress made in Liberia over the past six years.
This press statement was issued by the National Executive Committee of the Revolutionary National Youth League of the Mighty Congress for Democratic Change (CDC).
