-Over Witchcraft allegations
By Jerromie S. Walters
Human rights advocates have called on the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Ministry of Justice to investigate circumstances surrounding the merciless brutality of an elderly woman who was characterized as “Witchcraft” by some residents of Chocolate City community.
Social media has been flooded over the last few hours with the video of an elderly woman who was brutally assaulted by a group of individuals who accused her of witchcraft. The disturbing attack took place in the Chocolate City community on the 10th of March 2024, leaving residents outraged and calling for immediate intervention.
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.”
Howbeit, we have gathered that she is still alive and is undergoing medical care.
Regardless, Sundberg has 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, measures must be taken to address the root causes of such violence, including raising awareness, 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 continues: “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.
