-Clarence Cole Condemns Gaza Brigade Violence Against Students, Journalists in District #17
MONROVIA, Montserrado County – Former representative candidate Clarence H. Cole has condemned the violence that student protesters and journalists suffered at the hands of alleged “Gaza Brigade” members during a district sitting in Virginia Township, calling the attack an assault on democracy and a direct silencing of youth voices.
Cole, who attended the 2nd District Sitting hosted by Hon. Benard DJ Blue Benson at the Conference Center in Virginia Township, said he witnessed the peaceful assembly of District #17 Student Union (DISU) members before the violence erupted. “Students exercised a democratic right to peacefully raise their voices on issues that matter to them,” Cole said.
But the situation escalated when individuals allegedly linked to the “Gaza Brigade” attacked the students and journalists covering the event. Several people, including media professionals, sustained injuries. “I strongly condemn every form of violence, intimidation, and attack against peaceful citizens and members of the press,” he said. “Democracy thrives when people are free to express their concerns without fear, harassment, or brutality.”
He added: “Violence against students and journalists has no place in District #17 or in our democracy. Our young people deserve to be heard, respected, and protected, not silenced through fear and aggression.”
Cole confirmed that the Liberia National Police has arrested three individuals connected to the incident and currently has them under investigation. Cole urged the police authorities to conduct a professional, transparent and impartial investigation to ensure justice.
As a son of District #17 and former representative candidate, Cole reaffirmed his commitment to peace, dialogue, youth empowerment and the protection of democratic values. He called on all residents, especially young people, to remain calm, peaceful“District #17 must continue to stand for unity, peace, and respect for human dignity,” Cole said.
Clarence H. Cole currently serves as the Deputy Director General for Copyright at the Liberia Intellectual Property Office (LIPO). As Deputy Director General, he oversees copyright protections and leads public outreach to secure the legal rights of Liberian artists, musicians, and authors.
At the district level, he coordinates community initiatives through his grassroots movement, Team Cole, focusing heavily on infrastructural and social support in areas like Brewerville and Banjor. Cole also funds tuition-free healthcare training scholarships through the Brighter Future Institute of Vocational & Professional Studies and routinely sponsors vocational training in graphic design, computer technology, and cosmetology.
