By Jerromie S. Walters
The Citizens Movement for Change (CMC), a leading Liberian civil society organization, has issued a forceful condemnation of the government’s recent statement targeting Bomi County Senator Edwin Snowe, describing it as reckless, anti-democratic, and a direct threat to free speech.
In a press release dated May 25, 2025, the CMC denounced the May 24 statement from the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT), which accused Senator Snowe, a member of the ECOWAS Parliament, of allegedly plotting to undermine Liberia’s security. The group dismissed these allegations as baseless and warned that the government’s actions represent a dangerous escalation in the suppression of political dissent.
The CMC asserted that MICAT’s statement is filled with falsehoods and misrepresentations, arguing that it deliberately conflates political opposition with treason. The group expressed deep concern over the government’s call for ECOWAS and international partners to take action against Snowe without providing any verifiable evidence. The CMC described this move as irresponsible and vindictive, accusing the administration of engaging in state-sponsored intimidation rather than good governance.
The advocacy group emphasized that political dissent should never be treated as sedition, stressing that free speech—including criticism of those in power—is a fundamental democratic right. It warned that ECOWAS must not be misused as a tool to target political opponents, insisting that governance should focus on serving the people rather than silencing critics.
The CMC accused the Boakai administration of attempting to scapegoat Senator Snowe to divert attention from its own governance failures. It urged ECOWAS and Liberia’s international partners to recognize the government’s statement for what it is—a propaganda-driven effort to suppress opposition voices.
The group demanded that MICAT immediately retract its statement and issue a public apology for what it called a reckless abuse of power. It also called on Liberian citizens to remain vigilant and resist what it described as a growing culture of fear and authoritarianism. The CMC declared that no amount of government propaganda can erase the truth and that no threats will stop the people from demanding justice, good governance, and accountable leadership.
Political analysts suggest that this escalating tension reflects increasing polarization in Liberia’s political environment. Since President Joseph Boakai took office in 2024, his administration has faced criticism over economic struggles and allegations of cracking down on opposition voices. The CMC’s strong response highlights rising frustration among civil society groups, who fear that Liberia’s democratic progress is under threat.
The CMC reaffirmed its commitment to defending civil liberties, the rule of law, and a better future for Liberia. As this controversy develops, observers are closely watching whether ECOWAS or other international actors will respond to MICAT’s allegations and whether the government will continue its harsh rhetoric against critics.
For now, the CMC’s message remains clear: Liberia’s democracy must not be eroded by unfounded accusations and political intimidation.
The CMC is a Liberian advocacy group dedicated to promoting democracy, transparency, and accountable governance. It has been vocal on issues ranging from anti-corruption reforms to the protection of civil liberties.
