-In Lofa County
Kpotomai Town, Lofa County – A newly constructed memorial honoring 35 victims of a 1993 massacre was dedicated today in Kpotomai Town, Lofa County, in a solemn ceremony led by the Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The site commemorates those killed by ULIMO-K rebels during Liberia’s civil war on June 20, 1993.
Survivors, victims’ families, local leaders, and officials gathered to reflect on the tragedy and emphasize reconciliation. Voinjama District Commissioner David Mawolo praised the initiative, urging community ownership of the memorial. “We must ensure such violence never recurs,” he said, calling for added improvements like solar lighting and fencing to preserve the site.
Town Chief Albert Jallah Yorkor, a survivor, recounted the harrowing day when rebels forced villagers into a palava hall before executing them. “This memorial ensures we never forget,” he said, advocating for lasting peace. Kpakamai Clan Chairlady Saybah Gemmeh appealed for continued trauma support, while CSO Council Chair Mohammed Kamara stressed the memorial’s role as a warning against war.
UNDP’s Louise Kuupel reaffirmed support for national healing, stating, “This is not about revenge but building a peaceful Liberia.” INCHR’s Bah-Wah Brownell pledged to advance Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) recommendations, including reparations and more memorials.
The Kpotomai memorial is the first of several planned nationwide, offering families a place to honor loved ones and symbolizing hope for unity.
