-Condemns ‘Politically Motivated’ Arrests in Capitol Arson Case
By Jerromie S. Walters
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Ms. Telia Urey, Vice Chair for Political Affairs of the All Liberian Party (ALP) and Senior Foreign Affairs Advisor to former Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, has frowned on the government against what she describes as the “arbitrary arrest and politically motivated targeting” of opposition figures.
Urey expressed grave concerns over what she termed a “disturbing pattern” of detaining political opponents—particularly on Friday evenings—which she argued is deliberately designed to prolong incarceration through the weekend while courts remain closed.
“I strongly condemn what appears to be the arbitrary arrest and politically motivated targeting of opposition leaders. The peace and stability of our nation are of the highest importance. The continued practice of detaining political opponents—particularly on Friday evenings with the apparent intention of prolonging detention through the weekend—reflects a troubling and undemocratic pattern that undermines confidence in our legal and governance institutions,” Urey noted in a statement Saturday.
The ALP official emphasized that any allegations against public officials must be handled through a transparent and impartial judicial process, free from political interference. Any allegations against public officials must be addressed through a transparent and independent judicial process, free of political interference or intimidation,” she stated.
Urey called on authorities to strictly adhere to constitutional provisions safeguarding citizens’ rights, regardless of political affiliation. “The Government of Liberia is admonished to conduct its affairs within the confines of the Constitution and to respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens, regardless of political affiliation. Our country’s democratic gains must be preserved through restraint, lawful conduct, and unwavering commitment to justice,” she urged.
Her statement comes amid growing scrutiny over the arrests of several opposition figures, including former Speaker Koffa, on charges related to the Capitol Building fire. Critics allege that the arrested officials are being targetted while government supporters believe the government is proceeding right.
The Liberia National Police (LNP) on Saturday, June 7, 2025, informed the public that it had concluded its investigation into the arson attack on the Capitol Building, revealing a coordinated plot involving multiple suspects, including the jailed government officials. Inspector General Gregory Coleman presented the findings, detailing the charges against those allegedly responsible for the November and December 2024 attacks, which targeted the heart of Liberia’s legislative branch.
The investigation identified several individuals directly involved in the attacks, including Capitol Building employees and external accomplices. Thomas Isaac Etheridge (alias Tom), Chief of Maintenance in the office of Representative Jonathan Fonati Koffa, was charged with multiple offenses, including arson, criminal mischief, recklessly endangering another person, attempted murder, criminal facilitation, solicitation, conspiracy, and the release of destructive forces.
Authorities allege Etheridge damaged the chambers on November 10, 2024, before setting fire to the building on December 18, 2024. Eric Susay, another suspect, participated in the December 17 riot and the subsequent arson attack. He was additionally charged with theft of a police firearm and aggravated assault after allegedly attacking an officer. Steven Broh, a maintenance worker at the Capitol Building, was implicated in the December 18 arson, facing similar charges, including arson, criminal conspiracy, and attempted murder.
Jerry Pokah (alias Tyrese), a resident of New Kru Town, was accused of planning and executing the attack, leading to charges mirroring those of his alleged co-conspirators. The case has its roots in the early morning hours of December 18, 2024, when a fierce blaze erupted in the Capitol Building, causing extensive damage to the Joint Chambers.
The Liberia National Fire Service, assisted by other agencies, managed to contain the fire after several hours of intense effort. The incident occurred just when the House of Representatives had a leadership crisis in an attempt to remove Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa as Speaker of the House. That was the second fire incident at the legislature. However, the previous one was minor and officials said it was more like a smoke and due to an electrical fault.
