-Women Decry DNA Double Standard In Bryant McGill‘s Rape Case
By Jerromie S. Walters
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – A barrage of public outrage and accusations of a two-tiered justice system continues to haunt the Liberian government as Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Bryant McGill remains free despite a credible, grave allegation of raping a 14-year-old girl, a non-bailable offense under Liberian law.
The controversy escalated on Thursday when scores of activists, including family members of the survivor, protested outside the Liberia National Police (LNP) headquarters. They demanded McGill’s immediate arrest, pointing to what they see as indefensible special treatment for a powerful official.
“Since August 30, the police have not arrested Bryant McGill. Instead, he has been allowed to request a leave of absence, which we believe is unfair and unjust,” said protest leader Wutoh. “This prevents justice in a serious rape allegation. We are very concerned because other cases resulted in immediate arrests. How is this one different?”
The protesters voiced deep distrust in the police’s commitment to the case. “We do not trust the police. We are afraid for our safety,” a spokesperson stated, issuing an ultimatum. “If the man is not arrested from now to Monday, we will come back here again.”
Their fears are amplified by a glaring contradiction. Just a day after the police cited the need for complex DNA evidence to arrest McGill, they arrested and jailed a 42-year-old man for the alleged rape of a 16-year-old girl, based on available evidence (without DNA result).
Police Defend “Meticulous” Process:
The LNP has defended its cautious approach. Spokesperson Johnny Dean emphasized that procedures must be followed. “Investigations must establish probable cause before formally arresting and charging a suspect… Bryant McGill is not exempt from the law, and serious steps are being taken,” Dean stated.
Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman elaborated, confirming the case’s gravity. A medical examination showed the minor had “indeed been tampered with.” However, he argued that confirming McGill’s direct involvement required more time and international assistance.
“We are now ordering DNA sampling. Nobody is above the law, but I am asking the public to be patient,” Coleman stated, revealing a request had been sent to the U.S. Embassy for help with foreign DNA testing. “I prefer that we take our time… rather than rush with an arrest… and then risk letting the suspect walk free.”
Mounting Evidence vs. Legal Procedure:
This justification is facing intense scrutiny from legal experts and officials. The evidence gathered already appears substantial. A formal complaint was filed the night of the alleged attack (August 30) by the victim’s father, Christopher Davis, who is also the Deputy Chief of Security at McGill’s own ministry. A medical report has confirmed penetration, a key element of the rape charge. The survivor has been placed in a safe home, an action typically taken when a serious crime is recognized.
Under Chapter 14 of Liberia’s Penal Code, rape of a minor is a first-degree felony that is non-bailable, ordinarily requiring immediate pre-trial detention—a standard seemingly waived for McGill. The police’s position has drawn condemnation from the highest levels of government and civil society. President Pro Tempore of the Liberian Senate, Nyonblee Karnga Lawrence, the Association of Female Lawyers of Liberia (AFELL), and prominent human rights lawyer Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe have all called for McGill’s suspension prosecution.
Their demands were partially met hours after IG Coleman’s press briefing. In a significant move, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. suspended Deputy Minister Bryant McGill pending the outcome of the investigation, bowing to the immense public pressure.
An Executive Mansion release says the decision was taken in line with the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of sexual and gender-based violence and to ensure a fair and transparent investigation. Deputy Minister McGill will remain suspended until the conclusion of the investigation.
The case has become a national litmus test for accountability, questioning whether Liberia’s laws apply equally to public officials and ordinary citizens. All eyes are now on the LNP to see if their promised “meticulous” investigation leads to swift justice or becomes a symbol of systemic failure.
