– Former President Weah warns President Boakai not to take his love for peace for weakness.
Monrovia, Liberia – July 31, 2024: The Former President of Liberia, H.E. George Manneh Weah, and Standard Bearer of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) has expressed deep concern over the recent spate of unlawful detentions orchestrated by the Unity Party Administration. The targeting of former government officials, including four members of the National Security Council, has raised alarm bells regarding the erosion of democratic norms and the rule of law.
In a dramatic turn of events in Liberian politics, former President George Manneh Weah took a bold stance against what he perceives as the weaponization of the justice system by the current administration led by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai. The former President has vehemently criticized the arrest of several former government officials on charges of corruption, alleging that the Boakai administration is engaging in selective justice for political gain.
Former President Weah minced no words in condemning what he described as a blatant political maneuver by the Unity Party to stifle opposition voices and consolidate power. The actions of the Unity Party Administration, devoid of any indictment by a grand jury, represent a dangerous precedent that threatens the foundations of democracy in Liberia.
Enumerating a litany of grievances against the Unity Party, former President Weah highlighted the brazen disregard for legal and constitutional processes, citing instances of partisan purges within the civil service, excessive use of force leading to loss of life, and a failure to hold accountable those responsible for election-related violence.
Moreover, the former President underscored the importance of upholding the integrity of Liberia’s institutions, particularly in the fight against corruption. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to empowering the Liberian Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and warned against the selective targeting of officials from his tenure, which he viewed as a ploy to undermine the progress made in combating corruption.
Former President Weah called upon the Liberian people to stand united against attempts to subvert the rule of law and sow discord in the country. He affirmed the CDC’s unwavering dedication to preserving peace and stability, even in the face of political machinations designed to disrupt the democratic process.
As the country stands at a critical juncture, former President Weah invoked the words of Nelson Mandela, urging unity in the defense of democracy and the rejection of authoritarian tendencies. He vowed to mobilize the CDC and other opposition groups to safeguard Liberia’s hard-won freedoms and ensure that the will of the people prevails over political expediency.
In the coming days, the CDC will engage in a series of mass meetings to inform its supporters about the dangers of political witch-hunts and the imperative of protecting Liberia’s democratic institutions. Former President Weah also pledged to liaise with regional leaders and international partners to raise awareness about the challenges facing Liberia and seek support in upholding democratic principles.
The recent arrests, including prominent figures such as Mr. Jeferssion Karmo, former Security Advisor to President Weah, and the former Solicitor General of Liberia, have sparked a wave of controversy and accusations of political manipulation within the Liberian judiciary. Former Finance Minister Samuel Tweah is also among those summoned to answer to corruption allegations, further intensifying the political storm.
In a strongly-worded statement, George Weah, who leads the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), warned the Boakai administration against what he described as a “witch hunt” targeting officials from his tenure. He vowed to resist these actions through both political mobilization and legal channels, emphasizing that such maneuvers undermine the rule of law and threaten the democratic fabric of Liberia.
“We will not stand idly by as the judiciary is used as a tool for political vendettas,” declared Former President Weah. “The CDC will mobilize its supporters to oppose this flagrant abuse of power, and we urge other political parties to join us in solidarity.”
Expressing concern over the alleged politicization of the justice system, Weah called for a transparent and impartial audit process that upholds the principles of fairness and accountability. He emphasized the importance of holistic investigations to ensure that justice is served without bias or prejudice.
Moreover, Former President Weah announced his intention to raise the issue with regional and international bodies, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), to bring attention to what he perceives as the unjust targeting of his former officials by the current government. By seeking external scrutiny of the situation, Weah aims to uphold the values of democracy and the rule of law in Liberia, signaling his commitment to defending the rights and integrity of his associates.
As tensions escalate between the political factions in Liberia, the actions and reactions of key figures like George Weah and Joseph Boakai are likely to shape the country’s political landscape in the days to come. The specter of alleged corruption, selective justice, and political maneuvering looms large, casting a shadow over the future direction of governance and accountability in Liberia.
Weah’s remarks come against the backdrop of escalating tensions and political turmoil in Liberia, as the current administration led by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai faces accusations of political manipulation and selective justice. With the recent arrests of former government officials on corruption charges sparking controversy and allegations of bias, the former President’s stance underscores the growing concerns over the state of governance and rule of law in the nation.
Addressing the media, George Weah reiterated his unwavering dedication to upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring the stability and security of Liberia. He emphasized that while his administration was known for its pursuit of peace and reconciliation, this should not be mistaken for a lack of resolve in defending the rights and freedoms of the Liberian people.
“We have always championed peace and unity in Liberia, but let it be clear that our commitment to these values does not equate to weakness,” stated Former President Weah. “The CDC is ready to stand firm against any actions that threaten the democratic fabric and security of our nation.”
Highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between peace and justice, Weah reiterated his party’s readiness to engage in peaceful resistance against any perceived infringements on the rights of citizens and the integrity of the democratic process. He underscored the need for the government to uphold democratic norms and ensure that the rule of law is applied fairly and impartially.
As Liberia navigates a critical juncture in its political trajectory, the statements by George Weah signal a firm commitment to safeguarding the hard-won gains of peace and stability in the country. By warning against any attempts to undermine the democratic principles that underpin Liberian society, the former President is positioning himself and his party as staunch defenders of democracy, peace, and security.
As the political landscape in Liberia continues to evolve, the actions and responses of key leaders like George Weah will play a pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of the nation. With a steadfast resolve to uphold the values of democracy and ensure the well-being of the Liberian people, Weah’s message resonates as a call to action for all those who cherish peace, justice, and security in the country.
