Monrovia – The leader of the Liberia National Union (LINU), Dr. Clarence K. Moniba, has issued a strong condemnation of the violent events that transpired at the headquarters of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) on August 22. Dr. Moniba described the unrest as a reflection of the broader challenges Liberia faces, where personal and political interests are prioritized over national progress, contributing to the country’s enduring underdevelopment.
Speaking from LINU’s headquarters in Sinkor, Dr. Moniba stated, “We are fighting for A New Liberia, a nation that we can all be proud of because of our collective actions, sacrifice, and love for the country. A New Liberia where everyone will be respected and treated with importance. Unfortunately, some continue to see their leadership responsibilities as avenues to gain political points, seek undeserved sympathy, or settle political scores while our nation struggles.”
Dr. Moniba highlighted that the chaos on August 22 had devastating effects on Liberia’s already fragile economy and social fabric, and contributed to public distress, particularly in terms of healthcare, social mobility, and economic activity. He expressed disappointment that the leadership of both CDC and the Unity Party (UP)—which have alternated control over the country for the past two decades—seem more preoccupied with political maneuvering than addressing the pressing needs of the Liberian people.
“The scenes at the CDC headquarters, where innocent people and private properties were affected, represent a dangerous escalation that threatens to drag our nation back into the abyss of conflict and instability,” Dr. Moniba warned.
He further criticized both the CDC and UP governments for allowing the salaries of government officials, including lawmakers, to rise steeply while compensation for teachers, healthcare workers, and civil servants remains stagnant. Dr. Moniba also pointed out the ongoing failures to address corruption, improve public infrastructure, and support local farmers.
“We should be discussing why no single person in Liberia is in jail for corruption, or why most public schools and health facilities lack electricity, running water, or proper libraries. Instead, we are debating whether CDC had the right to defend their headquarters from a supposed drug raid, or whether the UP government should be targeting CDC members in a witch hunt,” Dr. Moniba remarked.
Dr. Moniba emphasized that the violence of August 22 is a stark reminder that Liberia needs new leadership focused on national development rather than prolonged political conflict. He stressed that Liberia, 177 years old and over 20 years removed from civil conflict, is falling behind because of its failure to focus on progress and strengthening the rule of law.
Reflecting on the broader political landscape, Dr. Moniba criticized the ongoing dominance of the two-party system, which he believes has stifled Liberia’s development. He called for an immediate and transparent investigation into the events of August 22, and for leaders to focus on solutions that benefit all Liberians.
“I have personally reached out to leaders on both sides, calling for calm. I acknowledge the letter from former President Weah to ECOWAS for intervention, and I await President Boakai’s address on the state of the nation and last week’s events. I urge the government to put together a commission to investigate the causes of that day’s chaos and make their findings public promptly. To earn the confidence of the Liberian people, we must be transparent and sincere in dealing with such incidents.”
Dr. Moniba concluded by urging Liberians to refocus their energy on positive change, development, and love for the country. He called on citizens to prioritize national unity over political rivalry, especially as the nation observes Flag Day.
“Let us get serious about development, progress, and loving Liberia more than any one individual or institution. During this Flag Day period, let us remember that the sum of Liberia is much greater than its parts. May God bless the works of our hands and save the state,” he concluded.
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