MONROVIA – Families of victims, and advocates on Tuesday, September 9, gathered at the front gate of Freeport of Monrovia where 73 victims, including former President Samuel K. Doe, were captured and killed in 1990, to commemorate the 34th anniversary of their massacre led by now Senator Prince Y. Johnson. The Massacre remains a crucial part Liberia’s history,
The commemoration was also attended by Grand Gedeh County’s District 3 Representative, Jacob Debee, and continued at the Good News Assembly of God Church in Sinkor, Monrovia.
Joseph Sunnae Kannah Jr., who lost his father in the massacre and serves as the Executive Director of Reform Advocacy for Sustainability Inc., appealed to the Liberian government, the international community, and the public to recognize the severity of the events that occurred on September 9, 1990, and to take decisive action toward justice.
Kannah Jr. vividly recounted the harrowing events of the massacre: “On that dreadful day, my father, Joseph S. Kannah Sr., a civilian and Assistant Minister of State, was brutally murdered alongside former President Samuel K. Doe and 72 others. This wasn’t just a killing; it was a massacre captured on camera for the world to see.”
Central Demands and Proposals
Kannah Jr. and the Reform Advocacy for Sustainability articulated several critical demands aimed at addressing past injustices and fostering reconciliation:
The group insists on the full activation of the War and Economic Crimes Court to ensure that those responsible for the massacre are held accountable. Kannah Jr. highlighted the urgency of justice, stating, “It is imperative that those who perpetrated these heinous crimes are brought to justice, irrespective of their political positions.”
There is also a strong push for the official recognition of September 9, 1990, as a massacre, which is seen as vital for the nation’s healing process and in honoring the memory of the victims. “This recognition is crucial for the healing process of our nation,” Kannah Jr. affirmed.
The role of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in facilitating the massacre was also underscored, with a call for accountability and historical accuracy. “ECOWAS must account for their actions, for their role in facilitating the killing of a sitting elected President and 73 innocent victims,” Kannah Jr. asserted.
Direct appeals were made to President Joseph Boakai, urging him to respond decisively to the cries of the victims’ families and to resist the influence of warlords and their political maneuvers. “President Boakai, your leadership in this moment is crucial. We urge you not to be swayed by the motivated campaigns of warlords,” Kannah Jr. implored.
The group further demanded that the Freeport of Monrovia grounds be established as an official burial site, providing a place for remembrance and reflection. “This site will serve as a place of remembrance, honoring the memory of the fallen,” Kannah Jr. emphasized.
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