CDC Defies Eviction Order, Insists Headquarters Battle Is a Civil Dispute

Published: August 22, 2025

CONGO TOWN, Monrovia — The opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) says it does not expect police to enforce a court-ordered eviction from its Congo Town headquarters Friday, insisting the dispute remains a civil matter still before the courts.

The Liberia National Police confirmed it had received instructions to execute the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court’s August 13 ruling, which awarded ownership of the 4.23-acre Bernard’s Beach compound to the Intestate Estate of Martha Stubblefield Bernard. The estate’s administrator, Ebrima Varney Dempster, argued successfully that the CDC had no legal claim to the property, with Judge George W. Smith ruling in the estate’s favor after reviewing deeds and property boundaries.

The judge ordered the Montserrado County Sheriff to carry out the eviction, and police assured the public they would execute their constitutional duties peacefully and in line with the law.

But addressing reporters Thursday, CDC National Chairman Atty. Augustus Janga Kowo rejected suggestions that the party would be forcibly removed.

“The CDC reaffirms its commitment to the rule of law but will not be intimidated by harassment from the government of Liberia through the Liberia National Police,” Kowo said. “We do not expect a police invasion of our Headquarters tomorrow as this issue remains a civil matter before the courts of Liberia.”

Kowo added that the eviction date coincides with a previously scheduled CDC mass meeting of partisans and stakeholders at the headquarters, stressing that the party would proceed with its activities.

He revealed that the CDC had already perfected appeals in the two cases before the Civil Law Court, with appeal bonds approved by Judge George W. Smith and filed at the Supreme Court. “The Intestate Estate of Martha Stubblefield Bernard was also duly served today,” Kowo noted.

Despite the legal uncertainty, Kowo urged partisans to remain calm and avoid confrontation. “We encourage partisans to show up tomorrow for the CDC previously scheduled meeting at the national Headquarters and be very peaceful,” he said.

At the same time, the chairman accused the government of interfering in judicial processes and using the police to intimidate the opposition. “We hold the government fully responsible for the safety and security of our partisans and assets,” he warned, emphasizing that the CDC remains committed to peace.