MONROVIA — The Women’s Legislative Caucus of Liberia (WLCL) on June 12 issued a public show of support for its Vice Chair for National Affairs, Rep. Prescilla A. Cooper, who is currently facing charges in the high-profile Capitol Building arson case pending before Monrovia City Court. The Caucus emphasized the constitutional presumption that she is “innocent until proven guilty,” calling for a swift, transparent and fair legal process.
In its official statement, leaders of the WLCL acknowledged the gravity of the allegations against Cooper, which include arson, criminal facilitation, attempted murder and conspiracy tied to the December 18 blaze that gutted the joint chambers of the Liberia Legislature. They expressed unwavering confidence in Liberia’s judiciary and called on the public to respect due process and judicial integrity.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to the principle of ‘innocent until proven guilty’ and urge the public to allow due process to take its course without prejudice or interference,” the statement declared.
The WLCL also urged the court to expedite Cooper’s case with impartiality, aligning with fundamental legal principles enshrined in Liberia’s constitution. They emphasized the rights of women in leadership, saying that safeguarding those rights is essential during legal scrutiny.
A Colleague, Not a Criminal
Rep. Cooper, representing Montserrado County District #5, has not yet entered a plea and recently waived her right to a preliminary hearing—a strategic legal move allowing the court to formally consider the prosecution’s case. This sets her apart from her co-defendants—former House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and Reps. Dixon Seboe, Abu Kamara, and Jacob Debee—who have argued there is no direct forensic or video evidence linking them to the fire.
WLCL leaders also highlighted Cooper’s record of public service and legislative accomplishments. In April, she was inducted as Vice Chair for National Affairs during the Caucus’s leadership installation at the Capitol—underscoring her prominence in promoting gender-inclusive politics.
Rule of Law Over Reactionary Politics
The WLCL warned against allowing political narratives to overshadow legal facts. The Caucus called out what it described as a “politically charged atmosphere” surrounding the case, emphasizing:
“We encourage all Liberians to remain calm and respectful of legal institutions as the case proceeds. The Women’s Legislative Caucus of Liberia remains committed to upholding democratic values, the rule of law, and the rights of all citizens—especially women in leadership,” the statement reads.
At the same time, the WLCL urged the court to deliver its judgment in an efficient and transparent manner, demonstrating Liberia’s commitment to legal due process.
Capitol Fire Case Overview
The charges stem from the December 2024 arson at the Capitol, which severely damaged the joint chambers and interrupted legislative operations. Inspector-General Gregory Coleman has asserted that there is “overwhelming” evidence—ranging from audio recordings to chat logs—implicating not only Cooper but Koffa and other lawmakers. However, defense teams maintain the prosecution has provided no definitive physical evidence linking their clients to the crime .
At recent hearings, defense counsel challenged the credibility of audio recordings and WhatsApp transcripts, labelling them “contaminated digital noise.” They noted the lack of testimony from forensic investigators or security staff stationed at the Capitol during the fire .
Cooper remains the only defendant who has chosen to waive the preliminary hearing; this places her case on hold pending prosecutors’ formal indictment .
The WCL’s leadership—since forming in 2006—has championed gender-sensitive legislation and policies including a proposed 30 percent quota for women in electoral candidate lists, though that measure has yet to become law.
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