Published: June 7, 2025
SINKOR, Liberia – The Liberian National Union (LINU) is calling for a fair, impartial and swift investigation following the arrest of Grand Gedeh County District 3 Rep. Jacob Debee, who faces multiple charges in connection with the December 2024 fire at the Capitol Building.
Debee and three others, including former Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, were jailed Saturday afternoon at the Monrovia Central Prison after the Liberia National Police formally charged them with arson, criminal facilitation, solicitation, attempted murder and criminal conspiracy. The months-long investigation accuses members of the Rule of Law Caucus of orchestrating what police call a politically motivated attack aimed at crippling the Legislature.
The Dec. 18 blaze caused an estimated $8.6 million in damage and temporarily shut down legislative operations. A police report released Friday alleges the attack was coordinated through an aide acting on orders “from the chief,” believed to be a reference to a senior official.
“No one is above the law,” said Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman. “Accountability must take precedence in Liberia’s legal system.”
LINU, which described Debee as a “calm, thoughtful and responsible public servant,” expressed concern over potential political interference and public bias. In a statement signed by its political leader, Dr. Clarence K. Moniba, the party emphasized its commitment to due process, calling the allegations starkly inconsistent with Debee’s character.
“We urge the Liberia National Police and all relevant authorities to conduct this investigation with professionalism,” LINU said. “Truth, not speculation, must guide the outcome.”
Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoi, the defense attorney for the accused lawmakers, confirmed that no bail bonds had been filed as of Saturday, meaning they will remain in custody until at least Monday.
Debee, who ran on LINU’s ticket during the 2023 elections in Grand Gedeh County District 3, won the seat and currently serves as the party’s lone representative in the House.
The case, which has already sent political ripples through Capitol Hill, could test the country’s commitment to justice amid rising tensions between law enforcement and opposition figures.
Discussion about this post