Published: August 26, 2024
MONROVIA – The Mano River Union Youth Parliament Liberia Chapter (MRUYP-LC) has called for a swift and independent investigation into the recent violent clash between officers of the Liberia National Police (LNP) and supporters of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC).
The incident occurred on Thursday, August 22, 2024, in Congo Town, when several individuals, believed to be CDC members and supporters, resisted what they claimed were police actions to besiege their party headquarters early in the morning. The police, however, clarified that their presence was in support of the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency’s operation to raid a nearby ghetto in the Small Town Community behind the CDC headquarters. According to the police, residents resisted the operation by throwing stones, leading to the officers responding with teargas.
At a news conference held in Monrovia on Friday, August 23, 2024, the MRU Youth Parliament Speaker Daniel N. Nills expressed deep concern over the incident and called for an impartial investigation. “These kinds of situations should not be tolerated in this country. A speedy and independent investigation will ensure that those involved are brought to justice, serving as a deterrent,” he stated.
Mr. Nills underscored the importance of peaceful protests, describing them as an essential tenet of democracy meant to draw the national government’s attention. However, he emphasized that while the MRU Youth Parliament supports every citizen’s right to protest, this right must be exercised responsibly, especially given the country’s history.
“It is essential to remember that our dark days were triggered by violent protests that escalated into a crisis, leading to significant loss of life, widespread displacement, and the breakdown of every developmental aspect of our nation,” he noted.
Mr. Nills further highlighted the lessons learned from Liberia’s past, stressing that they serve as reminders to citizens on how to conduct protests, regardless of political alignment or disagreement with the national government. “As citizens, we must act responsibly towards ourselves, our nation, and future generations by adhering to the rule of law, a fundamental pillar of democracy,” he added.
Additionally, the MRU Youth Parliament Liberia Chapter Speaker urged young people, who are often at the forefront of violent protests, to channel their energy towards self-development and resist the temptation of being manipulated by politicians. He stressed the importance of safeguarding the peace and stability of the country.
Mr. Nills concluded by expressing the desire of the MRU Youth Parliament Liberia Chapter to see young Liberians engage the government in policy debates concerning youth participation in governance, quality education, employment opportunities, and drug and substance abuse control mechanisms.
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