Liberia: Boakai Accuses Gov’t of Harassment, Intimidation Ahead of Runoff

Opposition leader Joseph Nyuma Boakai has accused President George Weah and the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) of engaging in harassment and intimidation tactics aimed at members and supporters of the Unity Party in the lead-up to the presidential runoff elections scheduled for November 14, 2023.

In a nationwide address from his home office in Paynesville on Sunday, November 12, the Unity Party standard bearer registered his outrage at the reported acts by ruling party operatives, citing a growing number of incidents involving attacks on opposition stalwarts across the country.

Boakai highlighted a close call with gunfire during a campaign activity in Zor Zualay, Nimba County, where the UP’s vice standard bearer Jeremiah Kpan Koung and Senator Prince Johnson narrowly escaped harm. The attackers are believed to be supporters of President George Weah. Several individuals sustained severe injuries and were hospitalized.

“On Friday, November 10, Koung and Senator Prince Johnson were leading scheduled campaign activities in Zor Zualay, when they narrowly escaped death when their convoy came under a hail of gunfire. We later learned that a certain Anthony Quiwonkpa, a staff in the office of Mr. George Weah, was responsible for this deadly and premeditated attack. 

“As a result of this brazen disregard for human lives, about 7 persons were wounded and several vehicles were damaged,” he said. “This callous act of lawlessness was masterminded and orchestrated by President Weah and his operatives, hoping that they can instill fear in the People of Nimba and the Liberian Populace.”

The opposition leader further highlighted the harassment faced by members of his party, including the arrest of a Ghanaian national providing technical assistance to the Unity Party and the alleged attacks on former Maryland County Senator John Ballout. Other reports of intimidation and harsh treatment of party members in different counties were also mentioned.

“On Wednesday, November 8th, Sumson Essien, a Ghanaian who was providing technical assistance to the party, was arrested by the Police and later subjected to cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment,” Boakai said. “Our vehicle, 174 smart telephones, and several elections-related materials were confiscated.” 

The government has since deported Essien, without due process.

“Former Senator John Ballout was also subjected to unwarranted attacks by pro-regime operatives who were reportedly acting upon the orders of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Bhofal Chambers.

“In Grand Kru County, the homes of our party leaders were subjected to illegal search and seizure, and they continue to experience harassment and intimidation from Pro Tempore Albert Chie of the ruling CDC. In Grand Gedeh, members of our technical team were attacked by supporters of President Weah,” Boakai said. “In Gbaporlu, Bong, and other counties, our trainers and partisans continue to report harsh treatment and intimidations from members of the government and officials of the Coalition for Democratic Change.”

While calling on the international community to take note of those “gross breaches of international laws”, Boakai disclosed that UP intends to register its position through the appropriate legal channels. He criticized President Weah and his government, accusing them of violating democratic principles and laws, including the ECOWAS Protocol.

These acts of violence, occurring in different parts of the country, have raised concerns about the fair and peaceful conduct of the upcoming elections. Boakai contends that these incidents are part of a larger pattern, which he believes is aimed at suppressing the opposition, hindering their campaign efforts, and instilling fear in the general public so that they do not come out to vote on Election Day.

One aspect that has drawn criticism is the perceived complacency of President Weah in responding to these allegations. Critics argue that his silence on the matter has allowed these acts to persist, further deepening political divisions and escalating tensions within the country.

However, Joint Security has confirmed the arrest of five individuals in connection to the gun-attack incident that happened in Zor Zualay. The Joint Security, in a statement over the weekend, said that those arrested are undergoing investigation. “The Joint Security Special Investigative Team, mandated by the Minister of Justice, is conducting an expedited investigation to ensure that those responsible for the violence and resulting injuries face the full consequences of the law,” the statement said. 

However, it is not clear whether the investigation will be concluded before the run-off election day. 

The opposition leader's complaints highlight the importance of a fair and transparent electoral process, where all candidates and their supporters can freely engage in campaigning without fear of intimidation or violence. The government’s role in ensuring a peaceful atmosphere ahead of the runoff elections is crucial for maintaining public trust in the electoral process and fostering stability in Liberia.

Many observers believe that as the campaign period progresses, it is essential for authorities to investigate these reported incidents, identify the perpetrators, and hold them accountable.

The international community has also called for a peaceful and democratic election process and is closely monitoring the situation in Liberia.

With the runoff elections approaching, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to these allegations and what measures will be taken to ensure a secure and inclusive electoral environment. Liberia’s future depends on the ability to conduct fair and credible elections that reflect the will of the people.