MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Ministry of Justice has declared that anyone linked to the recent fire at the Capitol Building, regardless of their social or political status, will be prosecuted. Justice Minister and Attorney-General Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh revealed that investigations have confirmed the incident to be an intentional act of arson, categorized as a first-degree felony under Liberian law.
Speaking during the handover ceremony for vehicles allocated to prosecutors, Minister Tweh emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s security and ensuring accountability. He assured the public that all individuals implicated, including lawmakers, will face justice in adherence to due process.
“No one is above the law,” Tweh stated, clarifying that legislative immunity under Article 42 of Liberia’s 1986 Constitution does not extend to felony cases. He pledged that the legal system would address any involvement by elected officials without bias or favoritism.
The Minister also called for restraint and caution from the public, urging them to avoid spreading falsehoods about the Capitol fire. “Misinformation and inflammatory rhetoric only serve to derail the investigation and undermine the pursuit of justice,” he said.
Responding to allegations of misconduct in the ongoing probe, the Justice Ministry dismissed claims made by Thomas Etheridge, a staff member in Speaker Fonati Koffa’s office. Etheridge, who has been identified as a person of interest, accused security officials of using coercive tactics and fabricating evidence during his questioning.
“These accusations are baseless and intended to obstruct the investigation,” the Ministry stated in a firm rebuttal, labeling Etheridge’s claims as part of a broader effort to sow public distrust. Tweh reiterated the government’s commitment to conducting a thorough and transparent investigation, urging all citizens to support law enforcement efforts.
“We will not allow attempts to derail justice or incite unrest,” Minister Tweh declared. He assured Liberians that those responsible for the Capitol fire would face legal consequences, reiterating the Ministry’s dedication to upholding the rule of law.
