MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) has issued a stern rebuke to the government over reports of impending arrests of several of its lawmakers linked to the December 18, 2024, fire that devastated Capitol Building. During a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Congo Town on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, CDC Chairman Janga Kowo accused the administration of weaponizing state security to suppress opposition voices.
Kowo expressed outrage at what he termed a campaign of political persecution, warning that any effort to detain CDC-affiliated lawmakers would provoke a collective response from the party. “The government must reconsider its actions. Arrest one of us, and you will have to arrest us all,” Kowo declared. His remarks came amid mounting tension over the fire that gutted critical areas of the Capitol Building, including the Joint Chamber and parts of the fourth floor, causing damages estimated at $8.6 million.
The Liberia National Police, which is leading the investigation into the incident, has reportedly identified several individuals, including lawmakers from the CDC, as suspects. Sources close to the probe have disclosed that Speaker J. Fonati Koffa and Representatives Dixon Seboe, Marvin Cole, Saah Foko, and Abu Kamara are under investigation for their alleged involvement. While the details of their alleged roles remain unclear, the investigation has shifted focus to claims of deliberate arson and an attempt to destabilize the government.
The fire initially appeared to be accidental, but findings from law enforcement have since pointed to a possible conspiracy. Two individuals, Thomas Isaac Etheridge and Eric Susay, have already been arrested and charged in connection with the incident. Etheridge, a former maintenance worker at the Capitol, faces multiple charges, including arson and conspiracy. Susay, who once worked as an elevator operator, is charged with attempted murder, theft of property, and other crimes. Both men have been sent to court to face prosecution.
The CDC has characterized the arrests and the investigation as an attack on its members and has vowed to resist what it sees as a misuse of state power. Kowo announced that the party’s Legislative Caucus, under the leadership of Senator Nathaniel McGill, will boycott President Joseph Boakai’s State of the Nation Address. He described the boycott as a protest against the administration’s alleged harassment of opposition figures.
“We cannot sit by while the government uses this incident as an excuse to target those who challenge its authority,” Kowo stated. “Our caucus will not lend legitimacy to a regime that seeks to intimidate its political opponents under the guise of justice.”
