MONROVIA – The Civil Society Human Rights Advocacy of Liberia through its human rights monitors in Lofa County has provided an initial report on the violent incident that occurred on Friday, September 29, 2023, allegedly between supporters of the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) and the opposition Unity Party resulting in the loss of lives.
In a statement issued today through the CSO Human Rights Program National Secretary General, Adama K. Dempster said the monitors described the Lofa incident as horrific and a threat to the peace and security of Liberia ahead of the upcoming presidential and legislative elections on October 10, 2023.
“We condemn all sides for their roles in the violent actions that have put Lofa County into a hot spot.”
“We call for an independent and impartial investigation ahead of the conduct of October 10, 2023, presidential and legislative elections, and the prosecution of those responsible to be held accountable as a deterrence to any future incidence of violence in the country,” the statement said.
The statement further indicated that the human rights community admonishes the government of Liberia through the Ministry of Justice to with immediate action disband all political party militant groups and allow state security to take control of all security matters.
The statement continued: “We also want to express our deepest condolences to the victims’ families including those undergoing medical treatment.”
The Human rights community reaffirms its position and again calls for respect for the rule of law and fundamental human rights and freedoms in elections.
“A violence-free, fair, transparent, and credible election will define our democracy and save the state,” the statement concluded.
