MONROVIA – The House of Representatives, led by Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa, has summoned key officials from the Ministries of Defense and Justice, along with the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) leadership, the Presidential Security Advisor, and the AFL Commander at Roberts International Airport (RIA). They are to address the controversial deployment of AFL soldiers during the arrival of former President George Weah on Saturday, July 13, 2024. The summoned officials are expected to appear before the House on Thursday, July 18, 2024.
Brigadier General Davidson Fayiah Forleh, the AFL Chief of Staff, has stated that the deployment was unauthorized by the AFL high command. Despite this, Information Ministry Spokesman Jerolinmek Matthew Piah defended the government’s actions during a Ministry of Information, Culture Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) briefing on Tuesday, July 16. Piah claimed that members of the former ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) had threatened to burn down the airport if they were not allowed to welcome Weah, prompting a need for security intervention.
According to Minister Piah, a large crowd of CDC supporters attempted to force their way onto the runway to greet Weah. In response to these threats, AFL officers, along with the Police and Emergency Response Unit (ERU), were deployed to manage the situation. However, this action has sparked significant criticism from the CDC, which argues that the current government under President Joseph Boakai is jeopardizing national peace and security.
Rep. Frank Saah Foko, a vocal CDC member and Montserrado County District 9 Representative, criticized the deployment as unnecessary and alarming, given that Liberia is currently at peace. Foko emphasized that the action contravenes constitutional and legal guidelines that restrict military use in non-emergency situations.
Representative Musa Hassan Bility, Chairman of the opposition Liberty Party (LP), also condemned the deployment, labeling it an abuse of power. “Deploying the army during the arrival of a former President, who is now an active politician, is unacceptable. We will not remain silent in the face of such egregious actions. It’s time to prioritize the peace and security of our country,” Bility stated.
The controversy surrounding the deployment has highlighted broader concerns about the use of military force in civilian contexts. Critics argue that such actions could set a dangerous precedent, undermining democratic norms and eroding public trust in the government’s commitment to peace and stability.
Supporters of the government’s decision, however, maintain that the deployment was a necessary measure to prevent potential violence and ensure public safety. They argue that the threats posed by CDC supporters warranted a robust response to protect critical infrastructure and maintain order.
The upcoming hearing on Thursday is expected to shed light on the decision-making process behind the deployment and address the legal and constitutional implications of using military forces in this manner. Lawmakers and the public alike are keen to hear the justifications from the summoned officials and to understand the broader ramifications for governance and security in Liberia.
As Liberians await the hearing, there is widespread anticipation regarding the justifications that the summoned officials will provide to the lawmakers. The outcome of this session is expected to have significant implications for the ongoing debate over the use of military forces in civilian matters and the overall political climate in Liberia.
The controversy continues to unfold, reflecting the deep political divisions within the country. It underscores the need for transparent and accountable governance to maintain peace and stability in Liberia.
