MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) on Thursday, January 23, 2025, named seven lawmakers as persons of interest in its ongoing investigation into the December 18, 2024, fire that devastated the Capitol Building. Police findings indicate the fire was an act of arson, with suspicions of a broader conspiracy aimed at destabilizing the government.
Those identified include Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa of Grand Kru District #2, Marvin Cole of Bong County District #3, Dixon Seboe of Montserrado County District #16, Priscilla Cooper of Montserrado County District #5, Abu Kamara of Montserrado County District #15, Jacob C. Debee II of Grand Gedeh County District #3, and Frank Foko of Montserrado County District #9.
The LNP, which is spearheading the investigation, previously suggested that lawmakers from the former ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) were suspects. While details of their alleged roles remain unclear, the investigation has shifted its focus to claims of deliberate arson as part of a coordinated plot.
The fire, initially believed to be accidental, caused significant damage to key areas of the Capitol Building, including the Joint Chamber and parts of the fourth floor, with losses estimated at $8.6 million.
Two individuals, Thomas Isaac Etheridge and Eric Susay, have already been arrested and charged in connection with the blaze. Etheridge, a former maintenance worker at the Capitol, faces multiple charges, including arson and conspiracy. Susay, who formerly worked as an elevator operator, has been charged with attempted murder, theft of property, and related offenses. Both men have been sent to court for prosecution.
On Wednesday, January 22, 2025, the CDC issued a strong condemnation of the investigation, describing it as a politically motivated effort to suppress opposition voices. During a press conference at the party’s headquarters in Congo Town, CDC Chairman Janga Kowo accused the government of using the fire as a pretext to target opposition lawmakers.
“This is a campaign of political persecution disguised as an investigation,” Kowo declared. “The government must reconsider its actions. Arrest one of us, and you will have to arrest us all.”
Kowo announced that the CDC Legislative Caucus, led by Senator Nathaniel McGill, would boycott President Joseph Boakai’s upcoming State of the Nation Address in protest. He described the boycott as a statement against what he called the government’s 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 added. “Our caucus will not lend legitimacy to a regime that seeks to intimidate its political opponents under the guise of justice.”
