By Socrates Smythe Saywon
MONROVIA – A religious and political commentator, Rev. Philip S. Blamo of the Citizens Action Committee (CAC), has publicly condemned the Liberian government’s decision to send a diplomatic delegation to Conakry, Guinea, in response to a recent incident involving a woman of the Fulani ethnic group who was allegedly assaulted by an officer of the Liberia National Police (LNP). The delegation, dispatched by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, aimed to offer formal apologies and reaffirm diplomatic ties, but Rev. Blamo believes the move weakens Liberia’s standing and undermines national security.
In a statement issued on Thursday, July 30, 2025, Rev. Blamo said, “I am very disappointed with the Liberian government for sending a high-powered delegation to Conakry, Guinea, to extend apologies for their Fulani citizen who assaulted our law enforcement officers after being accused of power theft. What a weak and unpatriotic thing to do.”
According to Rev. Blamo, the incident began when the woman, accused of illegally tapping into electricity, reportedly resisted police efforts and assaulted officers. Yet, he pointed out, she was not arrested. Instead, Guinea staged protests on her behalf while Liberia’s Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman “prematurely apologized,” followed by an official diplomatic mission to Guinea. “What a security mess,” he added. “The government sold our integrity and put the whole nation and people in an awkward position to protect themselves, especially those in the diaspora.”
Blamo warned that the government’s actions suggest it is unable to lawfully protect its citizens, stating, “This is a wake-up call for all Liberians, home and abroad, to constitutionally defend themselves by all laws under our Constitution.” He accused the administration of lowering Liberia’s standing in West Africa and failing to uphold national laws.
His criticism followed a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announcing that a two member delegation comprising Ambassador at Large Sheikh Al Moustapha Kouyate and Liberia’s Ambassador to Guinea, H.E. Forkpa Gizzie, had traveled to Guinea to address regional concerns raised by a widely circulated video of the incident. The delegation, the Ministry said, formally expressed Liberia’s regret and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to diplomatic cooperation and respect for human rights.
While in Conakry, the delegation met with Guinea’s Foreign Minister Dr. Morissanda Kouyaté and conveyed President Boakai’s concern. The Liberian government emphasized that the matter is being treated as an isolated case and confirmed that an independent investigation has been ordered to ensure transparency and accountability.
The Foreign Ministry underscored Liberia’s commitment to the rule of law and the protection of all individuals within its jurisdiction. According to the statement, both countries reaffirmed their dedication to maintaining strong bilateral relations and agreed to await the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
Despite these assurances, Rev. Blamo’s statement has fueled public debate over the government’s diplomatic response and the message it sends about national sovereignty and law enforcement authority. As the investigation proceeds, the issue remains a test of how the Boakai administration balances regional diplomacy with domestic accountability.
