MONROVIA – The U.S. Embassy in Monrovia and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have both issued strong statements condemning the violence that erupted at Liberia’s Capitol Hill on December 17, 2024. Both entities called for calm, restraint, and a return to peaceful dialogue amid growing political tensions in the country.
In a press statement on December 18, the U.S. Embassy emphasized the importance of non-violent expression and urged political actors to prioritize unity and transparency. “Citizens have a right to express their views peacefully, and violence is never the answer,” the Embassy stated. It also called on Liberia’s leaders to resolve their differences through open and democratic processes for the benefit of all citizens.
The Embassy expressed concerns over the ongoing political impasse that has disrupted legislative activities, warning that such stagnation undermines Liberia’s democratic progress. “Liberians expect their leaders to uphold democracy, foster transparency, and engage in peaceful debate,” the statement read.
The Embassy further reiterated its commitment to monitoring the situation and emphasized the critical need for peaceful resolution. “We remain confident that political differences can be addressed through direct and peaceful engagement,” it added, urging all parties to prioritize dialogue to preserve the nation’s stability.
Similarly, ECOWAS released a statement titled “ECOWAS Calls for Restraint” on the same day, decrying the violent clashes between protesters and police at the Capitol Building. The regional body expressed alarm over the escalating tension in Monrovia and urged all sides to exercise restraint to prevent further violence.
“ECOWAS notes with growing concern the escalation of tension in Monrovia and condemns the violent clashes between police and protesters,” the statement read. It also called for Liberia’s security forces to investigate reports of a fire at the Capitol Building promptly and to share findings with the public to maintain trust.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic values, ECOWAS encouraged all parties to adhere to the rule of law and seek genuine reconciliation. “ECOWAS urges all stakeholders to respect the tenets of democracy as enshrined in Liberia’s Constitution for sustained peace and stability in the subregion,” the statement concluded.
Both the U.S. Embassy and ECOWAS have stressed the need for Liberia’s political leaders to rise above their differences and prioritize the nation’s democratic gains. The calls for restraint and dialogue come at a critical juncture, as Liberia faces mounting domestic and international pressure to resolve its political crises peacefully.
As investigations into the causes of the violence and the Capitol Building fire continue, political observers emphasize that the statements from the U.S. Embassy and ECOWAS highlight the urgent need for dialogue and collaboration to protect Liberia’s peace, democracy, and regional stability.
