LIBERIA – The grounds of the Capitol Building on February 9, 2023, became a scene of torture and rights abuse as a young activist, Macclean Renner, was brutally dragged by State Security for protesting against pre-campaigning which is in gross violation of Section 12 of the 2023 NEC Regulations on the conduct of political parties.
VEx through a press statement issued yesterday and signed by Martin K. N. Kollie, Chief Convener Voices from Exile (VEx) said they wish to note with legal prudence that activist Renner had every right to protest as a law-abiding citizen. The violence against him violates his basic rights and contravenes democratic principles. Therefore, we are calling on the Ministry of Justice to probe this matter with much urgency and integrity.
VEx is calling on Civil Society actors and Human Rights organizations to take keen note of this blatant abuse. This barbarity should also seek the attention of ECOWAS, AU, EU, and the U.S. Embassy. Mcclean deserves JUSTICE, and we are demanding it at all costs. The dark days of Liberia are fast recurring amid the mayhem. If caution is not taken, democracy is doomed.
“We will follow up on this case until the perpetrators of this crime against activist Renner face the full weight of the law,” the statement concluded.