IPNEWS-MONROVIA: Opposition figure and political leader of the Alternative National Congress Alexander Cummings says Police wanted declaration of the Secretary General of the Opposition Unity Party and the Collaboration Political Parties Mo Ali is a mere intimidation tactic against the opposition which is unacceptable.
Cummings stated instead of the LNP focusing of real crimes, it was busy going after Opposition figures for expression expressed on Facebook.
“I am very concerned about the decision of the Liberia National Police to declare Mr. Mohammed (Mo) Ali, the Secretary General of the Unity Party, one of the constituent parties of the Collaborating Political Parties (CPP), a “wanted man” for merely expressing a personal opinion on Facebook. The declaration of Mr. Ali as “wanted” barely a day after inviting him to the headquarters of the LNP – even after his legal representation explained why he would not immediately attend to the police invitation – is clearly an intimidation tactic of the government to use the LNP against opponents. This is alarming and unacceptable!!!”
“Instead of focusing on real crimes, the government of Liberia, using the LNP as its instrument, is repeatedly going after Liberian citizens for making Facebook posts. By doing so, the LNP is neglecting its constitutional duty. Instead of harassing law abiding citizens, it should be focused on monitoring communities to keep Liberians safe, and going after the criminals who kill Liberian professionals. ”
“I expect the CDC government to STOP these actions and begin respecting the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the Liberian people, rather than wasting taxpayers’ money to harass and intimidate opponents. This behavior is definitely not conducive for a country struggling mightily to put behind its ugly past. We must all remember that war came to this country because some people in power thought they were above the law and started to suppress and harass others persistently. We are witnessing a return of those ugly days as Liberians are being harassed, and the police are being used as a weapon for intimidation.”
“I am deeply worried about the safety of not only Mo Ali, but those of his family members and all CPP leadership. I want to call on all Liberians to stand with Mr. Ali and ensure that his rights, and the rights of all Liberians, are respected. Liberia will not truly enjoy the fruits of democracy if citizens cannot freely express themselves and live happily doing so. Liberia Deserves Better!!!”
Meanwhile immediately after the pronouncement by Alexander Cummings, Liberia’s Minister of State Nathaniel McGill has described the recent throwing of petrol bombs as ‘domestic terrorism’, and wants individuals who make statement that poses threat to the country’s peace arrested
Recently there were arson attacks at the residence of Associate Justice Joseph Nagbe and the compound of the National Elections Commission by unknown men.
Addressing reporters over the weekend, Minister McGill said those behind such acts will face the full weight of the law when caught.
The Presidential Affairs Minister also said any opposition politician who threatens the peace of the state will be arrested.
Minister McGill made these statements following several threatening remarks from members of the opposition community.
According to Minister McGill, no matter the status of individuals in society, if they make threatening statements to the country’s peace, they will be held liable and dealt with in accordance with the law.
He said those wanting to take state power should be patient and wait for election.
Meanwhile, Minister McGill has termed as complete stupidity recent statements made by Lofa County District #1 Representative Francis Nyumali calling for interim government.
He wants the Lofa County lawmaker arrested by state security for such statement, which he said poses threat to the peace and stability of the country.
Minister McGill has expressed disappointment in members of the civil society community for not condemning recent statements against the country’s peace by members of the opposition community.
