JOSEPH Nyuma Boakai, the flagbearer of the opposition Unity Party, issued a statement on Sunday ahead of the Liberian run-off elections scheduled for November 14, 2023. Boakai addressed the public, alleging recent violent attacks orchestrated by President Weah’s government and urging Liberians to vote against lawlessness.
In his statement, Boakai expressed gratitude to political allies for their support and emphasised the significance of the upcoming runoff elections as a final push to remove the challenges that have plagued Liberia for six years. He asserted confidence in Liberians turning out en masse to demonstrate their love, courage, resilience, and determination to rescue the country.
Boakai highlighted President Weah’s alleged fear of the impending reckoning, leading to what he described as a ‘reckless misadventure’ to instil fear and disrupt the democratic process. He cited instances of violence, including a deadly attack on the running mate’s campaign convoy in Nimba County and the arrest of a Ghanaian national providing technical assistance.
He said: ‘In River Gee County where technical trainings were scheduled to commence on Wednesday, November 8th, 2023, our team was harassed a
nd later a Ghanaian National, Sumson Essien Jnr, who was providing technical assistance to us, was arrested by the Police and later subjected to cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment.
‘Our vehicle, 174 smart telephones, and several elections related materials were confiscated. The Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Justice refused to respect court summons and demonstrated the most wanton disregard for our courts especially after a petition for the writ of habeas corpus was prayed for and granted. They were complicit and sneaked Mr. ‘Essien to Monrovia under the cover of darkness. This is unaccepted!
No deportation hearings were conducted and Mr. Essien was criminalised without due process.
‘Mr. Essien was released and reportedly deported. The kangaroo process and circumstances surrounding this development needs to be investigated.
‘By this act, Mr. Weah and his government have further demonstrated his indifference to national and regional commitments especially the ECOWAS Protocols.
‘In Maryland County, Former Senator and Ambassador John Ballout experienced unwarranted attacks by individuals allegedly acting upon the orders of defeated Maryland County Representative, Bhofal Chambers.’
Accusing President Weah and his government of violating democratic principles, regional, and international laws, Boakai called for swift action to bring the perpetrators to justice. He asserted that the Unity Party would register its position through appropriate legal channels.
‘In recent days, Mr. Weah and his Government have violated all principles and laws that promote democracy and free and fair elections. He has wantonly flaunted and committed serious violations of our constitution, regional and international laws, especially the ECOWAS Protocol,
’ Boakai stated.
The statement outlined a series of attacks on party leaders and members in various counties, describing them as attempts to intimidate and silence strong opponents. Boakai urged Liberians to remain calm, assuring them that the Unity Party is committed to protecting their votes and allowing the will of the majority to prevail.
Boakai concluded by extending condolences to the family of Samuel J. Collins, a supporter who met an untimely death during a pre-victory parade. He urged Liberians to ‘vote against lawlessness, promising a prosperous Liberia and a new dawn by voting for the Unity Party.’
