About seventy protesters, including former Presidential Aide Sekou Kalasco Damaro, were arrested and later detained at Monrovia Central Prison following a dawn protest on Tuesday, December 17. 2024.
The demonstration, led by former Grand Bassa County Superintendent Janjay Gbarpbea, sought to pressure President Joseph N. Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung to cease their alleged interference in the removal of embattled Speaker J. Fonati Koffa. Protesters claimed the speaker’s removal by majority lawmakers was unconstitutional.
The Liberia National Police (LNP) denied accusations of using live ammunition against peaceful protesters, stating they used only non-lethal measures such as tear gas. Inspector General Gregory Coleman clarified that violence erupted when protesters resisted police instructions.
Montserrado County Representative Frank Saah Foko, caught in the turmoil, claimed he was not part of the protest but was affected by tear gas while heading to his office. Foko reportedly fled from police, scaled a fence, and sought refuge at the Monrovia City Court.
Protest leader Janjay Gbarpbea condemned police actions, accusing them of brutality and demanding the release of detainees. Gbarpbea also announced a “Boakai-Koung step-down campaign” aimed at removing the current administration.
Tensions continue to escalate over the controversial ousting of Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, as divisions deepen between ruling party lawmakers and opposition groups.
