“THIS PLACE IS NOT FOR HOOLIGANS”, PRESIDENT BOAKAI DEMANDS ACCOUNTABILITY FOR CAPITOL BUILDING FIRE
By Sylvester Choloplay
Monrovia: President Joseph Boakai arrived at the Capitol Building early this morning, visibly angry as he assessed the destruction caused by a massive fire that engulfed (destroyed) the joint chambers of the Liberian Legislature.
The fire, which began around 6:00 AM on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, caused severe structural damage, with walls collapsing due to the intense heat. Accompanied by Vice President Jeremiah Koung, Controversial Speaker Richard Koon, Embattled Speaker Fonati Koffa, Justice Minister, Cllr. Tweh, members of the House of Representatives and Senate, President Boakai did not hold back his frustration.
“This place is not for hooligans; it is for responsible people. It is truly sad that while we are asking our international partners to help us rebuild our country, we are here destroying it ourselves. This will not be tolerated”, the President said, his tone filled with frustration. The President ordered an immediate investigation, emphasizing the need for accountability. “This incident must be thoroughly investigated, and those responsible will face the full weight of the law.
Violence and destruction of public property will no longer be accepted under my leadership,” he said firmly. Justice Minister Tweh confirmed that a joint investigation involving the Liberia National Fire Service, Ministry of Justice, and other security agencies had already begun. The fire has left the Capitol Building’s joint chambers destroyed, raising concerns about how such a critical institution could be so vulnerable. “We cannot continue to tolerate such acts. There must be accountability, and the law will be applied without exception,” President Boakai declared.
This incident has sparked widespread concern, with many questioning the security and management of public institutions. As the nation looks to recover from this devastating loss, the President’s leadership and commitment to justice will be crucial in restoring public confidence and safeguarding Liberia’s democratic institutions.
