Monrovia, Liberia – A massive fire broke out at the Capitol Building early Wednesday morning, causing significant damage to Liberia’s legislative headquarters. The Liberia National Fire Service managed to bring the blaze under control, but not before a large portion of the building was severely affected.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and the Liberia National Police have launched an investigation, questioning several individuals connected to the scene. The incident follows a tense protest on Tuesday over the controversial removal of Speaker J. Fonati Koffa.
Leaders React to the Incident
Lawmakers, including Vice President Jeremiah Koung, rushed to the scene in disbelief as smoke and flames engulfed the iconic structure. President Joseph Boakai visited the Capitol after the fire was extinguished, expressing deep concern over the incident.
In a public statement, the President condemned the act and called on security authorities to conduct a speedy and thorough investigation. “Beginning with this, we’re not going to tolerate this anymore in this country.” President Boakai said. “If you have a problem, we have the rule of law“. We’re asking the Ministry of Justice and all security apparatus, including our friends, to investigate this, and people who are culpable will be dealt with, and we’ll set the tune for all others.”
Embattled House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa also expressed his shock and sadness over the incident in a Facebook post. “As a leader and a citizen, I am deeply saddened by the fire incident at the Capitol. It is shocking as it is perplexing given our country’s limited economic means. An immediate investigation into the cause of the fire is necessary and must be done,” he wrote.
The U.S. Embassy also reacted, condemning the violence and urging calm. “The U.S. Embassy condemns yesterday’s violence on Capitol Hill. Citizens have a right to express their views peacefully, and violence is never the answer. Political differences should be resolved through an open political process. We call on all parties to remain calm and resolve the impasse on Capitol Hill so that the Legislature can return to work on behalf of all Liberians,” the Embassy stated.
Representative Foko Denies Involvement
Adding to the controversy is a video circulating on social media showing Montserrado County District 9 Representative Frank Saah Foko allegedly threatening to burn down the Capitol. However, David Germue, Chief of Staff to Representative Foko, clarified that the statement was made in July and not in relation to the ongoing impasse.
Germue stated that the comment was figurative and emphasized that Representative Foko has no connection to the fire at the Capitol. “Rep. Foko condemns the act and refutes claims that staffers from his office were arrested this morning in connection with the burning of the Capitol,” Germue told OK FM.
Public Outcry and Calls for Accountability
The fire has sparked widespread condemnation from the public, with many expressing outrage and demanding accountability. The incident has intensified calls for a thorough and transparent investigation as political tensions remain high.
What’s Ahead
As the investigation unfolds, the fire at the Capitol has further deepened political divides and heightened public anxiety. Protesters have vowed to continue their demonstrations, escalating their demands to include the resignation of President Joseph Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Koung.
This is a developing story, and OK FM will continue to provide updates as more details emerge.
Joseph Daniels reports for OK FM Liberia as Executive Mansion Correspondent. With a vested interest in making the voices of people from different walks of life heard, he has covered investigative stories relating to education, health, the environment, corruption, and violence against women and girls, among others. He graduated from the United Methodist University with a Bachelor of Art Degree in Mass Communications in 2020. Joseph is also a fellow at New Narratives, a non-profit organization helping media deliver independent, truthful information to its people so they can make informed decisions.
