Monrovia, Liberia – The Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) has issued a strong warning to the Liberian Senate on the nomination of Mr. Francis S. Nyumalin as Minister of Internal Affairs and Mr. J. Nelson Freeman as Deputy Inspector General for Operations of the Liberia National Police. Given their alarming histories with regard to human rights, the CDC is calling for the rejection of both nominations.
The CDC expressed grave concerns over President Joseph Boakai’s decision to select individuals with such troubled backgrounds. In a statement released today, the CDC listed the candidates’ violent pasts and contempt for human rights as significant obstacles to Liberia’s progress.
Both Mr. Nyumalin and Mr. Freeman are charged with carrying out violent crimes, such as the brutalization and senseless murder of defenseless bystanders. In particular, Mr. Freeman was connected to an incident in 2011 in which he oversaw a special police team that attacked defenseless individuals violently and killed many of them. He has avoided responsibility thus far in spite of these accusations.
Similarly, Mr. Nyumalin, a former legislator, has been connected to a violent campaign in Foya, Lofa County, where he allegedly planned attacks against political rivals, publicly identifying as an “old rebel,” and encouraging violence among young people who could be influenced.
Should President Boakai stick to his choice, the CDC has urged the Liberian Senate to reject his nominations. Permitting people with such blemished histories to occupy positions of authority weakens the rule of law and jeopardizes Liberia’s stability, claims the CDC.
Mulbah K. Morlu, Jr., the chairman of the CDC, reiterated the party’s commitment to sustaining the rule of law and condemned impunity in all its forms, irrespective of political membership. He called on the Senate to put the wellbeing of the Liberian people above political considerations and issued a warning about the perils of institutionalized violence.
In addition to sending a clear message against injustice and impunity, the CDC’s stance emphasizes the importance of integrity and accountability in governance. Throughout the nomination process, all eyes are on the Liberian Senate to uphold the principles of justice and human rights.
