ECOWAS, UN Condemn political clashes leading to 3 deaths in Liberia

The West African sub-regional body, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations (UN) have condemned the killing of three persons in the Foya District of Lofa County, Liberia, as a result of political clashes between supporters of the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) and the opposition Unity Party (UP).

Liberians go to the polls on October 10 to elect a president and representatives for the lower and upper houses.

The statement commended the Liberia National Police (LNP) for promptly restoring calm and urged them to conduct speedy and impartial investigations, make public their findings and ensure that the perpetrators were prosecuted.

Farmington

It said in the spirit of the Farmington River Declaration 2023, the protection of human rights, and under the due process of the rule of law, ECOWAS and the UN call on the leaders of the UP and CDC to strongly urge their partisans to refrain from provocation and any other acts of violence. 

ECOWAS and UN urged the UP and CDC to fully cooperate with the LNP in the ongoing investigations.

The statements said, “ECOWAS and the UN call on the media to be responsible in their reporting so as to avoid inflaming the volatile situation”. 

Peace

ECOWAS and the UN called on all stakeholders and the public at large to continue upholding the values of peace, accountability, and respect for the rule of law, in order to consolidate peace and security in Liberia during this critical electoral period.

It extended deep condolences to the families of the deceased. 

The CDC candidate and incumbent President since 2018, George Weah, is seeking re-election. The UP is the main opposition party led by former Vice President Joseph Boakai. There are 20 presidential candidates.