The opposition community issued its first major statement against the Boakai administration, criticizing the suspension of tenure commissioners of the Liberia Telecommunication Authority.
Two major opposition political parties, in a joint press conference, have termed President Joseph Nyuma Boakai's suspension of the Commissioner at the Liberia Telecommunication Authority (LTA) as an action executed with a disregard reminiscent of gangster-style maneuvers.
The press conference, which was held at the ANC, was graced by senior partisans of both parties, including ANC chairperson Atty. Lafayette Horatio Gould and Mr. Simeon Freeman, among others.
They informed the gathering that Mr. Alexander B. Cummings knows the joint statement but cannot participate due to illness. However, they are optimistic that he will attend the next press conference regarding their reaction to President Boakai's hundred-day deliverables.
Both parties noted that they cannot and will not stand idly and watch the Constitution, which they described as the cornerstone of Liberia's democracy, being flouted by the Boakai administration.
The parties in a joint press conference held at the ANC headquarters on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, said the President's action to suspend tenure commissioners at the LTA had raised alarming questions about their collective commitment to the rule of law and principles that underpin democratic society.
"It has come to our attention that in a move that starkly contrasts with the values we hold dear, the President has taken steps to remove tenured government members," they noted.
MPC political leader Mr. Simeon Freeman said President Boakai's action came merely two days after the Supreme Court explicitly directed a cessation of such practices.
"President Boakai's action, executed with a disregard reminiscent of gangster-style maneuvers, comes merely two days after the Supreme Court explicitly directed a cessation of such practices," he lamented.
According to him, this brazen defiance undermines the judiciary's authority and threatens the very fabric of governance.
"As the opposition, we wish to make it unequivocally clear: while our role is to provide constructive criticism and to work collaboratively for the betterment of our nation, we cannot and will not stand idly by, as the constitution--the cornerstone of our democracy is flouted," Mr. Freeman pointed out.
He explained that their commitment to democracy demands that they hold those in power accountable by ensuring that the rule of law is not only respected but upheld
"We hereby call upon the President to adhere to the Supreme Court's directives, to immediately retract these unwarranted actions, and to ensure that any changes in government positions are conducted within the legal framework that governs us all," he urged.
He cautioned that failure to do so not only disrespects the judicial branch of our government but also signals a dangerous departure from democratic norms.
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"Let it be known that our resolve to challenge these legally and politically motivated actions is unwavering. Respect for the rule of law is not optional; it is the bedrock upon which our society stands," he noted.
Mr. Freeman further warned that any attempt to undermine this foundation would be met with the full force of their commitment to democracy and justice.
"We stand together, united in our dedication to fairness, legality, and democratic governance. We urge the President to reconsider his course, to respect the rulings of our courts, and to act in the best interest of all citizens, ensuring that our democracy remains strong and unassailable", he concluded.
Editing by Jonathan Browne
