The Citizens Movement for Change (CMC) says it acknowledges the recent dismissals, suspensions and other administrative actions taken by President Joseph N. Boakai in response to Liberia’s worsening drug crisis.
In a statement issued Friday and signed by its National Chairman, Hon. James M. V. Yougie, the CMC described the President’s actions as belated but important first steps, indicating that the President has begun to appreciate the seriousness of the situation and the growing public demand for accountability. The party, however, said the administrative measures must not be mistaken for full accountability. “Dismissals and suspensions are not substitutes for a comprehensive criminal investigation, full public disclosure and the prosecution of everyone against whom credible evidence exists,” the CMC said, adding that the initial actions must mark the beginning of the investigation, not an excuse to end it.
The CMC noted statements by the Inspector General of Police and other security authorities that influential individuals and senior officials may be linked to the drug network, and called on the President to provide investigators with the independence, protection and resources necessary to uncover all those involved, regardless of power, wealth, position or political connection. “Liberians have the right to know the cartel behind the drug trade in our country,” the statement said. “We must know who financed the operations, who imported the drugs, who received and transported them, who provided security and protection, who stored them, and who was expected to benefit from their distribution.”
The CMC said it is not seeking conviction through rumor or political accusation, but rather an evidence-based investigation, due process and prosecution without fear or favor. The party also disclosed that it has initiated consultations with opposition political parties and other national stakeholders regarding the planned September 5 peaceful national rally, noting that the drug crisis remains a national issue and not an exclusive CMC affair.
“In view of the initial actions taken by the President, CMC has decided to postpone the planned September 5 rally,” the statement said. “This is a responsible, good-faith decision intended to give the government a limited opportunity to transform these administrative measures into a credible, transparent and comprehensive investigation.” The CMC stressed that the rally is postponed, not abandoned.
“If we observe delaying tactics, selective prosecution, the sacrifice of only junior officers, the protection of powerful individuals, or any attempt to use these dismissals and suspensions to whitewash the investigation, CMC will immediately consult its political and civil society partners and take the appropriate peaceful, constitutional, and democratic actions necessary to pressure the government,” the party warned.
“We will acknowledge the government when it acts correctly, but we will not allow a few administrative measures to bury the truth,” the CMC added. “Liberia cannot punish young people at the bottom of the drug chain while protecting the powerful people who finance, import, and facilitate the narcotics destroying our country.” “The burden is now on the President. The Liberian people are watching.”