MONROVIA – The Monrovia City Court commenced preliminary hearings today concerning several lawmakers charged by the Liberia National Police (LNP) in connection with an alleged arson attack on the Capitol Building. This significant case has raised eyebrows and concerns in Liberia’s political landscape, with proceedings aimed at determining the sufficiency of evidence ahead of a potential transfer to Criminal Court ‘A’ for a full trial.
Appearing before the court were four lawmakers, each represented by a high-profile legal team, including Cllr. Jonathan Massaquoe and former Associate Justice Wilkins Wright. The prosecution was spearheaded by Solicitor General Cllr. Augustine C. Fayiah, along with County Attorney Richard Scott and Cllr. Bobby Livingston.
Among the first witnesses to take the stand was LNP Criminal Investigator Inspector Peter Johnson, who provided detailed testimony linking the defendants to various roles in the alleged arson plot. According to Johnson, Representative Fonati Koffa was identified as a significant financier of the scheme, while Rep. Dixon Siebo was characterized as the architect behind the plan. Siebo also allegedly assisted the escape of two individuals connected to the attack.
Johnson further implicated Representative Jacob Debee, accusing him of criminal facilitation for his alleged silence concerning the plot, stating that Debee was aware of his colleagues’ intentions but chose not to act. Additionally, Representative Abu Kamara’s vehicles were reportedly utilized in orchestrating the arson.
Compounding the severity of the allegations, Inspector Johnson referenced a social media post made by Koffa, which contained the term “ALARMO” and was deleted shortly before the Capitol incident. Koffa is said to have acknowledged his voice in a recorded conversation concerning the Capitol’s destruction, though he denied active participation in the discussions. Meanwhile, Kamara and the others claimed the audio was generated by artificial intelligence.
As the proceedings unfolded, it was noted that Representative Priscilla Cooper, also charged in the case, plans to seek a separate trial from the other accused lawmakers. Cooper has waived her rights to preliminary examinations, indicating her readiness to proceed to a full trial.
The first day of hearings was marred by frustrations expressed by several lawmakers, including Representative Koffa, who criticized the proceedings as a “waste of time.” He cited delays due to the lead witness repeatedly requesting bathroom breaks during testimony.
Interestingly, as Koffa departed the courthouse, he dismissed a reporter’s inquiry about a supposed call from the Inspector General of Police requesting an apology, asserting he had received no such communication.
The court adjourned the first day of hearings, with the next session scheduled for tomorrow, where further cross-examination of the witness will take place. The outcome of these hearings could have significant implications for the involved lawmakers and the integrity of Liberia’s legislative body.
