-CDC Calls for Independent Investigation
MONROVIA – Contrary to claims by the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) that former President George Manneh Weah’s home was deliberately targeted, the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) says preliminary findings suggest a possible electrical shock triggered the fire that damaged the former leader’s 9th Street residence early Wednesday morning.
According to LNFS, the blaze originated in Weah’s bedroom on the first floor, engulfing his bed, dresser, and window before firefighters contained the fire.
“The current was fluctuating at the time of combating the fire, leading the team to believe that the cause of the fire was as a result of electrical shock,” said Major George S. Davis, commander of the LNFS second shift.
The fire reportedly broke out at approximately 12:48 a.m. and was extinguished within 30 minutes. LNFS crews left the scene at 2:03 a.m. No injuries were reported. However, when investigators returned later that morning to conduct a full probe, they were denied access to the compound. LNFS stated that follow-up communication has yet to be received.
CDC Alleges Premeditated Attack
The CDC has strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a “premeditated attack” on the former President. Acting Chairman Janga A. Kowo, who rushed to the scene shortly after the fire, told reporters the blaze inflicted significant damage to Weah’s private quarters.
“We were notified this morning of a fire incident in the bedroom of former President Weah; it is very concerning. It is very scary. We are trying to preliminarily understand what has happened because it is the bedroom of the former President. There seems to be massive destruction,” Kowo said.
The party’s statement referenced previous confrontations involving state security forces, particularly during Mr. Weah’s returns from overseas travel, where CDC supporters were reportedly manhandled, handcuffed, and even jailed.
The CDC also accused elements of the ruling Unity Party (UP) of spreading disinformation, including circulating an AI-generated image falsely depicting Weah’s bedroom. “Such acts are not only deceptive but calculated attempts to mislead the public and tarnish the image of our Political Leader,” the statement read.
Background
The incident recalls a broader pattern of politically tense moments surrounding former President Weah. Earlier this week, his supporters faced violent confrontations with security forces at Roberts International Airport during his returns from abroad. The 9th Street fire, which damaged key areas of Weah’s residence, has thus drawn heightened attention from both the public and political observers.
While the LNFS investigation points to a likely electrical fault, the CDC maintains that the fire could have been politically motivated, urging for an independent, international investigation to establish the facts.
Call for Independent Probe
While affirming that Weah is “safe, well, and in good health,” the CDC is demanding a “forensic, international, and independent investigation” into the fire. “We call for an investigation that is void of lies, deception, and fakery to ensure that the truth is revealed and justice is served,” the party emphasized.
The CDC concluded by reiterating its commitment to peace, unity, and democratic governance, cautioning against actions that could destabilize the country. “We urge all actors to respect the rule of law and the rights of all Liberians,” the statement said.
