Smoke rises from the parliament building following a protest by opposition in Monrovia, Liberia, Wednesday, Dec 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Anthony Williams)
Monrovia – The Capitol Building has experienced its third fire incident, once again attributed to an electrical fault. Fortunately, quick action by those present prevented the fire from escalating. This follows a pattern of electrical faults causing fires at the Capitol, with the second incident having escalated due to a lack of witnesses.
Despite the recurring electrical issues, the Liberian president has politicized the second fire incident, causing his security official to blame lawmakers who oppose his stance in the ongoing legislative conflict. This has raised concerns that the government is using the fire incidents as leverage against Speaker Koffa, pressuring him to resign, while neglecting the underlying electrical problems that need regulation and attention.
The latest incident highlights the urgent need for the government to investigate and address the electrical issues at the Capitol Building. Without timely intervention, future fires could escalate, posing significant risks. The focus should be on finding solutions to these electrical faults rather than using the incidents as political tools.
Had today’s fire escalated, it remains uncertain what stance the president would have taken this time.
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