In the early hours of December 18, 2024, a fire broke out at Liberia’s historic Capitol Building, which houses the country's Legislative Branch. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., addressed the nation expressing his deep sadness and frustration over the incident. He described it as a significant blow to Liberia's democracy and unity.
President Boakai extended his sympathies to the Legislature and expressed gratitude to firefighters, volunteers, and law enforcement officers who worked to contain the blaze. He emphasized the need for unity and resilience during this challenging time. “The Capitol Building has stood as a powerful symbol of our democracy, national unity, and source of national pride since its opening in 1957,” he stated. He urged all Liberians to remain steadfast in rebuilding this institution.
To address the situation, President Boakai instructed security agencies to expedite their investigation into the cause of the fire. He also directed the Ministry of Public Works and the General Services Agency to assess the damage immediately.
Despite the somber atmosphere caused by the incident, President Boakai shared positive news about Liberia's governance achievements. He announced that Liberia has been awarded a second Compact by the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) due to its outstanding performance in governance and development. This will provide significant resources for addressing critical growth constraints in Liberia.
President Boakai reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to rule of law, democracy, and good governance. He condemned violence in all forms and warned that anyone found responsible for acts of sabotage or intimidation would face legal consequences.
In conclusion, President Boakai called on all Liberians to work together for national progress. He conveyed his best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year while expressing optimism for continued advancement in Liberia.
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