Monrovia — The Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) has expressed deep concern and sadness over the reported death of Madam Tonia Jackson, a South African national and wife of renowned Liberian economist Samuel Jackson, under circumstances that have sparked serious allegations of domestic violence.
In a statement issued on Friday, WONGOSOL said images circulating on social media, which appear to show visible lacerations on Madam Jackson’s body, have heightened public concern and intensified calls for accountability.
While emphasizing that the full facts surrounding her death have yet to be officially established, WONGOSOL strongly condemned all forms of alleged violence against women and called for a thorough, impartial and timely investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
“At the center of this tragedy is a woman a mother, a daughter, and a Liberian through marriage whose life may have been cut short under deeply disturbing circumstances,” the organization said.
WONGOSOL called on the Liberia National Police (LNP) to ensure that the matter is investigated professionally, free from political interference or influence and guided strictly by the rule of law and the facts.
The organization also urged Mr. Jackson, husband of the deceased, to cooperate fully with authorities and make himself available to assist with the investigation.
“In cases involving the death of a spouse under troubling circumstances, the immediate partner often becomes a key person of interest, and full cooperation with law enforcement is essential in establishing the truth,” the statement noted.
Legal Obligations Under Liberian Law
WONGOSOL stressed that Liberia has clear legal obligations to prevent and respond to violence against women.
The organization cited the Domestic Violence Act of Liberia (2019), noting that Section 2.1 recognizes physical, sexual, emotional, psychological and economic abuse as forms of domestic violence, while Section 14 establishes criminal liability for perpetrators.
It also referenced Section 16, which mandates law enforcement authorities to respond promptly to domestic violence complaints and ensure protection and justice for victims.
Additionally, WONGOSOL referenced the Constitution of the Republic of Liberia, pointing to Article 11(b), which guarantees equal protection under the law, and Article 20(a), which provides that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, security, or dignity except in accordance with due process of law.
Regional and International Commitments
The women’s umbrella organization further highlighted Liberia’s obligations under regional and international human rights instruments.
It cited Article 4(1) of the Maputo Protocol, which affirms every woman’s right to life, integrity, and security of person, as well as Article 4(2)(c), which requires states to investigate and punish perpetrators of violence against women.
WONGOSOL also referenced the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, particularly Article 4, which guarantees the right to life and physical integrity, and Article 5, which protects the dignity of every individual.
At the international level, the organization noted that Liberia is a State Party to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). It pointed to Article 2, which requires states to ensure legal protection of women’s rights and eliminate discrimination, and Article 5, which calls for the elimination of harmful practices and norms that perpetuate violence against women.
The statement further mentioned the United Nations Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women, which calls on states to exercise due diligence in preventing, investigating, and punishing acts of violence against women.
Condemnation of Graphic Images on Social Media
WONGOSOL also strongly condemned the circulation of graphic images of Madam Jackson’s body on social media, describing the act as a serious violation of her dignity and the privacy of her family.
“Every woman, whether living or deceased, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and we call on individuals and media platforms to immediately desist from sharing such images,” the organization stated.
The group urged the public to exercise restraint and allow the Liberia National Police to complete its investigation before drawing conclusions that could inflame tensions or cause further harm.
Call for National Action Against Gender-Based Violence
WONGOSOL said the incident serves as a painful reminder that domestic violence remains a serious and often hidden reality for many women and girls in Liberia.
According to the organization, victims frequently suffer in silence due to stigma, fear, or retaliation, and the tragedy underscores the urgent need for collective national action to address violence against women.
“Violence against women is not a private matter but a grave violation of human rights that demands collective national action,” the statement emphasized.
As the national coordinating body of women-led organizations across Liberia, WONGOSOL reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for justice, accountability, and stronger systems to prevent violence against women and girls.
Condolences and Solidarity
WONGOSOL extended its deepest condolences and solidarity to the family, loved ones, and friends of Madam Tonia Jackson during what it described as a difficult and painful time.
The organization also expressed solidarity with the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, as well as the South African diplomatic mission responsible for Liberia, as they mourn the loss of one of their nationals.
“We stand with the bereaved family and all those affected by this tragic loss and hope that truth and justice will prevail,” the statement concluded.
