Deputy Finance Minister for Zamora P.Z. Wolokollie has clarified a recent statement posted on his Facebook page concerning the Peace Island Community in Congo Town, Montserrado County, which he claims was misinterpreted.
By: Henry Karmo [email protected]
“On his Facebook page, the Deputy Finance Minister posted: ‘Peace Island is a very small community. It has only two ways out: the swamp or the main road. If you are blocked from the main road, the swamp is your only option. Guess what… that swamp has alligators and crocodiles. Be careful…'”
He received a barrage of criticism from the public, who perceived his post as threatening to the residents of the Peace Island community, most of whom are members of the Mano and Gio ethnic tribes in Liberia.
In his clarification, he stated, “In a recent statement, I clarified my position on what appears to be a controversial post made on October 15, 2023, regarding Peace Island. I vehemently deny any intention to undermine Liberia’s democracy or jeopardize the nation’s peace.”
“The post in question aimed to shed light on a potentially dangerous scheme orchestrated by certain individuals seeking to provoke unrest and create chaos before the official announcement of election results by the National Elections Commission on October 10. I received credible information about a planned assembly of a group with malicious intent to take to the streets and demand a transition outside of the established democratic process.”
Emphasizing his unwavering commitment to democratic principles, he reassured the public that he will relentlessly advocate for democracy in all circumstances. As a member of the governing party and an official of the government of Liberia, he pledges to respect the will of the people, understanding it as akin to the will of God.
“The intention behind the post was to call upon the peace-loving residents of Peace Island to remain calm and simultaneously thwart any sinister plans by non-residents to use Peace Island as a gateway to pursue power outside of the democratic process.”
“I would like to extend appreciation to the peace-loving people of Peace Island, saluting their commitment to the nation’s peace. I recognize and respect the people of Peace Island’s pledge to support, build, and work towards a united community and a prosperous future for the children.”
“In this critical period leading up to the election results, it is my hope that my clarification reinforces the dedication of the peace-loving people of Peace Island to upholding democracy, urging all citizens to remain vigilant and united against any attempts to subvert the democratic process. I hope this message echoes the importance of peaceful and democratic transitions of power, ensuring the stability and progress of Liberia.”
