MONROVIA – The office of Grand Gedeh County Senator Zoe Emmanuel Pennue has called on the Ministry of Justice to swiftly investigate the burning and vandalization of his homes in Zwedru, Grand Gedeh County.
By Henry Karmo [email protected]
In a statement issued by his office, Senator Pennue expressed his condolences for the passing of Representative Erol Madison Gwion of District One, Grand Gedeh County. He extended sympathies to all affected by this irreparable loss and offered prayers for solace during these difficult times.
“We pray to find comfort, peace of mind, and hold together in our thoughts as one people to navigate through these difficult and painful corridors,” the statement read.
However, Senator Pennue noted that amid the shock and mourning in the country, an unprecedented situation unfolded. On the morning of Tuesday, December 5, 2023, a group of “hooligans and bandits” rampaged through Zwedru City, setting fire to, vandalizing, and looting homes, including the residences of Senator Zoe Emmanuel Pennue, Sr. in Todeyville and Kudah-Bye Pass.
It was reported that market centers, shops, and stores were closed due to the panic created by the perpetrators. Schools and other business transactions were also interrupted, and the reasons for the disruption are yet to be established.
“Barbarism has no place in modern days. As we assess the situations and associated actions, we vehemently condemn this lawlessness and unwarranted act by those preposterous and wayward individuals. Liberia is a country of law; accordingly, we call on the Ministry of Justice and other relevant authorities to do more by bringing would-be perpetrators to book for immediate investigation and subsequent prosecution where applicable.”
In related news, the Liberian Senate has strongly condemned the “barbaric” attacks on private and public properties in Zwedru, Grand Gedeh County, by hoodlums. These attacks resulted in the burning down of one house and the vandalizing of another belonging to Senator Zoe Emmanuel Pennue, as well as the offices of the county’s Traditional Council.
The Senate, represented by its President Pro-tempore Albert Chie, expressed deep shock over the passing of the newly elected Grand Gedeh District One Representative, Erol Madison Gwion, on December 5, 2023.
Pro-tempore Chie emphasized that while the Senate mourns with the bereaved family and the people of Grand Gedeh County for the loss of their lawmaker, such actions must be condemned by all peace-loving Liberians. This is especially crucial as the country undergoes a smooth democratic transition following a peaceful and transparent election.
The Liberian Senate extended its condolences to Senator Zoe Emmanuel Pennue and the Traditional Council for the terrible incident. They called on law enforcement agencies to conduct a speedy investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice.