MONROVIA — The Vice Standard Bearer of the opposition Collaborating Political Parties (CPP), Cllr. Charlyne Brumskine has expressed concern about recent statements made by individuals who threatened to resort to war if the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) steals the result of next month’s election.
By Selma Lomax [email protected]
This week, the standard bearer of Unity Party, Joseph Boakai, warned of dire consequences if the ruling CDC were to manipulate the upcoming October 10 elections.
Boakai was captured on video stating, “…that’s why you need to protect it. If they think they’ll steal this election, we will not allow it because if they do, that would be the end of this country.”
In a press conference held two weeks ago, former warlord turned Senator, Prince Johnson, threatened to instigate a form of violence reminiscent of the Arab Spring should the government interfere with the upcoming elections.
“Before the October elections, Liberians are coming out under the banner ‘Don’t Try It’ – any attempt, the people’s power would be exercised like the Arab Spring. You’ll shoot your gun; you’ll kill us or you’ll die. No more fear, Liberians don’t have fear anymore,” Sen. Johnson said.
The Nimba Senator later denied making such a statement, adding he’s a man of peace who has served in the Liberian senate for the last 18 years without causing any upheaval.
Cllr. Brumskine, in a video posted to Facebook Thursday, however, said the CPP is disheartened about the negative narrative leading to the October 10 presidential election Such statements. “The CPP condemns any narrative that tends to threaten the peace Liberians now enjoy. Liberians are subject to extreme poverty and the last thing they are holding up to is the peace. The Cummings/Brumskine ticket condemns political leaders making statements of war because of entitlement to power.”
“The CPP condemns any use of violence, incitement, or threats that could lead to unrest and instability. Liberia has come a long way in its journey to lasting peace, and we must protect and preserve this hard-won peace for the sake of our youth and future generations.”
Cllr. Brumskine called on all Liberians to desist from making statements that may incite violence or disrupt our democratic process. “Instead, let us engage in constructive dialogue, promote tolerance, and work together to ensure a peaceful and successful election,” she said.
Cllr. Brumskine said the CPP has been mindful of preaching a rhetoric that will instill fear in Liberians during the campaign. “The Cummings/Brumskine ticket has been very careful with ensuring we have a peaceful rhetorics and narratives focusing on peace, the economy, youth empowerment and gender equity all through the six weeks of campaigning.”
