By Rocheford T. Gardiner
MONROVIA – The Liberia National Police (LNP) issued a scathing rebuttal on Tuesday, April 21, addressing a formal complaint sent by Jefferson T. Koijee to the United States Embassy. In a strongly worded press statement, the LNP dismissed the allegations as “misleading” and “unsubstantiated,” suggesting the claims are a calculated attempt to undermine public trust in law enforcement.
The friction stems from a communication authored by Koijee—the former Mayor of Monrovia and current Secretary General of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC)—to U.S. diplomats, raising concerns over the conduct of the national police force.
A Question of Credibility
The LNP’s response leaned heavily on the irony of the source. Police leadership pointed out a “glaring contradiction” in Koijee’s appeal to the U.S. government, noting that Koijee himself remains under U.S. Treasury sanctions.
“The author, who has been sanctioned by the United States Government for actions including undermining democratic processes and abuse of public office, now advances broad claims centered on the very issues for which he has faced international sanction,” the LNP stated.
The police force argued that these prior sanctions raise significant questions regarding the “credibility and intent” of his current assertions.
Defending Institutional Accountability
Addressing specific accusations of misconduct, the LNP detailed its internal oversight mechanisms, aiming to counter the narrative of a lawless or rogue institution. According to the release, the LNP maintains a “structured accountability” system that includes:
- Mandatory Reviews: All deaths occurring in police custody are subject to immediate review and potential judicial referral.
- Professional Standards Division (PSD): This internal body is tasked with investigating all allegations of officer misconduct.
- Use of Force Frameworks: Operational reviews are triggered following any use of force, with the LNP asserting that officers are held strictly accountable for violations.
The LNP also clarified the boundary between police work and legal outcomes, reminding the public that while they investigate, the Ministry of Justice holds sole authority over whether or not to prosecute.
Rejection of “Systemic” Misconduct
The LNP took particular aim at the most explosive claims in Koijee’s letter, which reportedly included allegations of systemic torture, ties to drug cartels, and politically motivated violence.
The police leadership categorically rejected these claims, labeling them “factually incomplete narratives.” They argued that such allegations fly in the face of ongoing international cooperation efforts intended to professionalize the force and align it with global human rights standards.
Commitment to the Rule of Law
Closing the statement, the LNP reaffirmed its dedication to transparency and its partnership with international stakeholders. The institution characterized the recent allegations as “politically charged” and urged the public not to be swayed by attempts to erode confidence in the country’s security apparatus.
“The LNP remains committed to professionalism and accountability,” the statement concluded. “The institution will continue to uphold the rule of law and rejects attempts to undermine public confidence.”
The U.S. Embassy has not yet issued a public comment regarding the receipt of Koijee’s communication or the LNP’s subsequent response.