by Rocheford T. Gardiner
MONROVIA, LIBERIA — Tensions between the legislative and executive branches reached a boiling point this week as Representative Frank Saah Foko, Jr. (District #9, Montserrado County) formally accused Inspector General of Police Gregory Coleman of a targeted attempt on his life.
The allegations stem from a violent confrontation on March 31, 2026, in the Wroto Town, Airfield community. Rep. Foko claims he was performing his constitutional duties, intervening on behalf of constituents whose land was being “forcefully confiscated,” when he and several civilians were allegedly subjected to humiliation, physical assault, and tear gas by the Liberia National Police (LNP).
A “Targeted Pattern” of Harassment
In a formal complaint dated April 1, 2026, addressed to Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, Foko characterized the incident not merely as a police action, but as a “calculated act of intimidation and potentially an assassination attempt.”
Foko argued that the violence is part of a broader, troubling pattern of state-sponsored harassment against him, citing two previous incidents:
- The Capitol Building Arson Case: Public accusations linking him to the December 18, 2024, fire, which he maintains were never proven.
- Residential Siege: The “unwarranted surrounding” of his private residence by security forces on that same date in 2024.
“This matter transcends personal grievance,” Foko wrote in his letter to the House. “It is about preserving the sanctity of democratic representation and ensuring that no arm of government operates above the law.”
Police Response: “Stop Yapping on Social Media”
The Liberia National Police has categorically dismissed Foko’s claims. Police spokesman Sam Collins refuted the idea that the force exists to destroy, stating firmly that the LNP’s mandate is to protect all citizens.
In a sharp rebuttal, the LNP leadership challenged the Representative to move beyond “wrongly accusing others” on social platforms. Inspector General Gregory Coleman and the LNP have called on Foko to stop “yapping on social media” and instead utilize the formal legal system to address his grievances through the courts.
Legislative Demands
Rep. Foko is not backing down, requesting that the House of Representatives take immediate action, including:
- Independent Inquiry: A legislative probe into the conduct of the LNP during the Wroto Town incident.
- Summons: Compelling IG Gregory Coleman to appear before the House to account for the police’s actions.
- Security Assurances: Provision of state protection for Foko and his family following the alleged threats.
As the 55th Legislature reviews the complaint, the standoff highlights the deepening rift between the opposition and the national security apparatus.