ECOWAS AND UNITED NATIONS CONDEMN ELECTORAL VIOLENCE IN LOFA

In the run-up to the October 10 elections, the Economy Community Of West African States  (ECOWAS) and the United Nations (UN) have noted with grave concern the violence that broke out in Lofa County between the Unity Party (UP) and the Coalition for
Democratic Change (CDC), leading to the loss of three lives, which they condemn in the strongest terms.

In a joint statement issued on September 30, 2023, ECOWAS and the UN extend deep condolences to the families of the deceased.
“In the spirit of the Farmington River Declaration 2023, the protection of human rights, and under the
due process of the rule of law, ECOWAS and the UN call on the leaders of the UP and CDC to strongly urge their partisans to refrain from provocation and any other acts of violence” the statement noted. The groups further invite the UP and CDC to fully cooperate with the LNP in the ongoing investigations.

ECOWAS and the UN commend the Liberia National Police (LNP) for promptly restoring calm. They urged the LNP to conduct speedy and impartial investigations, make public their findings and ensure that the perpetrators are prosecuted.
ECOWAS and the UN call on the media to be responsible in their reporting so as to avoid inflaming the volatile situation.

 ECOWAS and the UN call on all stakeholders and the public at large to continue upholding the values of peace, accountability, respect for the rule of law, in order to consolidate peace and security in Liberia
during this critical electoral period.