By Precious D. Freeman
Tensions has flared up again, this time, outside the Ministry of Justice headquarters in Sinkor as riot police yesterday clashed with some aggrieved dismissed agents of the Executive Protection Service (EPS).
The former elite guards, who claim their dismissal was illegal, gathered to demand their unpaid salaries from the government.
In addition to their claim of illegal dismissal, the former agents said the government is indebted to them for several months.
The protest quickly escalated, leading to significant disruptions in the surrounding area leading to schools, businesses, and offices being forced to close as demonstrators set up roadblocks; effectively paralyzing traffic and creating chaos in the heart of the city.
Eyewitnesses reported that the atmosphere was charged, with protesters chanting anti-government slogans while calling for justice.
In response to the escalating situation, the Liberia National Police again deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Reports indicate that the use of force intensified the confrontation, with some protesters retaliating by throwing stones.
As the clashes continued, multiple injuries were reported, though the exact number of victims and the intensity of the injuries remain unclear.
The police have since managed to take control of the situation, thereby restoring calm around the perimeters of the Ministry of Justice.
A spokesperson for the Liberia National Police stated, “Our primary objective is to restore order and ensure the safety of all citizens. We urge all parties to engage in dialogue rather than resorting to violence.”
The dismissed EPS agents have argued that their dismissal was politically motivated and not in accordance with legal procedures.
“We served our country with loyalty and dedication, and now we are being abandoned,” said one protester who wished to remain anonymous. “We will not back down until our voices are heard and our payments are made.”
Community leaders have expressed concern about the impact of the unrest, calling for calm and urging both the government and the protesters to seek a peaceful resolution.
A local community leader remarked, “This kind of conflict only harms our community”, adding “We need to prioritize dialogue over confrontation.”
Meanwhile, negotiations between representatives of the dismissed EPS agents and the government are expected to take place in the coming days.
The situation remains fluid, with the police maintaining a heavy presence in the area to prevent further violence.
Citizens are left anxiously watching the developments, hoping for an immediate resolution that can restore peace and normalcy to Monrovia as most of the protesters are believed to be trained armed carriers.
