“Our Evidence Is Irrefutable” -Gov’t Deputy Spokesperson Defends Arrests

By Grace Bryant Mollay

The Deputy Government Spokesperson Daniel Sando has firmly rejected attempts to intimidate the government amid ongoing investigations and arrests related to the fire that gutted the Capitol Building.

Speaking at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing on Tuesday, June 10, Minister Sando emphasized that the evidence proving this was a coordinated attack on Liberia’s democracy is irrefutable.
He explained that international experts were brought in to assist with the investigation. Their findings, combined with local investigators’ conclusions, confirmed that the fire was a deliberate act of arson targeting the seat of Liberia’s government.

“Liberia is a sovereign state with a functioning government. When a crime is committed, those responsible must be held accountable, not shielded by hasty arrests or political interference,” he stressed.
Minister Sando detailed that the government conducted a thorough and methodical investigation, which led to several individuals being identified as persons of interest. “Some were later released, including Rep. Frank Foko, who had publicly claimed responsibility for the fire. Despite his inflammatory remarks, investigators found insufficient evidence linking him directly to the crime. Rep. Marvin Cole, who had issued repeated threats at the Capitol, was also released due to lack of concrete evidence.”

He added that those believed to be directly connected to the crime, based on facts and evidence, were arrested and promptly brought to court. “While courts typically do not open on Saturdays, the judiciary made itself available the day after the Friday arrests a deliberate move to uphold due process and avoid arbitrary detention.”

Sando underscored the independence of the judiciary, reminding that once a case is in court, it is beyond the executive branch’s control.“This isn’t about any one individual or ministry. It’s about protecting the Republic of Liberia,” he said.

Minister Sando described the Capitol fire as a coordinated effort aimed at disrupting democracy. “Yet, some political figures have labeled the legal process as witch-hunting. This is false and misleading,” he asserted.

He also clarified a common misconception, stating that only the President enjoys constitutional immunity in Liberia. Lawmakers do not have immunity from criminal prosecution and will be held accountable like any other citizen.
He criticized opposition leaders who, instead of supporting the pursuit of justice, are inciting instability and undermining peace. “During their six years in power, we raised concerns without threatening the country’s peace. Now, out of power, they claim the peace is at risk. That is unacceptable. No one is above the law.”
Minister Sando argued that the government deserves credit for treating the accused humanely, contrasting this with previous administrations’ public humiliation of detainees. “Our justice system presumes innocence until guilt is proven beyond a reasonable doubt.”

Addressing complaints about the accused spending only one night in jail, Sando urged perspective, noting that thousands of ordinary Liberians languish in prison daily for minor crimes.
He further noted that some young men arrested were mobilized by politicians who have now refused to secure their release. “This should be a warning to all young people ,know who you’re following.”

Sando condemned threats against law enforcement officers and the public sharing of their personal contact information. “The Liberia National Police is not a political tool. Attacking the police is attacking the rule of law.”

He concluded by affirming his personal commitment to justice regardless of political leadership. “If I, Daniel Sando, ever commit a crime, I expect to be prosecuted.”

“To those trying to intimidate me and this government, you are wasting your time. This administration, led by President Boakai, will not be deterred by threats or desperation,” he declared.