Rédaction Africa Links 24 with New Dawn
Published on 2024-04-03 01:57:00
Following the release of the House of Representative Special Committee report on the violent protest in Bea Mountain, Kinjor, last month, Representative Thomas Ghousa of district number five Grand Bassa County expressed concerns about the implications of the report on Liberia’s image and investment climate. He stated that the report is perceived as anti-investment and could potentially harm the country’s reputation in the eyes of the international community.
The report included a recommendation for the resignation or transfer of the Country Manager of BMMC, Mr. Debar Allen, in order to promote accountability and rebuild community trust. However, Representative Ghousa highlighted that the protestors’ demand for Mr. Allen’s removal based on his ethnicity, being a Bassa, was unacceptable. He emphasized that every Liberian citizen, regardless of their ethnicity, has the right to work in any position they are qualified for, as enshrined in the constitution. The discriminatory protest against Mr. Allen based on his ethnicity was deemed a violation of his constitutional rights by Representative Ghousa.
Additionally, Representative Ghousa pointed out that a similar incident had occurred where an employee named Jackson You from Nimba was targeted due to not being a citizen of Cape Mount County. This pattern of discriminating against individuals based on their ethnicity was described as unhealthy and detrimental to national unity and progress.
The speaker of the House of Representatives had established a committee to investigate the Kinjor protest, and the committee’s report was submitted during a session. Representative Ghousa criticized the report for not allowing Mr. Allen the opportunity to defend himself against the accusations made. He argued that denying Mr. Allen a fair chance to present his side of the story before recommending his removal or transfer amounted to a violation of his right to a fair hearing.
Furthermore, Representative Ghousa highlighted a contradictory aspect in the report, where the committee recommended Mr. Allen’s removal without inviting him to address the allegations against him. This lack of due process was denounced as unjust and setting a negative precedent for future cases. He questioned the committee’s decision-making process and stressed the importance of upholding principles of fairness and justice in such matters.
In conclusion, Representative Ghousa emphasized the need for transparency, fairness, and non-discrimination in handling such sensitive issues. He urged for a reconsideration of the report’s recommendations and emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional rights and promoting a unified and inclusive society in Liberia. The report, if implemented without due process and consideration of all perspectives, could set a dangerous precedent and undermine the country’s progress towards peace and stability.
Read the original article on The Newdawn Liberia
