In 2024, the Independent National Commission on Human Rights (INCHR) in Liberia has raised a clarion call regarding a distressing rise in human rights violations. During a press conference in Monrovia, Cllr. Dempster Brown, Chairperson of the INCHR, presented the Annual Human Rights Situation Report. This report, meticulously compiled from data gathered across all fifteen counties, reveals a troubling escalation in abuses despite government efforts to bolster the justice system and encourage free expression.
Cllr. Brown articulated a spectrum of intensifying violations, including harsh state security brutality, excessive pretrial detainment, and a surge in rape and gender-based violence. He emphasized the disturbing trend of these issues continuing to obstruct justice access for many Liberians. The report also highlighted other grave concerns such as ritualistic killings, mob violence, child labour, and a justice sector that lacks the capacity to address these crucial cases effectively.
Further, Cllr. Brown expressed discontent with the government’s failure to implement meaningful measures designed to tackle these violations. He noted a significant deterioration in the human rights situation under President Joseph Boakai’s administration, contrasting it unfavourably with the previous administrations led by Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and George Weah. He urged immediate government action to reverse this negative trend.
The INCHR has also scrutinised the Liberia National Police (LNP), citing an alarming rise in police brutality and an absence of accountability, particularly under Inspector General Col. Gregory Coleman. Cllr. Brown highlighted multiple reports of excessive force being utilised against civilians, diminishing public trust in law enforcement.
Furthermore, he revealed that Inspector General Coleman has routinely declined invitations for dialogue to address these pressing issues. The INCHR has called for comprehensive training initiatives for LNP officers, aimed at fostering professionalism and ensuring adherence to human rights standards.
In 2024, the INCHR revealed a significant rise in human rights violations in Liberia, highlighting issues such as police brutality, prolonged detentions, and gender-based violence. Cllr. Dempster Brown condemned the government’s ineffective response and called for urgent reform, citing a worsening situation under President Boakai’s administration.
In summary, the INCHR has highlighted a troubling surge in human rights violations in Liberia for 2024. Cllr. Dempster Brown has called for urgent government intervention to improve the deteriorating human rights landscape, particularly under the current administration. The commission’s concerns regarding police brutality and the lack of accountability further reflect the pressing need for reforms and improved training within the security services.
Original Source: allafrica.com
