Africa-Press – Liberia. Prior to the latest outbreak of violence, tensions had already been rising among key contenders, with some reportedly spreading hate and divisive rhetoric.
As campaigning for the much-anticipated Nimba County Senatorial By-election intensifies, the National Civil Society Council of Liberia (NCSCL) has strongly condemned the rise in political violence and hate speech.
In a statement issued Friday under the signature of its Chairperson, Madam Loretta Alethea Pope-Kai, the Council expressed serious concern over the increasing tension in the county and urged all political actors to engage in peaceful and responsible campaigning.
The Council’s reaction follows a recent violent disruption of the campaign activities of Candidate Edith Gongloe-Weh in Gborplay, Electoral District #4. Reports indicate that the lone female candidate narrowly escaped an attack while interacting with voters in the area. The incident forced her campaign team to abruptly halt all activities in the region.
Prior to the latest outbreak of violence, tensions had already been rising among key contenders, with some reportedly spreading hate and divisive rhetoric.
“It is based on these troubling developments that the Civil Society Council is calling for a more peaceful and civil process,” the statement noted.
“Having closely followed recent events in Nimba County ahead of the upcoming By-election, the National Civil Society Council hereby cautions all stakeholders to remain calm. We are particularly urging all candidates and their supporters to conduct themselves in a manner that promotes peace. Candidates, especially, must desist from preaching hate and divisive messages,” the statement added.
The Nimba County Senatorial By-election is scheduled for April 22 and was triggered by the death of long-serving Senator Prince Yormie Johnson, commonly known as “PYJ.”
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