A major fire tore through sections of Liberia’s parliament building in Monrovia on Wednesday, just a day after violent protests erupted over months of political deadlock.
Authorities reported that the early-morning blaze had been brought under control and confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine its cause.
Videos shared on social media showed flames consuming parts of the building, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky. Firefighters worked with water jets and long hoses to contain the inferno as fire trucks surrounded the scene.
The incident followed protests on Tuesday against the controversial removal of House Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa. Months of political gridlock between two legislative factions have ensued, with anti-Koffa legislators accusing him of corruption and excessive spending.
Inspector General Gregory Coleman of the Liberia National Police explained that while the demonstrations began peacefully, some protesters breached a barrier near the parliament and turned violent, hurling stones at officers. Tear gas was deployed, and dozens were arrested.
President Joseph Boakai condemned the “wanton destruction” during a visit to the parliament site and called for calm.
The government, in a statement via the information ministry, denied the use of live ammunition against demonstrators, asserting that only non-lethal force was used to disperse the protests.
Regional bloc ECOWAS and the US embassy have also condemned the violence and urged for peace in the West African nation as tensions persist.