NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA, Liberia — Suspended Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports for Youth Development, Bryant McGill, has renewed calls for public vindication, saying the Liberia National Police (LNP) has formally cleared him of rape allegations but that public condemnation against him and his family persists.
Speaking to reporters in Monrovia on Tuesday, McGill said that despite the conclusion of the police investigation in his favor, the stigma surrounding the allegations has continued to damage his reputation and affect his loved ones.
By: Rufus Divine Brooks Jr- rufusbrooks091@gmail.com
Flanked by members of his legal team, McGill stated that the LNP’s findings unequivocally exonerated him, but lamented that the outcome has not been adequately acknowledged by the public.
“The police have done their work, and the findings are clear,” McGill said. “Yet my name and my family continue to be tried and convicted in the court of public opinion. This is not justice.”
He appealed to national and international partners, women’s rights organizations, civil society institutions, and relevant government ministries to recognize the police findings and uphold the principles of due process.
“We call on all well-meaning institutions to acknowledge the police conclusions and stand for truth, evidence, and due process,” he added. “These are the bedrocks of our democracy and our legal system.”
While maintaining his innocence, McGill reiterated his professional and personal commitment to the protection of women and children, which he described as central to his public service.
“My commitment to the welfare of women and children in this country remains unwavering,” he said. “But justice must not be selective.
Once facts are established and a person is declared innocent by the proper authorities, that innocence must be respected.”
McGill also addressed the alleged victim, expressing concern for her wellbeing while firmly denying any involvement in the incident.
“Our hearts go out to the alleged victim in this matter,” he said. “No one should have to endure such an experience. We call for the real perpetrator, if any, to be identified and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
