NATIONAL NEWS
Monrovia — The Liberian People’s Party (LPP), one of the country’s oldest opposition parties, is calling on the Government of Liberia to reopen and conduct independent investigations into the mysterious deaths of several high-profile public servants, warning that the unresolved cases are undermining public confidence in the nation’s justice and security institutions.
Speaking at a press conference in Monrovia on Tuesday, LPP National Chairman Yanqui Zaza condemned what he described as a troubling pattern of “suspicious and unexplained deaths” involving officials in key oversight roles.
By: Rufus Divine Brooks Jr- rufusbrooks091@gmail.com
According to the party, the apparent lack of accountability surrounding these cases poses a serious threat to transparency, governance, and the rule of law.
“At a time when Liberia needs strong institutions to combat corruption and uphold justice, we are witnessing the silent elimination of those entrusted with safeguarding public resources,” Chairman Zaza said.
“The unresolved deaths of auditors and investigators have created an atmosphere of fear and suspicion. This cannot be ignored.”
Among the cases cited were the deaths of three auditors associated with the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA): Gifty Lamah, Albert Peters, and George F. Fanbutu.
Zaza said all three died under what he termed “highly suspicious circumstances,” noting that authorities have provided little to no official explanation despite their critical roles in financial oversight and anti-corruption efforts.
“These were dedicated professionals responsible for ensuring accountability in revenue collection—a cornerstone of national development,” he added. “Their successive deaths raise serious questions about who benefits from silencing such individuals.”
The LPP also called for a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the death of Emmanuel Barten Nyeswua, former Director-General of the Liberia Internal Audit Agency, as well as the fatal incident involving Officer Melvin Alex of the elite Executive Protection Service (EPS), whose death under unclear circumstances has sparked concern within both security circles and the general public.
Chairman Zaza stressed that the incidents should not be viewed in isolation but rather as part of a broader and alarming trend.
“A pattern is emerging—one that suggests individuals positioned to expose corruption or mismanagement are being targeted,” he warned.
“This is not only about justice for the deceased; it is about protecting the integrity of our democracy.”
As part of its demands, the LPP is calling for a special parliamentary inquiry, the establishment of an independent commission comprising legal experts, civil society actors, and international observers, and the public release of all medical, forensic, and investigative reports related to the deaths.
