By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
CAPITOL HILL — Senator Amara Konneh on Tuesday urged the Liberian Senate to summon top government agencies to provide an update on the ongoing investigation into the December 18, 2024 fire that severely damaged the joint chambers of the Liberian Legislature.
Addressing the Senate Plenary, Senator Konneh called for the appearance of officials from the Ministry of Justice, Liberia National Police, and Liberia Fire Service to clarify the circumstances surrounding the blaze that crippled operations at the Capitol Building.
“The Capitol Building suffered extensive damage, and we need clarity on whether the fire was due to electrical faults or arson,” Konneh said. “Our constituents and staffers here deserve transparency and accountability in understanding the facts surrounding this devastating incident.”
The fire, which engulfed the joint chambers late last year, raised immediate questions about safety standards and possible foul play. Despite initial assessments, no conclusive findings have been publicly shared. Lawmakers and staff continue to work under disrupted conditions.
Konneh stressed the urgency of not only concluding the investigation but also beginning the restoration of the chambers. “We must take urgent steps to restore the joint chambers to a safe, operational state,” he added.
The Senate is expected to deliberate on the request in the coming days. If approved, the invited agencies would be required to report on the progress of the investigation and provide a timeline for both the release of findings and the reconstruction process.
