By Domingo Dargbeh
“We want to have open discussions about our future without fear.
The actions of CDC contractors are creating a climate of fear in our community. We are being silenced simply for expressing our opinions.”
Residents of Oldest Congo Town, near the proposed site for the headquarters of the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), have accused the party of using intimidation tactics at night hours against them.
Some of the residents, who spoke to this newspaper on condition of anonymity, accused the contractors of using dynamite to blast the rocky construction site. A situation, which they claimed had caused some of the nearby buildings to crack, disjoint, damage zincs, window cracks or experience structural damages.
“During one instant at night, some residents sustained injuries, but the Party hierarchies intervened the next morning, and rushed the victims to hospitals. They promised to underwrite the cost only if the incident is not leaked to the press,” one resident recalled.
While the Party is yet to speak to the prevailing situation, thinking it is being kept secret, the accusations have surfaced.
This followed a series of alarming events that have raised concerns among neighboring community members, especially the elderly.
Reports signal that some ‘CDC supporters’ have been exhibiting aggressive behavior towards local residents since the construction began in early October.
One of the residents, who preferred to remain anonymous for fear of retribution, told The INProfile Daily newspaper that heavy noise emanates from the party construction headquarters, disrupting the peace of residents, mostly at night, which has caused harm for them.
They claimed that the CDC has chosen to address these disturbances during nighttime hours only, which the residents do not find conducive.
One resident and activist, who also wished to remain unnamed, stated: “We want to have open discussions about our future without fear.
The actions of CDC contractors are creating a climate of fear in our community. We are being silenced simply for expressing our opinions.”
“Another person reechoed these sentiments, saying: “There is a heavy sound coming from the construction site at night that is affecting us.”
The situation in Oldest Congo Town mirrors broader concerns regarding political discourse, as citizens strive to uphold democratic principles amid rising tensions.
Residents are hopeful that by speaking out, they can cultivate a more inclusive political environment.
The coming days will be pivotal in shaping the political landscape of Oldest Congo Town, and ensuring that democracy cohesively prevails.