The Liberian government, through the Ministry of Justice and the Liberian National Police, has formally endorsed a significant anti-government protest scheduled for July 15-17, 2025. This demonstration, spearheaded by the advocacy group Solidarity of Trust for A New Day (STAND) and backed by a coalition of political parties and civil society organizations, including the ruling Coalition for Democratic Change, aims to address pressing socio-economic challenges plaguing the nation. The protest, dubbed “We the People,” seeks to bring to the forefront concerns about economic hardship, escalating prices, stagnant development, corruption, and abuse of power under the Boakai-Koung Administration. This collaborative effort between the government and protest organizers underscores a commitment to democratic principles and peaceful dialogue in addressing public grievances.
A pivotal meeting on July 11, 2025, between government representatives, security forces, and STAND organizers paved the way for this sanctioned protest. Held at the Ministry of Justice, the meeting facilitated open communication between the various stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of peaceful assembly and expression. Representatives from STAND, the Youth League of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), the Liberia Council of Churches, and members of the Joint Security participated in the dialogue, establishing a foundation for cooperation and mutual understanding. The “We the People Movement,” encompassing civil society organizations and the CDC Youth League, formally requested a permit for the demonstration, outlining their intention to raise concerns about governance and injustice. The government’s acknowledgment of these concerns and subsequent endorsement of the protest signifies a willingness to engage with dissenting voices and address the issues raised.
STAND’s leadership has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement, assuring adherence to the terms of the permit and emphasizing their commitment to peaceful and lawful conduct. This commitment to peaceful demonstration reflects a desire for constructive engagement with the government and a recognition of the importance of maintaining order and respecting the rights of all citizens. The collaboration between protest organizers and the government sets a precedent for addressing public grievances through dialogue and peaceful assembly.
Police Inspector General Gregory O. W. Coleman, while recognizing the constitutional right to peaceful protest, underscored the importance of responsible conduct and respect for the rights of others. He cautioned against any acts of violence, provocation, or public disorder, emphasizing that such actions would not be tolerated. This balanced approach acknowledges the right to protest while simultaneously emphasizing the need for maintaining peace and order. The Joint Security’s proactive engagement with the protest organizers demonstrates a commitment to facilitating a safe and orderly demonstration.
The Ministry of Justice, through the Liberia National Police, has reiterated its commitment to upholding democratic freedoms while ensuring public safety. This dual focus highlights the government’s recognition of the importance of both protecting fundamental rights and maintaining a stable and secure environment. The endorsement of the “We the People” protest represents a significant step towards open dialogue and peaceful resolution of public concerns. This approach sets a positive example for addressing societal issues through constructive engagement and collaboration.
The upcoming protest stands as a testament to Liberia’s evolving democratic landscape, where citizens can voice their concerns openly and engage with their government in a constructive manner. The collaborative approach between the government and the protest organizers reflects a shared commitment to peaceful assembly and addressing the pressing issues facing the nation. This approach holds the potential for positive change and reinforces the importance of dialogue and cooperation in a democratic society. The success of this protest will depend on the continued commitment of all parties to peaceful and lawful conduct, fostering a constructive dialogue that can lead to meaningful solutions for the betterment of Liberia.
