On April 28, 2025, a tumultuous demonstration erupted at the University of Liberia’s main campus in Monrovia, Liberia, prompting swift intervention by law enforcement authorities. The protest, marked by significant disruptions, including the obstruction of a major thoroughfare, the Capital By-Pass, and damage inflicted on a police vehicle bearing license plate #RL-307, spiraled into violence, necessitating the arrest of several individuals allegedly involved in the unrest. Following investigations, eight individuals, identified as Daniel S., Deema, Kalifa Kanneh, Archi Sougha, Frank D. Jackson, Christopher Dugbe, Isaac William, and Musa A. Kermokai, were formally charged and brought before the court to face prosecution.
The charges levied against the accused encompass a range of offenses related to the disruption of public order and the endangerment of public safety. These include criminal conspiracy, indicative of a concerted effort to orchestrate the unlawful activity; recklessly endangering another person, highlighting the potential for harm posed by the demonstrators’ actions; rioting, reflecting the chaotic and disruptive nature of the protest; criminal mischief, accounting for the damage inflicted on the police vehicle; failure to disperse, demonstrating a disregard for lawful orders to disband; disorderly conduct, underscoring the unruly behavior exhibited during the demonstration; and obstructing highway and other public passages, addressing the blockage of the Capital By-Pass. These charges are grounded in various provisions of the Revised Penal Law of the Republic of Liberia, specifically Chapter 10, Section 10.4; Chapter 14, Subchapter B, Section 14.23; Chapter 15, Subchapter A, Section 15.5; and Chapter 17, Sections 17.1, 17.3, and 17.7.
The Liberia National Police, in their official press release, detailed the unfolding events and the challenges faced by law enforcement officers in their efforts to quell the unrest. Upon arrival at the scene of the demonstration, police officers were met with resistance and aggression. Students participating in the protest resorted to violence, pelting the officers with stones and glass bottles, exacerbating the already volatile situation. This hostile reception underscored the escalating tension and the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining order.
While the eight individuals mentioned above have been apprehended and charged, the investigation remains active. The Liberia National Police has indicated that efforts are ongoing to identify other individuals involved in the violent demonstration. Upon identification, these additional suspects will also face charges for their alleged participation in the unlawful activities. This commitment to pursuing all those responsible underscores the authorities’ resolve to uphold the rule of law and ensure accountability for the disruption and violence that transpired.
The incident at the University of Liberia serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between the right to peaceful assembly and the need to maintain public order. While protests and demonstrations are legitimate forms of expression, they must be conducted within the bounds of the law and without resorting to violence or destruction of property. The escalation of the protest into violence, marked by the attacks on police officers and damage to public property, crossed the line from peaceful dissent into unlawful activity, necessitating the intervention of law enforcement.
The Liberia National Police, in its concluding remarks, emphasized its unwavering commitment to preserving peace and order within the Republic of Liberia. They appealed to the public to respect the rule of law and to seek resolution of grievances through peaceful dialogue and engagement rather than resorting to violence and disruptive behavior. This call for peaceful resolution underscores the importance of constructive communication and respect for legal processes in addressing societal concerns and promoting a stable and harmonious environment. The events at the University of Liberia offer a valuable lesson on the need for responsible and peaceful engagement in expressing dissent and seeking change.
