The streets of Monrovia, Liberia are set to become a stage for protest as commercial motorcyclists, locally known as “pehn-pehn” riders, gear up for a major demonstration on March 3, 2025. The catalyst for this planned action is a temporary ban imposed by the Liberia National Police (LNP) on motorbike operations within key areas of the capital city. This ban, implemented on February 20, 2025, followed a February 19 incident where a vehicle, experiencing mechanical failure, collided with a motorbike resulting in the death of a motorcyclist named Emmanuel Trokon Pajibo. The tragic accident ignited a wave of unrest among the motorcyclist community, leading to vandalism of police property and prompting the LNP to restrict motorbike routes in an effort to quell further disturbances. The motorcyclists, however, argue that the ban infringes upon their rights and livelihoods, and are demanding its immediate revocation. The looming protest underscores the complex relationship between this vital transport sector and the Liberian authorities, often marked by tension and mistrust.
The core issue igniting the planned protest is the February 20th ban on commercial motorbikes in central Monrovia. This restriction followed a tragic accident on February 19th, where a vehicle suffering a mechanical failure collided with a motorbike, resulting in the death of a motorcyclist. The accident, while seemingly unintentional, triggered a volatile reaction from fellow motorcyclists, who engaged in acts of vandalism against police property. The LNP’s subsequent decision to impose a ban was intended to restore order and prevent further escalation. However, this action has created significant disruptions for commuters who rely heavily on motorbikes for transportation, particularly during peak hours. The ban has effectively paralyzed a crucial element of Monrovia’s transport network, exacerbating traffic congestion and fueling frustration among both commuters and the motorcyclist community.
The motorcyclists, represented by the Motorcycle Union of Liberia, view the ban as an unjust and disproportionate response to the actions of a few individuals. They argue that the entire community should not be penalized for the actions of a small group and contend that the restriction is a violation of their right to work. Furthermore, they highlight the economic hardship caused by the ban, stating that many rely solely on motorbike operation for their income. The union emphasizes that they have complied with government regulations, including the registration of their bikes, often at a significant personal cost. Their decision to protest stems from a sense of injustice and the urgent need to address the economic fallout of the ban. The motorcyclists are not only protesting for their right to operate but also for their livelihoods and the vital role they play in Monrovia’s transportation system.
The impending protest is not merely a spontaneous reaction to the ban. It is a culmination of mounting frustrations within the motorcyclist community, who often perceive themselves as unfairly targeted and marginalized. They point to past instances where police officers involved in fatal incidents with civilians have been dismissed without any broader repercussions for the police force. This perceived double standard adds fuel to their grievances and underscores the sense of injustice that permeates the current situation. The motorcyclists maintain that they condemn violence and are committed to a peaceful protest. However, they warn that if the government fails to heed their demands, they will escalate their actions, potentially extending the protest across the entire country. This underscores the seriousness of their intent and the potential for widespread disruption if their concerns are not addressed.
On February 26, 2025, members of the Motorcycle Union of Liberia marched from ELWA Junction to the Ministry of Justice, delivering a formal notification of their planned protest. They also submitted a copy of their communication to the United Nations at the One UN House, underscoring their commitment to peaceful and transparent engagement with authorities. The union leader, in his address following the petition submission, reiterated the planned full-scale halt of motorbike operations on March 3rd, emphasizing that this action is intended to draw the government’s attention to the severe consequences of the ban. He emphasized the economic hardship faced by motorcyclists, many of whom invested considerable sums to register their bikes in compliance with government regulations. He appealed to the government to reconsider the ban, highlighting the crucial role motorbikes play in public transportation and the undue burden the restriction places on both commuters and motorcyclists.
The planned protest highlights a crucial juncture in the relationship between the motorcyclist community and the Liberian government. While the government seeks to maintain order and address public safety concerns, the motorcyclists are striving to protect their livelihoods and ensure their voices are heard. The protest serves as a potent reminder of the importance of addressing the concerns of marginalized communities and the need for equitable and inclusive solutions to complex urban challenges. The outcome of the protest will likely shape future interactions between the motorcyclists and the authorities, and could have broader implications for the regulation of the transport sector in Liberia. The situation demands a delicate balance between enforcing regulations and respecting the rights and livelihoods of vulnerable populations. The government’s response to the protest will be a critical test of its commitment to dialogue, compromise, and finding solutions that address the needs of all stakeholders.
