The Liberian civil society organization, Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND), has vehemently denounced a statement by the Director of the Executive Protection Service (EPS), Sam Gaye, which threatened to revoke state-provided security for former officials who “advocate” protests against the government. STAND argues that this threat represents a gross misuse of power, a direct infringement on constitutionally protected rights of free expression and peaceful assembly, and a dangerous precedent that could be exploited by future administrations to stifle dissent. The organization highlights the hypocrisy of this threat, noting that current President Boakai himself participated in protests against the previous administration while enjoying state security protection. This double standard, STAND asserts, erodes the democratic foundations of Liberia.
The timing of the threat, on the eve of the planned “WE THE PEOPLE” protest, further suggests a deliberate attempt to suppress civic engagement and intimidate potential participants. STAND emphasizes that peaceful protest is a fundamental right enshrined in the Liberian Constitution and should not be equated with rebellion or treason. The organization calls on the EPS to retract its statement and uphold its role as a neutral security institution rather than a tool for political repression. STAND underscores its commitment to defend these fundamental rights and its resolve to resist any attempts to silence dissent. The organization’s core argument centers on the principle that expressing dissent through peaceful protest is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy and any attempt to suppress it undermines the very fabric of the nation.
STAND’s condemnation extends to the recent arrests and harassment of University of Liberia students, particularly members of the Student Unification Party (SUP). These students, STAND argues, are being unjustly targeted for exercising their right to advocate for better educational conditions and express their views on matters directly affecting their academic pursuits. This action, STAND asserts, is another manifestation of the government’s growing intolerance of dissent and represents a troubling trend toward suppressing free speech and peaceful assembly. The organization reiterates its commitment to defending the rights of all citizens, including students, to express their views without fear of reprisal.
The core issue highlighted by STAND is the apparent contradiction between the government’s actions and its professed commitment to democratic principles. By threatening to withdraw security protection from former officials who participate in protests and arresting students who voice their concerns, the government is actively undermining the very freedoms it claims to uphold. This contradiction, STAND argues, reveals a dangerous trend toward authoritarianism and a disregard for the fundamental rights of citizens. The organization emphasizes the importance of holding the government accountable for its actions and ensuring that it respects the constitutional rights of all Liberians.
STAND emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between legitimate security concerns and politically motivated attempts to silence dissent. While the government has a responsibility to maintain order and protect public safety, this responsibility should not be used as a pretext to suppress legitimate expressions of dissent. The threat against former officials and the arrests of students, STAND argues, are not based on credible security threats but rather on a desire to stifle criticism and maintain political control. This blurring of lines between security and political repression, STAND warns, poses a serious threat to Liberia’s democratic future.
The organization’s call to action centers on the need for vigilance and collective resistance against any attempts to erode democratic freedoms. STAND calls upon all Liberians to stand up for their rights and resist the government’s efforts to suppress dissent. The organization emphasizes the importance of a free and vibrant civil society in holding the government accountable and ensuring that it respects the fundamental rights of all citizens. STAND’s statement serves as a rallying cry for all those committed to defending democracy and protecting the freedoms enshrined in the Liberian Constitution. The organization pledges to continue its advocacy efforts and to work with other civil society organizations to resist any attempts to silence dissent and undermine democratic principles.
