Despite early signs of confrontation and scattered incidents of violence, Liberia’s July 17 “Enough is Enough” protest remained largely peaceful, with Joint Security and independent observers confirming that the situation was under control throughout the day.
Onita Roberts, a human rights activist and Gender Officer for the World Expo in Japan, served as an observer during the protest and praised the overall conduct of both protesters and security personnel. Roberts, affiliated with the Ministry of Justice, underscored the importance of peaceful civic engagement and mutual respect between citizens and law enforcement.
“We’re here to observe the protest to make sure that everybody is safe — that the citizens are safe, the police are safe, and everybody is doing the right thing,” Roberts told reporters from Capitol Hill.
She acknowledged that two minor incidents had been reported earlier in the day by Joint Security, including one in Congo Town and another in an area she described as “across.” However, she noted that these situations had not required the deployment of tear gas or riot-control equipment.
“There’s a little scuffling going on, but I don’t think it’s gotten to a point where people have to be tear-gassed or they have to use the hot water truck,” she said. “So, we’re happy for that.”
Roberts drew comparisons to earlier mass protests, particularly one during the tenure of former Justice Minister Counselor Frank Musa Dean, where crowds were more aggressive. By contrast, she described the July 17 protest as “more civilized,” despite some individuals hurling insults and using provocative language.
“We have some people running around, spewing invectives and cursing out leaders and mothers — but it’s okay, that’s expected in a protest,” she said. “What matters is that the petition is being read and everything looks pretty much okay.”
Roberts closed with a powerful message of tolerance and responsibility:
“This is a democracy, so everybody is entitled to express their grievances. But we say: express your grievances with respect. Respect the Ministry of Justice that gave you permission, and respect Joint Security. Say what you want to say, but in a respectable, not antagonistic, manner.”
Police Confirm Injuries, Damage Amid Isolated Outbursts of Violence
In a post-protest statement released by the Liberia National Police (LNP) late Thursday, authorities confirmed that while the protest was largely under control, several acts of violence did occur, resulting in injuries and property damage.
“Today was indeed a long day, albeit we are grateful for the most part,” the statement began. “Fellow Liberians, thank you for tuning in. Today’s protest came with serious challenges, desperate threats, and confrontational behavior leading to the event.”
The LNP acknowledged its professional posture throughout the protest but cited a flashpoint incident that occurred when Senator Momo Cyrus arrived on Capitol Hill to receive the protest petition. Protesters reportedly refused to present their demands to members of the House of Representatives, demanding to deliver it only to Senator Cyrus. The resulting standoff turned chaotic.
“Violence erupted. Stones were thrown, and Officer Emmanuel F. Yuma of the LNP and a staff member from the Legislature sustained head injuries,” the statement revealed. “Officer Yuma is currently receiving treatment at the JFK Medical Center.”
In a separate incident earlier in the day, tensions near the CDC headquarters escalated when motorists were attacked, two vehicles were vandalized, and multiple individuals — including a woman — sustained injuries. The woman was reportedly rushed to JFK Hospital for urgent care.
“Let me be clear: these acts of violence are unacceptable,” the police stated. “The LNP is actively reviewing video footage and other evidence to identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice.”
While reaffirming the right of citizens to protest, the LNP emphasized that such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the confines of the law.
“Let us reject violence and uphold the laws that protect our democracy,” the statement continued. “We extend deep appreciation to the media and members of the general public for their cooperation, and especially commend our joint security partners for their tireless efforts in maintaining public safety.”
The statement concluded with a call for national unity: “Let us move forward with discipline, respect, and unity.”
Thursday’s protest, organized by leaders of the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), was aimed at challenging the administration of President Joseph Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah Koung, whom they accuse of mismanagement and betrayal of public trust.
Protesters mocked the administration’s campaign slogan — “Rescue Mission” — calling it instead a “Rescal Regime,” a term meant to symbolize what they believe is a disastrous national backslide under the current leadership.
