MONROVIA – A day after thousands of Liberians, including political figures and ordinary citizens, gathered in the streets of Monrovia for the “ENOUGH IS ENOUGH” protest organized by STAND and the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), reactions continue to pour in from civil society leaders and transparency advocates.
On Friday, July 18, 2025, Anderson D. Miamen, Executive Director of the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), took to his official Facebook page to share an extensive critique of the protest, describing it as a mixed bag of “highs” and “lows.”
According to Miamen, the protest demonstrated a positive step in Liberia’s democratic space, as citizens from various political backgrounds exercised their constitutional right to assemble and demand accountability. He emphasized that while the size of the protest was notable, even small groups of concerned citizens have a legitimate voice in governance.
Among the positives, Miamen praised the clear, timely messages raised during the demonstration, especially on issues long flagged by civil society and the media such as delays in public sector reforms, unjustified benefits for officials, and the suspension and subsequent settlement of the former Central Bank Governor with nearly US$400,000.
He also applauded the generally peaceful conduct of both the protesters and the Liberia National Police, stating that the event marked a shift from previous protests that had been marred by violence. Miamen pointed out that many unemployed youth rightfully took to the streets to demand better opportunities, education, and support systems from their government.
However, Miamen did not shy away from highlighting the protest’s shortcomings. He questioned the credibility of some of its leaders and participants, especially those from the previous administration, who, he said, contributed to the very problems they now protest. He also criticized certain protesters whose motivations appeared self-serving, including those allegedly angry over losing political positions or being stopped from selling harmful substances.
Another major misstep, according to Miamen, was the protesters’ failure to present their petition to the government’s designated representatives. He called this a “missed opportunity” that undermined the seriousness of their demands. Additionally, he condemned the reported damage to a few vehicles during the protest, saying such actions detract from the overall message and purpose.
Eddie D. Jarwolo, Executive Director of NAYMOTE-Liberia, also weighed in. Writing on his Facebook page, Jarwolo called the protest a sign that Liberian democracy is maturing. “Democracy gives everyone a voice, not just the rich and powerful. Help us protect it,” he wrote.
Jarwolo stressed that the issues raised should not be viewed as targeting President Joseph Nyuma Boakai alone, but as a call to action for the entire government. He urged lawmakers to pass people-centered legislation and carry out proper oversight, the executive to provide quality services and ensure benefits reach all Liberians, and the judiciary to uphold the rule of law without exception. Jarwolo emphasized the need for qualified local leaders and equitable distribution of national resources.
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