MONROVIA – The Ministry of Justice has officially granted a permit to the civil society group Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND) for its planned public assembly from July 15 to 17, following a thorough review of the security implications of the group’s request submitted on July 3, 2025. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Justice on Monday, July 14, this decision underscores the Government of Liberia’s continued commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of all Liberians to peaceful assembly as guaranteed under Article 17 of the 1986 Constitution.
The Ministry urged the organizers and participants of STAND to conduct themselves lawfully and demonstrate the highest level of restraint and respect for the law throughout the protest. While the right to peaceful assembly is constitutionally guaranteed, the right to protect citizens against lawlessness is also enshrined in the constitution. Consequently, the gathering must take place within legal boundaries, with law enforcement officials prepared to arrest anyone engaging in unlawful activity.
The Ministry emphasized that the right to assemble is fundamental but must be exercised responsibly, and full cooperation with law enforcement is expected alongside compliance with the terms of the permit. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice informed the public that no permit has been granted to any other group or civil society organization to hold protests on the same dates as STAND. It categorically warned any individuals or groups planning similar assemblies from July 15 to 17 to immediately withdraw their plans, as the Ministry has only sanctioned STAND’s assembly.
This notice serves as a cease and desist warning to potential counter-protesters.
The Ministry of Justice’s announcement is supported by various national and international partners, including the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia, Liberia National Police (LNP), United Nations Human Rights, UNDP Liberia, Press Union of Liberia, Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs & Tourism (MICAT), Ministry of National Defense, Office for the Establishment of War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia, the Executive Mansion, the House of Representatives of the Republic of Liberia, and the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC).
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