MONROVIA – In what organizers are calling a major victory for civic rights and democratic accountability, Liberia’s Joint Security, including the Ministry of Justice and the Liberia National Police, has officially granted clearance for the much-anticipated July 17 “Enough is Enough” protest. The announcement was made on Saturday, July 12, 2025, by Mulbah K. Morlu, Chairman of Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND), who confirmed that authorities have recognized the constitutional right of citizens to peacefully assemble and have committed to ensuring that the protest proceeds without obstruction.
STAND, in alliance with “We the People Movement,” the Youth League of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), the Progressive Student Alliance, Citizens United to Demand Accountability, and other student and civil society groups, welcomed the government’s acknowledgment of the constitutional freedoms enshrined in Article 17. Organizers described the move as a reaffirmation of the people’s right to demand justice, accountability, and reform through peaceful resistance.
The clearance follows a high-level meeting convened on July 11 at the Ministry of Justice with representatives of STAND, the Liberia National Police, and other stakeholders. At the meeting, Inspector General Gregory Coleman assured organizers that police would remain neutral and professional and would take all necessary steps to protect and safeguard peaceful protesters. Protesters will march along two main routes: Tubman Boulevard through Sinkor to Capitol Hill, and from Bushrod Island through Broad Street to Capitol Hill. Jallah Town Road and UN Drive will remain open to security operations and non-protest traffic. Organizers confirmed that all police checkpoints along protest routes will be lifted on the day of the demonstration, and there will be no security presence along the designated paths to ensure free and unimpeded movement.
STAND hailed the development as a significant milestone for the rule of law in Liberia, especially after years of restrictions and reports of police interference and violence during peaceful demonstrations. The group extended gratitude to all participating civil society organizations and youth leaders, particularly the CDC Youth League, for their resolve in defending democratic rights.
However, STAND warned the government against deploying what it termed “state-backed provocateurs” into communities where its volunteers are engaging citizens in preparation for the protest. The group said recent provocations by alleged operatives of the National Security Agency (NSA), including threats to deploy armed individuals into protest-related areas, pose a serious risk to public peace and national stability.
“These actions are reckless and clearly intended to provoke violence, which we do not seek and will not initiate,” the statement warned. “Should the government fail to act decisively, it will bear full responsibility for any disruption, harm to citizens, or destruction of property that may occur.”
STAND called on the Boakai administration to publicly denounce any elements linked to such provocations and urged law enforcement to ensure that peace remains the guiding principle of the protest. Organizers reaffirmed their commitment to nonviolence and warned against attempts to delegitimize the movement through political manipulation or force.
The protest, which is expected to draw tens of thousands of Liberians, aims to amplify public discontent over worsening economic conditions, alleged corruption, and a perceived failure of governance under the Unity Party-led government. STAND and its allies are urging citizens across the country to join the demonstration and help shape a movement rooted in courage, justice, and accountability.
Earlier, the Ministry of Justice and Liberia National Police reiterated their commitment to upholding democratic freedoms. Inspector General Gregory Coleman emphasized the government’s respect for the right to peaceful assembly but cautioned that acts of violence or public disorder would not be tolerated.
Representatives of STAND assured the authorities of their full cooperation and pledged to abide by the permit conditions. They emphasized that the protest will be peaceful, lawful, and aimed at engaging constructively with the national government.
The July 11 meeting was attended by representatives from STAND, the CDC Youth League, the Liberia Council of Churches, the Joint Security, and several diplomatic and governance institutions including the U.S. Embassy, United Nations Human Rights, UNDP Liberia, and the Press Union of Liberia.
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