MONROVIA – Tensions are mounting in Liberia as the Liberia National Police (LNP) issued a stern warning ahead of the July 17 “Enough is Enough” protest, declaring the main entrances to the Executive Mansion and the Capitol Building as restricted zones. The warning followed a show of force by the joint security during a patrol exercise broadcast live on social media Tuesday, July 15. According to the LNP, the restrictions aim to safeguard key government installations and ensure public order during the demonstration.
Protest organizers have been told to reroute and avoid approaching these critical zones, with the police warning that any attempt to breach the restricted areas will be met with strict enforcement of the law. The government had earlier given conditional approval for the mass demonstration following a crucial meeting between the Ministry of Justice and leaders of STAND (Solidarity & Trust for a New Day), including representatives of allied civil society and political groups.
Inspector General of Police Col. Gregory Coleman, who participated in the security coordination meeting on July 11, reiterated that while the Boakai administration respects the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, any disorder or provocation would not be tolerated. “We recognize the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression,” said Coleman. “However, we urge STAND and its supporters to conduct themselves responsibly.”
The Ministry of Justice echoed this sentiment in a press statement, vowing to protect the rights of lawful demonstrators while maintaining stability.
As the protest nears, calls for both restraint and responsibility have flooded the public space. Anderson Miamen, Executive Director of the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), issued an appeal on Wednesday, July 16, urging the government to exercise care in dealing with protesters and respect their right to assemble. “Democracy may not thrive in the absence of peaceful and well-intentioned protests that are genuine, fact-based, and used to project issues that affect the generality of the population,” Miamen stated. He called on citizens to be constructive and evidence-driven in their demands, and on authorities to preserve Liberia’s growing democratic image.
Meanwhile, a counterview was expressed by Bishop Dr. Kortu K. Brown, a prominent Pentecostal cleric and former president of the Liberia Council of Churches. Speaking during worship service at his New Water in the Desert Apostolic Pentecostal Church on Sunday, July 13, Bishop Brown opposed street protests, arguing that dialogue remains the best path forward. “I have always not supported any protest in Liberia,” he said. “There are other ways we can address national concerns.” He recounted past efforts by the Church to mediate between protest groups and the government and urged renewed commitment to dialogue over demonstrations.
Still, the protest movement appears to be gathering steam, with political figures lending support. Matthew Nyanplu, a former ally of President Boakai and now a declared presidential candidate for 2029, announced his full support for the protest. In a statement released Saturday, July 12, Nyanplu slammed the Boakai administration for what he described as “callous, draconian and insensitive socioeconomic policies.” He argued that the administration had created no new jobs in nearly two years and accused government officials of profiting through “shady deals” while ordinary Liberians suffer.
Nyanplu cited worsening economic indicators, including a three percent depreciation of the Liberian dollar and a 12 percent spike in commodity prices over the past year. He called on Liberians to take to the streets and warned security forces against violating citizens’ rights. “Please go out on July 17 and protest. You need no permit to protest!” Nyanplu declared, adding that any abuse by state actors would be documented and referred to the International Criminal Court.
With less than 24 hours before the protest, Joint Security has finalized preparations. Marchers will take two main routes: Tubman Boulevard through Sinkor to Capitol Hill, and from Bushrod Island through Broad Street. Jallah Town Road and UN Drive will remain open for security and non-protest traffic. Organizers confirmed that checkpoints will be lifted and there will be no police interference along the designated routes.
Still, questions remain. Will protesters heed the police warnings and avoid the Executive Mansion and Capitol entrances? And will security forces uphold their commitment to neutrality and professionalism? As Liberia braces for what could be the largest public demonstration since President Boakai took office, the nation stands at a crossroads between confrontation and constructive civic action.
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