Approaching the much publicized July 17 protest, the Executive Mansion, through its Presidential Press Secretary, Atty. Kula Fofana, says that the upcoming gathering is “more political than genuine.” Speaking Friday, July 11, 2025 during the Executive Mansion regular press briefing, Atty. Fofana said “We have seen and heard from other actors who have looked at the intent of the protest — seeing it more as a political process than a genuine protest.”
She told journalists that Liberia is a democratic country and people are allowed to protest once they follow the guidelines and rules governing assembly, but said in as much citizens have the right to assemble, they should also receive the necessary permits from the relevant authority.
The Presidential Press Secretary said that law enforcement agencies, the Ministry of Justice, and all parties are involved because the government has the right and authority to protect its citizens. “So, the relevant authorities are looking at that and studying what needs to happen and what support, if any, is necessary to be given—what protection,” she added.
When asked if President Joseph N. Boakai was open to meet the organizers of the planned protest, Atty. Fofana narrated, “I am not sure they have asked to meet the president. I have not had, or I have not received, any information that they requested a meeting with the president.”
She said if the organizers request to meet the President, he (Boakai) will be opened to hearing their concerns; saying, the president is always open to meeting citizens across the nation. Recently, the Ministry of Justice invited Mulbah K. Morlu, Jr., the organizer to a meeting, concerning the planned July 17th protest.
The letter, signed by Col. Wilson W. Boe, Sr., Coordinator of the Joint Security, extended compliments and acknowledged receipt a letter dated July 3, 2025, serving as official notification for a peaceful protest scheduled for July 15-17, 2025, themed “Enough is Enough.”
The letter further, “Your reference to Chapter III, Article 17 of the 1986 Constitution of the Republic of Liberia and relevant international protocols has been duly noted. Under the directive of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, who also serves as Chairman of the Joint Security, you are cordially invited to an urgent round-table discussion on Friday, July 11, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Ministry of Justice. The objective of this meeting is to coordinate with the Liberia National Police to ensure proper arrangements for your planned protest, safeguarding public order and the rights of all parties.”
