Liberia Opposition Decries Police Actions After Petition Rejected

Mulbah K. Morlu, chairman of the advocacy group Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), has condemned the actions of the Liberia National Police (LNP) against peaceful protesters and criticized the Executive Mansion for rejecting a petition submitted by demonstrators. Morlu vowed that the opposition’s efforts against what he described as “bad governance” will continue.

December 17 Protest and Police Response

A planned “Lead or Leave” protest on December 17, 2025, fell short of reaching the intended assembly point before the Executive Mansion due to a police blockade. Despite this, Morlu asserted that the protest’s message was conveyed to the public. He criticized the police for using excessive force to disperse protesters, warning that such actions undermine Liberia’s democratic gains and constitutional rights to free expression and assembly.

Allegations of Government Actions

Morlu accused state security forces of using excessive force and highlighted the purchase of an estimated US$15 million worth of new police weapons. He also claimed a protester was injured and hospitalized, and that at least 11 people, including the PA system truck driver, were arrested. He further alleged that regime supporters attempted to provoke violence by throwing stones near the Capitol Building, though protesters did not respond aggressively.

Protesters’ Grievances and Demands

Protesters and STAND leaders voiced concerns over corruption, impunity, economic hardship, and human rights issues. They demanded government accountability, advocating for the government to either effectively “lead” or step aside if it could not address public concerns. This protest was a follow-up to a similar demonstration held on July 17.

Location and Stand-Off

STAND insisted on holding the protest near the Executive Mansion and Capitol grounds, citing citizens’ constitutional right to assemble in those spaces. The Liberia National Police (LNP) deployed heavily and warned against protesting on the Executive Mansion grounds, citing public safety concerns. Some protesters carried cooking utensils and food items, intending to cook near the Mansion as a form of demonstration.

Protesters’ Concerns Regarding Government Spending

Several protesters expressed dissatisfaction with President Joseph Boakai’s administration, claiming his campaign promises to alleviate economic hardship have not materialized. They cited high prices of basic commodities, limited job opportunities, and concerns about government transparency, specifically referencing the procurement of yellow machines, National Transit Authority (NTA) buses, and the reported construction of a US$10 million presidential villa in Lofa County.

Call to Opposition Parties

Morlu urged opposition political parties to defend democratic space, warning of potential electoral manipulation due to the perceived militarization of the police and judiciary. He expressed concern over the potential appointment of loyalists to the National Elections Commission (NEC) by 2027.

Arrest of a Protester

A protester affiliated with STAND was arrested after defying police orders to approach the Executive Mansion. The individual maintained he acted lawfully and followed police instructions.

Low Turnout and Message

Despite a lower-than-expected turnout, CDC stalwart Wantoe Teah Wantoe emphasized the protest’s significance in highlighting the gap between government promises and reality. He noted concerns about public spending priorities, including allocations for education and health.

Criticism of Morlu’s Neutrality

Some critics questioned Morlu’s political neutrality, citing his past role as CDC chairman. However, Morlu and his supporters remain committed to using public demonstrations to demand accountable leadership. Neither the Government of Liberia nor the Liberia National Police had issued a response to Morlu’s claims at the time of publication.