MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Supreme Court of Liberia, through its Chambers Justice Ceainech D. Clinton-Johnson, has denied a petition for a writ of prohibition filed by the National Kehkeh and Motorbike Riders Welfare and Advocacy Organization (NAKEMOR). The petition, which was presented by the advocacy group Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), sought to block enforcement actions being carried out by the Liberia National Police (LNP) and other security agencies under the Ministry of Justice.
STAND’s Executive Director, Mulbah K. Morlu, argued on behalf of NAKEMOR that the government’s enforcement measures unfairly targeted motorcyclists. However, the Chambers Justice determined that there was no legal basis to grant the petition, effectively allowing the government to proceed with its enforcement operations.
The case emerged as tensions rise between commercial motorcyclists and authorities, with riders accusing the government of imposing harsh restrictions that threaten their livelihoods. The LNP and other security forces have ramped up efforts to regulate motorcycle transport, including crackdowns on traffic violations and movement restrictions in certain areas.
The Supreme Court’s ruling deals a blow to NAKEMOR and its supporters, who were seeking judicial intervention to prevent what they consider selective enforcement. With the petition denied, the government retains the legal authority to continue implementing its measures, which officials insist are essential for ensuring public safety and maintaining order.
