MONROVIA – Thousands of Liberians on Thursday, July 17, 2025, took to the streets of Monrovia in a mass protest organized by the main opposition party, the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), and its political ally, Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), led by National Chairman Mulbah Morlu. The demonstration was aimed at expressing growing frustration with the Unity Party-led government of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
As early as 10:00 a.m., protesters began gathering at key points across the capital, including Freeport, Point 4 Junction, and Somalia Drive. Despite a slow start in the morning, momentum gradually built throughout the day as crowds assembled under heavy security presence.
At the residence of Chairman Morlu, who also serves as the protest’s chief organizer, early signs of mobilization were evident. Morlu, addressing journalists before the protest began, declared that “enough is enough” of hardship, lawlessness, and unfulfilled promises. He emphasized that the protest would be peaceful but resolute.
“This is the day of the people,” Morlu said. “We are tired of hunger, suffering, and government neglect. Our presence on the streets today is a message that the Liberian people will not be silenced.”
Protesters called for President Boakai to personally receive their petition. “When the president campaigned, he went to our communities and asked for our votes,” Morlu stated. “Now that we, the people, are demanding action and accountability, he must show up and listen.”
Demonstrators voiced a range of concerns, from economic hardship and joblessness to police brutality and restrictions on freedom of movement. Some cited the recent crackdown on motorcyclists as a key grievance, alleging that government policy had unfairly targeted working-class citizens trying to earn a living.
One protester, visibly emotional, said, “There are checkpoints everywhere, and people can’t move freely. Even our mothers can’t get to the market. We are not at war, but we’re suffering.”
Despite the emotionally charged atmosphere, the protest remained largely peaceful. Human rights advocate Adama Dempster, who was on the ground monitoring the situation, confirmed that by midday, there had been no major incidents reported. “So far, the protest has been calm. We’re seeing a strong presence of joint security forces along the main roads,” he told journalists.
Dempster emphasized the importance of peaceful assembly and reminded both protesters and law enforcement of their constitutional duties. “Liberia’s constitution protects the right to protest, but that right must be exercised responsibly, without disrupting public order or endangering lives,” he said.
Protesters vowed to continue their demonstration until their voices are heard and tangible actions are taken by the Boakai administration. Organizers emphasized that while they seek change, they are committed to nonviolence.
“This is not about political violence or revenge,” said another protester. “It’s about survival, about dignity, and about our future.”
It remained unclear whether President Boakai or any senior government official would receive the protest petition. Organizers warned that if the president failed to show up, it would be seen as a sign of disrespect to the people who turned out in large numbers.
The July 17 protest stresses growing public discontent with the state of governance in Liberia. While the Unity Party continues to promise reforms and development, opposition forces are seizing on widespread frustration to galvanize support and demand greater accountability.
Whether this protest marks a turning point in the Boakai administration’s public engagement remains to be seen. What is certain, however, is that citizens across the political spectrum are demanding more than rhetoric; they are calling for results.
