MONROVIA – The Vanguard Student Unification Party (SUP) has strongly condemned what it describes as an illegal and intimidating attempt by a so-called “Student Disciplinary Committee” allegedly established under the authority of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai and University of Liberia President Dr. Layli Maparyan. SUP characterized the move as a deliberate tool of oppression aimed at silencing student resistance and shielding institutional decay at the nation’s premier public university.
In a sharply worded statement issued on January 12, 2026, SUP rejected the legitimacy of the committee, declaring that it neither recognizes its authority nor submits to what it termed “laughable intimidation tactics” orchestrated by the current UL administration and its political backers within the Boakai government.
SUP reaffirmed its commitment to its ongoing repainting campaign across the University of Liberia, insisting that the action is a form of non-violent resistance intended to expose years of neglect, decay, and mismanagement. The party argued that the campaign seeks to force public accountability for what it called the systematic destruction of an institution once regarded as a regional academic powerhouse.
The student movement recalled that the University of Liberia, once ranked among Africa’s leading institutions in the late 1970s, has deteriorated into what it described as a “national embarrassment.” SUP blamed the decline on sustained governmental neglect, weak leadership, and misplaced national priorities under the current administration.
According to the statement, while universities across Africa invest in modern laboratories, digital libraries, reliable internet services, and competitive curricula, UL continues to operate without functional labs, a proper library system, or consistent internet access. SUP criticized what it described as government spending priorities that favor political interests over education.
The group listed several expenditures it claims illustrate misaligned governance priorities, including millions allegedly earmarked for projects linked to senior officials, while students study in unsafe and degrading conditions. SUP described these actions as evidence of a broader failure of leadership rather than genuine national development.
SUP insisted that its repainting campaign does not constitute vandalism but represents legitimate civil disobedience aimed at reclaiming public space and restoring dignity to the institution. The movement maintained that each action is intended to expose institutional failure rather than destroy property.
Citing Articles 13, 15, and 17 of the 1986 Constitution, SUP argued that its actions are constitutionally protected expressions of free speech, association, and political participation. The group warned that no committee, threat, or administrative sanction would deter its campaign.
The student organization further accused the Boakai administration of attempting to turn the University of Liberia into a politically controlled institution, warning that such actions undermine academic freedom and democratic values.
SUP concluded by reaffirming its resolve to continue its campaign until meaningful reforms are implemented and accountability is enforced, declaring that intimidation would not weaken its determination.
The statement was signed by SUP Secretary-General Odecious Mulbah and approved by Chairman Sylvester Wheeler, acting under the mandate of the party’s 33rd Politburo and Central Committee.
