Tens of thousands of citizens marched across the capital on Thursday, convening at the Capitol Building to voice their frustration over deteriorating governance, faltering democracy, and a struggling economy.
Amid a heavy presence of armed security forces, the demonstrators pressed on, defying intimidation and inclement weather to deliver a message to the government.
Authorities had ramped up security measures in anticipation of the protest, deploying heavily armed forces, erecting barricades, and even surrounding key government buildings.
Despite these efforts, an estimated 20,000 individuals braved torrential rain, gathering to express their demands for change under the administration of President Joseph Boakai.
Protesters condemned the Boakai-Koung administration for what they perceived as constitutional violations, economic mismanagement, and worsening living conditions for everyday Liberians.
Having come to power in 2024 with promises to improve the cost of living and address youth unemployment—accusations previously leveled against former President George Weah, Boakai is now facing disillusionment from the very populace that once supported him.
Chanting slogans like “Enough is Enough!” and “We Want Jobs, Not Suffering!”, protestors carried placards that vividly articulated their demands. They echoed a unifying sentiment of dissatisfaction: “Boakai Must Hear Us Now!”
The striking protests were organized under the banner of the “Enough is Enough” movement, which seeks to highlight the growing frustration over skyrocketing prices and widespread joblessness.
“It’s about justice, not politics,” asserted one of the movement’s leaders, reinforcing the belief that the demonstration transcended mere political grievances.
This protest marked the first significant challenge to President Boakai’s administration, which many citizens believe has failed to provide tangible relief in the face of economic difficulties.
While riot police were deployed at various government sites, the protest remained largely peaceful, amplifying the demonstrators’ calls for change.
The petition
As the crowd gathered, they articulated their grievances: “We rise because our backs are against the wall.”
The petition outlined serious allegations against members of the administration, including claims of corruption, abuse of office, and a lack of accountability.
Specific demands included the immediate dismissal and prosecution of officials implicated in corruption scandals, alongside calls for an independent audit of government agencies accused of financial malpractice.
The petitioners highlighted the disconnect between the suffering of ordinary citizens and the lifestyle of government officials, decrying inflated salaries, mismanagement of public resources, and the systemic culture of impunity that has emerged under the current regime.
“We demand justice, dignity, and a new Liberia,” the petition stated.
