The Liberia National Police (LNP) has cautioned that the grounds of the Executive Mansion are not designated for protests or demonstrations. The warning comes ahead of a planned December 17 protest organized by the Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND).
Despite the police advisory, STAND’s chairman, Mulbah Morlu, has vowed that the group will march onto the Executive Mansion grounds and remain there until their concerns are addressed.
“We will have lunch and dinner on the grounds of the Executive Mansion. The police do not have the legal authority to stop us or anyone from protesting,” Morlu said in an interview. “We call on all Liberians to show up tomorrow. Interestingly, we will not leave until Mr. Joseph Boakai responds to our concerns.”
In a statement issued Monday, the LNP said it has taken note of public announcements regarding the planned protest and has formally engaged STAND’s leadership in line with its constitutional mandate to protect life and property. The police described the engagement as part of its standard preventive and dialogue‑driven approach to maintaining public order. 
According to the LNP, officers highlighted several public‑safety and mobility concerns associated with the Christmas season—a period characterized by increased commercial activity, heavy population movement, family travel, and heightened national security responsibilities. The police noted that large gatherings during this period pose elevated risks and could obstruct the free movement of citizens.
Based on these considerations, the LNP said it advised STAND, in good faith, to postpone the protest to a more suitable date after the holidays.
However, the police said it has observed public communications indicating that the protest will proceed as planned. While reaffirming respect for the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, the LNP stressed that such rights must be exercised lawfully and responsibly, without endangering public safety or infringing on the rights of others.
The police reminded the public that the Executive Mansion grounds are not approved protest sites and that all existing restrictions on motorcycles and tricycles remain in full effect. It warned that any violations of the law will be addressed promptly and professionally.
The LNP reiterated its commitment to dialogue, restraint, and professionalism, emphasizing that its approach seeks to balance constitutional freedoms with the duty to safeguard national peace and public order.
Citizens, residents, and visitors were assured that they may continue their normal activities without fear. The police said it remains fully deployed to maintain calm, facilitate free movement, and ensure a safe and peaceful festive season for all.
