Liberia’s democracy is at a “dangerous crossroads,” civil society organization Solidarity & Trust for a New Day said, warning that the country’s institutions could be weakened ahead of the 2029 presidential election.
In a statement marking the International Day of Democracy on Sept. 15, STAND called on opposition parties, civil society groups, journalists, student organizations, faith leaders and youth movements to unite in peaceful resistance against what it described as the growing use of authoritarian politics.
“Liberia must rise now,” the group said. “If these trends are not confronted now, the ballot itself may no longer be enough to protect the people’s choice.”
STAND alleged that state institutions were becoming politicized and raised concerns about the independence of the National Elections Commission, restrictions on civic expression and assembly, police conduct and the deployment of security forces.
The organization also questioned the appointment of Jonathan K. Weedor as chairman of the elections commission, citing public concerns about his alleged ties to the ruling Unity Party and a previous professional association with a consultancy linked to the party. STAND said the allegations raised questions about the commission’s independence and credibility.
The group did not provide new evidence to support its claims.
STAND also cited the February 2024 violence in Kinjor, where three people were killed during a confrontation between protesters and security forces, as well as continuing allegations of police brutality and repression.
It said other developments — including the alleged removal of a sitting speaker, the expulsion of a lawmaker over free speech and what it called selective justice in drug-trafficking cases — reflected a broader pattern of institutional erosion under President Joseph Boakai’s administration.
STAND warned that democratic backsliding often occurs gradually through the weakening and politicization of institutions rather than through a single dramatic event. It urged the government to protect electoral independence, freedom of expression, the rule of law and peaceful political competition.
“Democracy requires free and fair elections, the rule of law, human rights, freedom of expression and assembly, accountable government, political inclusion, institutional independence and peaceful transfers of power,” the group said.
STAND Chairman Mulbah Morlu said the organization had begun consultations on “lawful, peaceful and nonviolent democratic action” to defend constitutional rights and protect the 2029 elections.
“Liberia belongs to its people — not to any president, political party, police command, electoral commission or political establishment,” STAND said.
