Monrovia, Liberia – August 7, 2025: In a powerful display of civic action, thousands of Liberians led by youth groups, civil society organizations, religious institutions, and community-based advocates took to the streets of Monrovia on Wednesday to demand immediate and sweeping government intervention against the escalating drug crisis in the country.
The peaceful protest, organized under the banner “Say No to Drugs”, began at the SKD Sports Complex and proceeded through major streets of Monrovia before climaxing at the Capitol Building, where a detailed petition was formally presented to the National Legislature.
With banners, placards, and chants of “Save our future!” and “We want rehabilitation, not addiction!”, the protest was one of the largest anti-drug demonstrations in recent years, reflecting the growing concern over the impact of illicit substances on Liberia’s youth and communities.
Petition: A Cry to Save a Dying Generation
At the heart of the protest was a 12-page petition addressed to President Joseph Boakai, Vice President Jeremiah Koung, House Speaker Fonati Koffa, Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, and other members of the Legislature.
The petition, titled “A Cry to Save a Dying Generation and Protect Our Future,” paints a grim picture of drug addiction in Liberia particularly in Monrovia, which, according to the Global Action for Sustainable Development (GASD) 2023 Report, accounts for over 65% of drug consumption spaces with more than 866 known ghettos and an estimated 100,000 chronic users.
“We refuse to idly watch an entire generation perish,” the petition stated. “We refuse to remain silent any longer. Today we march not only in protest but in purpose.”
The protesters called for:
Harsher penalties for drug trafficking, including life sentences for major dealers.
Mandatory rehabilitation for drug users, even if convicted or on bail.
Confiscation and auctioning of properties acquired through drug trade, with proceeds directed to recovery programs.
Creation of a National Rehabilitation Agency and a specialized drug court.
An executive declaration of drug abuse as a national pandemic, akin to Ebola or COVID-19.
Annual National Anti-Drug Day (August 7) and a Presidential Anti-Drug Task Force.
Stronger law enforcement budgets, border control, and drug education in schools.
Free drug treatment services at government-run facilities.
Mandatory drug testing in schools and prior to employment.
The petition was formally received by Montserrado County District #8 Representative Prince Toe, who assured protesters that their concerns would be presented to the full plenary of the House of Representatives.
Statements from Protest Leaders and Civil Society
One of the campaign organizers, James Kpadeh, Program Director of the youth-led group Restore the Future Liberia, declared:
“This is not just a social issue, it’s a national emergency. We’re losing our future to cheap drugs. The government cannot continue to ignore the cries of the people.”
Marcia Flomo, a parent who lost her teenage son to an overdose, emotionally addressed the crowd:
“I buried my child because he couldn’t stop. He begged me for help, but help was too expensive and too far. We’re here because we don’t want other mothers to feel what I feel.”
The Liberia Council of Churches and Inter-Religious Council also backed the protest, urging lawmakers to prioritize anti-drug legislation over “political games.”
Government Response
Following the protest, some government officials, speaking at the protest, acknowledged the petition and described the protest as “a remarkable example of constructive civic engagement.”
“The President shares the concerns of the protesters. The Executive is already reviewing options to declare a national drug emergency,” Minister Piah noted. “We are also considering strengthening the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency and increasing rehabilitation support in the 2025/2026 national budget.”
At the Capitol, Representative Luther Collins stated:
“This petition reflects the voice of the people. I commit to championing this cause and will push for the creation of a joint legislative committee to act swiftly on these demands.”
Next Steps and National Implications
Political observers see the protest as a major turning point in Liberia’s fight against drug abuse. Analysts believe the passionate and detailed demands may pressure both the Legislature and Executive to act with urgency.
Already, some lawmakers are reportedly drafting amendments to the current drug law and considering bipartisan collaboration for a fast-tracked anti-drug policy package.
With the declaration of August 7 as a potential National Anti-Drug Day, civil society groups say they will continue monitoring progress and mobilizing public pressure until concrete steps are taken.
“Today is just the beginning,” said youth activist Fatu Dorbor. “We are determined to hold our leaders accountable. A drug-free Liberia is not just a dream it is our demand.”
Conclusion
As Liberia faces an increasingly visible drug epidemic, Thursday’s protest sent a strong message: the people are awake, the youth are organized, and the time for action is now. Whether through legislation, executive orders, or budgetary reform, the fate of Liberia’s next generation may well depend on how swiftly and seriously the government responds.
