Capitol Hill, the official grounds of the Liberian Legislature, risks a scene of massive nonstop protests due to the refusal of some lawmakers to adhere to the stay order of the Supreme Court and what the aggrieved protesters termed “unconstitutional rebellion by a group of self-seeking legislators who want to dodge a potential audit exercise authorized by Speaker Fonati Koffa.”
The leader of the planned Protest, Political Activist Vandalark Patricks, said marching on the Capitol is a patriotic duty, not a crime. He called on Liberians to turn out en masse to resist the blatant violation of the Constitution. In a podcast, a popular political commentator, Henry Costa, threatened to join the protest while blasting top officials he accused of conspiring against Speaker Koffa.
Citizens across Liberia are rallying for a “March on Capitol” slated for Tuesday, November 5, 2024, to safeguard the integrity of the Constitution and send a resounding message of accountability to their elected representatives. Organized by various civic leaders, the march aims to confront what many believe are recent abuses of power within the House of Representatives.
The demonstration, described by organizers as an act of “patriotic duty,” has garnered widespread support amid growing frustration with political overreach and perceived corruption within the government. Key organizers have emphasized that the peaceful assembly will remind elected officials that they are accountable to the Constitution and the citizens who elected them. In a public address, one organizer remarked, “Marching on Capitol Hill is our right and our duty as citizens. It’s a way to ensure our voices resonate and to prevent any elected official from overstepping their constitutional boundaries.”
Prominent political commentator Henry P. Costa, a strong political voice, has been vocal in supporting the march. In a widely circulated Facebook post, he warned, “No elected official in the House of Representatives will be allowed to trample on the Constitution. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to stand firm.” His statements have ignited discussions on social media, with citizens rallying around the call for constitutional integrity and oversight.
To streamline turnout for the event, Vaardalak Patrick, another advocate for the march, outlined designated gathering points across Monrovia to ensure an organized procession. His social media announcement identified these key locations. According to the plan, Sinkor, Old Road, and Congo Town residents will assemble at 1st Street, near the U.N. Headquarters.
Central Monrovia participants are expected to meet at Broad Street and CEIO on Carey Street. From Stephen Tolbert Estate to Cow Factory, Logan Town, and Caldwell, Gardnerville will gather at Freeport. People from Thinker Village, Rehab, Duport Road, and Red Light residents will converge at ELWA Junction.
According to the organizers, citizens from Double Bridge to 72nd participants will meet at Boulevard Junction.
A central assembly at RLJ is also planned, with participants gathering early in the morning for a day of peaceful demonstration. Organizers have called for civility and responsibility, urging everyone to respect the nonviolent nature of the protest. “We want this to be a powerful, peaceful march that reaffirms our commitment to the rule of law and the foundations of democracy,” emphasized one organizer.
This mobilization is crucial for Liberia, as public dissatisfaction with perceived government malpractice has reached a new high. The recent political maneuvers within the House of Representatives, including attempts to oust Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa, have left many citizens questioning the commitment of their leaders to the Constitution. The alleged involvement of prominent political figures in these developments and accusations of power grabs has created a climate of suspicion and mistrust.
Tuesday’s march will test Liberia’s democratic resilience, with citizens signaling they are ready to hold their leaders accountable. Advocates of the march see it as an opportunity to remind public officials that their power is derived from the people and that any deviation from constitutional principles will be met with collective resistance. With citizens preparing to assemble in large numbers, Capitol Hill is set to become the focal point of Liberia’s push for governance reforms.
As Liberia faces critical governance and economic recovery challenges, this march represents a broader desire for transparency and responsible leadership. For those marching, this isn’t just about today’s political tensions—it’s about defending the future of Liberia’s democracy. “We are marching for our rights, our Constitution, and our children’s future,” one participant said. “This is our country, and we have a voice.”
As the nation watches, all eyes will be on Capitol Hill this Tuesday, where citizens are ready to remind their leaders that Liberia’s Constitution is not merely a document but a promise to the people that must be upheld at all costs.
