Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND), in collaboration with the We the People Movement, has formally notified the Government of Liberia of plans to stage a nationwide peaceful protest on December 17, 2025, under the theme “Lead or Leave–Enough Is Enough.”
In an official letter addressed to the Ministry of Justice, the organizers say the protest is in response to government inaction following the previous July 17 demonstration, when thousands gathered peacefully to demand accountability and reform but were, according to the coalition, “ignored, mocked, and dismissed.”
The coalition outlines six core demands:
Respect for the rule of law and human rights
Action against corruption and impunity
Economic stabilization and healthcare improvements
An end to gender-based violence and selective rape prosecutions
A national fight against drug proliferation
Comprehensive reforms to reduce poverty
STAND accuses the government of failing to act on these issues, instead allowing a growing culture of impunity, selective justice, and public hardship. The 2024 U.S. State Department Human Rights Report on Liberia is cited as reinforcing claims of police abuse, extrajudicial killings, and corruption.
The statement singles out Minister Bryant McGill, allegedly shielded from rape allegations, and businessman George Kailondo, accused of ties to drug trafficking but reportedly protected due to political connections.
The main protest gathering will take place on the public grounds between the Executive Mansion and the Capitol Building, with synchronized demonstrations across all 15 counties. Organizers stress the protest will be peaceful but non-negotiable, asserting their constitutional right to assemble and petition the government directly.
In a warning to the national security forces, STAND stated, “We will remain peaceful, but fearless and uncompromising.” The group referenced past police crackdowns-specifically the Kinjor incident during the BEA Mountain protest-as examples of state repression they will resist.
The December 17 protest also aims to spotlight what the coalition calls the weaponization of the judiciary against opposition voices and the shielding of allies from legal consequences.
“The Liberian people will rise-octopus-style,” said STAND Chairman Mulbah K. Morlu, Jr., in closing. “They will remain peaceful, but will not leave the streets until their voices are heard and their demands are met.”
Government officials have not yet responded publicly to the protest notification.
