MONROVIA — The United States chapter of the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC-USA) has condemned the alleged use of excessive force by the Liberia National Police against peaceful student protesters and citizens who demonstrated on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, demanding jobs, justice, and accountable governance.
The protest, organized by the University of Liberia’s Student Unification Party (SUP) under the banner “March for Jobs and Justice,” drew dozens of students to Capitol Hill before being dispersed by police using tear gas. Several protesters were arrested, including CDC Council of Patriots (CDC-COP) Chairman Foday N. Massaquoi, according to reports.
In a statement issued Tuesday, CDC-USA Officer-In-Charge Rev. Solomon M. Muin described the reported arrest and manhandling of Massaquoi and other protesters as deeply troubling, unjustifiable, and unacceptable in any democratic society. The statement specifically named Inspector General Gregory Coleman as directing the police operation.
“Let it be made clear: Peaceful protest is not a crime—it is a constitutional right,” the statement read. Rev. Muin said the police actions represent a direct violation of fundamental civil liberties, an abuse of state power, and a dangerous erosion of democratic principles.
The group warned that Liberia must not return to what it called a dark era where state security forces are used as instruments of intimidation against citizens. The use of force against unarmed individuals advocating for their rights is unlawful and a betrayal of the democratic values for which countless Liberians have sacrificed, the statement added.
CDC-USA called for the immediate and unconditional release of Massaquoi and all individuals arrested for peacefully protesting. The group also demanded a swift and independent investigation into the conduct of the officers involved and an end to the use of excessive force against citizens exercising their constitutional rights.
“This moment demands leadership, restraint, and respect for the rule of law, not repression,” Rev. Muin said. “Liberia belongs to its people, and the Constitution guarantees their voice. No authority has the right to silence it.”
The statement further expressed solidarity with all citizens demanding jobs, justice, and dignity and urged the Government of Liberia to uphold its democratic obligations. “Liberia must never return to jungle justice, where guns replace the rule of law and fear replaces freedom,” the statement concluded.
The Liberia National Police has not yet issued an official response to the allegations. As of press time, detained protesters including Massaquoi remained in custody, according to student leaders. Tuesday’s march was also endorsed by the Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND) and the Montserrado County Students’ Union (MONSU).
