-STAND Urge
By Vaye Abel Lepolu
Monrovia, Liberia — Liberia is bracing for a nationwide protest as Mulbah Morlu, Chairman of the Solidarity Trust for a New Day, has called on citizens to rise against corruption, bad governance, and the government’s alleged disregard for citizens’ rights.
Speaking at a press conference in Monrovia on December 2, 2015, Morlu declared December 17 as the day Liberians will “take a stand” against what he described as President Joseph Nyumah Boakai’s failure to deliver basic services, curb corruption, and ensure national security.
“The country is on the edge of a revolution,” Morlu said. “The people have had enough of inaction and disrespect for their rights. The badge of authority is not a license to abuse citizens.”
Citizens’ Concerns Ignored
Morlu recalled that tens of thousands of Liberians gathered peacefully on July 17 to present a petition outlining grievances, including lack of healthcare, rising crime, police brutality, and poor social services. Despite the protest being acknowledged by the Ministry of Justice, organizers accused President Boakai of refusing to receive the petition or send a representative.
“This government showed no responsibility,” Morlu stated. “The people stood in heavy rain to present their concerns, but the President did not listen.”
December 17 Protest: “Lead or Leave”
Under the theme “Lead or Leave,” Morlu announced that citizens will assemble at the Executive Mansion and other locations nationwide beginning at 6:00 a.m. on December 17. He emphasized that the protest will be peaceful but determined.
“This protest is irreversible. We will be peaceful but fearless. The Executive Mansion belongs to the Liberian people, and we will not be denied our constitutional right to assemble there,” he asserted, citing Article 17 of the Liberian Constitution.
Organizers dismissed warnings of heavy security presence, insisting that citizens will not be intimidated by “hot-water trucks or armed police.”
Accusations Against Government
Morlu accused the Boakai administration of endorsing police brutality, undermining the rule of law, and perpetuating corruption and selective justice. He warned that Liberians are prepared to fight with their “blood and sweat” until their rights are respected.
“The President must lead with action, or he must leave,” Morlu declared, adding that the protest’s momentum reflects growing frustration with economic hardship and governance failures.
