Monrovia, Liberia – As Liberians prepare for a planned nationwide protest on July 17, the Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL) has urged both the Government and demonstrators to embrace dialogue and non-violence, while appealing specifically to women to avoid acts that could undermine the dignity of the movement.
The protest, organized by the Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND)-led Save Liberia Protest Coalition, is scheduled under the theme “Lead or Leave Now — The 2nd Coming.” Demonstrators are expected to voice grievances over governance, economic management, and the handling of the US$19.2 million cocaine seizure case at Roberts International Airport .
In a statement released ahead of the demonstration, WONGOSOL reaffirmed that the rights to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, and petitioning the Government are fundamental democratic rights guaranteed under Article 17 of the Liberian Constitution . The organization called on the Government to receive protesters’ petitions with openness and respect, emphasizing that constructive dialogue strengthens democracy and public confidence in state institutions.
“Listening to citizens and responding to their concerns through dialogue strengthens democracy, promotes accountability, and builds public confidence in state institutions,” the statement read.
WONGOSOL expressed particular concern over reports circulating on social media suggesting that some women may resort to public nudity as a form of protest. While recognizing the frustration that drives citizens to demand change, the organization appealed to women to exercise restraint.
“We respectfully appeal to all women to exercise restraint and refrain from actions that may undermine the dignity of women or shift attention away from the legitimate issues they seek to raise,” the statement said.
The organization noted that Liberian women have a proud history of leading peaceful movements that inspired national and international admiration through courage, unity, and nonviolent action. It encouraged women to continue drawing on that legacy by expressing their voices in ways that uphold their dignity while strengthening the moral force of their advocacy.
The appeal comes against the backdrop of recent incidents of violence against women in public spaces. In May 2026, public outrage erupted after a young woman was stripped naked by a group of young men at the Red-Light commercial hub in Monrovia over alleged indecent dressing—an incident widely condemned by women’s rights advocates .
The Liberia National Police (LNP) has assured citizens it will protect the constitutional right to peaceful assembly while warning that individuals who attempt to use the protest as a cover for violence will face prosecution .
Inspector General of Police Gregory O. W. Coleman, in a nationwide address, disclosed that authorities had intercepted suspected improvised incendiary devices and identified a suspect in an alleged illegal firearms distribution scheme intended to facilitate criminal activity during the protest .
“The Constitution protects peaceful assembly clearly. It does not protect violence, rioting, arson, vandalism, looting, assault on law enforcement officers, obstruction of emergency services, or possession, manufacture, and distribution of illegal firearms,” Coleman warned .
Police have also reminded the public that the Executive Mansion grounds are designated as a no-go zone for demonstrators, and that participants must remain within approved routes and designated assembly areas .
WONGOSOL further urged the Liberia National Police to provide professional, impartial, and rights-based security throughout the demonstration, ensuring the safety of protesters, bystanders, journalists, and all citizens.
“May this moment serve as an opportunity for constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and renewed commitment to building a peaceful, just, and prosperous Liberia,” the organization concluded.
About WONGOSOL: The Women NGOs Secretariat of Liberia is a coalition of women’s organizations advocating for gender equality, human rights, and social justice in Liberia.
