[By: Pewu Y. Sumo]
Monrovia, Liberia — The Liberia National Police (LNP) today, December 16, issued a statement calling on the public to exercise calm and lawful conduct ahead of a planned protest by civil society group Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), scheduled for Tuesday, December 17, 2025.
In a statement release by Spokesperson DCP Cecelia G. Clarke, the LNP confirmed that it formally engaged the leadership of STAND as part of its “standard preventive and dialogue-based approach to public order management”.
During the meeting, the LNP reportedly highlighted specific public safety and mobility concerns relating to the planned timing of the protest. The Police emphasized that the demonstration falls during the Christmas festive season, a period characterized by increased commercial activity, higher population movement, family travel, and expanded national security responsibilities.
The LNP stressed that large public gatherings during this heightened period pose “risks to public safety and the free movement of citizens.” On this basis, the Police advised STAND to “consider deferring the protest to a more appropriate date after the holidays.”
However, despite this advisory, the LNP noted that public communications indicate STAND’s intention to proceed with the protest as planned.
The Police consequently reiterated that while the constitutional right to peaceful assembly is fully respected, this right must be exercised “lawfully and responsibly, in a manner that does not endanger public safety or disrupt the rights of others.”
The statement specifically reminded the public of two key regulations:
The grounds of the Executive Mansion are not designated for protests or demonstrations.
All existing restrictions on motorcycles and tricycles remain fully in force.
The LNP warned that “Any violations of the law will be addressed promptly and professionally under the laws of the Republic of Liberia.”
The statement from the LNP further assured the public that the Liberia National Police remains “committed to dialogue, restraint, and professionalism,” seeking to balance constitutional freedoms with its responsibility to safeguard national peace and public order.
Citizens, residents, and visitors were reassured that they can continue their normal activities without fear. The LNP confirmed it is “fully deployed and dedicated to maintaining calm, facilitating free movement, and ensuring a safe and peaceful festive season for all.”
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