Liberian Civil Society Groups Declare “Final Showdown” Against President Boakai
A coalition of civil society groups in Liberia has announced a nationwide wave of nonviolent resistance against President Joseph Boakai, citing the government’s failure to address entrenched corruption, police abuses, and economic collapse. The Enough Is Enough Protest Coalition, led by Solidarity & Trust for a New Day (STAND) and the We the People Movement, has declared December 17 as the start of a “final showdown” against the president.
The announcement follows a scathing report by the U.S. State Department, which concluded that Liberia’s human rights conditions showed “no significant change” during Boakai’s first year in office. The report documented systemic corruption, gender-based violence, and misconduct by the Liberia National Police, among other abuses.
STAND chairman Mulbah Morlu described the U.S. report as a “moral indictment” of the Rescue Agenda, Boakai’s flagship development program. “Under Boakai’s leadership, impunity thrives, abuses persist, and ordinary Liberians remain unprotected,” Morlu said.
The coalition’s announcement is the latest in a series of protests against Boakai’s government. In July, thousands marched against corruption and hardship, presenting a 13-count petition that was rejected by the government. The protests exposed fractures within the opposition, with the Liberian People’s Party accusing STAND of political opportunism and links to the former ruling Congress for Democratic Change.
Despite Boakai’s promises of accountability and reform, his administration has faced criticism for not delivering tangible results. The government has conducted audits, established a War and Economic Crimes Court, and backed the “ARREST” development agenda, but frustrations over the slow pace of change continue to grow.
The December action will be organized through a 15-member Citizens Engagement Board representing all counties. The board will consult communities, religious and traditional leaders, students, and vulnerable groups before issuing a national mobilization plan. Demonstrators will assemble directly around the Executive Mansion, vowing to sustain nonviolent resistance until the Boakai government “leads or leaves.”
The protests are a significant challenge to Boakai’s leadership, which has been criticized for its handling of the economy and human rights. The president’s decision to travel to Japan with a large delegation for TICAD-9 and Expo 2025 has also drawn criticism, with many seeing it as a sign of misplaced priorities amid ongoing domestic economic struggles.
As tensions escalate, civil society leaders are calling for the removal of the inspector general of the Liberia National Police to restore public trust. The U.S. 2024 human rights report has reaffirmed the protesters’ concerns, and it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the growing demands for change.
