But Vows To Stage ‘Nonviolent’ Protest At The Executive Mansion Ahead Of July 26 Independence Day
PHOTO: Mlbuah Morlu and STAND members at the press conference at PHP, Monrovia
By Augustine Octavius, augustineoctavius@gmail.com
The Solidarity and Trust for A New Day (STAND) group said to be leading in the advocacy for grass-rooters in Liberia has said it is planning to hold the second round of protest against corruption and bad governance in Liberia code named, “lead or leave”.
The group announced in Monrovia over the weekend that the next street protest is set for July 17, 2026, which it said is the sustainable protest against the Unity Party-led government and will be code named, “lead or leave now”.
STAND’s National Chairman, Mulbah Morlu who is former Chairman of the main opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), disclosed that the upcoming protest will be held at the front of the Executive Mansion, where the ‘Bamboo will divide kola.’
Speaking at a press conference held at the PHP community in central Monrovia, Morlu said Liberians from all walks of life will peacefully come outside for the “second coming”.
Mr. Morlu clarified that their use of the local proverb, “Baboon will divide kola” does not mean that they will be violence, but resistance that will not surrender ground!
The STAND National Chairman described the day will be a defining moment in the history of Liberia because it will a moment when the people rise peacefully together.
“Suffering masses” demand change
Morlu indicated that July 17, 2026 will be a moment when “the suffering masses” demand change with one united voice and nothing will fall short of their demands.
STAND Chairman alleged that civil servants’ salaries are dying, jobs are disappearing and the diverse dreams of youths are collapsing before their eyes.
“Look around this country, graduates are sitting home hopeless, parents cannot feed their children and business people are closing shops,” he said; adding: “Teachers are suffering, health workers are exhausted and Kehkeh riders and motorcyclists are enduring hardship day by day.”
“Street vendors are running from police while trying to feed their families and corruption is growing fat while the poor are tightening their belts while but the corrupt are loosening theirs.”
Morlu indicated that the people are drowning while officials are swimming in luxury.
“This is not what democracy promised us, this is not the Liberia our people prayed for and that is why the people are rising peacefully!”
Morlu called on the world to listen to the ordinary people now because are also a tired people; but will law-abiding people.
“We have been patient people; but, our patience has limits and yet, the suffering continues.” Morlu pointed out.
He called on the students, civil society organizations, all opposition parties and religious leaders to rise up and speak truth to power
Morlu admonished the traditional leaders, women groups and youth organizations as well as professional groups to stand for truth.
“Liberia does not belong to politicians alone because belongs to the people and when the people rise together peacefully, no intimidation can stop them.”
“Calling the Liberian people “dogs” only because they reject violence and choose criticism shows that President Boakai has no interest in constructive dialogue.”
Morlu encouraged Liberians to reject the appointment of Jonathan Weedor to head the National Elections Commission because he is a referee openly wearing the jers.