Police Say Executive Mansion Is No Go Area For Protesters But STAND Insists

PHOTO: Police Inspector General, Gregory Coleman

LNP Press Release

LNP Calls for Calm, Lawful Conduct, and Consideration Ahead of December 17 Protest

(Monrovia, Liberia – December 16, 2025) The Liberia National Police (LNP has taken note of public announcements regarding a planned protest by the group STAND scheduled for December 17, 2025.

In keeping with its constitutional mandate to protect life and property, the LNP wishes to inform the public that it formally engaged the leadership of STAND ahead of the proposed activity.

This engagement forms part of the Police’s standard preventive and dialogue-based approach to public order management.

During the meeting, the LNP highlighted key public safety, mobility, and crowd-management considerations associated with the Christmas festive season, a period marked by increased commercial activity, higher population movement, family travel, and expanded national security responsibilities.

The Police emphasized that large public gatherings during this period pose heightened risks to public safety and the free movement of citizens. In that context, STAND was advised, in good faith, to consider deferring the protest to a more appropriate date after the holidays.

Despite this engagement, the LNP has seen public communications indicating an intention to go ahead with the protest as planned. The Police therefore reiterates that while the constitutional right to peaceful assembly is fully respected, such rights must be exercised lawfully and responsibly, in a manner that does not endanger public safety or disrupt the rights of others.

The public is reminded that:

• The grounds of the Executive Mansion are not designated for protests or demonstrations; and
• All existing restrictions on motorcycles and tricycles remain fully in force.

Any violations of the law will be addressed promptly and professionally under the laws of the Republic of Liberia.

The Liberia National Police remain committed to dialogue, restraint, and professionalism, and values continued collaboration with all civic actors. This approach reflects the LNP’s resolve to balance constitutional freedoms with its responsibility to safeguard national peace and public order.

Citizens, residents, and visitors are reassured that they may continue their normal activities without fear. The LNP remains fully deployed and dedicated to maintaining calm, facilitating free movement, and ensuring a safe and peaceful festive season for all.

Signed:

DCP Cecelia G. Clarke

Spokesperson

Liberia National Police

0770-800-122

LNP officially launches nationwide festive-season security operation to maintain peace, safety, and public order across Liberia