By Alfred Kollie @2:43Pm GMT
MONROVIA, Liberia – The much-publicized July 17 protest organized by the Solidarity and Trust for a New Day STAND-led “Save Liberia Protest Coalition” has today, Thursday recorded a lower-than-expected turnout as demonstrators marched toward Capitol Hill today, Friday.
Our reporter observed that, despite weeks of public awareness campaigns and widespread discussions surrounding the protest, only a relatively small number of protesters gathered and proceeded through Sinkor en route to Capitol Hill.
At the same time, normal business activities continued across much of Monrovia, with shops, businesses, and commercial vehicles operating as usual. Security personnel were also deployed along the protest route to maintain law and order and ensure the peaceful conduct of the demonstration. UPDATE ON JULY 17 PROTEST: Normal Activities Continue Across Paynesville To Sinkor By Friday Morning – News Public Trust
The STAND-led coalition organized the protest to express concerns over governance and other national issues affecting the country. Protest organizers are expected to present a petition to the Government of Liberia at the Capitol Building.
Liberian authorities have continued to monitor the situation, while residents and commuters have largely gone about their daily activities without major disruptions.
Police Inspector General, Gregory Coleman said in a statement yesterday, Thursday that the right to peaceful protest will be fully respected but warned that the Executive Mansion, the seat of the Liberian presidency is NO GO AREA.