Hundreds of Liberians took to the streets of Monrovia on Thursday, chanting “enough is enough” in a major protest demanding justice, jobs, and greater accountability from President Joseph Boakai’s administration.
The march, led by opposition politician Mulbah Morlu, was the most prominent public demonstration since Boakai assumed office last year, pledging reform and improved living standards.
Frustrated demonstrators carried placards and voiced grievances over widespread job losses, unmet campaign promises, and the government’s failure to establish a long-promised war crimes court to address atrocities from Liberia’s civil wars.
“I am very angry. This is why I am in the street today,” said Victoria Roberts, a local businesswoman. “The government promised to improve our lives, but instead people are being removed from their jobs. Is that what they meant by betterment?”
Justice for victims of Liberia’s civil wars, which spanned from 1989 to 2003, remains a key demand. Protesters urged President Boakai to fulfill calls for a war crimes tribunal to hold accountable those responsible for past atrocities.
“We, the motorcyclists, want a war crimes court,” said Dougis Smith, a protester. “It shouldn’t just be for Prince Johnson. General Butt Naked should be held accountable too.”
Many Liberians are dismayed that individuals implicated in wartime abuses continue to live freely or even hold political office.
Another protester, Musu Dennis, criticized Boakai’s performance, saying Liberians expected more from a leader with decades of government experience.
“People voted for Joseph Boakai because of his 40 years in public service. That experience should benefit the people—not bring hardship,” she said. “We are suffering. Let him do what’s right.”
Demonstrators also condemned alleged politically motivated dismissals in the public sector and called for a return to the rule of law. The protest, which remained peaceful, moved toward the presidential palace where organizers planned to submit a formal petition.
Although there were no reports of violence, the capital’s streets were unusually quiet, as residents stayed home out of caution.
As of Thursday evening, President Boakai’s office had not issued a response to the protest or its demands.
