A much-publicized anti-government protest organized by STAND”, which was expected to bring thousands into the streets of Monrovia, fell dramatically short of expectations on Thursday, July 17, 2025, with less than 5,000 people participating. Despite bold claims of a national mobilization effort to “Enough is Enough,” the turnout paled in comparison to the crowd sizes seen in previous civil movements, raising serious questions about the credibility and support base of the protest organizers. Led by Mulbah Morlu chairman of STAND and former Montserrado County District #8 Representative Acarious Moses Gray and a handful of opposition figures under the banner of STAND, the protest march began in Congo Town and proceeded toward Capitol Hill, where the group sought to present a petition to members of the National Legislature. The route was lined with heavy security presence, but largely peaceful, as many residents went about their normal business, choosing not to participate in the march. The protest, which was touted as a mass uprising against the Unity Party-led administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, was marred by low attendance, organizational disarray, and apparent public apathy. Instead of a nationwide call to action, the demonstration took on the appearance of a small partisan gathering, as many of the marchers appeared to be political loyalists rather than representatives of a broad civic coalition. Upon arrival at Capitol Hill, Morlu refused to present STAND’s petition to the National Legislature, demanding instead that President Boakai personally receive the document an unusual request that further dampened the protest’s momentum. Independent observers noted that the protest was sparsely attended even at its peak, with the crowd dwindling significantly before it could reach the gates of the Capitol. Vendors and onlookers along Tubman Boulevard and Broad Street expressed confusion and disappointment over the low energy and lack of clarity around the protest’s objectives. “This was supposed to be a voice for the people, but the people didn’t come,” remarked a university student standing near the Ministry of Finance. “It seems like the public is tired of political noise without constructive alternatives.” Government spokespersons downplayed the event, describing it as a "failed attempt to destabilize national peace and democratic progress." Speaking at a press briefing, “The Liberian people have spoken not with noise, but with their absence. This administration remains committed to delivering on its promises of governance, transparency, and development. distractions will not derail the forward march of our country.” The protest’s low turnout also sparked criticism within some opposition circles. Anonymous sources within the broader opposition alliance expressed concern that STAND’s confrontational approach and lack of a unifying message may have alienated potential allies and weakened the broader call for government accountability. Former Representative Gray, who led the protest alongside other STAND figures, dismissed claims of failure, stating that "the size of the crowd does not define the truth of our message.” He maintained that the petition, which outlines grievances related to governance, public sector reforms, and alleged marginalization, would still be delivered to the Legislature. However, analysts believe the protest’s poor showing reveals deeper fractures within the opposition and a growing disconnect between political elites and the general population. “This turnout is a reality check for STAND and other anti-government actors,” said political analyst Emmanuel Gonquoi. “You can’t build a mass movement from a WhatsApp group and fiery press statements. Liberians want peace, jobs, and services not just political theatrics.” Meanwhile, civil society groups and religious leaders called for constructive dialogue and warned against using protests as a political tool without adequate groundwork and public engagement. “This country has gone through too much,” said Rev. Martha Jallah of the Interfaith Council. “We need our leaders, both in government and in opposition, to act with wisdom and responsibility. The people are watching.” As the day concluded with no major incidents or reported arrests, many in Monrovia questioned the purpose and timing of the event. With the government remaining firmly in control and public support for mass protests seemingly waning, Thursday’s demonstration may go down as one of the least impactful protests in recent Liberian political memory. The Unity Party-led government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding democratic freedoms, including the right to peaceful assembly. However, officials warn that public mobilizations must be lawful, organized, and genuinely rooted in the interests of the Liberian people not simply the ambitions of a few political actors.
