A group of employees at the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC), identified as supporters of the ruling Unity Party (UP), staged a go-slow protest on Monday, demanding the removal or replacement of several staff members believed to be loyal to the opposition Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC). The protest disrupted normal operations at the MCC headquarters, as the aggrieved workers pressed their case for sweeping changes in leadership positions, including Directors, Managers, and Supervisors.
Protesters argue that many of the current senior staff members were appointed during the CDC-led administration and allegedly prioritized party loyalty over competence. Carrying placards and chanting political slogans, the demonstrators insisted that “it is time for change,” citing the Unity Party’s electoral victory in the 2023 general elections as justification for restructuring key offices within the Corporation.
However, Monrovia City Mayor, John-Charuk Siafa, firmly rejected the demands. Speaking to reporters, Mayor Siafa stressed that Liberia’s public institutions must not be used as platforms for political exclusion. He emphasized that all qualified Liberians, regardless of party affiliation, should be given the opportunity to serve if they are competent and committed to their work. “CDC supporters are also Liberians,” Mayor Siafa said. “As long as they meet the standards of professionalism and are delivering results, they deserve to work.
Our priority at the MCC is service to the people of Monrovia, not political witch-hunts.” The standoff has raised concerns about the politicization of public institutions in Liberia. Analysts warn that if left unresolved, the dispute could set a precedent for deepening partisan divisions within the civil service.
As of late Monday, the go-slow was still ongoing, with protesters vowing to continue until their concerns are addressed. The situation remains fluid, and it is unclear whether further negotiations will be initiated between the aggrieved employees and MCC leadership.
