ONCE AGAIN, THE nation is flustered — the people are submerged in fear and trepidations. The augury of protest or street demonstration is once again in the air. Whether it would all end up in cheers, dinning and winning, embrace and toasts or in tears, bloodbath, even death, is not known. Only God knows. As it already is, only fierce verbal posturing and tenacious display of anger on both sides—organizers of the protest on the one hand and law enforcement agencies on the order – are seen in the press, on the social media showcasing their potencies and obstinacies. And the suspecting population look on nervously.
SINCE THE APRIL 14 “popular people’s uprising”, others call it “rice riot”, however dastardly it proved, Liberians regard street protests or demonstrations as critical part of their democratic culture, a tactic to create a space to participate and be heard. But each time it pops up, and it is planned, the nation stands restless because hardly were street demonstrations held in this country without violence, injuries and even deaths occurring. Most times, they were punctuated by mass arrests and imprisonments of protesters by Government, something that often inflames ire, and politically polarizes the population. Thus, unfortunately, what is constitutionally enshrined to promote democracy, strengthen good governance and stimulate popular participation adversely ends up in national mourning, hate and division.
THIS IS WHY as a group of citizens take to the streets July 17 supposedly to voice their frustrations against corruption and bad governance, it’s essential to emphasize the importance of peaceful protest.
NO DOUBT, CITIZENS have every right to demand accountability and transparency from their leaders, and peaceful demonstrations can be a powerful way to bring attention to these issues. However, as stated, history has shown that protests sometimes turn violent, resulting in harm to innocent people, property damage, and undermining the very message protesters aim to convey. This why it is crucial to advise both protesters and law enforcement to prioritize de-escalation and respect for human rights as July 17 unfolds from its shells of uncertainty.
TO THE PROTESTERS, we insist they must exercise their right to free speech and assembly peacefully, with provoking law enforcement in any way possible; let them make their voices loudly heard through determined yet calm demonstrations, and avoid actions that could harm others or damage property. Going unruly or violent can detract from the real cause of the endeavor. Let the protesters know that the exercise of their rights and freedoms is essential, and doing so in a peaceful manner can be incredibly powerful.
TO THE LIBERIA National Police (LNP), which was seen carrying out drills to apparently show strength, we say this: Protect and facilitate peaceful protests, upholding citizens’ rights; approach demonstrators with professionalism and restraint, avoiding unnecessary force. Engage with protesters respectfully and openly, listening to their concerns.
WE FURTHER REMIND Government or LNP that their strength does not lie in how robust and cruel they may be to the protesters; it rather lies in tolerance and resilience to dissent.
BY MAINTAINING PEACE and respect on both sides, Liberians will be sustaining a political culture whereby they effectively can advocate for change while preserving the dignity and safety of all involved.
ALL LIBERIANS MUST work together towards a future where protests are considered and used as a catalyst for positive transformation, and not path to violence and discord.
HOPE SOMEONE IS listening.