Monrovia -The Economic Freedom Fighters of Liberia (EFFL) has issued a sharp statement distancing itself from ongoing mobilization efforts by supporters of the pending July 17 protest.
By Emmanuel Weedee-Conway
The EFFL claims that most of those behind the much-publicized protest are supporters of the immediate former ruling Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), thereby describing the group’s July 17 protest as lacking substance and clarity.
In a strongly worded public message titled “Special Message to CDC Protesters,” Mr. Emmanuel Gonquoi, Commander-In-Chief of the EFFL, warned that the EFFL would not be intimidated or restricted by what it called “hollow threats” and attempts to dictate how Liberians should conduct themselves in their own country.
“Comrades, take note: the EFFL does not shy away from confrontation, and we will never accept anyone dictating how Liberians should live in their own country,” the statement reads.
No Link to CDC Demonstration
Addressing speculation that its recent community meetings were designed to counter or disrupt the CDC’s planned protest, the EFFL clarified that its grassroots activities are completely independent.
“For clarity on our Community Meetings, let it be known that the gatherings of our fighters and leaders across various communities have nothing to do with your so-called protest, which still lacks a clear agenda,” stated Gonquoi.
The EFFL, known for its fiery rhetoric and strong stance on social justice, also took aim at the motives behind the protest, thus terming it as demonstrations based on “lost privileges” and “luxuries once enjoyed.”
He noted that EFFL’s protests have always been rooted in the struggle for the people – a cause based on concrete issues that the international community recognizes as legitimate democratic concerns.
October Mobilization in Focus
The EFFL head emphasized that it is focused on mobilizing its base for a major internal event scheduled for October 25, 2025.
He noted that the event will mark the commissioning of the Youth and Students Command leadership and the inauguration of the EFFL’s National Headquarters.
“Let it be known that absolutely No external noise will derail these historic milestones. Journalists that have been asking whether we intend to undermine or “fight” the July 17 march will receive no further explanation from us.”
“We are only referring to the old proverb that says: If you follow a mad man to scoop dirty water, you share in his madness. We refuse to entertain chaotic narratives.”
The EFFL further warned that any attempts to restrict its leaders’ movement within Montserrado County would be met with resistance.
“Should any EFFL meeting coincide with your demonstration, we will attend our meeting—full stop.
We are moving forward, not backward. The EFFL will not be drawn into “crazy conversations” or intimidated by hollow threats. Liberia belongs to all of us, and we will exercise our rights – any day, anywhere,” added Gonquoi in the statement.
The CDC has yet to issue a formal response to the EFFL’s message, but the political temperature continues to rise ahead of the July 17 demonstration, as various political and civil society groups brace for what may become a flashpoint in Liberia’s tense post-election environment.
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