Monrovia – Heavy restrictions on the movements of vehicles and pedestrians in certain parts of Monrovia are set for Monday, January 28 the day President George Weah will deliver his second State of the Nation address at the joint session of the Legislature.
Report by Alpha Daffae Senkpeni / [email protected]
The Liberia National Police says the restrictions will affect the movements of vehicles and pedestrians in certain parts of Monrovia, mainly from 9th Street, Sinkor to the Capitol Hill and its environs, where the president will address the Legislature.
In a statement released by the LNP on Sunday, it said vehicles plying the Tubman Boulevard will also be restricted from 6 am to 6 pm.
“Vehicles plying the road from Red Light to Central Monrovia will be diverted from 9th Street through Jallah Town,” the release said.
It added that “vehicles commuting from Broad Street will be diverted from the Ministry of Gender and Children Protection through Jallah Town”.
No vehicle without permit will gain access to Tubman Boulevard after 9th Street towards the Capitol until 6:00 PM, while individuals without valid access pass or Invitation, will not be allowed on these restricted routes, the LNP release, signed by its public affairs office, stressed.
Several other roads within close proximity to Capitol Hill will also be closed, while “all individuals and vehicles will be subjected to security scrutiny” when commuting these restricted routes.
The Police restriction of vehicle and people is drawing concerns from many Liberians ahead of Monday. Some are criticizing the measure, and social media users have described it as “too restrictive for the free movement people”.
Others are calling on the government to proclaim a holiday since the restrictions might significantly impede normal working, schooling and business activities.
Meanwhile, Col. Patrick Sudue Inspector General of the LNP says the restriction will begin 12 midday instead of the 6 am that was earlier announced.
He said the new time will allow for students to go to school, adding that there will be no restrictions on diplomatic, United Nations agencies and international NGOs vehicles plying the Tubman Boulevard on Monday.
Sudue added that police officers will, however, use their discretion during the restricted period of the day.
Amid the news of the “tight security measure” ahead of President Weah’s address, there are concerns of imminent protests by some Liberians who have been expressing discontent about the government.