MONROVIA – Ahead of the December 30 ‘Weah Step Down’ protest, the Government of the United States of America (USA), through its Embassy accredited near Monrovia, has issued a demonstration alert for its citizens.
The Council of Patriots (COP), headed by fearless talk show host Henry Costa, has vowed to stage consistent protests in Monrovia and its environs beginning December 30 until President George Manneh Weah steps down.
The group disclosed that the protest is intended to draw international attention to bad governance, rampant corruption, abuse of power, delay in the payment of civil servants salaries, and the harsh economic constraints that continue to improve the already impoverished conditions of Liberians under the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC) led-government.
On the other hand, the Independent Council of Patriots (ICOP), headed by former Montserrado County Representative Rufus Neufville, has written the Ministry of Justice to provide security for what it calls ‘peaceful counter protest’ on the same December 30 beginning at 4am.
ICOP believed that COP’s decision to stage a protest is intended to undermine the country’s peace and stability and ‘undermine the constitution’.
But in a statement posted on its website, the United States Embassy accredited near Monrovia cautioned its citizens to avoid the areas of the demonstration.
The Embassy reminded U. S citizens residing or coming into Liberia that, “even events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence”.
“Demonstrations are expected to take place on December 30. Multiple groups are expected to demonstrate on different issues facing Liberians in various areas of Monrovia. A heavy police presence and/or road closures are possible”, the statement added.
“Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests. Monitor local media for updates. Keep a low profile. Enroll in Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates”.