Liberia: March planned in Monrovia September 24

Event

The Economic Freedom Fighters of Liberia (EFFL) group is planning to march in Monrovia on Monday, September 24, in response to an investigation into the government allegedly missing LRD 16 billion in Liberian banknotes. Participants are expected to gather in the morning (local time) outside the US Embassy on Benson Street and proceed through downtown Monrovia, concluding the march outside the Center for the Exchange of Intellectual Opinions on Carey Street. EFFL has also asked businesses, schools, and other local establishments to close on Monday in support of the demonstration. A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are expected near the demonstration sites; related disruptions in local services are possible.

Context

On September 13, local media reported that several shipments of newly printed Liberian banknotes worth an estimated LRD 16 billion remain unaccounted for since passing through Liberian ports in November 2017 and August 2018. The investigation has prompted civic groups to call for transparency in government and for the establishment of a war and economic criminal court. The issue of establishing such a court has been widely debated since the end of the Liberian Civil War.

Advice

Individuals in Monrovia are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and demonstrations due to potential violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Furthermore, individuals should anticipate transportation disruptions in the vicinity of any protests.