15 Oct 2019 | 06:34 AM UTC
Liberia: Opposition parties threaten to launch mass protests
Political opposition parties issue a statement on October 11 threatening to organize mass protests after the government closed a local radio station
Event
The opposition collaborating political parties (CPP) issued a statement on Friday, October 11, threatening to launch mass anti-government demonstrations after a local radio station was closed. Opposition leaders claim that the station, Roots FM, was illegally shut down for airing criticisms of President George Weah. CPP representatives are demanding that the government immediately return all equipment taken from the radio station and to restore its facilities. As of Tuesday, October 15, it is unclear if the government will allow the station to resume operations. Nationwide demonstrations are possible in the coming days if the opposition demands are not met.
A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are anticipated if protests are held.
Context
The CPP is made up of four opposition political parts; All Liberian Party (ALP), Alternative National Congress (ANC), Liberty Party (LP), and Unity Party (UP). Security forces raided the Roots FM station on Thursday, October 10. The government accused the station of operating without a license and for illegally using broadcast equipment to “tarnish the good character of the government and its officials.”
Advice
Individuals in Liberia are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.
