The streets of Monrovia were filled with the voices of hundreds of riders this week as they protested against a government ban that has left many struggling to make ends meet. The demonstration, organized by the Supreme Motorcycle Transport Union of Liberia (SUMTUL), was a powerful display of frustration and a call for change.
At the heart of the protest is the government’s “No-Go Zone” policy, which restricts motorcyclists from operating in certain parts of the city. For many riders, this ban has meant losing their primary source of income. Motorcycle transport is more than just a job for these individuals, it’s a lifeline that puts food on the table for their families.
The protest wasn’t just about the ban. It was also about years of what the riders describe as neglect, harassment, and even violence at the hands of law enforcement. The motorcyclists shared stories of police brutality, including a recent incident that left several riders injured and one, Emmanuel Trokon Pajiebo, dead. According to SUMTUL, Pajiebo’s death was the result of excessive force used by police at a checkpoint.
In their petition to the government, the riders expressed their frustration. “Our motorbikes have been unlawfully impounded, even though they are registered, insured, and fully documented,” the petition stated. “We understand that the government cannot employ everyone, which is why we created our own jobs. But instead of supporting us, we are being harassed and brutalized.”
The riders also accused the government of corruption, claiming that many of the motorcycles seized by police have ended up in the hands of government officials and their associates. They argue that while a small number of riders may have broken the law, the entire community shouldn’t be punished for the actions of a few.
“You can’t collect taxes from us and then ban us because of a few bad apples,” the petition reads. “Crime is not transferable under our laws. The police should go after the actual perpetrators, not punish all of us.”
The protesters have laid out clear demands for the government:
- Lift the No-Go Zone ban, which they say is unconstitutional and unfairly targets their livelihoods.
- Return all impounded motorcycles or refund the $6 million in taxes that riders have paid.
- Remove Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman, whom they accuse of overseeing corruption and human rights abuses against motorcyclists.
As of now, the government has not formally responded to the petition, but the situation remains tense. If their demands aren’t addressed, the riders warn that even larger protests could follow.
For the motorcyclists of Monrovia, this protest is about more than just policy, it’s about survival. Many of them have invested everything they have into their motorcycles, only to see their livelihoods threatened by the ban and what they see as unfair treatment by the authorities.
As the streets of Monrovia remain filled with the sounds of protest, one thing is clear: these riders are determined to fight for their right to earn a living and provide for their families. Their message to the government is simple: listen to us, support us, and let us work without fear.
The coming days will be critical as the government decides how to respond. For now, the motorcyclists of Monrovia are standing together, united in their demand for justice and economic relief.
