What began as a passionate expression of Pan-African unity was briefly interrupted on the streets of Monrovia, as the Liberia National Police (LNP) called on demonstrators rallying in solidarity with Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traore to halt their street march and obtain an official permit.
The group of mainly students and activists had taken to the sidewalks, echoing slogans and lifting placards in praise of President Traore’s anti-colonial and anti-imperialist stance, a message that has earned him admiration across the continent. With fists raised and voices unified, the young protesters said they were channeling the spirit of African freedom fighters, standing for sovereignty, justice, and dignity.
But just as momentum was building, the LNP stepped in, urging the protesters to clear the streets. Authorities said they had received concerns regarding the unsanctioned gathering and asked that organizers comply with the legal process by obtaining a permit from the Ministry of Justice.
“We’re not here to silence anyone,” an LNP spokesperson said. “Our concern is order and legality. We’re encouraging everyone to follow the process to avoid any unnecessary escalation.”
For many demonstrators, the police’s request felt like déjà vu.
“We’ve written to the Ministry of Justice several times asking for a permit, but no response,” said Markies Nebo, a well-known youth leader who was part of the organizing group. “We’re not here to cause confusion. We just wan’ stand with our brothers and sisters in Burkina Faso. Their fight for sovereignty is our fight too.”
Despite their frustration, the protesters peacefully withdrew from the streets, vowing to regroup and return.
“This is not the end,” Nebo said firmly. “Our spirit remains unbroken. We will go back, push again for our permit, and when the time comes, we will raise our voices louder than ever, in peace, but with purpose.”
The scene, though short-lived, was a snapshot of a larger conversation gripping many African youth: the desire for leaders who challenge foreign control and speak boldly for independence and dignity.
As Liberia continues to navigate its own post-war identity and growing youth consciousness, moments like these show a new generation willing to engage with continental struggles, even if the path forward is lined with bureaucracy.
