By Precious D. Freeman
A grassroots advocacy organization, Solidarity and Trust for A New Day (STAND), has strongly condemned the recent ruling of the Supreme Court of Liberia on the writ of injunction filed against the Liberia National Police (LNP) regarding the enforcement of no-go zones for motorcyclists.
STAND described the decision as biased, unconstitutional, and a blatant execution of President Joseph Boakai’s political influence over the judiciary.
Last Friday, the Supreme Court, under the gavel of Justice in Chambers, Associate Justice Ceaineh Clinton-Johnson, denied the petition filed by STAND seeking to halt the LNP’s directive banning motorcyclists from certain zones in Monrovia and its environs.
Addressing a press conference over the weekend in Monrovia, STAND’s National Chairman, Mulbah Morlu, criticized the ruling as a threat to constitutional governance and civil liberties.
He argued that the Supreme Court, as an institution established under the Liberian Constitution, derives its authority from the people and should act in their interest rather than serving political agenda.
“The Supreme Court remains a subject of the Liberian Constitution, and the power resides in the people,” Morlu stated.
“This ruling is not only unjust but also undermines the fundamental rights of ordinary Liberians whose livelihoods are tied to motorcycle transportation.”
Morlu announced that STAND, in collaboration with several motorcycle unions, plans to organize a massive and peaceful protest to petition the National Legislature for intervention.
He emphasized that the police directive affects not only motorcyclists but also a large portion of the population, including students, civil servants, and market vendors who rely on motorcycles for daily transportation.
“This protest is not just about motorcyclists it’s about standing up against corruption and executive interference in the judiciary,” Morlu declared. “We intend to shake the system until the voices of the ordinary people are heard.”
Meanwhile, LNP Inspector General, Colonel Gregory Coleman, welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling, calling it a validation of the police’s authority to regulate traffic and maintain public safety.
Coleman stated that the court’s decision legitimizes the no-go zone directive and effectively settles the matter.
“The Supreme Court has spoken, and we consider the issue closed,” Coleman remarked. The enforcement of no-go zones for motorcyclists is a necessary measure to reduce accidents, maintain order, and ensure the safety of all road users.”
Colonel Coleman also reaffirmed that the police would continue to engage with communities to ensure smooth enforcement of the directive while addressing concerns raised by affected parties.
As tensions rise over the court’s decision and the planned protest, political analysts warn that the situation could escalate if not handled with care.
STAND has vowed to mobilize thousands of supporters, insisting that the Supreme Court ruling reflects deeper issues of political interference and judicial independence in Liberia.
