A authorities restriction on avenue parades by college students is greeted right here with public criticism.
By Stephen G. Fellajuah
Monrovia, Liberia; June 20, 2025 – The Authorities of Liberia’s newest choice to ban avenue parades by college students throughout the nation triggers widespread public debate right here, with mounting requires a extra balanced method.
Talking from the USA by way of OK FM on Thursday, Montserrado County Senator Saah Joseph, appealed to the federal government to rethink its stance. He emphasised that college students’ parades are usually not merely celebratory occasions however a vital a part of Liberia’s instructional and cultural identification.
“These parades are extra than simply celebration; they’re a part of our instructional tradition,” Senator Joseph stated. “We should discover safer methods to proceed them, reasonably than canceling them outright.”
The Ministry of Schooling, in a joint assertion with the Liberia Nationwide Police on Wednesday, clarified that the intention is to not stifle pleasure however to make sure public security and order.
“Our precedence is the security of each youngster,” the assertion reads. “Allow us to work collectively to have fun responsibly and safeguard our future.”
Regardless of these reassurances, many mother and father, who referred to as on the present, expressed disappointment. They argued that the ban strips college students of a cherished custom, and referred to as on authorities to revise the directive and implement security measures, as an alternative.
The crackdown, which takes instant impact, prohibits pupil parades throughout college gala days, commencement ceremonies, and WASSCE (West African Senior College Certificates Examination) celebrations. The transfer is available in response to rising considerations over pupil security and public disruption.
Authorities say unsanctioned parades have led to accidents, site visitors congestion, and violations of public order. In lots of instances, college students have been seen sitting atop shifting automobiles or participating in harmful stunts throughout avenue celebrations.
“This isn’t a ban on celebration,” stated Schooling Minister, Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah. “We’re urging colleges to have fun responsibly in security, supervise environments like stadiums or open fields, not on public streets.”
The Ministry and Police cited authorized authority from the Liberian Structure, Penal Regulation, and the Schooling Reform Act to justify the enforcement. Police Inspector Normal Gregory Coleman introduced that officers might be deployed throughout all 15 counties to implement the directive. Faculties and college students present in violation will face penalties. Enhancing by Jonathan Browne
