“After Banning Us, Please Give Us Jobs” Protesting Motorcyclists Urge Gov’t

Monrovia, Liberia: Over 500 motorcycle riders took to the streets of Monrovia and Paynesville yesterday, demanding that the Liberian government lift the ban on motorcycles or refund the money they had paid to register their bikes. The protest, which began in the early hours of the morning, was primarily driven by commercial motorcycle riders, who make up approximately 80 percent of the country’s motorcyclists.

The riders expressed frustration with the government’s decision to impose the registration fee, only to later enforce a ban that has severely impacted their ability to earn a living. Speaking to journalists, one rider stated that it was unfair for the government to demand significant sums for bike registration, only to later restrict their ability to operate, leaving them unable to generate the income they had invested in registration.

The riders presented their grievances through a series of petitions delivered to key institutions: one at the United Nations House on First Street, another at the 55th House of Representatives, where it was received by Representatives Prince Tole, and the final petition at the U.S. Embassy near Monrovia.

At 7:00 AM, the motorcycle riders gathered at various junctions across the city and began marching toward central Monrovia, chanting slogans like “I don’t want to steal, we want work, we don’t want to steal, we ride bikes.” The protest remained peaceful as the riders made their way to each location to present their petitions.

Witnesses described the protest as one of the most peaceful demonstrations seen since President Joseph Nyuma Boakai took office. Police provided security throughout the protest, ensuring that no violence or incidents occurred.

One key message from the protest came from the head of the motorcyclists, who declared that if the government failed to address their concerns, they would make Monday a designated “Protest Monday” and extend their demonstrations to communities across the country. “If the government doesn’t listen to us, let it be known that we will protest every Monday and will go to all communities,” the motorcyclist leader emphasized.

Underage Motorcyclists with Placard 

Additionally, the riders voiced a strong demand that if the government intends to ban them from operating on the streets, it should provide alternative employment opportunities for them. “If the government wants to ban us from plying the streets, they should provide jobs for us,” the riders insisted.

The protest was sparked by a recent government-imposed ban on motorcycles, which has been implemented by the Liberia National Police. The riders’ petitions highlight their desire for the government to reconsider the ban or to refund the money they had paid for bike registration.

The protest concluded with the presentation of the final petition at the U.S. Embassy near Monrovia.