SUP Threatens Protest Over Free Tuition Policy, Defends Samuel Tweah

Monrovia, Liberia: The Vanguard Student Unification Party (SUP) at the University of Liberia says it will fiercely resist any attempt to remove or increase Liberia’s free tuition policy.

Speaking on the issue, SUP described plans to review the tuition policy as “economically unsound,” arguing that many students are already struggling with serious financial hardship across the country.

The student movement also accused UL President Layli Maparyan of misleading the public about the challenges facing the university.

According to SUP, students continue to face transportation problems, poor learning conditions, and academic difficulties, while top university officials allegedly enjoy huge salaries and benefits.

The group warned that any move to abolish or increase tuition will be met with strong resistance, including possible mass student protests.

At the same time, SUP accused the government of carrying out what it called a “political witch-hunt” against former Finance Minister Samuel D. Tweah Jr. following his acquittal in the alleged US$6.2 million corruption case.

SUP further criticized the Unity Party-led government for what it described as selective justice. The student group also blamed some civil society organizations and religious leaders for remaining silent on issues affecting democracy and the rule of law in Liberia.